If you want to make an investment towards a more autonomous and self-reliant lifestyle, off-grid living should be under your radar. The meaning of living off the grid has evolved constantly through the past few years. Essentially, it means a house and lifestyle that’s independent of public utilities – choosing to survive only by the most basic resources like food, water, and power, things that can be harvested from natural land.

Planning for a change of lifestyle can become difficult and stressful quickly. There are many guides online that can help you prepare for the fundamentals of living off-grid. The basics are fairly similar to camping: food, shelter, and safety. Those are the obvious essentials no one forgets. But there are other essential things you have to consider before making such a move towards this sustainable way of life.

There isn’t just one guide that can cover everything you need, as people have different needs and priorities. Start researching and planning ahead. Be aware that in order to become self-sufficient you will endure some unexpected difficulties. With your well-being in mind, Community Lands created a list of the three main things you need to consider before you start living off-grid. It will help you not to forget the basics and serve as a guideline for your new home.

1. Costs: Be sure that you can afford all you will need and build emergency savings.

One of the best things about living off-grid is being able to live anywhere you wish. However, some places are more suited for this lifestyle than others. The cost of land will vary based on whether you want to have a view, how close you’re located to a major city, amongst many other things. Consider every detail – where you want to live, housing, source of water, energy, food, and heating, and bathroom needs. Once you get everything set up, living off-grid will quickly become a cheaper way to live.

2. Power: Start learning about the basics of different sources of power while you’re still on the grid.

While living off-grid might seem a lot like camping at first, living for a long period of time with only a battery-powered lantern and a raging fire is difficult. You might already know how solar panels work in theory, but in order to prepare for regular day-to-day activities with fewer hardships, you should learn about other energy sources. Consider inverters, charge panels, batteries, and generators. Learn how they work and all of the required equipment beforehand.

3. Internet: Plan how you will be able to get online.

Living without the internet nowadays is a tough task, as people may depend on it for essential things. Even for those who wish to live a more technology-free life. Some places might not even have internet access, so start planning ahead. Research if the land you will live in has satellite internet, data plans for your smartphone, and a wireless portable turbo hub. Do keep in mind that sometimes, the only available option is to head into the nearest town to find a wireless spot. See what your options are.

Remember, this list is all about helping you begin with the basics that you might not think of immediately. Ask yourself: can I afford to live unplugged? Switching to an off-grid lifestyle may be rewarding and one of the best decisions you will ever make, but only if you make sure to maximize your experience and not put yourself and others at risk. Spend time preparing every detail to get the best possible outcome. Do your research, prioritize your quality of life and enjoy the ride!

Resources
An Off-Grid Life
Land.com
Money Under 30