How to Make Money During a Recession (And Why Bartering is Your Secret Weapon)

Tips To Keep Making Money When The World Is Struggling

Let’s be real—a recession can feel like financial quicksand. Jobs get shaky, prices skyrocket, and suddenly, that morning coffee run feels like a luxury. But here’s the good news: a downturn isn’t just about survival—it’s an opportunity to thrive if you play your cards right.

The trick? Diversify your income, get creative with your skills, and tap into the power of an age-old system: trade and barter.

1. Start a Side Hustle (Because One Income Stream Won’t Cut It)

In a recession, job security is about as stable as a house of cards in a windstorm. That’s why having multiple income streams is key.

Freelancing & Online Work

If you’ve got a skill—writing, graphic design, coding, video editing—jump on platforms like Fiverr, Upwork, or even social media to find clients.
Businesses still need content, marketing, and tech help, even when the economy tanks.

Selling Physical or Digital Products

Got an eye for deals? Flip items on eBay, Facebook Marketplace, or Poshmark.
Create digital products like e-books, printables, or online courses—things that sell passively without you lifting a finger.

Service-Based Hustles

Offer local services like handyman work, lawn care, car detailing, or house cleaning.
If you’re skilled in self-defense, fitness, or survival tactics, consider teaching small classes or personal training sessions.

2. Use the Trade & Barter System (Cash Isn’t the Only Currency)

When money is tight, swapping goods and services can be a game-changer. Bartering isn’t just some old-school survivalist tactic—it’s a practical way to get what you need without spending a dime.

How to Start Bartering Like a Pro

Identify Your Skills: What can you offer? Fixing cars, home repairs, babysitting, tutoring, or even baking?
Find Like-Minded People: Join local barter groups on Facebook, community boards, or apps like Bunz.
Trade Strategically: If you need fresh produce, trade your web design skills with a local farmer. Need plumbing work? Maybe the plumber needs help with bookkeeping.

Bartering Ideas to Get You Thinking

Teach someone self-defense in exchange for fresh eggs or homegrown veggies.
Offer survival training in return for someone fixing your car.
Swap homemade meals for childcare.
Trade handyman services for gym access.

3. Invest Smartly (Even When Cash Is Low)

A recession can feel like the worst time to invest, but for those who know what they’re doing, it’s a goldmine.

Recession-Proof Investments

Gold & Silver: When the dollar weakens, precious metals hold their value.
Land: If you can, invest in rural land for food production, tiny homes, or future resale.
Stock Market (Smartly!): Some industries (like healthcare, energy, and discount retail) tend to thrive in recessions.

4. Monetize What You Already Have

Sometimes, making money is less about what you do and more about what you own.

Rent Out Your Assets

Have an extra room? Airbnb it.
Got a car? Use it for deliveries or rideshare.
Own tools or equipment? Rent them out to others.

Downsize & Sell Unused Items

Now’s the time to declutter and sell things you don’t need.
Electronics, furniture, collectibles—if it’s taking up space, turn it into cash.

5. Offer Survival & Practical Skills for Profit

In tough times, people look for ways to cut costs and live smarter. If you have knowledge in any of these areas, you can teach, consult, or sell related products/services:

Gardening & food preservation – Start a YouTube channel, sell homegrown produce, or teach workshops.
Survival skills & self-defense – Run in-person or online classes.
Alternative health & wellness – Help people with herbal medicine, fitness, or stress management.

Final Thoughts: Get Creative, Stay Resourceful

A recession isn’t the end of opportunity—it’s just a shift in how money (and value) flows. Whether you’re hustling online, trading skills, or making smart investments, there are always ways to generate income.

The bottom line? Be flexible, be resourceful, and don’t be afraid to barter your way to success.

What are your go-to ways to make money when times get tough? Let’s talk in the comments! 🔥💰