Realistically, how long could you go without power?
Given the recent uptick in grid failures and weather extremes, I've been reassessing just how long I could realistically live without electricity. Off-grid skills are one thing, but actually going the distance is another. I cook mostly on wood or gas, and have a hand pump for water, but I admit—after decades with modern comforts, it’s hard to honestly gauge my limits.
Assuming food storage is solid, water's covered, and sanitation’s dealt with (outhouse or composting toilet), how long could you truly maintain without any power? Would the biggest challenge be lighting, communication, food preservation, or just morale over time? For those who've done extended off-grid stints, what caught you off-guard?
Also, I wonder how people's assessments change with season—summer without fans or winter with only wood heat is a different ballgame. I rely heavily on solar for some basics, but if that goes out, things could get sketchy quick. Anybody made it through a month (or more) without any backup power? What would you have done differently, looking back?
Curious to hear real timelines and unexpected hardships from the experienced folks here.
Assuming food storage is solid, water's covered, and sanitation’s dealt with (outhouse or composting toilet), how long could you truly maintain without any power? Would the biggest challenge be lighting, communication, food preservation, or just morale over time? For those who've done extended off-grid stints, what caught you off-guard?
Also, I wonder how people's assessments change with season—summer without fans or winter with only wood heat is a different ballgame. I rely heavily on solar for some basics, but if that goes out, things could get sketchy quick. Anybody made it through a month (or more) without any backup power? What would you have done differently, looking back?
Curious to hear real timelines and unexpected hardships from the experienced folks here.