How to Live Off the Grid and Remain Financially Comfortable

Posted on Friday 22 June 2018


As technology and automation become more integrated into human society, many people are taking advantage of the associated benefits. In fact, some people now make money by simply blogging and sharing their content. However, not everyone is in tune with this lifestyle. As a matter of fact, certain individuals are choosing to adopt minimalist lifestyles and habits. Some people even opt to live off the grid, soak up nature, and take a detox from technology. In fact, a lot of people are now building their own cabins in rural parts of Prince George and other small cities in BC.

While living off the grid has its particular upsides for interested individuals, it is not a decision that can be made at the drop of a dime. Nine times out of ten, such a drastic lifestyle alteration demands a concrete plan. Financial preparation is absolutely paramount. Thankfully, there are certain steps that can be taken so that one's time off the grid is as comfortable and stress-free as possible.

Here are a few helpful steps.

Know The Cost of Basic Utilities

Many people who choose to live off the grid often forget that this lifestyle does not translate to living free of charge. Even if one decides to forgo the use of electricity, they will still require access to utilities such as water and heat. Every living individual requires water; water is needed to drink, wash clothes, bathe/shower, etc. Therefore, anyone who considers going off the grid should invest in a well and septic. Both of the aforementioned items will amount to roughly $12,000 according to Quote Brands.

Next comes heat. Heat is a paramount utility that you will have to pay a pretty penny for if you are serious about off-the-grid living. This particular utility is generally used for cooking, heating water, etc. Heat is also critical for staying warm and avoiding pneumonia during the wintertime.

Therefore, both propane and wood are necessary items to ensure that the individual has the proper resources to remain warm. Propane usually amounts to $4,400 while wood is slightly cheaper, coming to about $4,000. Regarding utilities alone, living off the grid is not cheap. It requires a considerable degree of planning, investing, and preparing.

This type of lifestyle cannot usually occur at the drop of a dime. It's important to face the reality that everything comes with a cost. While there are several online money lenders that can help you resolve this bill, going off-grid means you would neither be available online to get the loan nor have a debt to repay.

Note Down Other Essentials

While utilities are important resources you should consider, Money Crashers confirm that there are other necessary essentials. Access to food, waste disposal, and personal security are things that people usually take for granted. Those who are interested in living off the grid would do well to learn how to naturally grow fruits and vegetables. Moreover, you may need hunting and fishing skills, or at least you will need to stock up on a considerable amount of canned goods. When you develop these skills to meet your demands, you might not even need to take loans from online money lenders.

Furthermore, the ability to cleanly and effectively dispose of waste is something most Canadians don't really think of. This is because they are state-provided services. However, when you live off the grid, you must truly fend for yourself in virtually every sense. Thankfully, there are a series of options for various forms of waste disposal. Latrines, outdoor toilets, composting, and even burning with fire can serve as appropriate means of doing away with waste.

Another crucial consideration is your personal security. Living off the grid is great, but regardless of where one goes, there are still dangers in the world. You have to prepare proper precautions in place against criminals, predatory animals, and even dangerous insects prior to commencing living off the grid.

But take a moment to imagine celebrating Canada day in your far-away cabin. Wouldn't that be something?