Living 'off-grid' is something that has garnered a lot of interest lately, likely because of Discovery Channel shows such as The Last Alaskans and Alaska Bush People. While Alaska is not the only location where off-grid living can happen (excluding the bush, which has since prohibited anyone to build on protected bushland), many are swapping the idea of purchasing a home for purchasing land in order to build their own.

The process of off-grid living is one that's hardly new but is being revived by many as an alternative to city and suburban life. With so many choosing to forgo the modern comforts and amenities that life on the grid offers, this question is also raised: What is it actually like to live without electricity, without a constant water source, and without things such as the internet and cable?

Luckily, there are many who do this every day and have documented their experiences. It also might come as a reassuring thought to some that living off-grid doesn't necessarily mean giving up everything; it just means being self-sufficient enough to not depend on a town, village, or city.

Types Of 'Off-Grid' Living

In 2020, there are many options available when it comes to going off the grid. Ultimately, it depends on the individual, whether they have a family or are planning to, and what types of amenities are needed for them to survive through every season. Much of this will depend on the type of location in which a person goes off-grid, as well.

The ultimate way to live off-grid is to do without every amenity, including electricity, running water, heat, internet, and communication. According to an article by Morning Chores, this type of settlement would be called a 'dry cabin.' Essentially, this means building a minimalist cabin that will provide initial protection from the elements, using candles and firewood for light and heat, and putting up some type of outhouse. There would be no electricity involved, no means of water other than a natural source, and no fast-food other than a garden and livestock.

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Then, there's partial off-grid living. Usually, this means that electricity will still be an option, whether it's dependent on the grid for some things or done by means of solar, wind, or water (hydro) power. Rather than an outhouse, a septic system is in place but is taken care of by the homeowner with no city or town sewage line involved. This is more of a go-to option for many because it's initially more realistic and while some do decide to take it a bit further, the use - and affordability - of solar panels is now making it possible. While it's not a true 'off-grid' situation in terms of pioneer days, it still allows for freedom and opportunity when it comes to independence in homeowning.

Food, Shelter, And Supplies For Rural Living

Some might decide that rural living is the way to go. In the US, this could mean moving to a remote island or inlet, taking to the mountains, or making a homestead out in the open plains. Wherever a person chooses to go, there are some questions that require solutions. For those who are planning on a cabin or home with solar panels, electricity can be a saving grace, even if it's only to run basic appliances such as lights and a refrigerator and/or freezer. For those who aren't planning on electricity as part of their off-grid plan, finding ways to preserve and store food is the first challenge. Furthermore, the means of obtaining food - whether it be through hunting and gathering on the land or making trips into town - is another problem to solve.

A home is essentially shelter during off-grid living. It can be built by hand, of course, but this also means that hand-held tools and gas-operated tools - such as a chainsaw - must be used. This might require a lengthy period of practice and research, as it's a different world when there's no electricity to plug a circular-saw into and make a perfectly-rounded notch. The quality of shelter depends on the skill of the craftsman and this couldn't ring more true for traditional off-grid living. For a shelter that's already in place, it's still good to know basic home-fixing practice in the event of a leak, storm, or another issue.

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Some choose to live in communities which is helpful for those leaving their jobs behind. Doing odd-jobs or manual labor is how many earn a living while off-grid, but it also helps to be self-sufficient without needing much from a trip to town or a neighbor. With no TV or internet to surf, homesteading becomes like second-nature to some, filling time with crafts or chores around the land. This might not be natural to some but for others, there's really no other way of life that's as rewarding, simple, or fulfilling, than knowing that independence is a way of life.

Next: 20 Places Around The World Perfect To Live Off The Grid