How do I unlock fast travel early in the game?

Unlocking fast travel early in Red Dead Redemption 2 can significantly improve your gameplay experience by saving time and allowing you to explore the vast open world more efficiently. Fast travel is not immediately available, but with a few strategic steps, you can unlock it relatively early in the game. Here’s how to do it.\n\nFirst, you need to progress through the main story until you reach Chapter 2. This is when the game opens up, and you gain access to the camp upgrades system. Fast travel is tied to the camp upgrades, specifically the Lodging upgrades. To unlock fast travel, you must upgrade Dutch’s tent and then Arthur’s tent. These upgrades are purchased through the Ledger, which is located near the donation box in your camp.\n\nTo access the Ledger, you need to complete the mission ''Money Lending and Other Sins I,'' which is given by Leopold Strauss. This mission introduces you to the debt collection mechanic and unlocks the Ledger for camp upgrades. Once the Ledger is available, you can start purchasing upgrades. The first upgrade you need is Dutch’s tent, which costs $220. After upgrading Dutch’s tent, you can then upgrade Arthur’s tent for an additional $325. This second upgrade unlocks the fast travel map, which is located near Arthur’s tent.\n\nOnce the fast travel map is available, you can use it to travel to major locations you’ve already discovered. However, fast travel is limited to specific points, such as towns and key landmarks. To use it, simply interact with the map near Arthur’s tent, select your destination, and confirm. This feature is incredibly useful for skipping long rides across the map, especially when you’re revisiting areas for missions or side activities.\n\nA common challenge players face is gathering enough money for the upgrades early in the game. To earn the required funds, focus on completing missions, hunting, and looting enemies. Selling pelts and animal parts to the Trapper or Butcher can also provide a steady income. Additionally, explore the world for hidden treasures and gold bars, which can be sold for a significant amount of money. For example, the Limpany gold bar, found in the burned town south of Horseshoe Overlook, is worth $500 and can cover most of the upgrade costs.\n\nAnother tip is to prioritize upgrading Arthur’s tent as soon as possible. While Dutch’s tent is a prerequisite, Arthur’s tent is what unlocks the fast travel feature. Once you have fast travel, you can save time on repetitive trips and focus on exploring new areas or completing missions. Keep in mind that fast travel is only available from your camp, so plan your trips accordingly.\n\nIn summary, unlocking fast travel early in Red Dead Redemption 2 requires progressing to Chapter 2, completing the ''Money Lending and Other Sins I'' mission, and upgrading Dutch’s and Arthur’s tents through the Ledger. Focus on earning money through missions, hunting, and treasure hunting to afford the upgrades. Once unlocked, fast travel will make your journey through the game much more efficient and enjoyable.