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

The raft is one of the earliest watercraft available in Valheim, making it a crucial tool for early-game exploration. To craft a raft, you need 20 Wood, 6 Leather Scraps, and 6 Resin. These materials are relatively easy to gather in the Meadows biome, where you start the game. Wood can be obtained by chopping trees, Leather Scraps come from hunting Boars, and Resin is dropped by Greydwarfs or found in abandoned structures. Once crafted, the raft allows you to traverse rivers, lakes, and even oceans, though it is slow and vulnerable to storms and sea creatures.\n\nWhen using a raft for early-game exploration, prioritize nearby islands and coastal areas. The raft is ideal for short trips to gather resources like Flint, which is essential for crafting tools and weapons. Flint is commonly found along riverbanks and shorelines in the Meadows biome. However, avoid venturing too far into the ocean early on, as the raft''s low speed and durability make it risky in open waters. Stick to calmer waters and always keep an eye on your stamina, as swimming in cold water can quickly drain your health.\n\nOne of the best ways to use a raft is to scout for new biomes. For example, sailing along the coast can help you locate the Black Forest, which is rich in Copper and Tin deposits. These metals are essential for crafting bronze tools and weapons, which significantly improve your combat and resource-gathering capabilities. However, be cautious when exploring new biomes, as hostile creatures like Greydwarfs and Trolls can pose a threat. Always bring a weapon, shield, and some food to sustain your health and stamina during your journey.\n\nAnother practical use for the raft is transporting resources. If you find a resource-rich area but lack the inventory space to carry everything back, you can use the raft to ferry materials to your base. For example, if you discover a large deposit of Fine Wood in a distant forest, you can chop the trees, load the logs onto your raft, and sail back to your base. This method is especially useful for transporting heavy items like ore, which cannot be carried through portals.\n\nTo maximize the raft''s effectiveness, always plan your route carefully. Use the map to mark key locations, such as resource nodes, biomes, and safe landing spots. Avoid sailing during storms, as high waves can damage the raft and make it harder to control. If you encounter a Serpent, a dangerous sea creature, try to steer the raft toward shallow water or land, as Serpents cannot follow you there. Additionally, consider building a small outpost near your exploration site to serve as a temporary shelter and storage area.\n\nIn summary, the raft is a versatile tool for early-game exploration in Valheim. Use it to gather resources, scout new biomes, and transport materials safely. Stick to calm waters, avoid storms, and always be prepared for combat when exploring unfamiliar areas. With careful planning and resource management, the raft can help you establish a strong foundation for your Viking adventures.\n\nPractical Tips: Always carry a Hammer and some Wood to repair your raft if it takes damage. Bring a bow and arrows to defend against sea creatures like Serpents. Use the wind to your advantage by adjusting the sail to catch favorable breezes. Finally, consider upgrading to a Karve or Longship as soon as possible for faster and more durable travel.