How do you use portals effectively when exploring the Ocean and Ashlands?

Using portals effectively when exploring the Ocean and Ashlands in Valheim is crucial for efficient travel, resource management, and survival. Portals allow you to quickly move between distant locations, which is especially important in these dangerous biomes. To start, you need to craft a portal using 20 Fine Wood, 10 Greydwarf Eyes, and 2 Surtling Cores. Fine Wood is obtained from Birch or Oak trees, Greydwarf Eyes drop from Greydwarfs, and Surtling Cores are found in Burial Chambers or dropped by Surtlings in the Ashlands.\n\nWhen exploring the Ocean, always bring portal materials with you. Before setting sail, build a portal at your base and name it something memorable, like ''Ocean1''. Carry the materials for a second portal on your ship. When you find a new island or a safe landing spot, immediately set up the second portal and connect it to your base. This ensures you can quickly return home to repair your ship, restock supplies, or escape danger. If your ship is destroyed, you can use the portal to retrieve materials for a new one.\n\nIn the Ashlands, portals are even more critical due to the biome''s extreme heat and hostile enemies like Surtlings and Magma Drakes. Before venturing into the Ashlands, prepare by crafting Fire Resistance Mead, which requires Honey, Greydwarf Eyes, and Surtling Cores. Set up a portal at the edge of the biome, ideally near a safe area like a Black Forest or Plains. As you explore deeper, place additional portals at key locations, such as near resource-rich areas or safe zones. This allows you to retreat quickly if overwhelmed.\n\nA common challenge in both biomes is running out of portal materials. To avoid this, always carry extra Fine Wood, Greydwarf Eyes, and Surtling Cores in your ship''s storage or inventory. If you''re low on Surtling Cores, farm them in the Ashlands by killing Surtlings or mining Flame Geysers. Another issue is portal placement in dangerous areas. To mitigate this, scout the area first, clear enemies, and build a small shelter around your portal to protect it from attacks.\n\nFor new players, it''s important to understand that portals cannot transport metals like Iron or Black Metal. If you''re exploring the Ocean or Ashlands for these resources, you''ll need to transport them manually via ship. Experienced players can optimize this process by setting up a network of portals and storage bases near resource-rich areas. For example, in the Ashlands, you can create a temporary base with a portal, smelter, and forge to process materials on-site before transporting the final products.\n\nFinally, always label your portals clearly to avoid confusion. Use descriptive names like ''AshlandsBase'' or ''OceanExploration''. This saves time and prevents accidental misconnections. By following these strategies, you can explore the Ocean and Ashlands safely and efficiently, making the most of Valheim''s portal mechanics.\n\nPractical tips: Always carry extra portal materials, use Fire Resistance Mead in the Ashlands, and label portals clearly. For resource-heavy trips, consider setting up temporary bases with crafting stations to minimize travel time.