What are the most profitable trader route locations in RDR Online?

In Red Dead Redemption 2 Online, the Trader role is one of the most profitable ways to earn money and gold, especially when you optimize your delivery routes. The key to maximizing profits lies in selecting the right locations for your camp and understanding the mechanics of long-distance deliveries. Here’s a detailed guide to help you succeed.\n\nFirst, you need to unlock the Trader role by purchasing the Butcher’s Table from Cripps at your camp. This requires 15 Gold Bars, which can be earned through daily challenges, treasure maps, or other activities. Once you’ve set up your camp, focus on hunting animals to gather materials for Cripps to process into goods. High-quality pelts and carcasses from animals like deer, elk, and cougars yield the most materials.\n\nWhen it comes to choosing your camp location, strategic placement is crucial. For long-distance deliveries, set up your camp in areas with abundant wildlife and proximity to delivery points. The Heartlands and Great Plains are excellent choices due to their flat terrain and high animal spawn rates. These locations also offer relatively safe routes with fewer ambush points from rival players or NPCs.\n\nFor short-distance deliveries, which are safer but less profitable, consider setting up camp near towns like Valentine or Blackwater. These locations have shorter routes and are ideal for solo players or those looking to avoid PvP encounters. However, if you’re confident in your ability to defend your wagon, long-distance deliveries from the Heartlands to destinations like Emerald Ranch or Van Horn can yield up to $625 for a full wagon.\n\nOne of the most profitable long-distance routes is from the Great Plains to Thieves’ Landing. This route is relatively short and has fewer obstacles, making it easier to complete quickly. Another lucrative option is delivering from the Bayou Nwa to Saint Denis, though this route is riskier due to the dense terrain and higher player activity in the area.\n\nTo ensure a successful delivery, always scout your route beforehand. Use the cinematic camera to follow the path and identify potential ambush points. Additionally, recruit a posse to help defend your wagon during long-distance deliveries. A well-coordinated team can fend off attackers and ensure your goods reach their destination safely.\n\nCommon challenges include rival players attempting to steal your goods and NPC ambushes. To counter these, equip yourself with powerful weapons like the Bolt-Action Rifle or Pump-Action Shotgun. Use defensive ability cards such as Slow and Steady or Iron Lung to increase your survivability during combat. If you’re playing solo, consider using the Offensive Strategy setting to reduce the chances of being targeted by other players.\n\nFinally, always keep an eye on your supplies. Cripps will stop producing goods if you run out of materials or supplies. Regularly hunt animals and resupply your camp to maintain a steady flow of goods. Use the Hunting Wagon to store large carcasses and pelts, ensuring you always have enough materials to keep production running.\n\nIn summary, the most profitable trader route locations in RDR Online are the Heartlands and Great Plains for long-distance deliveries, and Valentine or Blackwater for short-distance deliveries. Optimize your camp placement, scout your routes, and defend your wagon with a posse to maximize profits. With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a successful Trader in Red Dead Online.