How does upgrading the camp’s provisions affect survival in harsh climates?

Upgrading the camp’s provisions in Red Dead Redemption 2 is a crucial step to ensure survival in harsh climates, such as the snowy mountains of Ambarino or the arid deserts of New Austin. These upgrades directly impact your ability to maintain health, stamina, and Dead Eye cores, which are essential for surviving extreme weather conditions. By improving provisions, you ensure that your camp members and Arthur Morgan have access to better food, supplies, and resources, which are vital for long-term survival.\n\nTo upgrade the camp’s provisions, you need to interact with the ledger at the donation box, which is located near Dutch’s tent. The ledger allows you to purchase upgrades using camp funds, which can be earned by donating money, valuables, or hunted game. The provisions upgrade is one of the first available upgrades and costs $225. Once purchased, it increases the quality and quantity of food available at the camp, ensuring that everyone stays well-fed and healthy.\n\nIn harsh climates, such as the Grizzlies or the desert, your health and stamina cores drain faster due to extreme cold or heat. Upgraded provisions provide better meals, such as stews and cooked meats, which restore more core energy compared to basic provisions. For example, a bowl of Pearson’s upgraded stew can fully restore your health core, while basic meals only provide a partial boost. This is especially useful when exploring areas like Colter or Armadillo, where environmental conditions are unforgiving.\n\nAnother benefit of upgrading provisions is the morale boost it provides to camp members. A well-fed camp is a happy camp, and this can lead to increased donations from members, as well as improved interactions. For instance, Susan Grimshaw and Pearson will often comment on the improved quality of food, and other members may contribute more to the camp fund. This creates a positive feedback loop, making it easier to afford further upgrades.\n\nTo maximize the benefits of upgraded provisions, always ensure that Pearson has enough raw materials to cook. This means regularly hunting and donating game, such as deer, boar, or bison, to the camp. Animals like the White-Tailed Deer, found in the Heartlands, are excellent sources of meat. Additionally, foraging for herbs and plants, such as Oregano or Thyme, can enhance the quality of meals, providing additional buffs to your cores.\n\nFor players struggling to survive in harsh climates, upgrading provisions is a game-changer. It reduces the need to constantly rely on tonics or cooked meals outside the camp, saving both time and resources. For example, if you’re exploring the snowy mountains, having a fully upgraded camp means you can return to a warm meal that restores your cores, allowing you to venture back out with full energy.\n\nIn summary, upgrading the camp’s provisions is a strategic investment that enhances survival in Red Dead Redemption 2. It improves core restoration, boosts camp morale, and ensures long-term sustainability in challenging environments. Focus on hunting, foraging, and donating to the camp fund to unlock this upgrade early in the game. By doing so, you’ll be better equipped to face the harsh climates of the game world and keep Arthur and his gang in peak condition.