Multitask
Setting goals in The Long Dark is very important, however it’s also important that you don’t focus too hard on just one thing. This is a game of multitasking and failure to do that will leave you short on materials and scrounging for fire-starting supplies or food at the last possible second. To avoid this, set sub-goals for yourself and make sure to get as much use out of each of your actions and items as possible.
If your out exploring, pick up some firewood or take a moment to search for some useful plants. If you have a fire built for heat be sure to cook some food or melt some snow for water. Make sure to setup animal traps before wandering off to explore for the day and you might end up with a little extra food when returning home. If you can’t make it back to home base, start collecting materials that will help you make it through the night in case you can’t find shelter. More often than not, if your doing one thing, you could easily be doing multiple and those that master this ability will greatly increase their length of survival.
