What are the best side activities for earning XP in Red Dead Online?

Earning XP in Red Dead Online is essential for leveling up, unlocking new abilities, and progressing through roles. The best side activities for XP depend on your playstyle, but some activities consistently offer high rewards. These include Bounty Hunting, Trader Deliveries, Moonshining, Collecting, and participating in Free Roam Events. Each activity has unique mechanics and strategies to maximize XP gains.\n\nBounty Hunting is one of the most rewarding roles for XP. To start, visit a Bounty Board in towns like Valentine, Rhodes, or Saint Denis. Accept bounties with higher difficulty levels, as they yield more XP. Always bring the target in alive for maximum rewards. Use the Eagle Eye ability to track targets and Dead Eye to handle large groups of enemies. Completing bounties within the timer also grants bonus XP, so prioritize efficiency.\n\nTrader Deliveries are another excellent source of XP, especially for players who enjoy hunting and resource management. Start by purchasing the Butcher Table from Cripps at your camp. Hunt animals like deer, elk, and bison to fill your materials bar. Once your goods are ready, initiate a delivery mission. Local deliveries are safer and quicker, while distant deliveries offer higher XP but attract rival players. Use a hunting wagon to store large carcasses and maximize efficiency.\n\nMoonshining combines passive income with active missions for XP. To begin, complete the Moonshiner introduction mission and purchase a shack. Upgrade your still to produce higher-quality moonshine, which increases XP rewards. Bootlegger missions reduce production costs and grant XP, while delivery missions are the primary source of income and XP. Avoid damaging your wagon during deliveries to maximize profits and XP.\n\nCollecting is ideal for players who enjoy exploration and passive XP gains. Purchase the Collector''s Bag from Madam Nazar to start. Use the Jean Ropke map (an online resource) to locate collectibles efficiently. Each complete set sold to Madam Nazar grants a significant XP boost. Focus on items like tarot cards, bird eggs, and antique bottles, as they are easier to find and complete sets with.\n\nFree Roam Events are dynamic activities that occur periodically and offer substantial XP rewards. These include Fishing Challenges, Trade Route, and Salvage. Participate in as many events as possible, as they often require minimal preparation and provide high XP payouts. For example, Trade Route involves protecting a train carrying goods, and successful completion grants XP and Trader role XP.\n\nTo maximize XP gains, always use Ability Cards that complement your playstyle. For example, Paint It Black is excellent for Bounty Hunting, while Iron Lung benefits Trader deliveries. Equip weapons and gear that suit your role, such as a bow for hunting or a shotgun for close combat in Moonshiner missions. Additionally, join a posse to tackle activities like Trader deliveries or Bounty Hunting, as teamwork often leads to faster completion and higher rewards.\n\nFor new players, focus on one role initially to build a strong foundation. Experienced players should diversify their activities to avoid burnout and maximize XP gains. Always keep an eye on daily challenges, as they offer bonus XP and gold. Finally, prioritize fun and experimentation to find the activities that suit your playstyle best.