Some people believe that the Y2K problem will be a disaster in which computers, and subsequently all electrical transactions, will be disabled. In any case, you need to be acquainted with the practice of bartering in case your area is completely severed from outside contact for an extended period of time. Bartering is one of the oldest forms of trade. Goods are acquired by trading directly for other goods. If I want your pencil I have to give you my apple for it.
Many people think of bartering as an exclusively old-fashioned means of trade.
Some would be surprised to know that today corporate bartering is a multi-billion dollar industry. Businesses trade excess inventory for Products from other businesses. For most of us, however, our main form of trade is not bartering. Most of us have become accustomed to using money. Maybe you don't even want my new shoes, or my stamp collection, or even my computer.