10 Hobo Hacks from The Great Depression

Estimated reading time: 6 minutes

There are signs all around us: more debt, rising prices, and a booming tech industry propped up by an unsustainable AI bubble. When that bubble bursts, the economic fallout could rival the Great Depression. Millions may find themselves jobless, homeless, or suddenly forced to survive with little more than what they can carry.

It’s in times like these that we can look to the past for answers. During the original Great Depression, resourceful “hobos” traveled the country on foot and by rail, developing ingenious ways to survive with next to nothing.

In this video by Waypoint Survival, James talks about 10 hobo hacks that people actually used during the Great Depression. You can watch the video and read the list below.

1. DIY Laundry with Soap Shavings and a Can

Hobos created a makeshift washing machine using a #10 can, soap shavings, and hot water.

1. Grate a small bar of soap into the can.
2. Add water (about 1/3 full) and heat it over a fire.
3. Stir until the soap melts.
4. Toss in socks, underwear, and a shirt.
5. Agitate manually or shake the sealed can to mimic a washing machine.
6. Rinse in clean water, wring out, and hang dry.

It’s cheap, effective, and requires nothing more than trash and fire.

2. Insulate with Crumpled Newspaper or Plastic Bags

Staying warm was a life-or-death issue. Hobos learned to stuff crumpled newspaper or plastic shopping bags into their clothing for insulation.

Simply fill your shirt, jacket, and pants with crumpled material. The trapped air in the folds acts as an insulating barrier. It’s free, lightweight, and works better than you might think.

3. Open Cans with a Spoon

If you’ve got canned food but no opener, you’re not stuck.

1. Press the tip of a sturdy spoon into the lid near the inside rim.
2. Work it back and forth until the metal weakens.
3. Pry the lid open slowly around the edge.

It’s slow but effective — and beats going hungry.

4. Use Concrete to Open Cans Without Any Tools

No tools at all? Find a rough concrete surface.

1. Rub the top edge of the can flat against concrete to wear down the seal.
2. When liquid starts to seep out, you’re close.
3. Use a stick or edge to pry the lid off.

Great in urban survival when you don’t have access to tools.

Duct tape is a survival essential, but carrying a whole roll is bulky. Here’s a hobo trick:

1. Tear off long strips of duct tape.
2. Stick them to the inside of rain pants or a poncho.
3. Roll the clothing item back up, and now you have 10-20 feet of duct tape that takes up no space.

Use for shelter repair, first aid, fire starting, or gear fixes.

6. Turn Any Can Into a Cup or Pot Handle

Whether you’re cooking or drinking, it helps to have a handle.

• If you find a vintage “handy handle” (often at flea markets), you can clip it onto a can.
• No handle? Use a carabiner. Clip it to a pop-top tab to create an instant loop for holding or hanging over a fire.

A simple trick for managing hot cans without burning your fingers.

7. Make ‘Hobo Soup’ with Crackers and Ketchup

Desperate for food? Hobos turned fast-food freebies into a meal.

1. Gather ketchup packets and cracker packs (ask at diners or fast-food joints).
2. Mix 2x as many ketchup packets as crackers in a can.
3. Add a bit of water, stir, and heat over fire.

It’s not nutritious, but it fills the stomach — and costs almost nothing.

8. Make a Hobo Sink Using a Plastic Bag and a Hole

Need to wash dishes or your hands off-grid?

• Dig a small hole.
• Line it with a durable shopping bag.
• Fill with water, use it as a sink.
• When done, dump the water and fill the hole back in to erase your presence.

Simple, discreet, and low-impact — ideal for stealth camping.

9. Carry a Large Nail as a Multi-Tool

Hobos didn’t have multitools, but a large iron nail came close. You can use it as:

• A punch for piercing leather or fabric.
• A tool for untying tight knots.
• A tent stake, fire poker, or even a makeshift fork.
• A hook in a tree to hang gear.

It’s small, lightweight, and incredibly versatile — a true hobo EDC item.

10. Baby Powder Hack for Sore, Sweaty Feet

Constant walking led to blisters and sore feet. Hobos used baby powder to stay dry and reduce odor. Sprinkle a small amount on your feet before putting on socks to prevent moisture buildup and friction. Bonus: it keeps your boots smelling better too.

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