14 Bartering Items to Have on Hand in Case of Emergency

The barter system, which involves exchanging goods and services for other goods and services rather than utilizing money, will always take effect in a disaster. Bartering will likely be crucial, particularly if the crisis is severe. It may persist for a long period or it may only last for a short while as the new form of currency. Don't let yourself be caught unprepared; many of the products listed below are helpful both in prosperous times and during emergencies, so stock up now!

1) Gold & Silver

Gold and silver are excellent for bartering because they have historically maintained their worth through good times and bad. However, as gold is frequently bought as one ounce coins, which are worth well over $1k each, it is difficult to use for modest exchanges. Silver is actually a superior metal to trade with. Because pre-1965 dimes and quarters are 90% silver, are in a price range that makes them perfect swaps for smaller products, and are readily identifiable as such, preppers like to store up on "junk silver" (pre-1965 dimes and quarters).

2) Fishing supplies

In times of need, fishing is an excellent way to feed the family. Food will be in short supply, thus any way of obtaining it will be quite precious. The fact that fishing gear doesn't take up much space and is reasonably priced makes it an even more desirable barter item.

3) Food

The barter system will undoubtedly place a high value on food, especially items with a lengthy shelf life! When a major crisis occurs, food immediately becomes a major problem. Food will quickly become a valuable bartering good since grocery stores will be mostly empty.

4) Disposable or cloth diapers

During a collapse, diapers will become a highly sought-after commodity for parents of young children. Imagine having to manage that mess on top of attempting to keep your family safe, as well as trying to supply them with food and shelter.

5) Personal hygiene items

When a serious crisis strikes, it is likely that supplies of feminine hygiene products, soap, shampoo, toothpaste, and toilet paper will swiftly run out. Any of these will be extremely beneficial if people's suffering becomes apparent.

6) Supplies for First Aid and Over-the-Counter Medications

As you probably already knew, having first aid supplies and medications on hand during a disaster will be essential for both barter and your family's requirements. The need for these things will soar because there will be a massive rise in illnesses and injuries.

7) Fuel

As all the items on this list, fuel well become scarce but it will be critical for survival. Fuel will be needed for warmth, cooking, and in many cases sterilizing water. You will need a lot of it for your own family, but any extra will likely pay dividends when on the barter system.

8) Seeds

When a crisis hits, there will be panic over food almost immediately.  Anything to help people acquire food will be huge . Fortunately, seeds are relatively cheap (at least for now) and take up very little space, making them great for the barter system.

A little preparation can go a long way. When a serious crisis hits and things revert to the barter system, you’ll be in a much better situation if you are stocked up on some of these items!