RDR2: Is Raising Money For The Gang Actually Worth It?

Arthur Morgan hauls back sack after sack of loot to camp-but does sharing it with the gang truly pay off? Here’s what your generosity means for upgrades, morale, and your own pocket in Red Dead Redemption 2.

In our opinion, the best answer to this question is yes, but to a limited extent. When sharing your loot with the gang and the funds raised, you should first of all consider your own interest and what Arthur can gain from it.

1. It’s definitely worthwhile to put the acquired jewelry and cash in a fund stash. This will allow you to buy the most important improvements to the camp. Some of them, such as the fast travel option or tools used in crafting, are very useful. However, you don’t have to unlock all the upgrades at all costs. For example, it is better to go to a normal shop for supplies, and expensive upgrades such as a boat marina or a stand for horses are not obligatory. It is worth mentioning that you do not have to unlock all the upgrades.
2. Also, it is worth mentioning that placing donations in the camp’s chest also changes one additional thing – relations with members of the Dutch gang improve and thus you gain positive points of honor (reputation). So it can be a good way if you want to quickly improve your current state of honor.
3. In the case of Pearson, it’s only profitable to donate pelts of hunted animals, because they are required for crafting projects.
4. You don’t have to take care of food delivery, medicine or any other supplies to the camp.The game does not impose penalties for ignoring such duties. You don’t have to be afraid that the game will end prematurely, or that someone will die of hunger or illness.

In general, it’s only worth to share cash and jewelry in the initial chapters of the game in order to buy the best improvements to the camp, create the best items and earn positive points of honor. In the further part of the campaign you can practically ignore this topic and leave the money for yourself, and all the loot gained can be liquidated at “classic” traders.

Which camp upgrades give the best gameplay benefits early game

Early in Red Dead Redemption 2, prioritize camp upgrades that unlock fast travel and improve core survival mechanics for the biggest gameplay impact. Lodging upgrades lead to these perks quickly, while cheap provisions and horse access reduce travel time and grinding. Focus on them in Chapters 2-3 when camp funds matter most.​

Top Priorities

Lodging Tier 2 (“First Things First,” $220) boosts gang donations to fund further upgrades and sets up fast travel. Follow with Lodging Tier 3 (“Next In Line,” $325) to unlock the fast travel map, slashing backtracking across the map. Provisions Tier 2 (“Less Bland,” $30) adds free quality food to maintain health and cores without town runs.​

Secondary Picks

• Horse Station ($300): Call back stabled horses and add hitching posts for reliable transport.​

• Chicken Coop ($175): Stews gain nutrition and Dead Eye boosts for combat edges.​

• Leather Working Tools ($225): Enables satchel crafting with donated pelts for more inventory.​

Upgrade Order Table

Which camp upgrades give the best gameplay benefits early game

Early in Red Dead Redemption 2, camp upgrades that unlock fast travel and provide free supplies deliver the best gameplay benefits by saving time and reducing grinding. Lodging upgrades are the top priority to enable these features quickly in Chapters 2-3. Provisions and medicine upgrades follow for easy core recovery without town visits.​

Priority Upgrades

Lodging Tier 2 (“First Things First,” $220) boosts gang donations to fund more purchases. Lodging Tier 3 (“Next In Line,” $325) unlocks the fast travel map, cutting long horse rides dramatically. Provisions Tier 2 (“Less Bland,” $30) adds quality food like fruit for better health cores.​

Value Picks

Horse Station ($300) lets you summon stabled horses, streamlining travel. Medicine Tier 2 (“Sharpen The Senses,” $30) stocks Snake Oil for Dead Eye refills. Chicken Coop ($175) improves stews with nutrition and Dead Eye boosts.​

Recommended Order