Best Skills to Learn Before SHTF?

[AquaFern1028]

Lately I’ve been thinking a lot about skillsets versus stockpiles. Tools and supplies only go so far if you don’t actually know how to use them, right? Besides the obvious stuff like gardening and basic first aid, I’m wondering what skills folks here see as most critical—especially for those of us who might not be as physically strong as we used to be. I’ve spent plenty of time canning, dehydrating, and purifying water, but I know there’s gaps in my knowledge.

Would you focus more on defense, advanced medical, foraging, small livestock, or maybe mechanical things like small engine repair? And for those with experience, which skill have you found the most unexpectedly useful? There’s always talk about “barterable” skills too—curious what those might look like

 

[MeadowWhisperer]

Never thought I’d use basic sewing skills so much—patching clothes, making simple bags, even minor mending for barter. Anyone else find “domestic” skills surprisingly useful?

 

[ChrysanthiDream]

Funny how often the “old” skills turn out to be the most practical. I’d put food preservation and wild plant ID right at the top—knowing what’s edible and actually safe can be a gamechanger, especially if traditional supply chains break down. I’ve also swapped homemade herbal salves for eggs before, so don’t underestimate the value of basic herbal remedies. Anyone else practicing barter situations just to get comfy with the idea?