Biome readiness is easiest to judge when you separate preparation, navigation and recovery from raw combat power.
Use an appropriate food set
New areas are easier to evaluate when basic survivability is not already the main weakness.
Repair before leaving
Entering a new biome with damaged equipment creates avoidable risk.
Know the return route
A fallback point or clear path home makes exploration much less punishing.
Use the first trip to learn
Treat the first visit as reconnaissance so later trips can focus on materials and progression.