What’s the best way to use portals in the Swamp biome?

Portals are one of the most essential tools for survival and exploration in Valheim, especially in the dangerous Swamp biome. The Swamp is filled with hostile creatures like Draugr, Leeches, and Blobs, as well as environmental hazards such as constant rain and waterlogged terrain. Portals allow you to quickly travel between your base and the Swamp, reducing the risk of losing valuable resources or gear. To use portals effectively in the Swamp, you need to understand their mechanics and plan strategically.\n\nFirst, you must craft a portal. Portals require 20 Fine Wood, 10 Greydwarf Eyes, and 2 Surtling Cores. Fine Wood is obtained from Birch or Oak trees in the Meadows or Black Forest, Greydwarf Eyes drop from Greydwarfs, and Surtling Cores are found in Burial Chambers or dropped by Surtlings in the Ashlands. Once crafted, place two portals and assign them the same tag to link them. This allows instant travel between the two points.\n\nWhen exploring the Swamp, always carry portal materials with you. This includes Fine Wood, Greydwarf Eyes, and Surtling Cores. You can also pre-craft a portal at your base and leave it unlinked until you find a safe spot in the Swamp. Once you establish a foothold, place the second portal and link it to your base. This ensures you have a quick escape route if overwhelmed by enemies or low on health.\n\nA common challenge in the Swamp is finding a safe location to place a portal. The biome is often flooded, and enemies can spawn nearby. Look for elevated areas like fallen trees, rock formations, or small islands. These spots are less likely to be submerged and provide better visibility to spot incoming threats. If you cannot find a safe spot, consider building a small platform using wood or stone to elevate the portal above the water.\n\nAnother tip is to use portals for resource management. The Swamp is rich in valuable resources like Scrap Iron, Ancient Bark, and Guck. However, these items are heavy and can quickly fill your inventory. By placing a portal near a Crypt or resource-rich area, you can quickly transport materials back to your base without making multiple trips. This saves time and reduces the risk of losing items to death or environmental hazards.\n\nFor new players, it’s important to secure your portal with basic defenses. Build a small enclosure around it using wood or stone walls to protect it from enemy attacks. Add a workbench nearby to repair your gear and craft additional defenses if needed. Experienced players can take this a step further by creating a mini-base with storage, a fire, and a bed for respawning.\n\nFinally, always carry a backup portal. If your primary portal is destroyed or you venture too far from it, having the materials to craft a new one can save your life. Keep these materials in a secure chest near your portal or in your inventory. This ensures you can always return to safety, even in the most dire situations.\n\nIn summary, portals are a game-changer in the Swamp biome. They provide a safe and efficient way to explore, gather resources, and retreat when necessary. By understanding their mechanics and planning ahead, you can navigate the Swamp with confidence and minimize risks. Always prioritize safety, resource management, and strategic placement to make the most of your portals in this challenging biome.