Most failed worlds die the same way: too much looting, too little preparation, and a base that was never finished.
Prepare on day six
The day before a blood moon belongs to defence. Repair walls, stock ammunition, and clear your firing lanes.
Do not over-loot
Loot has diminishing returns once you have gear. Time spent on a fifth clear is time not spent upgrading the base.
Keep an exit
Every fighting position needs a way out. Bases with one entrance become traps the moment something gets inside.