What’s the best horse for long-distance travel in RDR2?

The best horse for long-distance travel in Red Dead Redemption 2 is the Missouri Fox Trotter. This breed excels in stamina, speed, and handling, making it ideal for traversing the vast open world of RDR2. The Missouri Fox Trotter has a high stamina pool, which means it can gallop for extended periods without tiring, and its speed ensures you cover ground quickly. Additionally, its calm temperament makes it less likely to spook during encounters with predators or gunfire, which is crucial for long journeys.\n\nTo acquire the Missouri Fox Trotter, you can purchase it from the Scarlet Meadows Stable in Lemoyne after completing Chapter 4. The stable is located southeast of Rhodes, and the horse costs $950. While this is a significant investment, the Missouri Fox Trotter’s performance justifies the price. If you’re short on cash, focus on completing story missions, hunting legendary animals, or looting enemies to gather the necessary funds.\n\nOnce you own the Missouri Fox Trotter, bonding with it is essential. Bonding increases your horse’s stats, including stamina and health, and unlocks new abilities like drifting and rearing. To bond with your horse, spend time riding it, brushing it, and feeding it. Use items like hay, carrots, or wild carrots to replenish its health and stamina during long rides. Additionally, patting your horse after a long gallop or a dangerous encounter will improve its mood and bonding level.\n\nFor long-distance travel, managing your horse’s stamina is critical. Use the calm-down mechanic by pressing the left stick (L3 on PlayStation or LS on Xbox) while galloping to restore stamina. This technique allows you to maintain a fast pace without exhausting your horse. Pair this with the use of horse stimulants or tonics, which can be crafted or purchased from general stores, to further extend your horse’s endurance.\n\nAnother tip for long-distance travel is to plan your route carefully. Use the in-game map to mark waypoints and avoid areas with dense predator populations or hostile gangs. For example, traveling through the Heartlands or Great Plains is generally safer than venturing into the Grizzlies or Bayou Nwa. Additionally, consider setting up camp along the way to rest and save your progress, especially if you’re carrying valuable pelts or items.\n\nFinally, equip your horse with the best saddle and stirrups to maximize its performance. The Nacogdoches Saddle, available at the Strawberry Stable, is the best option as it significantly reduces stamina drain and increases speed. Pair it with hooded stirrups for additional speed and acceleration bonuses. These upgrades make a noticeable difference during long rides and ensure your horse remains in peak condition.\n\nIn summary, the Missouri Fox Trotter is the best horse for long-distance travel in RDR2 due to its speed, stamina, and temperament. Bond with it, manage its stamina effectively, and equip it with the best gear to optimize its performance. With these tips, you’ll be able to traverse the vast world of Red Dead Redemption 2 with ease and efficiency.