How do I use a raft to transport resources from a distant biome?

Using a raft to transport resources from a distant biome in Valheim is a practical and essential strategy for early-game survival and progression. A raft is the first watercraft you can craft, requiring only 20 Wood, 6 Leather Scraps, and 6 Resin. These materials are relatively easy to gather, making the raft accessible even for new players. Once built, the raft allows you to traverse rivers, lakes, and oceans to reach distant biomes like the Black Forest, Swamp, or even the Meadows for resource gathering.\n\nTo begin, you must craft a raft at a Workbench. Place the Workbench near the water''s edge for easy access. Once the raft is built, interact with it to board. The raft is controlled using the WASD keys, with W to move forward, S to reverse, and A/D to turn. Be mindful of the raft''s slow speed and limited maneuverability, as it is not designed for long-distance travel or rough waters. Always plan your route carefully to avoid getting stuck in shallow areas or being caught in storms.\n\nWhen transporting resources, prioritize gathering materials like Wood, Stone, Flint, and Copper from the Black Forest or Tin from the coastlines. These resources are heavy and can quickly fill your inventory, making the raft an ideal solution for bulk transport. Load your inventory with the desired resources, then return to the raft and sail back to your base. If you encounter enemies like Greylings or Necks, use your weapon to fend them off while keeping the raft moving to avoid damage.\n\nOne common challenge is navigating through biomes with hostile creatures, such as the Swamp or Plains. To mitigate this, avoid sailing too close to these areas unless necessary. If you must pass through dangerous waters, ensure you have adequate health and stamina by consuming food like Cooked Meat or Berries. Additionally, consider building a small outpost near the biome''s edge to store resources temporarily, reducing the risk of losing them to enemy attacks.\n\nAnother practical tip is to use the raft in conjunction with portals. While portals cannot transport metals like Copper or Tin, they are excellent for moving lighter resources like Wood or Resin. Build a portal at your base and another near the resource-rich biome to streamline the process. This way, you can use the raft for heavy items and the portal for lighter ones, optimizing your resource-gathering efficiency.\n\nFinally, always be prepared for unexpected challenges, such as storms or serpent attacks. Storms can push your raft off course, so keep an eye on the map and adjust your route as needed. Serpents, which spawn in the ocean biome, can damage your raft and pose a serious threat. Carry a bow and arrows to defend yourself, and consider upgrading to a Karve or Longship as soon as possible for better speed and durability.\n\nIn summary, using a raft to transport resources in Valheim requires careful planning, resource management, and awareness of environmental threats. By following these steps and tips, you can efficiently gather and transport materials from distant biomes, ensuring your Viking survival and progression.