If you’re considering going off-grid at some point in the future, don’t wait to begin taking steps towards sustainability!
Too many homesteaders and off-gridders end up overwhelmed and in “culture shock” at the changes they’ve got to make when they go off grid. Prepare yourself now, in small ways, to make the big shift easier.
As we get closer to our “off grid” date, I’ve been asking myself with each every day task: How I will do this when we’re off-grid? What changes do I need to make? And then beginning to make those changes now, while I can troubleshoot and test things with the safety net still here.
Here are 5 simple steps you can take where ever you’re at right now, to move towards a more sustainable lifestyle:
Ditch the Disposables
Get rid of single-use items. Swap out plastic water bottles for a reusable one, say goodbye to plastic bags by investing in some trendy tote bags, and opt for reusable containers instead of plastic wrap or sandwich bags. Once you start cutting down on single-use plastics, you’ll wonder why you didn’t do it sooner!
My grandma always used to say: use it up, wear it out, make it do or do without. That mindset came out of the great depression era where survival depended on the ability to make things last. It’s a good challenge to give yourself.
Embrace Meatless Mondays — Or Consider the Food Changes You’ll Be Making
If you’re going off grid you may soon be eating less meat than you do now. Swap out meat for plant based meals one day a week and try “Meatless Monday”.
Or if you know hunting is a big part of your off grid plan… swap out the canned or butchered meats and learn what to do to prepare meals the way you will when processing your own meat.
Cut back on the convenience foods and cook from scratch with basic ingredients. Learn now to cook and eat the way you will when you go off grid.
Test out recipes now to replace those pre-made treats or snacks if you won’t be near a big box grocery store.
Get Thrifty: Shop Secondhand and Vintage
Who says you can’t look fabulous while saving the planet and living more sustainbly? Embrace thrift shopping and vintage finds as a way to reduce your impact on the environment.
Not only is thrift shopping budget-friendly, but it’s also a fun way to score unique pieces for your wardrobe and home.
Plus, by giving pre-loved items a new lease on life, you’re keeping them out of landfills – talk about a win-win situation!
What to do with the trash is a THING for homesteaders – so look for ways now to reduce how much waste you and your family create.
And, you likely won’t be near a mall, so start considering your families needs for the next few years and planning for how you’ll meet those needs. Create your own resource of clothing and more by visiting thrift stores now to get ahead of it.
Power Down: Conserve Energy and Water
If you’re off-grid, power and water may suddenly be a whole new ballgame.
Start small. Get into the habit of turning off lights when you leave a room, unplugging electronics when they’re not in use, and investing in energy-efficient appliances.
When it comes to water, fix any leaks, take shorter showers, and consider installing water-saving devices like low-flow showerheads and faucet aerators. Every drop and watt saved counts!
Pay attention to your monthly water and electric bills. Make it into a game with your family to see how much you can reduce them each month (prizes and awards can make this fun while preparing everyone for the lifestyle changes).
Grow Your Green Thumb: Start a Garden or Support Local Farmers
There’s something incredibly satisfying about growing your own food or supporting local farmers.
Whether you have a sprawling backyard or just a few pots on your balcony, you can start cultivating your green thumb and reducing your carbon footprint in the process.
Grow herbs, fruits, and veggies at home, or hit up your nearest farmers’ market to score fresh, locally-grown produce. Not only will you be reducing food miles, but you’ll also be supporting sustainable agriculture practices – it’s a win-win!
There you go! Put these 5 small steps into action and begin moving toward sustainability now. It’ll make your off-grid lifestyle a much easier transition.
