In Escape from Tarkov, it can be difficult to find ways to earn roubles as a new player. While gunfights with other PMC’s are typically what make the game exciting and can turn the most profit, there are countless ways to earn money without firing a single shot. Learning about flea market prices, using scavenger runs effectively, and learning loot routes are a few of the ways to get ahead financially in Tarkov. With the right strategy, you can make millions without ever pulling the trigger.
Scav Runs: Low-Risk, High-Reward
Your Scav is your best friend when it comes to early game raids. When there isn’t much in the PMC stash and no roubles to buy gear, having a free chance at looting is very valuable. Running maps like Interchange, Reserve, or Streets of Tarkov as a scav allows you to safely loot high-value areas with minimal risk. Since you’re not risking your main character’s gear, every rouble you make is pure profit. Look for high-ticket items like GPUs, military cables, virtexes, or even simple items like toothpaste or coffee, which can sell well early in the wipe.
Bartering: Earn Roubles Without the Flea
Early wipe or not, bartering can be an underrated way to earn roubles. Traders like Jaeger and Mechanic offer barter deals that convert common items into gear or weapons you can sell for a markup. For example, trading a few bolts and screwdrivers can get you a weapon worth significantly more on the flea market or directly to a trader. Keep an eye on the “barter for profit” deals and learn which items are easy to farm.
Flea Market Knowledge
Once unlocked, the flea market becomes your personal stock exchange. Watch item trends as prices fluctuate based on quests, events, and even time of day. Flipping items (buy low, sell high) can be incredibly lucrative. Use tools like Tarkov Market to monitor real-time prices and identify undervalued gear. Items like keys, LEDX, and graphics cards are staples of the market, but don’t underestimate niche items needed for quests or hideout upgrades.
Loot Routes
Memorizing loot routes can streamline your scav or PMC runs. Reserve’s underground tech rooms, Lighthouse’s rogue base, and Interchange’s tech stores are loot havens if navigated quickly. Focus on items with high value-to-slot ratios—GPUs, military tubes, tetriz, and rare barter items. Bring a large backpack, get to loot spots quickly, and get out before the chaos begins.
You don’t necessarily have to be good at gunfights in Tarkov to be rich, you just need to be smart about how you play.
