How much land do you really need to feed a family of four?

checklist for living off the grid

How Much Land Does Is REALLY Take To Feed A Family Of 4?

How much land do you really need to feed a family of four? Not hypothetically, not in some idealized permaculture fantasy, but in the real world, with actual work, time, weather, and limitations. The average American eats close to 2,000 pounds of food a year, including a lot of meat, dairy, fruits, vegetables, grains, and sweeteners. Multiply that by four people and you’re looking at 8,000 pounds of food annually. So the question is: how much land does it take to grow that? The answer depends on what you grow, how you grow it, and how efficient you are with space and resources. This isn’t about survival rations or subsistence farming, this is a practical breakdown of what it takes to build a self-sustaining off-grid homestead that actually works. From row crops to vertical gardens, chickens to pigs, fruit trees to mushrooms, here’s what it realistically takes to feed your family from your land. Here’s a realistic, well-balanced breakdown for a self-sustaining off grid homestead for a family of 4, including: Caloric needs (~2,000 lbs of food/year/person or ~8,000 lbs total) Realistic land yields (row crops vs vertical gardening) Integrated small-scale animal husbandry Variety of crops for nutrition and practicality FIRST – The Data: The average American consumes approximately 1,996 pounds of food per year. This includes a significant amount of meat, dairy, fruits, vegetables, grains, and sweeteners. Meat consumption alone averages around 224.6 pounds per year, according to sentientmedia.org. Detailed Breakdown: Meat and Poultry: 185 pounds. This includes chicken, turkey, pork, and beef. Dairy: 630 pounds (milk, yogurt, cheese, ice cream). Fruit: 273 pounds. Vegetables: 415 pounds. Grains: 197 pounds. Sweeteners: 141 pounds. Fats and Oils: 85 pounds. Bread: 53 pounds. Apples: 19.6 pounds. Beef: 82 pounds. Poultry (Chicken): 127.2 pounds. *This estimated consumption is based on data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Based on the data, how much land do you need to feed a family of 4? ANSWER: 1-3 acres of growing space (including space for a good-sized greenhouse). Add another 2 acres for house and play area, workshop, barn, garden shed and other outbuildings. Based on this USDA data and average American consumption, a family of four eats about 8,000 pounds of food per year. That includes roughly 900 pounds of meat and poultry, over 1,600 pounds of dairy, 1,000+ pounds of fruits and vegetables, and the rest made up of grains, oils, sweeteners, and other foods. So if you want to produce that at home, you need to start by figuring out what’s realistic per acre — and how much of it you can actually grow and raise yourself. Conventional row crops can yield anywhere from 5,000 to 30,000 pounds per acre depending on what you’re growing — lettuce gives you less, potatoes give you more. A well-managed, diverse vegetable garden realistically produces 10,000 to 15,000 pounds per acre, but that’s assuming you know what you’re doing and you’re putting in the work. Add in small-scale vertical or high-density growing methods and you can

7 Rookie Mistakes That Will Wreck Your Off-Grid Plans Before You Even Begin

The Top 7 Rookie Mistakes That Will Wreck Your Off-Grid Plans Before You Even BeginRead this BEFORE you waste money, time, or your sanity. Let’s get real for a second:Off-grid living isn’t a Pinterest fantasy. It’s not about posing in flannel shirts next to a solar panel while sipping herbal tea from a reclaimed mason jar. It’s hard work, it’s real work—and if you don’t take it seriously, it will chew you up and spit you out. So before you blow your savings on a piece of dirt and a truckload of pipe dreams, let me save you the pain by calling out some of the most common—and completely avoidable—newbie mistakes people make when they try to go off grid. 1. Falling for the “Perfect Land” Illusion Just because land is cheap doesn’t mean it’s livable. No water, no access, legal issues, zero infrastructure—it’s cheap for a reason. Don’t get seduced by price tags. Do your research like your future depends on it. Because it does. 2. Thinking Solar = Unlimited Power It doesn’t. It means you’re the power company now. Panels need maintenance, batteries need care, and cloudy days aren’t just annoying—they’re your new utility outage. Have a backup plan. 3. Assuming DIY = Cheap DIY can save money if you know what you’re doing. Otherwise, you’ll waste time and materials, then pay double to fix your mistakes. Invest in knowledge first, tools second. 4. Ignoring Local Laws and Zoning Just because you’re “off-grid” doesn’t mean you’re off the hook legally. Permits, codes, land use restrictions—they don’t disappear because you’ve got a composting toilet and a dream. 5. Bringing Suburban Expectations Into a Wild World The grid spoiled you. Running water, hot showers, air conditioning, internet… all of that requires infrastructure. You have to build what you used to take for granted. Don’t forget that. 6. Underestimating the Mental Shift This isn’t just a lifestyle change. It’s a full-blown mindset overhaul. You can’t fake self-reliance. You will be tested—by weather, wildlife, failure, and fatigue. If you’re not mentally ready, it’ll break you. 7. Planning With Hope Instead of Reality Hope is not a strategy. “Winging it” off grid is a great way to starve, freeze, or get buried in debt. Planning is survival. Be honest about your budget, your skills, and your limits. Going off grid isn’t about escaping the world—it’s about building a better one, on your terms. But if you go in blind, thinking it’s all sunsets and cabin vibes, you’re going to get a brutal reality check. So don’t fall for the hype. Learn. Prepare. Then go build it right. *** This is why I built the largest off grid group in the world and launched the Off Grid Living & Survival™ magazine 10 years ago, to help folks learn how to go off grid with no bullsh*t expectations, no hype, just pure off grid knowledge and information that will help you go off grid and achieve your off grid dreams. This isn’t about some Instagram

6 Stupidest Off-Grid Living Myths Busted

6 Stupidest Off-Grid Living Myths Busted: What You Really Need to Know Let’s cut through the noise. There’s a lot of nonsense out there about off-grid living—some of it’s innocent ignorance, but a lot of it is flat-out myth passed around by people who’ve never spent a day living outside their 4G bubble. If you’ve ever told someone you’re going off-grid and they looked at you like you just confessed to joining a cult, you’ve probably heard at least a few of these. So let’s break down the biggest lies and misunderstandings about off-grid life—and what it actually takes to live it. MYTH #1: “Off-grid means no power, no internet, no tech, no comfort.” Bullsh*t. Off-grid ilving doesn’t mean primitive. It just means independent. You’re not tethered to the public power grid. That’s it. You can have solar, wind, micro-hydro—hell, even satellite internet if you really want it. You can live better off-grid than most people do in a city, and the best part? No monthly utility bills draining your bank account while you’re stuck paying for stuff you could produce yourself. Off-grid doesn’t mean candles and outhouses unless you want it to. You don’t have to live in a cave to live off grid. MYTH #2: “You need to be rich to go off-grid.” Nope. What you need is resourcefulness, not a fat bank account. People conflate “off-grid homesteading” with some kind of luxury backwoods fantasy. Sure, you can drop $100K+ building your dream cabin with high-end solar, a battery bank the size of a fridge, and a satellite dish—but you don’t have to. Some folks go off-grid with a used RV, some plywood, and a cheap solar setup from eBay. Others repurpose old sheds, buses, or shipping containers. If you’re willing to DIY, you can cut costs massively. The key is skills, knowledge, and grit. MYTH #3: “You have to live in the middle of nowhere.” False. You can be off-grid anywhere there’s enough space and freedom to do it. Yes, rural areas are easier. Fewer regulations, cheaper land, and fewer nosey neighbors trying to report you for using a composting toilet. But there are people going semi-off-grid in suburbs with solar, rainwater catchment, and raised garden beds. You don’t need 100 acres in Alaska. Sometimes all you need is a quarter acre and a “screw it, I’m doing it my way” mindset. MYTH #4: “Modern technology doesn’t mix with off-grid living.” Completely backwards. Technology is why off-grid living is better than ever. Solar power is cheaper. Batteries are more efficient. Water filtration is simple. Communications are global. We’re not talking about 1850s pioneer life—we’re talking 2020s independence. You’re not a hypocrite for using tech off-grid. You’re smart for using tools to solve problems and stay self-reliant. That’s the whole point. MYTH #5: “Off-grid living is illegal.” Sometimes… if you’re not careful you might inadvertently overlook a local ordinance or regulation. The system doesn’t want you fully independent—it wants you plugged in and paying fees. Some cities and

Welcome To Freedom: Guide to Essential Off-Grid Living Skills

Living off-grid is more than just an escape from modern conveniences; it’s a path to self-sufficiency, resilience, and independence. Whether you’re looking to reduce reliance on utilities, live sustainably, or prepare for worst-case scenarios, off-grid living demands a diverse set of essential skills. Many people assume off-grid living means roughing it in the wilderness, but with the right knowledge and preparation, you can create a comfortable, efficient, and modern lifestyle. This guide will walk you through the key skills you need to master to thrive off the grid. 1. Shelter & Construction: Building an Off-Grid Home A. Choosing the Right Off-Grid Shelter The first step in off-grid living is securing a shelter that meets your needs. There are many options to choose from, including traditional log cabins, tiny homes, earthbag homes, and even mobile alternatives like yurts, RVs, converted vans, and shipping containers. Each type of shelter has its own advantages and challenges. For instance, log cabins offer natural insulation and a rustic aesthetic but require extensive materials and craftsmanship, while earthbag homes are low-cost, highly durable, and resistant to natural disasters. Tiny homes provide mobility and efficiency, whereas shipping containers are robust, modular, and easy to modify. The choice largely depends on climate, durability, cost, and ease of construction. A well-built shelter will provide insulation, protection from the elements, and a sustainable living environment, ensuring long-term comfort and security off the grid. B. DIY Construction Skills Building and maintaining your off-grid home requires a solid foundation in construction skills. Framing, roofing, and flooring are essential, as is understanding insulation techniques that can help keep your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Proper insulation can make a huge difference in energy efficiency, reducing the need for external heating and cooling sources. Learning how to work with concrete, earthbag, stone, or pier-block foundations can be an advantage in remote areas where traditional building materials are scarce. Additionally, mastering alternative building techniques such as cob, straw bale, and rammed earth construction can provide cost-effective and highly durable housing solutions. Familiarity with basic plumbing and electrical work is also beneficial, as many off-grid homes rely on self-installed systems for water collection and solar power distribution. The ability to construct and repair your own home ensures long-term sustainability and resilience in an off-grid setting. C. Maintaining & Repairing Your Shelter Once your home is built, regular maintenance is crucial to ensure its longevity and comfort. One of the most important aspects is weatherproofing—sealing gaps in doors, windows, and walls to prevent drafts and moisture intrusion. Over time, caulking and insulation may degrade and require periodic replacement. Roofing maintenance is another critical task, as leaks can lead to water damage, mold growth, and structural weakening. Regular inspections, gutter cleaning, and replacing worn-out shingles or roofing materials are necessary to prevent long-term issues. Fireproofing is essential, particularly in areas prone to wildfires. This includes clearing brush around your home, using fire-resistant materials for siding and roofing, and maintaining fire breaks. Similarly, flood-proofing

NO! You don’t need to live like a caveman to live off grid.

NO! You don’t need to live like a caveman to live off grid. Don’t listen to the purist trolls. They are conflating and confusing their own personal opinion with the facts and pushing their own personal preferences on everyone else. Some folks have a deeply fundamental misunderstanding of what “off grid” means. This is mostly because when they first enter the off grid niche they are looking for info and usually the first ones to chime in and start offering up their opinions are the purists who think there’s only one way of doing things and if you don’t do things that way then you’re not “truly off grid”. In reality ALL OF THESE PURSITS ARE 100% ABSOLUTELY FACTUALLY WRONG! You don’t need to give up running water, hot water, electricity, heating and air conditioning, appliances, or anything like that. Off grid living doesn’t mean living primitively. You can still have everything you have now and more and still be off grid. Off grid only means you are disconnected from the municipal power grid. Hence “off grid”. Don’t listen to the ignorant Neanderthal purists trolls that believe you have to live like a caveman to live off grid. You can have everything every normal suburban house has now, you just product your own power, water, and run everything off grid on solar wind and your battery backup energy storage. You only need 30kwh per day to live like most suburban homes. That means a 5kw solar system, 1kw wind turbine, 40 kwh battery system, and for a backup generator to top off your batteries in low light, cloudy and inclement weather, you have a propane generator and a 100 gallon propane tank. Prices for this whole system range on the low side from about $15k to about $30k depending on brand, quality, and manufacturers. That’s all you need. Average for this is about a $25k investment and you’re off grid permanently. You won’t be using the propane because you’ll have more than enough energy to run everything you could possibly want to run with your off grid system. No need to live primitively and NEVER EVER LISTEN TO ANY PURISTS tell you any different. If they want to live primitively in a cave let them, just don’t take what they say as gospel, it’s just their opinion and their opinion doesn’t matter if they’re telling you there’s only one way to live off grid. There are as many ways to live off grid as there are people and families. Don’t let the purist trolls tell you that you have to live primitively to live off grid. It’s just not true. If you like technology use technology. If you like hot water, use hot water. If you want electricity use electricity. Same for air conditioning and appliances and washing machines and microwave and your big screen TV. Live off grid how you want to live off grid and let the know-it-alls and trolls go live in a cave like a caveman.

portable power station

“I want to buy a ‘solar generator’, are they worth it?”

“I want to buy a ‘solar generator‘, are they worth it?” Yes! But… Do you mean portable power stations? If so let me clear up some confusion a lot of people have. Manufacturers market those boxes with outlets and USB ports as “solar generators,” but they aren’t generators at all. No one’s trying to deceive you—it’s just a catchy marketing term. What they really are is battery packs with built-in inverters that store energy and convert DC power from solar panels (or any other power source) into AC power. A generator produces electricity, typically by burning fuel like gas, diesel, or propane. These don’t. They store power, not generate it. The term “solar generator” comes from the fact that they can be charged with solar panels, but without solar, they’re just portable power stations or battery backups—not generators. This mislabeling sometimes leads people to believe they work like traditional fuel generators, running indefinitely in the sun. In reality, their performance depends entirely on battery capacity and solar input rate. Can you charge them quickly? Sure—if you have a big enough solar array. The more solar panels you add, the faster you can refill your battery pack. What is a “solar generator“? They’re called photovoltaics, or solar panels, and they convert (not generate) solar energy into electrical energy. You can then store it in the portable power station’s battery pack. An inverter inside the unit converts the DC electric current output from the solar panels into AC electric current to power the 110V outlets you plug your appliances and devices into. The USB, USBC and other power outlets work the same way. Interesting science fact. In reality there’s really no such thing as a generator. “Generators” actual “convert” energy, they don’t produce it. The First Law Of Thermodynamics states: “energy cannot be created or destroyed, it can only be converted from one form to another“, but that gets into some physics and the laws of thermodynamics, and the point of this article isn’t to confuse you (or anyone), but to help you understand what you’re actually buying when you buy a “solar generator”. SCIENCE NOTE: If you’re interested in the science I’ve got an article over here explaining why there’s no such thing as a generator. Should I buy a “solar generator“? Absolutely! I own one, and millions of other people do too. They’re amazing technology and they work well to power your appliances and charge your devices. A portable power station is a versatile and reliable backup power solution. Reliable Backup Power – Provides an emergency power source during blackouts, keeping essential devices like lights, phones, and medical equipment running. Off-Grid & Outdoor Use – Perfect for camping, RVing, and off-grid adventures, allowing you to power appliances, charge batteries, and run lights without relying on a grid connection. Quiet & Eco-Friendly – Unlike gas generators, portable power stations operate silently and produce no emissions, making them ideal for indoor use and eco-conscious users. Rechargeable & Renewable – Can be recharged

The Best Long Term Off Grid Living & Survival Fuel

“You can’t get propane after the shit hits the fan, dumb@$$!” True. That’s why they call it “preparing” and not postparing, GENIUS. If you wait until after the fact, you’re not gonna make it. Also, you can’t get gas or diesel either after 6-12 months. So…there’s that too. I say this because yet again, some people are confused about the propane thing and why they should use propane instead of gas or diesel. Here’s why? Something folks should understand about propane. If there’s a total collapse of the system… (unlikely, but let’s roll with it for shits and giggles for a sec) …gas and diesel will degrade over time. Also, fuel tanks “sweat” and this moisture can get into the fuel and engine and do damage or at least cost you valuable time. It could also cause tank corrosion in metal fuel tanks. If the gasoline and fuel is not treated with additives to preserve the fuel, it will go bad over time. Depending on climate, humidity etc,, diesel and gasoline will degrade in 6 months to a year. Sometimes longer if you’re in ideal conditions. But generally speaking you can expect gas or diesel to last a year on the outside. Then what? If the shit does actually hit the fan, you’re better off with propane because it lasts forever and does not degrade. Your tank will rust or corrode before propane ever goes bad. As for sourcing propane. You’re right. After the shit hits the fan is the wrong time to stock up on propane. That’s why they call it “preparing” instead of postparing, because you do it BEFORE the shit hits the fan. I’m of the firm belief that propane is the perfect long term survival fuel. You’re welcome to try to convince me otherwise, and I’m open to being wrong if you can show me evidence I’m wrong. But I don’t think I am. Propane is the best long term fuel you can buy simply because it lasts forever. It’s a little more expensive, but well worth the peace of mind in my opinion. That’s what survival is all about. Surviving. If your fuel goes bad, you’re screwed.

WANT TO GO OFF GRID? Change Your Mindset: Shift Your Perspective And Focus On What Matters – Everything Else Is Just Noise

People are so used to the current system the way it is, they don’t know how to think outside of it. They’re trapped inside it, they knw they’re trapped, but they don’t know how to think to get out. It’s nit that they’re stupid, it’s just that they don’t know. It’s ignorance, yes, but ignorance doesn’t mean stupid, it simply means on doesn’t know something. Getting out of the current greedy corrupt system is easier than most people think. The problem isn’t that there’s no way out. The problem is that there’s no time to think. There are so many daily distractions and things we are responsible for, bills that need to be paid, jobs that need to be worked, kids that need to be picked up and dropped off from school or practice or events to go to or get ready for. Plus the daily chores and work around the house, car maintenance, house maintenance, meals to cook, grocery shopping, and even more bills to pay. It all takes time, so much time that we’re so busy with everyday things keeping everything running smoothly (contributing to the system) we don’t have time to think. We need to be able to think about how to make our lives less stressful, more fulfilling, and enjoy more family time. Right now too much of our time is spent just keep a roof over our heads, food n the table and the lights on. Yeah sure, you must do all this when living off grid too, but there are certain things that we can automate, and a lot of things we don’t even need anymore. First is recurring expenses that don’t contribute to the long term happiness of you and your family. This means RENT! Or if you’re stuck in a high cost mortgage, you may not be building that nest egg and freedom that you think you are. Especially if you’re living in the city or suburbs. Living off grid doesn’t mean everything is free or that you don’t have to work. It’s more about living a better life. Better than this current system that requires the incomes of two or more people or 2 or more full time jobs to support. Used to be one person could work and earn a living. Now both parents must work and a lot of the time even 2 full time jobs isn’t enough to pay all the bills. Shopping at the grocery store has become the norm. We all depend on it for most of our food. Walmart has become the main place where most people get their food and clothing and stuff for the house. But what if that didn’t exist? What would you do? How would you feed yourself and your family? Where would you buy clothes? Where would you get the things you need to live the life you want to live? You need to ask yourselves some serious questions. What do I want out of life? Am I living the

Stop Your Off-Grid Dream From Becoming A Nightmare: Do Your Due Diligence

Don’t Let Lack of Preparation Turn Your Off-Grid Dream Into a Nightmare (scroll down for the comprehensive Off Grid Land Purchase Checklist) Living off-grid is a dream for many. The idea of escaping the chaos, ditching the 9-to-5 grind, and embracing a simpler, more self-sufficient lifestyle sounds like heaven. But let’s be honest: dreams can quickly turn into nightmares if you’re not prepared. You know that saying, “Failing to prepare is preparing to fail”? It’s practically the off-grid lifestyle’s unofficial motto. So, before you grab that cheap piece of land and start loading up your truck with solar panels and composting toilets, let’s have a little reality check. Because, trust me, you’ll thank yourself later. The Reality of Cheap Land You’ve probably seen those enticing ads for “affordable” land in the middle of nowhere. It’s a steal, right? Well, not so fast. That “bargain” might come with no water source, poor soil, limited sun exposure for solar, or neighbors (and by neighbors, I mean wild animals) you’d rather not meet. Here’s the deal: Do your homework. Research the area’s climate, water rights, soil quality, and zoning laws. Visit the land. Stand on it. Imagine your future there. Don’t let “cheap” trick you into thinking you’ve scored. Cheap land often has hidden costs—and they’ll bite you. Hidden costs aren’t just financial, either. They can come in the form of environmental challenges, like areas prone to flooding or wildfires, or legal issues like restrictive zoning laws that limit what you can build. These hurdles can turn your dream escape into an endless struggle if you’re not prepared to tackle them head-on. Power, Water, and Shelter: The Big Three Without power, water, and shelter, you’re not off-grid—you’re stranded. Let’s break this down: Power: You need to understand your energy needs. A small solar setup might sound cute and eco-friendly, but if it doesn’t power your fridge, lights, and tools, you’re in for a rough time. Plan for more power than you think you’ll need. Seriously, go bigger. Energy independence isn’t just about having solar panels; it’s about having a system that works year-round, even in cloudy weather. Water: If you don’t have a reliable water source, stop everything. Whether it’s a well, rainwater catchment system, or nearby stream, water is non-negotiable. And don’t forget filtration. Just because water is “natural” doesn’t mean it’s safe. Shelter: A shipping container, yurt, tiny house, or cabin—whatever you choose, make sure it’s insulated and built to withstand the local climate. Skimping on shelter means battling the elements, and trust me, nature doesn’t care about your Pinterest aesthetic. The Myth of “Easy Living” “Easy living” sounds charming, doesn’t it? But the truth is, living off-grid is anything but easy—at least at first. Of grid is about the simple life though. What we mean by simple is less complex than the hustle and bustle of the city and suburban lifestyle, fewer bills, less worry, and more freedom. There’s nothing “easy” about living off-grid; it’s hard work. what we mean

The Smart Way to Save Money On Your Cabin Build

Building an off grid cabin doesn’t have to drain your wallet. The smart way to save money is by rethinking how you source materials and shifting your focus from buying expensive retail lumber to investing in tools and resources that work for you. Whether it’s milling your own timber, buying wholesale, or reclaiming wood, there are practical ways to cut costs without sacrificing quality. With a little planning and know-how, you can build the cabin of your dreams without breaking the bank. Understand the difference between retail and wholesale, and building it yourself. There are different prices for all three. Retail is Home Depot, Lowe’s, Menard’s etc. You will pay the highest price here at these places most of the time. Then there’s wholesale. You could buy direct from the manufacturer but this usually requires a business license and a sales tax certificate to buy at wholesale, and even then you need to place a minimum order which is not cheap. (Beware of fake “wholesale” companies that say they’ll sell to you at wholesale when in reality it’s literally just retail prices). Then you have the build it yourself method. You will save money, but don’t buy your lumber at Home Depot or Lowe’s or Menard’s if you’re really serious about saving money. Buying wholesale lumber is just one way to do it. If you’re really into building your own cabin you can mill your own lumber. Buying your own portable sawmill if an option most people don’t think of. Portable sawmills are much more affordable and inexpensive than buying retail lumber and paying high prices. You can buy a good sawmill for about $5k. You will save tens of thousands of dollars on lumber in your build just by buying a portable sawmill and milling your own lumber. Where to find the trees and logs? On your own land of course. Buy land with enough good timber. It’s what the old timers did. The pioneers did it, with hand tools. You can do it with more advanced tools and equipment. The key here is to invest in the equipment instead of materials. Another thing to consider is where you’ll find the raw materials for your lumber. If you’re serious about building your own cabin, look for land with good, harvestable timber. This way, you’re not just buying a plot of land—you’re also buying your future cabin materials. That’s what the old-timers did. The pioneers didn’t have the luxury of a local hardware store; they worked with what they had on their land, using nothing more than hand tools. If they could do it with sheer grit and basic tools, you can absolutely do it too, especially with today’s portable sawmills and modern equipment. Portable sawmills are a game-changer. Sure, the upfront cost might seem a little steep, but consider this: instead of paying thousands—potentially tens of thousands—of dollars for retail lumber at marked-up prices, you’ll invest in a sawmill that pays for itself after just one or two projects.

DESERT LAND DOESN’T ALWAYS MEAN “WARM” LAND!

DESERT LAND DOESN’T ALWAYS MEAN “WARM” LAND! It gets COLD in the desert. Believe it or not. Especially in the northern parts of the states in the desert southwest USA. I see a lot of people buying desert land…mainly because it’s cheap. But it’s cheap for a reason. First and foremost, there’s no water. 9 times out of 10, there’s no well and even if you had $25k to drill a water well, you may not hit water, and now you just have an expensive hole in the ground. This is why most people I know won’t even try to drill a well, it’s a risk of wasting money and it’s easier and cheaper to buy a big water tank and haul water. COLD WEATHER CAN BE DEADLY The other main thing besides the heat of the desert is the extreme cold and sometimes, high winds. Out there in a high desert valley it gets COLD in the winter time. Very cold! Bitter cold. So cold it’s dangerous if you’re unprepared. The desert is no joke. The extreme heat in the summer and extreme cold in the winter makes it very harsh living conditions. Trying to live in the desert starting from scratch is hard to do unless you know what you’re doing. Most folks that live remotely in the desert haul their water and have propane and wood stoves for heat. They buy firewood or have to travel to a forested area since there is no forests around in the desert. In some locations there might be a forest, but chances are there are restrictions on gathering firewood and permits you need. Keeping warm in the winter is a chore, and at night the temps can drop well below freezing. If you’re unprepared for the cold in the desert it could turn dangerous. You could get hypothermia and die if you can’t get warm. It’s a real danger if you don’t know what you’re doing. This is just one of the many things you have to watch out for when you’re living off grid in the desert. It’s hard enough to go off grid to begin with, it takes a lot of work, and part of that work is homework and due diligence. You must do your due diligence as well as prepare for extreme heat and cold when moving to the desert. It’s doable. Millions of people live in the desert. But you really need to know what you’re getting yourself into if you decide that’s where you want to live. Be careful. Be safe. Do your due diligence and properly prepare for the cold winters.

Frying Pan Paradox: “Cheap” vs. “Right”: Why Quality is Worth It

“Cheap” vs. “Right”: Why Quality is Worth It Cheap isn’t always a bargain. Often, it’s the opposite. Spending less upfront on low-quality items can cost you more in the long run—a concept I call the Frying Pan Paradox. Look, I’m not judging, but I can’t help but think that cheap isn’t always the best. In fact, In my experience I’ve found that cheap is usually expensive and not right at all. Take frying pans, for instance. A $20 pan might last a few years, but over a lifetime, you could replace it ten times, spending $200 or more. Meanwhile, a high-quality stainless steel pan for $100 can last forever, even becoming a family heirloom. The difference? Spending vs. Investing. When you buy cheap, you’re just spending—throwing money away. When you invest in quality, you’re saving long-term, reducing stress, and improving your quality of life. This principle applies to everything: tools, appliances, vehicles, electronics, even your home. A cheap option will break, wear out, or need constant repair, stealing your time and money. Quality, on the other hand, lasts. Investing in quality isn’t about luxury; it’s about practicality. It’s about spending wisely so you can save and reinvest—into your family, your home, or even your own future. Being poor taught me that quality costs less in the long run. Saving for the best you can afford is an investment in yourself and your life. Don’t rush. Save. Plan. Hustle if you have to. But always invest in the best quality you can. Your future self will thank you.