In Elden Ring, runes are everything. They're your currency for leveling up, buying gear, and upgrading your weapons. But as any seasoned Tarnished knows, managing your rune storage can be surprisingly tricky — especially when death lurks around every corner. Whether you're new to the Lands Between or returning for another playthrough, it's easy to fall into habits that cost you thousands of runes. Here are 10 common mistakes players make with rune storage — and how to avoid them.
1. Not Using the Pouch or Inventory Wisely
One of the biggest mistakes players make is hoarding all their runes in active use rather than storing them in consumable form. Golden Runes and Hero's Runes are perfect for this. They don’t disappear on death, making them a safe way to store excess runes without risking a major loss.
2. Spending Everything at Once
It’s tempting to blow all your runes the moment you have enough for a level-up or shiny new weapon. But sometimes it pays to hold back — especially if you’re unsure about build direction or need to save for multiple upgrades. Keeping some runes in storage form allows for more flexible planning.
3. Farming Without a Plan
Rune farming can be tedious, but doing it without a clear goal wastes time and inventory space. Always know what you're farming for — whether it's smithing stones, cheap Elden Ring items, or just enough runes to hit the next level. This helps you avoid carrying excess and risking accidental loss.
4. Ignoring Secure Farming Routes
Some areas are safer than others for rune farming. Players often rush to high-reward zones without considering risk. For example, early-game areas like the Mohgwyn Palace farming spot are efficient once unlocked, but dangerous if you're underleveled. Don’t gamble all your runes on risky runs — secure storage comes first.
5. Underestimating the Importance of Rune Arcs
Rune Arcs can give you a huge stat boost when used with a Great Rune. Many players overlook their value or use them at the wrong times. While they don't store runes directly, using them wisely can help you survive longer, reducing rune loss overall.
6. Not Backing Up Before Boss Fights
A classic mistake: heading into a boss fight with a full pouch of runes. Always spend or store your runes before taking on a major enemy. Whether you're saving for cheap Elden Ring items or trying to level up, it's safer to bank them than to risk losing tens of thousands in one bad attempt.
7. Not Taking Advantage of Grace Sites
Fast travel and Sites of Grace aren’t just for convenience — they’re strategic tools. Players often forget to backtrack to a grace after collecting a large amount of runes, especially during exploration. Use them often to offload and avoid unnecessary deaths far from recovery points.
8. Forgetting the Stash Box
Your stash in the Roundtable Hold or any grace is more useful than most players realize. When your inventory gets full, important rune items might be missed or left behind. Regularly clean out your inventory and transfer excess into your stash to avoid clutter and missed pickups.
9. Being Overconfident in PvP Zones
Invading or being invaded in high-risk areas with a large number of runes is asking for disaster. Store your runes before entering PvP zones, and try to keep only what you need. This is especially true if you're hunting for cheap Elden Ring runes through farming — don’t let a red phantom ruin your haul.
10. Not Selling Unused Equipment
While not directly tied to rune storage, many players forget that unused weapons and gear can be sold for a small rune return. If you're hoarding duplicate weapons or armor you’ll never use, clear them out. Every bit counts — and it might be enough for that upgrade you've been eyeing.
Elden Ring rewards careful planning just as much as bold action. Managing your rune storage isn’t just about avoiding loss — it's about maintaining momentum. Whether you’re farming for cheap Elden Ring runes, stockpiling consumables, or hunting down cheap Elden Ring items to round out your build, being smart with your rune economy is key.
In the end, your runes are only as safe as your habits allow. Don’t let carelessness rob you of progress — store smart, farm wisely, and keep those deaths cheap.