Top 20 Alternatives to Money During SHTF

Top 20 Alternatives to Money During SHTF

In a SHTF (Sh*t Hits the Fan) scenario, traditional currency may lose its value or become inaccessible, making barter and alternative forms of trade essential for survival. Communities may need to rely on practical, tangible items that have immediate value for survival, protection, and daily needs. Here are the top 20 alternatives to money during SHTF:

You may like this e-guide: 103 barter items for SHTF:

https://readyresourcesupply.com/shtf-barter-planner-with-103-examples

If you haven't already, take advantage of these FOUR FREE PDF guides that are 100% free, download and print them all out in case of power or internet loss:

https://readyresourcesupply.com/free-guides

1. Food

Food is the ultimate currency in a crisis, where stores run out and people must fend for themselves. Canned goods, rice, beans, and freeze-dried food will be in high demand. Items with long shelf lives, such as canned meat, fruits, vegetables, and grains, can become extremely valuable in bartering.

2. Water

Clean, drinkable water is one of the most critical resources during any emergency. People may trade for bottled water, water purification tablets, or water filters. Large containers for storing water and portable filtration systems like LifeStraw or Berkey filters will hold immense value.

3. Firearms and Ammunition

In dangerous times, personal protection becomes a top priority. Firearms and ammunition are likely to become highly sought-after trade items, especially as security becomes a concern. Both those seeking to defend themselves and those looking to hunt for food will find firearms indispensable.

4. Medicines and First Aid Supplies

Medical supplies, such as antibiotics, painkillers, bandages, antiseptics, and first aid kits, will be essential for treating injuries and illnesses. Items like aspirin, ibuprofen, and prescription medications will also become critical barter items, as they may not be readily available.

5. Alcohol

Alcohol serves several purposes in an SHTF scenario. It can be used as a disinfectant, for medical purposes, or even as a form of comfort. Whiskey, vodka, and other hard liquors could be traded for other essentials, as they have a long shelf life and numerous uses.

6. Tobacco

Smokers will be desperate to get their hands on tobacco products during a crisis, and it could become a valuable barter item. Cigarettes, cigars, and rolling tobacco are all likely to hold high trade value, even for non-smokers looking to capitalize on the addiction needs of others.

7. Tools and Hardware

In a world where resources are limited, manual tools like hammers, saws, nails, axes, and screwdrivers will be invaluable for those needing to repair or build shelter. Self-sufficiency becomes crucial, and people will trade for the means to maintain their surroundings.

8. Batteries

Power sources will be scarce in a grid-down scenario. Batteries of all types, especially AA, AAA, and rechargeable ones, will be in demand for powering essential devices such as flashlights, radios, and other equipment. Solar-powered chargers may also serve as a vital alternative.

9. Fuel (Gasoline, Diesel, Propane)

Fuel is critical for transportation, power generators, and heating. Gasoline, diesel, and propane will become key assets, especially for those who need to move or power machinery. Small, portable fuel containers may become a common bartering item.

10. Solar Panels and Power Banks

Off-grid power sources, such as solar panels and power banks, are highly useful for charging electronics and running small appliances. Portable solar chargers can power communication devices and medical equipment, making them prime barter goods.

11. Clothing and Footwear

Sturdy, durable clothing and boots will be important, especially for outdoor survival. Items like thermal wear, waterproof clothing, gloves, and tactical boots will help people survive extreme weather conditions. Blankets and socks will also be highly valued.

12. Hygiene Products

Personal hygiene will still be important, even during a crisis. Toilet paper, soap, feminine hygiene products, diapers, and toothpaste will be in high demand as people look for ways to stay clean and healthy. These products will become incredibly scarce in stores.

13. Seeds for Gardening

Seeds are essential for sustainable food production. Heirloom seeds for crops like tomatoes, corn, beans, and greens will be extremely valuable. As people realize the need for long-term food sources, seeds will become one of the most crucial barter items.

14. Gold and Silver

Precious metals like gold and silver have historically retained value through crises. Coins, bars, or even jewelry made of these metals will hold value, especially for those looking to secure wealth for future rebuilding efforts after the initial disaster has passed.

15. Handmade Goods and Skills

As systems break down, skills become highly valuable. Carpentry, medical skills, mechanics, and even cooking or sewing will provide bartering opportunities for those who can help others. Similarly, handmade items such as clothes, blankets, or tools can be traded.

16. Candles and Lighting

With the grid potentially down, candles, oil lamps, and lanterns will become essential for lighting. Lighters and matches will also be valuable for starting fires. Any form of portable, long-lasting light will be sought after in barter situations.

17. Fishing and Hunting Gear

Survival may depend on the ability to hunt or fish. Fishing rods, nets, lines, and tackle will be valuable items. Likewise, hunting gear such as bows, arrows, traps, and hunting knives will be critical for obtaining food, making them prime items for trade.

18. Coffee and Tea

Much like alcohol and tobacco, coffee and tea will be in high demand as luxury or comfort items during a crisis. People will be willing to trade for these products as they provide a sense of normalcy and comfort, especially in high-stress environments.

19. Pet Supplies

Many people will still want to care for their pets, even during a disaster. Dog food, cat food, litter, and basic pet supplies could become important for those with animals. These items could be valuable for bartering, particularly for pet owners trying to survive.

20. Shelter Materials

Tarps, tents, and plastic sheeting for temporary shelters will be in high demand, as people need to protect themselves from the elements. Items like nails, rope, and duct tape will also be necessary for securing or repairing shelter, making them valuable in trade.

Conclusion

During an SHTF scenario, the value of traditional currency will likely diminish, making essential goods and practical skills far more valuable in trade. Those who prepare ahead with these items or develop useful survival skills will be in the best position to barter for what they need and help maintain some semblance of community in the aftermath.

Arm Yourself with Knowledge:

Always 10% off any order over $50 with code: ReadyWithRRS

More articles:

https://readyresourcesupply.com/articles

Online Store:

https://readyresourcesupply.com/sale-bundles

https://readyresourcesupply.com/shop

Stay Connected:

https://www.instagram.com/readyresourcesupply

https://www.pinterest.com/readyresourcesupply