40 Items to Barter
Updated: Oct 24
Bartering is such a great tool, not just at TEOTWAYKI, but in everyday life. Whether it’s the loan of tools between neighbors, parents that trade off babysitting, carpooling, or more technical-labour skills, bartering saves money and builds invaluable relationships.
There were many items, that we often take for granted, which were much sought after following the major hurricanes in the southern United States. Some people from spared states and regions sold them at astronomical costs to those in need. Stores were looted, those in need suffered.
Here are 40 items that fit inside a standard 5-gallon bucket that are easily traded during severe crises or if the “shit hits the fan” (SHTF), as they say. Please note: I have left out standard weaponry and ammo, for a few reasons.
Canned Fuel (like Sterno)
Duct Tape
Socks
Hat
Gloves
Candles
A hygiene pack (basically a ziploc bag with a toothbrush/paste, small bar of soap, tissue packet, and a compressed washcloth)
Seeds
Nail Clipper
Knives (as a tool)
Sewing Kit
Batteries (AAA and AA being the most common)
Lighters
Matches
Deck of Cards
Chewing Gum
Reading Glasses
Home or Personal Alarm
Tampons
Condoms
Travel Packets of Over-the-Counter Medications
Vitamins
Hand Tools
Cigarettes
Water Purification Tablets
Mylar Blanket
Toilet Paper
First Aid Supplies (all kinds)
Powdered Creamer
Coffee/Tea
Powdered Drink Mix
Hot Cocoa
Sugar
Oil
Vodka
Peanut Butter
Hard Candy
Canned Stew/Meat
Crackers
Granola Bars
Most of these can be found at a dollar store. A good strategy is to store your “barter bucket” away from your other supplies in the event of disaster so no one sees how much you really have. Also, make the deal first, fetching the items needed in private.
1 view