Elden Ring’s vast arsenal of items can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re deep into exploration or facing tough enemies. From consumables and craftables to upgrade materials and buffs, using these items efficiently can significantly impact your survival, rune farming, and combat strategy. Below are 18 smart tips that seasoned players use to get the most out of their inventory—whether you're just starting or diving into New Game Plus.

1. Keep Buff Items Ready Before Big Fights
Golden Vow, Flame, Grant Me Strength, and similar buffs can swing a boss fight in your favor. Use them before entering fog gates for the best effect.

2. Prioritize Smithing Stones Early On
Instead of spreading upgrades across multiple weapons, focus on one primary weapon until at least +10. This ensures you’re maximizing your damage output.

3. Use Craftables to Save Runes
Crafting fire pots or poison arrows is often cheaper than buying them. This is especially helpful if you’re trying to conserve or farm cheap Elden Ring Items.

4. Equip the Right Consumables for the Area
Heading into Caelid? Pack Preserving Boluses. Exploring Ainsel River? Bring a few Neutralizing Boluses. Understanding your environment can save you from unnecessary deaths.

5. Don’t Hoard Larval Tears
Many players hesitate to respec, fearing they’ll run out. But unless you plan on using every build type in one run, feel free to use them when needed.

6. Use Rune Arcs Strategically
Rune Arcs offer powerful buffs when your Great Rune is active. Save them for boss fights or areas with high rune rewards. They’re not meant to be hoarded.

7. Learn Where to Buy Elden Ring Runes Safely
While farming is always an option, some players look for ways to boost progress faster. Sites like U4GM are known among the community for helping players acquire runes safely—especially when time is limited.

8. Don’t Overuse Flask Upgrades on HP
If you’re using a mage or ranged build, consider putting more Flask upgrades into FP. You’ll get more mileage from spellcasting efficiency.

9. Maximize Use of Throwables in PvP
Items like Kukris or Fan Daggers can interrupt healing and pressure enemies. Keep a few on hand when invading or being invaded.

10. Use Grease Items Early, Not Later
Many players stockpile greases and never use them. These consumables can give you a damage edge early in the game—especially when your stats are still growing.

11. Upgrade Your Spirit Ashes
A fully upgraded Mimic Tear or Black Knife Tiche can make difficult bosses much easier. Don’t forget to spend your Gloveworts efficiently.

12. Use the Wondrous Physick Wisely
Experiment with different combinations. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer—some players even create boss-specific mixes that enhance damage negation or burst potential.

13. Sell Unused Gear for Extra Runes
It’s easy to let your inventory pile up. Sell duplicate or underused weapons, armor, and talismans. If you're looking to accelerate the process, many players also choose to buy Elden Ring runes to skip the grind.

14. Rotate Incantations and Spells Based on Zones
Instead of sticking to one spell build, adjust your loadout depending on the enemies ahead. Fire works well in certain areas, while magic might dominate in others.

15. Don’t Forget Cracked Pots
These reusable items allow you to craft powerful throwables repeatedly. Find all available pots and perfumer bottles to expand your tactical options.

16. Manage Inventory Weight
Carrying too many weapons or heavy gear will slow your roll and stamina regeneration. Keep your quick items streamlined for efficiency.

17. Use Detection Items to Find Hidden Paths
Items like Prattling Pates or Rainbow Stones can help you uncover illusory walls or detect steep drops. It’s not just for fun—it can save you from death traps.

18. Revisit Merchants for Missed Items
Many players ignore early-game vendors after progressing. Some of them carry underrated but highly useful gear and crafting materials. Make a habit of checking back.

Elden Ring rewards players who pay attention to detail and plan ahead. By managing your items with purpose, you’ll find yourself better equipped for anything the Lands Between throws at you. Whether you prefer to grind, craft, or buy Elden Ring runes, mastering your inventory is just as important as mastering your combat skills.