How do you use a raft to explore the Plains biome safely?

Exploring the Plains biome in Valheim can be dangerous due to powerful enemies like Deathsquitos and Fulings. Using a raft is a viable early-game strategy to scout the biome safely, but it requires careful planning and execution. The raft is the simplest boat in Valheim, crafted with 20 Wood, 6 Leather Scraps, and 6 Resin. While it is slow and vulnerable, it allows you to navigate coastal areas without engaging land-based threats.\n\nTo build a raft, you need a Workbench nearby and the required materials. Place the raft in shallow water, ensuring it has enough space to float. Once built, you can sail by interacting with the rudder. The raft moves slowly, so patience is key. Use the wind to your advantage by aligning the sail with the wind direction, indicated by the white arrow on the minimap. This will increase your speed and make exploration more efficient.\n\nWhen approaching the Plains biome, stay close to the shore but avoid shallow areas where the raft can get stuck. Deathsquitos are fast and deadly, but they cannot attack you if you are far enough from the shore. Keep a safe distance while scouting for resources like Flax, Barley, or Fuling villages. If you spot a Deathsquito, quickly turn the raft away from the shore to avoid its attacks.\n\nOne common challenge is dealing with storms or rough seas. The raft is fragile and can take damage from waves or collisions. Always carry a Hammer and extra Wood to repair the raft if needed. Additionally, avoid sailing at night or during storms, as visibility is low, and the risk of encountering hostile creatures increases.\n\nTo maximize safety, consider bringing a bow and arrows to deal with Deathsquitos from a distance. If you are forced to land, ensure you have adequate armor, weapons, and food to survive encounters with Fulings or other enemies. The Plains biome is not forgiving, so preparation is crucial.\n\nFor experienced players, upgrading to a Karve or Longship is recommended for faster and safer exploration. However, the raft remains a useful tool for early-game scouting or when resources are limited. Always plan your route, avoid unnecessary risks, and retreat if the situation becomes too dangerous.\n\nIn summary, using a raft to explore the Plains biome requires caution, preparation, and strategic navigation. Stay close to the shore, use the wind to your advantage, and be ready to repair or retreat if needed. With careful planning, the raft can be a valuable tool for early exploration in Valheim.