How do you use a raft to escape a raid event in Valheim?

Using a raft to escape a raid event in Valheim is a practical strategy, especially for new players or those caught unprepared. Raid events, such as the Eikthyr or Forest is Moving raids, can overwhelm players with waves of enemies. A raft provides a quick escape route, as enemies cannot swim or follow you into deep water. However, using a raft effectively requires preparation and understanding of game mechanics.\n\nTo begin, you must craft a raft. A raft requires 20 Wood, 6 Leather Scraps, and 6 Resin. Wood is easily gathered by chopping trees, while Leather Scraps come from hunting Boars, and Resin is obtained from Greydwarfs or by chopping Pine Trees. Once you have the materials, open your crafting menu (press Tab) and select the raft under the Hammer''s Misc tab. Place the raft in shallow water near your base or a safe location for quick access.\n\nWhen a raid event begins, enemies will spawn near your base and target you or your structures. If you are unprepared to fight, immediately head to your raft. Board the raft by interacting with it, then use the rudder to steer. Move away from the shore into deeper water, as enemies cannot follow you there. Keep in mind that rafts are slow, so it is best to position them in advance near your base for quick access.\n\nOne common challenge is the raft''s limited speed, which can make escaping difficult if enemies are already close. To mitigate this, consider building a small dock or platform extending into the water. This allows you to board the raft quickly without being intercepted. Additionally, you can use the environment to your advantage by luring enemies away from your raft before boarding. For example, run in the opposite direction of your raft, then double back once enemies are distracted.\n\nAnother tip is to use the raft as a temporary safe zone during raids. If you are caught in the open, you can quickly build a raft using the materials in your inventory. This is especially useful in biomes like the Black Forest or Meadows, where water sources are abundant. However, be cautious of ranged enemies like Draugr or Skeletons, as they can still attack you from the shore. To avoid this, ensure you are far enough from land that their attacks cannot reach you.\n\nFor experienced players, upgrading to a Karve or Longship is a better long-term solution, as these boats are faster and more durable. However, a raft remains a viable option for early-game players or those in a pinch. Always keep the necessary materials in your inventory or nearby storage for quick crafting during emergencies.\n\nIn summary, using a raft to escape a raid event in Valheim is a simple yet effective strategy. Craft a raft in advance, position it near your base, and use it to flee into deep water when overwhelmed. Combine this with environmental tactics and quick thinking to ensure your survival. With practice, you can turn a dangerous raid into a manageable situation.