When Bartering is Important
In an unfortunate event where money suddenly loses its value, a can of beans can be worth more than gold or silver. In this example, bartering becomes the new way to trade for goods and services. As crazy as it might sound, having food, water, shelter, lighters, propane, batteries, toothpaste can make you rich. But, it can also make you a target. If someone comes into your camp, property or home needing help, helping is always the right thing to do. I would like to think that people are willing to trade, and if they are great. They won’t always have material goods to barter with, but that’s OK. In a Chaotic situation, we all need each other. So, if you trade something keep an open mind about what you will receive in return.
Planning for the Unknown
If you fortunate enough to be able to buy and store barter items in addition to your own preps, you are creating opportunities for your future. If you and your family or friends were too team up with more people in other groups, having assets can be a good thing. Being viewed as a liability will not help in becoming a community member. I believe that we are stronger together as a community of people working together in times of chaos. Trying to do it alone can have some challenges. Becoming sick or injured will make it difficult to do daily tasks. Even when heathy a lone wolf can’t stay awake 24/7. Who will protect the lone wolf in a chaotic world?
Items to Barter With
I haven’t actually tried this theory in the real world, because we haven’t had to yet. But I believe these items will be useful to have and barter with:
- Lighters or matches
- Propane
- Fire starters
- Candles
- Food
- Water
- Shelter
- Hygiene items
- Toilet paper
- Hand sanitizer
- Seeds
- Gorilla / duct tape
- Rope
- Tarps
- Alcohol
- Medicine
- First aid
- Tools
It’s not hard to imagine how this list could go on for awhile, but I’m just trying to make the point that preparing for the unknown can protect your future.