The stardew valley traveling cart is one of the most mysterious and useful shops in the game. It appears only on specific days, offering a random assortment of goods. Consequently, it can be a lifesaver for completing Community Center bundles or getting rare items early. This guide will show you everything you need to know.
What Exactly Is the Stardew Valley Traveling Cart?
The Traveling Cart is a unique shop run by a merchant who visits the valley periodically. Unlike Pierre’s or JojaMart, her stock is completely random and changes with every visit. In addition, she sells items that are often out of season or difficult to obtain otherwise. This makes her shop a high-priority destination for savvy farmers.
Where and When to Find the Traveling Cart
Finding the cart is easy once you know its schedule. The merchant has a consistent routine, which helps you plan your visits. However, you must remember to check, as her inventory is too good to miss.
Regular Schedule
The traveling merchant sets up her shop in the Cindersap Forest, just north of the pond at the southern entrance of your farm. You can reliably find her there on two days of the week.
- When: Every Friday and Sunday.
- Time: From 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
Special Events
The cart also makes a special appearance during one of the winter festivals. Therefore, you have extra chances to browse her wares.
- Event: The Night Market.
- When: Every night of the festival (Winter 15-17).
- Time: From 5:00 PM to 2:00 AM.
A Look at the Traveling Cart’s Random Stock
The main appeal of the stardew valley traveling cart is its incredibly diverse and unpredictable inventory. You can find almost anything here. Prices can be high, but the convenience is often worth the cost. Because the stock is random, it’s always a surprise.
Common Item Categories
- Seeds and Crops: You might find out-of-season seeds or crops.
- Fish: A great way to get fish that are difficult to catch.
- Forageables: Helpful for completing seasonal bundles quickly.
- Artisan Goods: Products like cheese or jelly can appear.
- Furniture: Sometimes a unique piece of furniture is for sale.
- Rare Items: This includes the coveted Rare Seed and the Coffee Bean.
Is the Traveling Cart Worth Your Gold? Tips for Success
Absolutely! The traveling cart can save you a tremendous amount of time and effort. However, you should spend your gold wisely. Follow these tips to make the most of each visit.
Prioritize Community Center Bundles
This is the cart’s biggest advantage. If you are missing a specific fish, crop, or artisan good for a bundle, the cart might have it. For instance, buying a Red Cabbage in year one can complete the Dye Bundle much earlier than usual. This is a huge time-saver.
Always Check the Stock
Make it a habit to visit the Cindersap Forest every Friday and Sunday. Since her inventory is random, you never know when she will be selling something incredibly valuable. Missing a Prismatic Shard or a key bundle item can be frustrating, so consistent checking pays off.
Invest in the Rare Seed
If you see a Rare Seed for sale, buy it. You can plant it in the Fall to grow a Sweet Gem Berry. This fruit sells for a base price of 3,000g, making it one of the most profitable single crops in the game. It is an excellent investment, especially in your first year.