When starting out in Elden Ring, it’s easy to burn through valuable items without realizing how useful they’ll be later. The game throws a lot at you early on, and with limited runes and unclear item descriptions, even experienced Souls players can make costly mistakes. These 26 tips are here to help you use your resources wisely and avoid early-game regret.
1. Don’t Upgrade Every Weapon
Stick to one or two main weapons early on. Smithing Stones are limited, and spreading them across multiple weapons delays progress.
2. Save Your Larval Tears
These rare items let you respec your stats. Don’t use them until you’re sure about your build direction.
3. Avoid Using Boss Remembrances Too Soon
Each remembrance can be traded for unique weapons or spells. Resist the urge to use them for runes right away.
4. Don’t Waste Rune Arcs
They boost your stats while you’re in empowered form, but dying removes the bonus. Save them for tough bosses or co-op.
5. Hold Onto Stonesword Keys
These open Imp Statue doors, but not all doors offer valuable rewards. Research or return later when better prepared.
6. Use Spirit Ashes Strategically
Summons are powerful but not always necessary. Save FP-heavy ashes for big encounters rather than minor skirmishes.
7. Don’t Use Golden Runes Right Away
These items give instant runes. Instead of using them to buy early gear, save them for weapon upgrades or level milestones.
8. Be Careful with Cookbooks
Only buy cookbooks you know you’ll use. Some crafting items are situational and may sit unused in your inventory.
9. Avoid Selling Rare Items to Merchants
You may be tempted to sell to buy gear, but many items (like upgrade mats or unique talismans) can’t be reacquired.
10. Test Weapons Before Committing
Try new weapons out in low-risk areas to see how they feel. Don’t invest in upgrades or stats until you’re sure.
11. Save Your Cracked Pots
These are reusable containers for crafting bombs. Don’t waste them on weak enemies.
12. Don’t Hoard Flasks of Wondrous Physick Mixes
Experiment with different effects and use them in boss fights. You can always swap the mix later.
13. Avoid Consuming Furlcalling Finger Remedies Early
Multiplayer items are better saved for tough areas or bosses. These can be crafted, but materials are limited at first.
14. Don’t Use All Smithing Stones in One Place
Plan your upgrades. Save higher-tier stones for weapons that will carry you past the early game.
15. Experiment with Ashes of War
They can be swapped out at any time, so don’t hesitate to try new ones without fear of permanent commitment.
16. Visit Roundtable Hold Frequently
You’ll unlock upgrade and gear options as you progress. Don’t miss important NPCs and features.
17. Level Up Mind Only If Needed
Unless you’re building for casting, early stat points are better spent in Vigor, Endurance, or Dexterity/Strength.
18. Learn Enemy Patterns Instead of Burning Through Consumables
Use items to tip the scales, not as a crutch.
19. Don’t Overuse Crafting Materials
Craft with purpose. Items like Poisonbone or Rowa Fruit are more valuable when used tactically.
20. Use Spirit Tuning Efficiently
Focus your Glovewort upgrades on one or two summons that suit your playstyle.
21. Avoid Unnecessary NPC Hostility
Attacking NPCs can lock you out of questlines and merchants.
22. Use Torrent Wisely
Explore on horseback, but don’t charge into battles without understanding the terrain or enemy layout.
23. Read Item Descriptions
Many items hint at hidden uses or lore. This can help avoid waste.
24. Don’t Use All Your Runes on Gear
Balance between gear, upgrades, and leveling up. Runes are easy to lose if you overspend and then die.
25. Be Cautious With Invader Drops
While tempting, not every invader-dropped item is ideal for your build early on.
26. If You Need a Boost, Consider External Help
Some players choose to buy Elden Ring runes PC or Buy Elden Ring items PC to fast-track their builds. While not for everyone, it’s one way to avoid grinding if you’re short on time.
The early hours of Elden Ring are as much about learning restraint as they are about exploration. With a little patience and planning, you’ll avoid wasting key items—and be far better prepared for the brutal challenges ahead.