What is the best way to store items on a ship without losing them?

Storing items on a ship in Valheim is a critical aspect of gameplay, especially when transporting resources or exploring distant biomes. Ships are essential for traversing the vast oceans and reaching new lands, but losing items due to shipwrecks or accidents can be devastating. To ensure your items remain safe, you need to understand the game mechanics and implement practical strategies.\n\nFirst, it''s important to know that ships in Valheim do not have built-in storage like chests. This means you must rely on your inventory or external solutions to carry items. The Longship, the largest and most durable ship in the game, has 18 inventory slots, while the Karve has 4. However, these slots are shared with your personal inventory, so managing space is crucial. Always prioritize essential items like food, tools, and weapons when sailing.\n\nOne effective way to store items on a ship is by using a cart. Carts can be crafted using 20 Wood and 10 Bronze Nails at a Workbench. You can place a cart on the deck of your ship, but be cautious as it can fall off during rough seas or collisions. To secure the cart, position it in the center of the ship and avoid sharp turns or high waves. This method allows you to carry additional items without relying solely on your inventory.\n\nAnother strategy is to build a small outpost near your ship''s docking location. For example, if you''re exploring the Black Forest or Plains biome, you can create a temporary shelter with a chest to store excess items. This reduces the risk of losing everything if your ship is destroyed. Always carry materials like Wood and Stone to quickly build a basic structure when needed.\n\nWhen sailing, avoid dangerous situations that could lead to shipwrecks. Serpents, storms, and rocky shores are common threats. If you encounter a Serpent, use a bow or melee weapon to defeat it before it damages your ship. In storms, reduce your speed and steer carefully to avoid capsizing. If you must sail near rocky areas, stay alert and use the rudder to navigate safely.\n\nFor long voyages, consider bringing a Portal with you. Portals require 20 Fine Wood, 2 Greydwarf Eyes, and 10 Surtling Cores to craft. By setting up a Portal at your destination, you can quickly transport items back to your main base without risking your ship. This is especially useful when transporting heavy resources like metals, which cannot be teleported through Portals.\n\nFinally, always have a backup plan. If your ship is destroyed, you can recover items from the wreckage, but this can be time-consuming and dangerous. To minimize losses, split your items between your inventory, the ship''s storage, and a cart. This way, even if one storage method fails, you won''t lose everything.\n\nIn summary, the best way to store items on a ship without losing them involves careful planning and preparation. Use carts for additional storage, build temporary outposts, avoid dangerous situations, and utilize Portals for safe transportation. By following these strategies, you can ensure your items remain secure during your Viking adventures.