Another market crash and the world is learning that America is no longer a AAA country as far as credit rating. Investors are reeling and it is almost as bad as the 1929 crash that created the great depression. Each person is going to have to learn to live on even less than before and that means even less money to make monthly bills. Many more people are going to end up living in their home with only the water on. No phone, no power, no TV or computer games. It is back to the basics and winter is coming.

It is barter, trade and beg time and we will survive this crash. It is going to take time to rebuild, but in the mean time families need a place to live, children and adults need food and we need to survive in order to thrive. For the moment we must survive daily life without money. Living through the hard times will prepare us for the next crash and over throw. Maybe not and if we are the lucky country of years gone by, no one will invade and we will find the spirit to continue.

Begin your barter education by boxing everything you do not want or need and placing an ad online. List what you have and what you would like to trade for. I would suggest something that will be of use in the coming years. A wood burning stove, outdoor cook gear, car repair, another car, fresh food, wood for the stove, reading material, candles, new home remodeling or repairs, tires for the car, winter snow removal, gas for the car, children’s clothing, dental services, entertainment and land.

Depending on where you live and the lifestyle you prefer, you can make a list of the things you would like to have. Whatever will suit your needs in the future and especially this coming winter. You can even trade for gift items so you can celebrate the holidays with family and friends.

Look around your area and find out what is available. If there are gardeners in your neighborhood, they may have produce they will be willing to trade or barter. You can make a deal with them for fresh food or for canned and dry goods. Food is going to be your first concern in every situation in order to survive.

If you are paying the bills, but can not afford extras, consider taking in a room mate that has something other than money to offer. They may have access to health clubs, teach a martial arts, provide gardening services or home repair, car maintenance, food, home cleaning and upkeep and money for utilities. Any trade for something you need is a great way to go into the future with a clear mind and positive outlook.

Beg family for anything they are willing to help you with or give up. Maybe they will provide a meal once a week or fresh produce from their own gardens you can sell for extra cash. Ask if they will front you a percentage of the profits if you make sales of items they no longer want. You are involved with a whole different part of the population and may be able to sale items their own contacts do not have a need for.

Create a small group of friends to meet somewhere mutual. It can be your home or theirs, at a local park or even a business. Bring items and skills you are willing to trade and spend any money you can afford in order to help bills continue to be paid. Trade clothing, books, tools, home and car repairs, cleaning, dental checks up for work, food, flowers, crafts and everything you do not need for something you need. Be generous in your trade. This is not the time to look for great profits. This is the time to survive.

Even housing is a great trade or barter item when you are down and out. Trade your own skills or services for a place to stay. Make it count and the future can be survived with a little fun on the side.