How do you prepare your Longship for Ashlands exploration?

Preparing your Longship for Ashlands exploration in Valheim requires careful planning and resource management. The Ashlands biome is one of the most dangerous areas in the game, filled with hostile creatures, extreme heat, and limited resources. To ensure a successful expedition, you must upgrade your Longship, gather essential supplies, and plan your route strategically.\n\nFirst, ensure your Longship is fully repaired and upgraded. The Longship is the best vessel for ocean travel due to its durability and storage capacity. To craft a Longship, you need 100 Iron Nails, 40 Fine Wood, 10 Deer Hide, and 40 Resin. These materials can be gathered from the Swamp biome (Iron Nails), Meadows and Black Forest (Fine Wood), and general exploration (Deer Hide and Resin). Always carry a Hammer and enough materials to repair your ship during the journey, as ocean storms and serpent attacks can damage it.\n\nNext, stock your Longship with essential supplies. The Ashlands biome is extremely hot, so bring Frost Resistance Mead or Wolf Armor to counteract the heat. Pack plenty of food, such as Serpent Stew, Lox Meat Pie, and Blood Pudding, to maintain high health and stamina. Additionally, bring a Portal Kit (10 Fine Wood, 2 Surtling Cores, 20 Greydwarf Eyes) to establish a quick return point in case of emergencies. Always carry a spare Karve or materials to craft one, as losing your Longship in the Ashlands can be catastrophic.\n\nPlan your route carefully. The Ashlands biome is located far to the south, so prepare for a long voyage. Use the map to mark safe stopping points, such as small islands or nearby biomes, where you can rest and resupply. Avoid sailing at night, as Serpents are more active and pose a significant threat. If you encounter a Serpent, use a bow with Frost or Poison arrows to defeat it quickly. Alternatively, you can outrun it by sailing with the wind.\n\nOnce you reach the Ashlands, anchor your Longship in a safe location. Avoid shallow waters or areas with visible lava flows, as these can damage your ship. Use the Portal Kit to create a secure base nearby, ensuring you have a way to retreat if overwhelmed. Explore the biome cautiously, as the Ashlands are filled with powerful enemies like Surtlings and Magma Slugs. Always keep your Longship within reach, as it is your primary means of escape.\n\nFinally, consider bringing a Cart or additional storage containers to maximize your resource haul. The Ashlands contain rare materials like Flametal Ore, which is essential for crafting high-tier gear. However, these resources are heavy, so plan your inventory carefully. If your Longship becomes overloaded, prioritize valuable items and leave less critical resources for a future trip.\n\nIn summary, preparing your Longship for Ashlands exploration involves upgrading your ship, gathering essential supplies, planning your route, and establishing a safe base. By following these steps, you can navigate the dangers of the Ashlands biome and return with valuable resources. Always be prepared for the unexpected, and remember that careful planning is the key to survival in Valheim.