What are the best ways to use a raft for early-game resource gathering?

Using a raft effectively in Valheim is crucial for early-game resource gathering, especially when exploring islands or crossing water bodies. The raft is the first watercraft you can craft, requiring only 20 Wood, 6 Leather Scraps, and 10 Resin. These materials are easily obtainable from the Meadows biome, making the raft accessible early in the game. Once built, the raft allows you to traverse rivers, lakes, and oceans, opening up new areas for exploration and resource collection.\n\nTo craft a raft, you need a Workbench nearby. Gather Wood by chopping trees, Leather Scraps from hunting Boars, and Resin from Greydwarfs or by destroying Greydwarf Nests. Once you have the materials, open the crafting menu at the Workbench and select the raft. Place it in shallow water to avoid damaging it during deployment. The raft has limited durability, so avoid collisions with rocks or aggressive sea creatures like Serpents.\n\nEarly-game resource gathering with a raft is most effective in the Black Forest biome, which often borders the Meadows. Use the raft to reach islands or coastal areas rich in Copper and Tin deposits, essential for crafting Bronze. Mark these locations on your map for future visits. Additionally, the raft can help you transport heavy resources like ore back to your base, as carrying capacity is limited on foot.\n\nOne common challenge is navigating the raft in rough waters or during storms. To mitigate this, always check the weather before setting sail. Storms can make steering difficult and increase the risk of capsizing. If you encounter a Serpent, avoid engaging it directly. Instead, sail toward the nearest shore and disembark quickly. Serpents are dangerous but can be avoided with careful navigation.\n\nAnother practical use for the raft is exploring Burial Chambers in the Black Forest. These dungeons often contain valuable resources like Surtling Cores and Amber Pearls. Use the raft to reach distant Burial Chambers and return with your loot. Be cautious of enemies like Skeletons and Greydwarfs, as they can overwhelm you if unprepared.\n\nFor new players, it’s important to prioritize upgrading your raft to a Karve or Longship as soon as possible. These vessels are faster, more durable, and have storage space, making resource gathering more efficient. However, the raft remains a reliable option for short trips and early exploration.\n\nIn summary, the raft is a versatile tool for early-game resource gathering in Valheim. Use it to explore new biomes, transport heavy materials, and access distant resource nodes. Always plan your trips carefully, avoid dangerous waters, and upgrade to better boats when possible. With these strategies, you’ll maximize your efficiency and survival in the Viking world.