Extraction guide: fuel first, then judge the detour
Quick answer
Finish the fuel requirement and preserve a safe route back to the bus. Extra looting is worthwhile only when its likely benefit is greater than the risk of losing your ability to leave.
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Work toward a reachable exit
Fuel makes departure possible; a powerful new item does not replace it. Search outward while there is room to move, then work back toward the bus. Avoid leaving your only remaining fuel search until the map is dense with enemies.
Use a concrete detour test
Before crossing the map for a crate, ask whether you can equip the reward now, whether the return path stays open and whether your healing and movement can cover the trip. A nearby upgrade and a distant unexplored marker are different risks. Leave the latter when the build is already struggling.
Adapt to the actual item
The 1.0 Teleporter normally moves you to an unlooted spot and knocks back enemies. At night, with all fuel collected, its destination changes to the bus. Read that condition before using it as an extraction plan. If the item is not equipped or the conditions are unmet, keep a physical route home.