Content

• Steps
• Method 1 of 5: Plan Your Life Without Money
• Method 2 of 5: Organize Accommodation
• Method 3 of 5: Finding and Growing Food
• Method 4 of 5: Meeting Other Needs
• Method 5 of 5: Planning Your Movement
• Tips
• Warnings

Life without money is contrary to how most people understand a successful and happy life, but more and more people are adopting this lifestyle. Living without money not only reduces stress due to financial problems, but also has benefits such as, for example, reduced environmental impact. Living without money, you begin to appreciate more what you have, and this allows you to live more purposefully. Even if you decide you can't give up money entirely, some of the tricks below can help you avoid wasting money and be less wasteful.

Steps

Method 1 of 5: Plan Your Life Without Money

1. 1 Before you start living without money, try to reduce your expenses first. Making the decision to live without money changes a lot in life, especially if you live with other people and / or support them financially in one way or another. It can be helpful to start small and try not to spend money for a week or a month so you can better understand if this lifestyle is right for you. There are many ways to cut costs in your day-to-day life, and even if you are hesitant to give up money entirely, these techniques can help you save money.
   • If you live close to work and can walk or cycle to work, you can easily avoid expenses like gas, parking, and car maintenance. Plus, walking or cycling will be good physical activity, which is so often lacking in modern people!
   • Try not to buy food for a week. Only use products that are available in your home. Many sites have functions to search for recipes by product - this will give you some ideas on what to cook.
   • If you love spending money on entertainment, then try to find free forms of entertainment. For example, local newspapers often publish announcements of upcoming events. You can also read books or use the free internet in public places, and free movie screenings are sometimes held in libraries and some other places. Try walking in the evening, visiting friends, or just spending the evening with your family playing board games - all these types of entertainment are completely free.
   • The site www.moneyless.org contains a large collection of useful tips and tricks on how to live without money.
2. 2 Explore your needs and those of your family. If you live alone, it will be much easier to live without money than when you have a family and you need to take care of it. Living without money is a very serious commitment and you must make sure that you can meet your needs even without money.
   • For example, if you or a member of your family need regular medical care or medication, then living without money is unlikely to be for you.
   • If you live in extreme conditions, such as a climate that is too cold or too hot, it can be unsafe to live without money.This is especially true for families with young children or the elderly, who are more susceptible to illness associated with extreme temperatures.
3. 3 Study other people's experiences. Whether you want to live a nomadic lifestyle like Heidemarie Schwermer or live in a cave like Daniel Suelo, it will be helpful to first get to know the experiences of other people who have given up on money. This will help you better understand if you can accept such a test.
   • Man without money Mark Boyle is a first-person story about a life without money. Mark Boyle also blogs and has written a book called Moneyless Manifesto, he created a website about life for a penny called Streetbank.
   • A man free of money Mark Sandina is the biography of Daniel Suelo, a man who has lived without money for more than 14 years.
   • 2012 documentary Life without money talks about the life of Heidemarie Schwermer, a German woman who has been living without money since the early 1990s.
4. 4 Think about what you can invest. Some things that make life without money easier, such as gardens, solar panels, dry closets, and water wells, require an upfront investment. The financial advantage of such funds will be a reduction in costs (for example, a decrease in utility bills), but remember that this may not happen immediately.
   • If you live in a city and do not have your own home, then not all of these options may work for you. Think and determine what will be useful in your case.
5. 5 Remember that there are always unavoidable costs. For example, if you need certain drugs, you cannot refuse the cost of purchasing them. You can check with your doctor if you can stop taking these medications. If you are unable or unwilling to sell your home, then you will likely need to pay mortgage and / or utility bills.
   • If you decide to continue working, you will need to continue paying taxes.
   • In some countries, it may be necessary to pay for health insurance. Sometimes the amount of this insurance depends on the size of the salary. In any case, health insurance can be helpful.

Method 2 of 5: Organize Accommodation

1. 1 Move out of town. You can build a home that runs on solar energy, wind power, or renewable energy sources. You can use water from a well, from a river or from a spring. Install a dry closet (compost toilet). This will save water, will not harm the environment and will be able to produce fertilizers for growing vegetables.
   • RVs (sometimes called mobile homes) can also be a good option if you can't afford a large family home with all the amenities. Also, if you live in a mobile home, it will be easier for you to find access to a water source.
   • Earthships are eco-friendly and inexpensive homes, and are often made from a variety of trash such as old car tires, beer bottles, and similar materials. Very often, the materials used to build such houses are very cheap, they can be found for free or exchanged for help.
   • Even if you don't want to move out of your home or give up your money entirely, things like solar panels and dry closets are great ideas both ecologically and cost-effectively.
2. 2 Volunteer at an organic farm. World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms (WWOOF) is a well-respected organization that coordinates agritourism volunteering around the world. You will need to pay a small membership fee to join the organization. As a rule, volunteer programs of this organization involve the exchange of physical labor for food and accommodation. Some farms even host families.
   • If you decide to volunteer in another country, then you will also need to pay for a work visa.In addition, you will need to have enough money to cover your travel expenses.
   • Volunteering on an organic farm can be a great way to learn a little about vegetable and horticulture, which can then be useful for growing your own vegetables and fruits.
3. 3 Move to live in a community of like-minded people. Many communities of like-minded people often share housing with each other, not just goals and ideas. Such communities are sometimes referred to as “international communes”, “communities”, “communities”, “eco-villages” or “co-settlement”. You will be able to trade your skills or food for housing and support. More information about these communities can be found on the Internet.
   • You may want to interact with the community beforehand and visit the place where they live. This way of life is not for everyone, so make sure you share the values ​​of the community and can live there.
4. 4 Become a Haussieter. A Haussiter is a person who looks after a house while the owners are away. If you enjoy moving from place to place, then you can earn a reputation as a responsible Haussieter who you can trust is a good way to travel and live comfortably. You can, for example, join online organizations such as Trusted House Sitters or Mind My House, or earn yourself a good reputation in your city as a home and pets leave person on vacation.
   • If you are looking for temporary accommodation, your plans are flexible enough, and you like meeting new people, then you can check the websites of organizations such as Couchsurfing or The Hospitality Club.
5. 5 Live in nature. Getting out of town and living in nature can take some skill, but there are actually many options outside of your usual habitation. Caves and other natural shelters can be good choices. [1]
   • Remember that this lifestyle is not easy and requires certain skills and knowledge, and, in addition, excellent health. This option is unlikely to suit you if you have health problems, or if your family has children or the elderly.
   • Move to a warm climate. Living in nature is much easier if there are no strong temperature fluctuations, heavy rains and frosts.
6. 6 Consider joining a religious community. There are many religious communities in which life is associated with the abandonment of material values, for example, the Buddhist sangha and Christian monasteries. Such communities usually provide everything they need — clothing, shelter, and food — in exchange for service and commitment.
   • If your values ​​and beliefs make this a good option, then you can search for the right religious community online or ask someone from the community you want to join.
   • Whole families are usually not accepted into religious communities, so if you have a family, this is most likely not an option for you.

Method 3 of 5: Finding and Growing Food

1. 1 Learn about edible plants. If you are planning to feed on plants that grow in your area, we recommend finding a good guide that details all edible and non-poisonous plants. Book Free meal Richard Mabey is considered the classic edible plant reference, which contains many illustrations.
   • If you plan on growing your own food, learn how to farm the land efficiently, how and when to plant, and what crops are best to grow.
   • Some universities and colleges offer related courses in horticulture, horticulture, or plant breeding. Sometimes these courses are free.
   • Remember the seasonality. For example, berries are harvested in summer, apples and nuts in autumn. Greens can be grown and harvested almost all year round.Whether you choose to grow vegetables, fruits or crops, or choose to harvest wild plants, make sure you have enough food throughout the year to maintain a balanced diet.
2. 2 Collect wild plants. Collecting wild edible plants is a pleasant and sustainable way to find food. Even if you live in the suburbs, there may be fruit trees nearby that you can eat, they may grow from your neighbors, and the neighbors may not use this crop - be sure to ask the owners if the fruit can be harvested. [[2]]
   • Avoid picking nuts or plants that have been eaten by other animals, which have crashed when dropped from a tree or partially rotted, as these fruits may contain harmful bacteria.
   • Do not pick greens or any plants near very busy highways or near factories as they may be contaminated with harmful emissions. Instead, try to harvest in rural areas, away from the effects of automobiles, industry, and technology.
   • Don't eat plants you don't know. If you are not sure if a given plant is edible, just walk by.
3. 3 Ask in stores, farmers markets, or restaurants for leftovers. Many stores and restaurants often throw away unnecessary or unnecessary food, or food that has passed its expiration date (although more often than not, such food is still edible). Ask the manager of the establishment about the rules for the disposal of such products. You can also ask vendors or farmers in the market if they have any defective items to collect.
   • Be careful with meat, dairy, and eggs, as the risk of harmful and dangerous bacteria growing in these foods is higher.
   • Small shops can be more accommodating than large chain supermarkets, however, and some chain stores are known for their loyalty to food sharing.
   • Let the neighbors know about you. It is very common for people to throw away uneaten or unwanted foods. You can distribute leaflets in your area that will tell you about you and your decision to live without money. Many people will gladly give you leftover fruits, vegetables, or other foods.
4. 4 Trade your work for food. Offer to do some work for food, offer to trade some foods for others to make your meals more varied, or exchange unnecessary things for something more useful. [3] You may find that many people will be happy to offer you food in exchange for help with the house.
   • Think what you can exchange? Do you grow vegetables, but the neighbors don't? Do you have any skills that others need? Use your own potatoes or berries from the forest, your painting skills, your kids' skills, or your experience in walking animals to get fruit in return that you cannot grow or harvest yourself.
   • Remember, if the negotiation is successful, both sides win. Be fair in evaluating your own services. Is an hour of babysitting worth five kilos of apples worth it? Or is only two kilograms enough?
5. 5 Grow your own food. Gardening is a good way to find food that does not require financial costs, but requires only your own land and hands. You can grow vegetables and fruits even if you live in the suburbs. Even if you cannot fully subsist on what you have grown yourself, harvesting from your own garden will be healthier and cheaper than fruits and vegetables bought in the store.
   • Decide which vegetables and fruits are more appropriate to grow in your area. The easiest way to do this is to visit a local farmer or gardener and discuss all the nuances with him. Each region can have different climatic conditions and soils, which significantly affects which fruits and vegetables will grow there.
   • Build a greenhouse! You can use trash bags and wooden frames to make a greenhouse. Grow vegetables in it that require more heat, such as tomatoes, radishes, and Brussels sprouts.
   • Ask your neighbors if they would like to set aside some of their land for a garden too. You can provide your energy and time in exchange for more land for plants - so you can grow more different fruits and vegetables, which will diversify your diet. Plus, you can work together in the garden, which can help reduce exercise and strengthen friendships.
6. 6 Create a compost heap near your home for your vegetable garden. Foods unsuitable for food are great for compost - once decomposed, they feed the soil well, and therefore the vegetables, fruits and grains growing on it.

Method 4 of 5: Meeting Other Needs

1. 1 Learn to change. Many online communities, such as Freegle, Freecycle, and Streetbank, offer listings of goods or services that are available for free. Sometimes it can be something that the other person wants to give away, and sometimes it can be items that people are willing to exchange for your skills.
   • See what things you want to get rid of. For one person, trash, for another, treasure, so instead of selling your old shoes or watches on Ebay or throwing them away altogether, try trading them for the things or services you need.
   • Remember, you can exchange for services. If you need to renovate something at home, then think about what skills or things you can give for work.
2. 2 Grow bathroom supplies. You can plant soapwort (saponaria) in your garden and you will have soap and shampoo. Use baking soda or salt instead of toothpaste - these are natural and affordable remedies.
3. 3 Look in the trash cans. Many things that are often just thrown away can be useful for a life without money. [[4]] Old discarded newspapers can serve as toilet paper. Stores often throw away care products such as deodorants and hygiene products that have expired even though they are still usable.
   • Many shops and restaurants often throw away food. You should not take meat, dairy and seafood, as well as eggs. Do not pick anything that smells strange or rotten. Breads, canned foods, and packaged foods (such as chips) are usually safe, but make sure the packaging is not torn or bulged.
   • Be aware that there are many hazards in the dumpster, such as broken glass, rats, and even biological debris. If you are going to rummage through the dumpsters, come prepared: wear rubber boots, gloves and a headlamp.
   • Do not rummage in containers labeled “Forbidden” or similar. This could be dangerous or illegal.
4. 4 Take care of the exchange of things. If you have a lot of things in good condition that you no longer use, then you can run a fair of sorts. Invite friends and neighbors and ask them to bring unwanted items. You can distribute flyers or write messages on Facebook and other social networks.
   • This is a great way to get rid of unnecessary items like baby clothes or toys that you no longer need. You can also exchange books you've already read for books you haven't read yet, or exchange extra towels or sheets for items you need more.
5. 5 Sew the clothes yourself. Try exchanging something for a sewing kit or fabric, or trade unwanted items or services for sewing lessons. You can alter clothes that do not suit you, sew from unnecessary bedding or other fabrics. There are often leftovers in fabric stores, and maybe they will be given to you.
   • Sew up the holes, if the clothes are torn, make patches if necessary.
6. 6 Make sure to share experiences. You can exchange not only goods and services! Join a community of exchange of skills - you can learn a lot and share everything you know with others. It's also a great way to meet new people and make friends without spending a dime.

Method 5 of 5: Planning Your Movement

1. 1 Sell ​​or exchange your vehicle. If you are a car owner, it is almost impossible for you to live without money, unless you find a car mechanic who will accept your services or things in exchange for repairs, or a gas station where you can work in exchange for gasoline.
   • Check if there are carpooling, or carpooling societies in your area. If you are in dire need of a car, sometimes carpooling is possible for a small fee. You can also negotiate with other people who will pay for your gas and car costs in exchange for giving them a ride.
2. 2 Agree that someone will give you a ride. Many people commute to school, work, or other places every day. You can arrange with someone who can give you a ride in exchange for food or services.
   • A variety of ride-sharing options can be found at Liftshare, Ridester and Carpool World.
   • Hitchhiking can also be a good option if you have to travel long distances, but remember to be careful! Hitchhiking can be dangerous, especially if you are traveling alone.
3. 3 Use your bike. If you have to travel long distances on a regular basis and walking is unacceptable to you, a bicycle can be a fast, environmentally friendly and free way to get around. Plus, your bike will keep you in great shape!
   • Buy a bike rack or basket to carry groceries or other loads with you.
4. 4 Monitor your health. Walking is the easiest and most affordable way to move, which does not require money. A healthy person can walk at least 30 km in a day without stress, but for this you need good shoes, water and food.
   • Be prepared for any cold weather situation. A light snowfall can quickly turn into a blizzard, and if you go far from home, a situation can be dangerous for your life and for your health. Consider walking with someone, or at least warn someone about where you are going and what time you plan to return.

Tips

• Start gradually. It is unlikely that someone who pays their rent, buys clothes, drives a car, and works in a regular job from 9 am to 5 pm will be able to immediately transition to a lifestyle without money. Start by enjoying things that do not require spending money, for example, just hang out with friends instead of going to a restaurant, or walk in the park instead of walking around the mall and shopping.
• Connect with like-minded people and live among them. The transition to a money-free economy will be much easier if people around you share your values, share their things and skills, and besides, it will be much easier to solve difficulties in a group. Regardless of whether you move to a certain community or just make a few friends with similar interests and ambitions, you can enjoy life without money much better, consumption will satisfy you emotionally much more, and besides, you will receive practical benefits.
• Move to a warmer climate. Farming, gardening, and living outdoors or in a simple shelter is much easier in temperate climates.

Warnings

• Monitor your diet closely to make sure you are eating a varied diet and getting enough nutrients.
• If you live with young children or the elderly, remember that they are more susceptible to foodborne illness, temperature extremes, and exercise wasting. Do not expose them to such hazards.
• Be careful. Hitchhiking, life in the wild, and long walks alone can be potentially dangerous. Investigate all the risks and prepare to be safe.