People who choose to live their lives off the grid are going to encounter some setbacks along the way, but the best way to make these setbacks minor is to become educated on the common mistakes made by seasoned off-the-gridders. Living off the grid is a learning experience, but it is still crucial for individuals to be prepared before setting off on their newest adventure. The following are 5 mistakes to avoid when living off the grid.

Not Investing in Solar Panels

All too often, people choose to believe that investing in solar panels isn’t as beneficial as it sounds. However, having an energy source is one of the smartest things a person living off the grid can do for themselves. Before living off the grid, individuals should make sure to contact a solar company in Erie, CO, and purchase a solar panel (a bigger family may need more than one solar panel). Doing this can ensure that they have a means of communication with the outside world, and be able to live in the modern world while living off the grid.

Not Investing in Good Soil

Another very common mistake when it comes to living off the grid is not investing in the right type of soil, or not brining any soil at all. Since a garden is essential for living off the grid healthily, it is wise for individuals to become well-versed in gardening. However, being well-versed and unprepared isn’t going to make a garden grow. Instead, those interested in living off the grid should bring ample amounts of good soil, seedlings, plants, and gardening accessories.

Not Using Gravity as a Sidekick

There are some people who have lived off the grid for months without ever realizing that gravity is their sidekick. Since carrying buckets of water to one’s location every single day can be exhausting, it is best to choose a location that is not elevated, as doing so stops water sources from naturally making their way down a mountain and into one’s camp. When a family sets up camp downhill from a water source, they can manipulate the land to create a stream of accessible water.

Not Bringing Protection

Since prey animals are often found in the areas where humans choose to live off the grid, it is wise to bring protection — just in case. Also, hunting might be in order, which is why riffles can be necessary.

Not Being Physically Prepared

Living off the grid might sound pretty relaxing, but it requires a lot of work. Another mistake people make is not getting physically prepared for their journey ahead of time.