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

Storing items on a ship in Valheim can be risky, as ships can be destroyed by storms, sea monsters, or player error, leading to the loss of valuable cargo. However, with proper planning and understanding of game mechanics, you can minimize the risk of losing items while sailing. The key is to use storage containers strategically and avoid overloading your ship with irreplaceable items.\n\nFirst, understand the types of ships available in Valheim: the Raft, Karve, and Longship. The Raft is the most basic and slowest, while the Karve and Longship offer more storage and durability. The Longship, unlocked after defeating Moder in the Mountains biome, is the best option for transporting large amounts of cargo due to its 18 storage slots. Always prioritize using the Longship for long voyages or when carrying valuable items.\n\nTo store items on a ship, you can place chests or other storage containers on the deck. However, these containers are not permanently attached to the ship and can be destroyed if the ship takes damage. To mitigate this, avoid placing storage containers in areas prone to enemy attacks, such as near the bow or sides of the ship. Instead, place them in the center of the deck or near the mast, where they are less likely to be hit.\n\nAnother important tip is to avoid overloading your ship with too many items. While the Longship has 18 storage slots, carrying too much weight can slow it down and make it harder to maneuver, increasing the risk of accidents. Prioritize essential items like food, tools, and building materials, and leave non-essential items behind. If you must transport large quantities, consider making multiple trips or using portals to reduce the load.\n\nOne of the most effective ways to protect your items is to use portals. Before setting sail, establish a portal at your destination and another at your base. This allows you to quickly transport items without risking them on the ship. For example, if you''re sailing to a new biome to gather resources, set up a portal onshore and use it to ferry items back to your base. This method is especially useful for transporting rare or valuable items like Black Metal or Dragon Tears.\n\nIn addition to portals, consider using the Cart or Wagon for overland transport. While these are not suitable for sea travel, they can help you move items from your ship to your base or another location. For example, if you''re exploring a coastal area, you can dock your ship, unload items into a Cart, and transport them inland. This reduces the risk of losing items to sea monsters or storms.\n\nFinally, always be prepared for emergencies. Carry a Hammer and enough materials to repair your ship if it takes damage. Keep an eye on the weather and avoid sailing during storms, as high waves can damage your ship and scatter your items. If you encounter a sea monster like the Serpent, prioritize defending your ship and escaping rather than engaging in combat.\n\nBy following these tips, you can safely store and transport items on your ship without losing them. Remember to plan ahead, use portals strategically, and avoid overloading your ship. With careful preparation, you can explore Valheim''s vast oceans and biomes with confidence.