Stay away from the Plains until you're ready.

Always have a travel portal ready and the makings of it's mate with you when you explore.

Always make a temp camp with the portal up before you try something new. Temp camps don't need roofs or anything; just a campfire, workbench and your portal.

If you leave your temp camp portal up for more than overnight, you run the risk of critters destroying it while you're gone. If your temp camp is going to be less temporary build a quick 3x3x1 hut with a roof and fireplace (this will take about a stack of wood). Floor is optional, no bed; just portal, workbench and campfire inside the hut.

Arach