What’s Your Top Barter Item for SHTF Scenarios?

[PrepperLinda65]

Curious what folks are stocking for barter if things go sideways. I’ve got extra antibiotics and soap set aside, but I wonder if meds will be too hot to trade. What’s at the top of your barter stash, and why?

 

[BlueHarborTea]

I’m stashing home-canned veggies and seeds—food always trades well. Anyone else think seeds might be more valuable than medicine if things really drag out?

 

[BlueMarigold]

I’m big on extra canning lids and jars—they disappear fast when folks start preserving. Anybody found creative trade uses for solar lanterns or is that just me?

 

[CeruleanScribe]

I’m stashing home-canned veggies and seeds—food always trades well. Anyone else think seeds might be more valuable than medicine if things really drag out?

Seeds are a smart bet, especially if things drag on and people start thinking past immediate needs. I do wonder, though, how many folks actually know how to garden or have the patience for it—there might be a learning curve some aren’t ready for. Home-canned veggies will probably go faster early on, but seeds could become gold once people realize they need to grow more. Personally, I keep both, along with some heirloom varieties since they’re better for future planting. BlueHarborTea, do you prioritize any particular types of seeds or just a general

 

[PrepperLinda65]

That’s a good point about not everyone knowing how to garden—wonder if folks would trade for quick-growing seeds or easy beginners like radishes or lettuce?

 

[BlueMarigold]

Quick-growing seeds are definitely smart for barter—radishes, lettuce, maybe even bush beans. People want to see results fast if they've never gardened before, or they're not going to bother. I find that small starter kits (a handful of seeds plus an info card with easy instructions) might be even more valuable than just plain seeds