If you check the map before you go across you can find points where the distance is the shortest and you should be able get across fine, at least in the southern hagga basin.
Also as far as potentially losing your stuff, it seems like reprinting all the basic equipment at base is a quick ordeal and doesn't take long to get the resources so I wouldn't be too gear-fearful unless you've found something rare while out and about. It's a bummer being eaten, but it's not the end of the world :)
I found in the beta that it is remarkably hard to get swallowed by the worm unless you're careless. I think the worm mechanic is just fine and adds a fun sense of danger to the game world.
