Do not leave the crash site empty-handed
Open the emergency pack, collect the nearby supplies and help Kelvin before wandering off. The first few minutes are your cheapest source of guaranteed starter items.
Get a save point quickly
A tarp-and-stick tent is enough to create an early save/sleep option while you decide where a real base should go. Do not spend the whole first day hauling logs before you have a safe way to save progress.
Choose a practical first location
Early developer advice emphasized access to water, trees and useful collectible resources. Snowy high ground is visually dramatic but punishing for a first camp. A base near fresh water and timber reduces the number of separate trips you need for basic survival.
Use Kelvin as a force multiplier
Kelvin is useful because he can handle repetitive support jobs while you scout, build or explore. Give him clear, safe tasks instead of treating him as a combat companion.
Do not rush caves undergeared
Caves are where the game’s exploration starts paying off, but they also concentrate danger. Establish food, healing, light and a reliable save first. Exploring one cave prepared is better than repeatedly corpse-running into three.