If you are Homesteading you may want to consider these must-haves.
When you make the decision to go off the grid and build a family property that allows you to be self sufficient and safe in the event of a crisis or disaster, you need to make sure it meets several requirements in addition to food and water.
A good piece of property is first and foremost on the checklist. It should be away from city, but not too far that it becomes an inconvenience to access whenever you need to replenish your supplies.
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You should have a spot that’s easy to access, but is hidden from public view. You want to know where it is, but not have it visible from the roadway where others might approach if there’s a disaster and they’re scouting for supplies.
A good water supply source would be a great addition if you can find one. If it’s a flowing river or stream that would offer you fresh water, then you can’t beat that since water is a necessity or you to survive.
Plenty of room for gardening and grazing animals is a perk. You need to figure out what kind of crops and animals you plan to raise, since some will require more space than others.
Good soil goes along with that last perk. If you’re gardening, then you don’t want to be reliant on a store to sell you bags of fertilizer to enrich the soil. You want land that’s already rich in nutrients and will help your plants thrive.
A method for generating your own electricity – hydro, solar, or wind would help your family survive. The running water with a drop in elevation would be good for hydro electricity. Plenty of sun for solar, and winds of at least 9-10 mph for wind-generated electricity.
Formidable building supplies should be brought onto the property. Concrete is a good building supply for protection from the elements. A safe room built into the property is wise for all kinds of events. You want it to withstand weather and prevent easy entry by unwanted guests.
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Ample storage facilities are necessary. You need storage for items that can’t tolerate temperature swings, like your food stores and water supplies. Outdoor storage for tools, equipment, and other items are also needed.
Protection from harm needs to be on your mind. Gates built around the property will help somewhat. Locks that come with doors and fences are often flimsy, so you may want to shore those up with something stronger.
Firearms and a security system with rechargeable batteries can help protect you. Fire resistant roofing material will help prevent your home from burning down if you’re in a wildfire situation.
Concrete homes built right into the side of a mountain offer the best form of protection for the actual shelter itself. Then the property it overlooks could meet the rest of the requirements.
Popular Questions
What are the essential homesteading must-haves for getting started?
Begin with dependable hand tools, durable work gloves, storage containers, and a way to access clean water. A first-aid kit, flashlights, batteries, and basic repair supplies are also useful for daily tasks and unexpected problems. Choose equipment that matches your land, available space, budget, and homesteading goals.
Which homesteading must-haves are most useful for growing food?
Useful garden essentials include quality seeds, compost or soil amendments, a digging fork, a hoe, pruning shears, and a watering system. Add plant labels, row covers, and simple fencing to protect crops and keep track of what you plant. Start with vegetables suited to your climate rather than buying more supplies than you can use.
What are the must-haves for keeping animals on a homestead?
Animal-related homesteading must-haves include secure fencing, appropriate shelter, clean water containers, feeders, and feed storage that keeps pests and moisture out. Keep species-specific first-aid supplies and a reliable way to separate or transport an animal when needed. Check local regulations and prepare the housing before bringing animals home.
Which homesteading must-haves help with food storage and preservation?
For preserving food, consider canning jars and lids, a pressure canner or water-bath canner, freezer-safe containers, and a dehydrator if it fits your needs. A cool, dry pantry with labeled shelves makes it easier to rotate food and monitor expiration dates. Follow tested preservation recipes and use safe processing times for each type of food.