What’s the most efficient way to earn money for camp upgrades early on?

Earning money for camp upgrades early in Red Dead Redemption 2 requires a mix of exploration, resourcefulness, and strategic gameplay. The camp upgrades, such as improving lodging, provisions, and ammunition, are essential for enhancing your gang''s morale and overall gameplay experience. To maximize your earnings, focus on a combination of hunting, looting, and completing missions efficiently.\n\nOne of the most reliable ways to earn money early is through hunting and selling animal pelts. High-quality pelts, such as those from deer, elk, or bears, fetch a good price at butchers or trappers. To ensure you get the best value, use the right weapon for the animal you''re hunting. For example, use a rifle for large game like deer and elk, and a bow with small game arrows for smaller animals like rabbits. Always aim for a clean kill to preserve the pelt''s quality. The area around Valentine and the Heartlands is particularly rich in wildlife, making it an ideal hunting ground.\n\nAnother effective method is looting enemies and searching for valuables in the open world. After completing missions or engaging in random encounters, thoroughly search the bodies of fallen enemies for cash, jewelry, and other sellable items. Additionally, explore abandoned cabins, caves, and other points of interest. For example, the abandoned town of Limpany near Horseshoe Overlook has a gold bar hidden in the sheriff''s office, which can be sold for $500 at a fence. Fences are found in locations like Emerald Ranch and Saint Denis, and they are the only vendors who will buy stolen or valuable items like gold bars.\n\nCompleting story missions and side activities also provides a steady income. Early missions like ''Money Lending and Other Sins'' not only advance the story but also reward you with cash. Additionally, participate in activities like fishing, which can be both relaxing and profitable. Legendary fish, in particular, sell for a high price. To catch them, you''ll need the right bait and a fishing rod, which can be obtained during the mission ''A Fisher of Fish'' in Chapter 2.\n\nFor players willing to take risks, robbing trains and stagecoaches can yield significant rewards. However, this approach comes with the risk of attracting law enforcement. To minimize this, plan your heists carefully. For example, rob trains in remote areas like the Grizzlies or near Annesburg, where law enforcement response is slower. Use masks to conceal your identity and escape quickly to avoid bounties.\n\nFinally, consider investing in the camp''s ledger to unlock upgrades that improve your earning potential. For instance, upgrading Dutch''s lodging unlocks fast travel, saving time when moving between locations. Similarly, upgrading the ammunition and provisions ensures your gang is well-equipped, reducing the need to spend money on supplies.\n\nIn summary, the most efficient way to earn money for camp upgrades early on involves a combination of hunting, looting, completing missions, and strategic heists. Focus on high-value activities like hunting for perfect pelts, searching for hidden treasures, and participating in profitable side activities. By balancing these methods, you can quickly accumulate the funds needed to enhance your camp and improve your overall gameplay experience.