Solution via Reddit, no mods needed, you just need to activate the console via steam launch options.

Steam library > Right click Encased > Game Properties > Steam launch options = --console

This enables the console in-game that's open-able with the tilde key (Key below escape that looks like `¬ )

Gamespeed command: Cheats.SpeedUpGame (2)

This increases the speed of everything, including hunger & fatigue buildup. If 2 isn't quick enough for you, decimals work too so feel free to try 2.5 or something else. At least you can explore every nook & cranny of the maps without it taking 3 hours to do so! I don't believe this disables achievements either.

Credit goes to "jjyiss" on Reddit for this.