What’s the safest way to cross water in the early game without a raft?

Crossing water in Valheim during the early game can be a daunting challenge, especially without a raft. However, with careful planning and understanding of game mechanics, you can safely navigate water bodies without risking your Viking''s life. The key is to use the environment and available resources creatively while avoiding unnecessary risks.\n\nOne of the safest methods to cross water early on is by using the terrain to your advantage. Look for shallow areas where the water is low enough to walk through without swimming. These areas are often found near riverbanks or coastal edges. Walking through shallow water allows you to avoid stamina drain, which is critical since swimming in deep water consumes stamina rapidly and can lead to drowning if you run out.\n\nAnother effective strategy is to build temporary bridges using the game''s building mechanics. To do this, gather wood by chopping down trees in the Meadows biome, which is the safest starting area. Once you have enough wood, equip your hammer and select the wooden floor or beam pieces from the building menu. Place these pieces strategically to create a path across the water. This method is particularly useful for crossing narrow rivers or small lakes.\n\nIf you encounter deeper water, consider using the jump mechanic to traverse gaps. By sprinting and jumping, you can often clear small stretches of water without entering it. This technique works best when combined with elevated terrain, such as rocks or fallen trees, which can serve as stepping stones. Be cautious, though, as mistimed jumps can still result in falling into the water.\n\nFor larger bodies of water, such as oceans or wide rivers, it’s best to avoid crossing until you’ve crafted a raft. However, if you must cross, look for natural land bridges or ice formations in the Mountain biome. These can provide safe passage, but beware of hostile creatures and environmental hazards like freezing temperatures.\n\nCrafting a raft should be a priority if you plan to explore islands or distant biomes. To build a raft, you’ll need 20 wood, 6 leather scraps, and 6 resin. Leather scraps can be obtained by hunting boars, while resin drops from Greydwarfs or by chopping trees. Once crafted, the raft allows you to sail across water safely, though it’s slow and vulnerable to storms and sea creatures.\n\nIn summary, the safest way to cross water in the early game without a raft involves using shallow areas, building temporary bridges, and leveraging the jump mechanic. Always prioritize stamina management and avoid deep water whenever possible. As you progress, crafting a raft will make water traversal much easier and safer. By understanding these mechanics and planning your routes carefully, you can explore Valheim’s vast world without unnecessary risks.