What biomes are safest for raft travel, and which should I avoid?

Raft travel in Valheim is a crucial early-game method for exploring the vast world, but not all biomes are equally safe for sailing. Understanding which biomes are safe and which to avoid can save you from unnecessary danger and resource loss. The safest biomes for raft travel are the Meadows and Black Forest, as they have minimal hostile threats and calm waters. The Meadows biome is ideal for beginners, as it is free from aggressive creatures and has gentle waves, making it easy to navigate. The Black Forest is also relatively safe, though you may encounter occasional Greydwarfs or Trolls near the shore, so staying offshore is recommended.\n\nBiomes to avoid while rafting include the Ocean, Swamp, and Plains. The Ocean biome is vast and unpredictable, with high waves and the potential for Sea Serpents, which can easily destroy your raft. The Swamp biome is dangerous due to its hostile creatures like Leeches and Draugr, as well as its murky waters that make navigation difficult. The Plains biome is extremely hazardous, with Deathsquitos and Fulings that can attack you from the shore or even while you''re on the raft. These biomes should only be approached with stronger boats like the Karve or Longship.\n\nTo build a raft, you will need 20 Wood, 6 Leather Scraps, and 6 Resin. These materials are easily obtainable in the Meadows biome by chopping trees, hunting Boars for Leather Scraps, and collecting Resin from Greydwarfs. Once you have the materials, craft the raft at a Workbench. Place the raft in shallow water, ensuring it is fully submerged before boarding. Use the rudder to control the raft''s direction and the sail to increase speed. Be cautious when sailing near shorelines, as rocks and shallow areas can damage your raft.\n\nWhen traveling by raft, always carry essential items like a Hammer, Wood, and Resin for repairs, as well as a weapon for self-defense. If you encounter a Sea Serpent in the Ocean biome, immediately head to the nearest shore or shallow water, as they cannot follow you there. In the Swamp biome, avoid stopping near Leeches or Draugr spawns, and keep your raft moving to minimize the risk of attacks. In the Plains biome, stay far from the shore to avoid Deathsquitos and Fulings, and consider upgrading to a Karve or Longship for better speed and durability.\n\nFor new players, it is recommended to stick to the Meadows and Black Forest biomes until you have stronger gear and a better boat. Experienced players can venture into riskier biomes but should always be prepared for combat and have a plan for escaping dangerous situations. Upgrading to a Karve or Longship as soon as possible will make travel safer and more efficient, as these boats are faster, more durable, and better equipped to handle hostile biomes.\n\nIn summary, the safest biomes for raft travel are the Meadows and Black Forest, while the Ocean, Swamp, and Plains biomes should be avoided until you have stronger equipment. Always carry repair materials and weapons, and consider upgrading to a Karve or Longship for safer exploration. By following these tips, you can navigate Valheim''s waters with confidence and avoid unnecessary risks.