If you can't use the recovery package to scavenge better gear on site, you might be too far gone.

So after each death, you get an emergency case that gives a loaded gun and 80 bullets when dismantled. But let's imagine we don't use it.

Say you start a mission completely naked as Frank, standard untrained Scout of Hades. It is early in the campaign. You'll have something like 28% dodge, there is no weight lowering it. Add to that +40% from basic level 1 combat focus triggering. Since the default "difficulty curve" option gives you a buff for your first pile of missions, enemies will struggle to hit you. You might get hurt, but you can get by with on-site materials+sorbent (it's free).

I just started a new save and Frank in his underwear could quite literally beat a level to death with his bare hands. To be "Frank", I think he can secure the materials for basic ship upgrades and replenish an empty cargo bay, with zero gear or upgrades.*
*Some Franks may be lost in the process

I didn't know that about the emergency case! thanks.

Originally posted by Marchand:

If you can't use the recovery package to scavenge better gear on site, you might be too far gone.

Hardly true. Send down Eclipse of Blades Isabel Capet and draw away or corner 1 isolated enemy until you get their gear. If you have leftover human meat even fist can do a ton of damage due to the cannibalism damage boost.

Naked Eclipse of Blades is a solid economic tactic in general. I send them down like that all the time without losing my supplies, that said with a melee weapon, fists are obviously harder but still possible.

the curent meta wants you to trade for progression items, you should focus navigation and shuttle/pod early on. You can also buy or open armor/gun crates to get some really nice gear but after a while you have to stockpile gear.
You can loot armor/guns from the first floor and put them in the shuttle in the first floor, having the floor uncovered helps a lot.
But generally tunnel rat percy helps a lot with spare equipment since now all consumables are important.
You also have to stockpile some ammo and other stuff. I made today a guide for this version of the game if you want to see more advice https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QluNahqy0PI

Also, as a general rule, you need to take survival items, spare gear and expensive materials as loot. Usually starting a mission with a sniper rifle, assault rifle or smg is enough to get your gear started. Also try using grenades when needed. Don't be afraid to extract fast if you complete your objective.