Final answer:
Merchants traveled in caravans for protection against robbers, access to caravansaries, and a sense of community and support.
Step-by-step explanation:
Merchants traveled in caravans for several reasons. One reason was for protection against robbers and bandits. By traveling in groups, merchants could better defend themselves and their goods from potential attacks. Caravans also provided a sense of community and support, as traders could rely on one another for assistance and security during their journeys.
Another reason merchants traveled in caravans was to have access to caravansaries. Caravansaries were inns along major trade routes where merchants could rest and store their goods securely. These inns were sponsored by governments and wealthy individuals and provided a safe and convenient place for traders to rest and replenish their supplies.
Overall, traveling in caravans offered merchants protection, community, and access to essential resources, making their long journeys more manageable and successful.