Having your own cabin is like an oasis, as it lets you disconnect from the world and all its many and high demands, of work and family, and lets you de-stress among the solitude of nature. You can build your own out in the woods, and you can also have one on your property, as many people do -- a refuge from the home when you just want some peace and quiet and alone time. It lets you do your thing without disruptions and focus on the things you like.
And if your cabin is off grid, all the better, as you're independent of the national electricity supply, lighting and powering your space your way enjoying all the comforts you're used to. You'll be independent, self-reliant and literally entirely free of connections to the outside world.
Here, we're going to show you how to build an off grid cabin for yourself -- and how to power your great new retreat.
What Is an Off-Grid Cabin?
An off-grid cabin is typically a small structure made of wood or other materials and has one or more bedrooms. They're generally found in remote and scenic locations, such as by a lake, in the mountains or amid a forest, providing stunning natural settings where people can relax.
Mostly, they're not connected to the national power grid, so they have to fend for themselves in terms of lighting and power -- whether that means using candles or oil lamps or using a generator for home comforts like a refrigerator, air conditioning and heating and lighting.
Some of the main features of an off-grid cabin are usually that:
- They use renewable and green energy as a power source, such as solar or wind energy.
- They have their own water supply, which may be from water harvesting or a well.
- They have a natural waste management system, which could be composting toilets, and you can further go green by using a greywater system.
Choosing the Right Place for Your Off-Grid Cabin
If you're not going to construct an off grid cabin on your property but out in the wilds, careful consideration is required to make sure you find the optimal location. Consider a number of important factors, including:
- Proximity to National Resources: You will want to be relatively near sources of water like streams or lakes, or you may be able to tap into a groundwater supply. And you'll want unhindered access to sunlight if you're going to use solar power for your off grid cabin. So a forest location where you're surrounded by trees that block the light might not be the best idea.
- Land and Permits: How available for purchase is the land in the area you desire for your off grid cabin? And what sort of building and other permits might you require? Talk to local real estate agents as well as researching necessary permits at the local authority's office or website. Also take into account the access to the location -- how easy, or difficult, would it be to get equipment in to build your cabin? Additionally, assess any possible risks in the area, such as the likelihood of fires, floods or landslides.
- Privacy: Spend some time in the area you want to build your cabin getaway to make sure it really is peaceful and quiet at all times, giving you the uninterrupted seclusion you want.
Building Your Off-Grid Cabin
So how to build an off grid cabin you'll love and spend lots of time in? Follow these steps.
Step 1: Plan Your Design
Your first consideration when thinking about building an off grid cabin is space. How many people will be spending time in it -- just your or others? Then think of a design you'd like, and you can either sketch out the layout or work with a builder or architect who can do it professionally for you.
Next, decide on the type of materials you'll use to build your cabin. Perhaps something in keeping with your eco-friendly outlook, like reclaimed or salvaged wood or stone.
Then pay attention to the energy aspects of your design and how efficient it will be -- are the windows facing south, for example, to catch natural light and heat?
Step 2: Install an Energy Solution
One of the best ways to be green with an off grid cabin is to use the power of the sun -- it's abundant and free. Even using solar panels in cloudy and rainy weather will allow them to generate electricity that can be stored in a battery for use.
Opt for solutions like the BLUETTI Elite 200 V2 Portable Power Station or the AC300+B300K and you'll be able to harness the power of the sun for when you need it most. Then you can run appliances and fixtures in your off grid cabin without having to rely on the power grid -- which may not be available anyway.
3. Create a Water and Waste System
Explore the water options at your chosen location for your off grid cabin, whether that's drilling a well or collecting water using a catchment device. Don't forget to use a water purification method to ensure it's suitable for consumption. And install a composting toilet or similar solution for human waste.
When your off-grid cabin is finished, you'll be ready to start getting away to your sustainable, eco-friendly and self-sufficient home from home.
FAQs
Where to Build an Off-Grid Cabin?
If you live in the United States and are looking for an ideal place to build an off grid cabin, somewhere that has lots of natural resources is best. Consider Alabama, Oregon, California and Colorado.
What Are the Cons of Living Off the Grid?
You'll have the initial cost of building your off grid cabin and you'll have to do a lot of work yourself. Expect that living in the wilderness can bring challenges, and things can go wrong. You may also feel isolated, although that for many people is an attraction.
How to Power an Off-Grid Cabin?
One of the best ways to power your off-grid cabin is to use a solar-powered generator. It will give you lots of power and doesn't require fuel.
