
In a world increasingly reliant on digital transactions and complex supply chains, it’s easy to forget that the most basic form of trade—bartering—was once the norm. Bartering, or the direct exchange of goods and services without money, remains an invaluable method of economic and social interaction, particularly in times of crisis, civil unrest, or disaster. When systems fail, cash becomes scarce, or electronic payment platforms go down, bartering can fill the gap.
For those interested in Urban SERE (Survival, Evasion, Resistance, and Escape), bartering and resource networking are critical components of preparedness. This blog post explores how to establish, maintain, and optimize bartering and resource networking strategies in urban environments when crisis strikes.
Understanding the Importance of Bartering
Bartering is one of the oldest forms of commerce. It thrives when traditional markets and currencies collapse, either because currency has lost value (such as during hyperinflation) or because the infrastructure needed for electronic or physical money exchange is disrupted. During such times, essentials—food, water, medical supplies—take on intrinsic value far greater than any printed bill.
Case in point: After Hurricane Katrina in 2005, some communities in New Orleans were cut off from official relief and supply lines for days. Local residents reported trading items like batteries, candles, and canned goods in exchange for clean water or a place to stay. When banks were inaccessible and power was out, this direct exchange system provided immediate relief (FEMA, 2006).
Why Bartering Makes Sense During Crisis
Immediate Necessities: Bartering allows for the direct procurement of essential items—like food, water, and medication—by offering something equally needed in return.
No Reliance on Formal Currency: When ATMs or digital payment systems fail, physical goods can still be traded.
Community Building: Each barter transaction fosters rapport and mutual support, strengthening social networks that can be vital for long-term survival.
Building a Resource Network
If bartering is the action, a resource network is the environment in which it thrives. A resource network consists of individuals or groups that pool together assets, skills, or goods to support one another when times are tough.
According to Ready.gov, “Local resources and strong community ties can help individuals and neighborhoods cope more effectively with disasters” (Ready.gov, 2023). In an urban setting, these networks can span multiple apartment complexes, city blocks, churches, or community centers, and can even extend to online forums or social media groups specializing in emergency preparedness.
Steps to Building Your Resource Network
Identify Likely Stakeholders
These may include neighbors, community leaders, local businesses, medical professionals, or even the local library. Anyone who could provide a venue, skill, or supply that might prove valuable in a crisis is a stakeholder.
Establish Trust
Trust is the currency of any successful network. Begin by organizing or participating in local emergency preparedness meetups. Volunteer for community projects that exhibit your reliability and willingness to help. The American Red Cross advises, “Working together in your neighborhood can greatly help in preparing for emergencies,” emphasizing how vital trust and collaboration can be (American Red Cross, 2021).
Define Clear Communication Channels
Once you have a group, set up a reliable way to communicate. This might be a group chat on a secure messaging platform, a dedicated social media page, or good old-fashioned phone trees.
Regular Drills & Updates
Schedule periodic ‘check-ins’ or mini-drills where network members practice exchanging small items or discussing hypothetical disaster scenarios. This not only strengthens relationships but also pinpoints logistical weaknesses in your system.
What to Barter: High-Value Items in Urban SERE
While every situation is different, some items consistently hold high barter value in times of crisis. It’s best to consider items that have universal appeal and are easy to store.
Food & Water
Canned Goods and Dried Foods: Non-perishable, high-calorie foods (beans, rice, canned soups) can act as lifelines.
Bottled Water & Water Purification Tablets: Water is critical for survival, and anything that helps in its purification is highly coveted. My Recommendation
Medical Supplies & Hygiene Products
First Aid Kits, Bandages, Antibiotics: Access to healthcare may be limited, making basic medical supplies worth more than gold in certain crises. These work great
Soap, Toilet Paper, Feminine Hygiene Products: Comfort and sanitation quickly become paramount when public services falter.
Fuel & Energy
Batteries: These power flashlights, radios, and other essential gear.
Propane or Gasoline: For cooking, heating, and mobility.
Solar Chargers: Portable solar chargers offer a renewable source of energy.
Tools & Hardware
Multi-Tools, Pocket Knives, Basic Hand Tools: Repairs and fortifications become crucial when professional help is unavailable.
Duct Tape and Fasteners: Simple but vital for makeshift repairs.
Comfort Items
Coffee, Tea, Chocolate, Alcohol: While not essential for survival, these can become highly valuable morale boosters.
Cigarettes: Historically a common barter item, though usage and demand may vary by population.
Skills as Currency
It’s easy to focus on tangible goods, but skills can be equally—or more—valuable in a crisis setting. According to research by the National Center for Disaster Preparedness, communities with varied skills in medicine, construction, and logistics often recover faster from major disruptions (NCDP, 2019). Consider what unique abilities you can offer:
Medical Expertise: If you’re a trained nurse or EMT, your skills can command significant trade value.
Mechanics & Repairs: The ability to fix vehicles, generators, or home repairs quickly becomes indispensable.
Communications: Skills in radio operation (HAM radio, for example) can make you a primary link to outside help.
Food Preservation: Knowledge in canning, dehydrating, or fermenting helps communities stretch limited food resources.
Practical Bartering Strategies
Having the right items (or skills) is only half the battle. You also need a well-thought-out approach to ensure fair deals and personal safety.
Set a Fair Value
Research current market prices (if accessible) or gauge scarcity levels of items in your area. Historically, items such as cigarettes or coffee can skyrocket in value when supply lines are disrupted. Strive for equitable exchanges, because if you acquire a reputation for unfair trades, your access to future resources may suffer.
Be Prepared to Negotiate
In tense or desperate environments, negotiations can become heated. Stay calm, keep your emotions in check, and remember that preserving relationships is as important as securing a good deal. “Mutual respect and clear communication are key to effective negotiation,” states a guide on emergency preparedness from the University of Wisconsin’s Division of Extension (UW Extension, 2020).
Practice Operational Security (OPSEC)
In a crisis, revealing too much about what you have can make you a target. Consider conducting trades in neutral locations, and don’t advertise the extent of your stockpiles. Limit bartering to people within your trusted network whenever possible.
Bring a Buddy or Two
If bartering with unknown parties, consider the “buddy system” for safety. Always weigh the risk of theft or violence, especially if the items you’re trading are high-value or if the broader environment is chaotic.
Document Agreements (If Possible)
Even a handwritten note outlining the terms can help avoid misunderstandings. While formal contracts might not be feasible in a collapse scenario, a clear record can serve as a reminder or evidence should disputes arise later.
Digital and Remote Bartering in Modern Times
Despite the focus on worst-case scenarios where digital systems fail, crises aren’t always total blackouts. In some situations, power and internet may be sporadic but operational. Online platforms—including local Facebook groups, Nextdoor, or specialized barter websites—can become hubs for resource exchange.
Local Social Media Groups: These can quickly disseminate information on who has surplus goods and who needs them. However, caution is advised when meeting in person—always vet potential trade partners and meet in a safe, public area if possible.
Digital Wallets & Cryptocurrencies: If the internet and electricity remain intact, some may opt for alternative currencies like Bitcoin. While not strictly bartering, it can serve as a supplementary exchange method when banks aren’t functioning smoothly.
Radio Networks: Amateur (HAM) radio operators often facilitate trade within their communities when other lines of communication are down. If you have a HAM radio license, you might join or listen to local emergency nets to see what trades are available.
Growing & Maintaining Your Network Post-Crisis
One of the most overlooked aspects of crisis management is what happens after immediate danger subsides. It’s crucial to maintain newly forged relationships and networks once stability begins to return.
Formalize Community Organizations: If your neighborhood or local group developed a successful bartering collective, consider turning that into a permanent community organization. This might involve regular meetups, shared emergency training sessions, or community-building events.
Replenish Reserves: Once supply lines are restored, use the opportunity to restock items you traded away or didn’t have enough of. Take an inventory of what worked, what was missing, and what items were never needed.
Review and Reflect: Document and share lessons learned. According to FEMA’s own after-action reports, communities that critically review their response to disasters are more prepared for the next emergency (FEMA, 2018).
Conclusion
In times of crisis, the ability to barter and tap into a robust resource network can mean the difference between scarcity and comfort, even survival. Bartering not only bridges gaps left by failing currencies or supply chains, but it also fosters community connections. People who trade resources and skills during tough times strengthen social bonds, laying the groundwork for quicker and more resilient community recovery.
Urban SERE practitioners—indeed, anyone concerned about disaster preparedness—will benefit from understanding the basics of bartering and resource networking. By identifying high-value trade items, honing valuable skills, and cultivating trust within a resource network, you’re better positioned to weather the storm of any crisis that may come your way.
References
FEMA. (2006). Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans: A Flooded City, A Chaotic Response.
Retrieved from https://www.fema.gov
Ready.gov. (2023). Community Preparedness Toolkit.
Retrieved from https://www.ready.gov/community-preparedness-toolkit
American Red Cross. (2021). Disaster Preparedness Plan.
Retrieved from https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies
National Center for Disaster Preparedness (NCDP). (2019). Community Resilience and Recovery:
Retrieved from https://ncdp.columbia.edu
UW Extension. (2020). Disaster Preparedness Guides: Negotiation and Conflict Resolution.
Retrieved from https://extension.wisc.edu
FEMA. (2018). After-Action Reporting and Improvement Planning.
Retrieved from https://www.fema.gov
Comments