In Elden Ring, death is more than just a temporary setback—it’s often a serious loss of Runes and progress. Whether you're facing a boss that one-shots you or getting ganked by invaders, learning how to minimize penalties can make the difference between frustration and progress. Over hundreds of hours in the Lands Between, I’ve discovered 11 items that can either help you cheat death or lessen its sting. Here's how to use them effectively.
1. Sacrificial Twig
This talisman-like item is a classic death insurance policy. When equipped, it prevents you from losing Runes upon death—but it’s consumed in the process. Perfect for high-risk areas where you're carrying a lot of Runes and aren’t confident about making it back. You can also buy Elden Ring items like this from specific merchants or online if you're low.
2. Twiggy Cracked Tear
This is essentially the Flask of Wondrous Physick’s version of the Sacrificial Twig. Mixing it into your flask gives you Rune-loss immunity for a short period. Use it before tough fights or risky dungeon dives. Unlike the Twig, it doesn’t get consumed, but it only works once per flask recharge.
3. Starlight Shards
These slow FP regenerators might seem underwhelming at first glance, but if you're a caster trying to escape a fight, they can buy you enough FP to pull off a critical healing or mobility spell. They’re best used in long exploration runs where flask charges are running low.
4. Torrent’s Whistle
Not just a tool for mobility—Torrent can be a lifesaver. If you’re being chased or overwhelmed, mounting Torrent and sprinting away is often the best choice. Don’t forget: jumping off ledges on Torrent reduces fall damage, giving you a getaway route that would kill you on foot.
5. Uplifting Aromatic
This consumable from the Perfumer’s arsenal grants a buff that absorbs a portion of incoming damage. It's incredibly useful when entering unknown territory where an ambush or powerful enemy might be lurking. A smart backup when you’re not sure what’s around the corner.
6. Mohg’s Shackle / Margit’s Shackle
While these items are mostly known for trivializing their respective bosses, they can also freeze the enemy for a moment, giving you time to heal or recover stamina. It’s not a permanent solution, but in a pinch, that extra second can prevent a death spiral.
7. Neutralizing Boluses
Poison is a slow, painful death, especially in places like Caelid. Keeping these boluses on your quick item bar ensures you don’t keel over after a fight just because you forgot about the status bar ticking away. It’s not glamorous, but it saves lives.
8. Cured Meat Buffs
Defense-boosting meats like Boiled Crab or Dry Liver are the unsung heroes of boss fights. Stack these with armor or talismans to tank one or two extra hits—often enough to get a heal off or finish a fight. You can buy Elden Ring runes to help you reach the level where these items shine in synergy with your build.
9. Blessing of the Erdtree
A high-tier healing spell that can turn the tide in PvE and PvP. Cast before entering a major fight for continuous healing over time. It’s a favorite among Faith builds, and combined with high Vigor, it creates a forgiving buffer against sudden burst damage.
10. Silver-Pickled Fowl Foot
While not directly related to surviving death, this item increases Rune drops, which helps you recover faster after a loss. When grinding in high-risk areas, boosting your Rune gain can make each run more worthwhile—even if you don’t make it out alive.
11. Larval Tears
These are for when you realize your build just isn’t working. Rebirth via Rennala allows you to respec and adapt your playstyle. If you’re dying constantly, maybe it’s not just the game—it could be your stats. Changing things up might be the best way to stop dying in the first place. While not common, you can buy Elden Ring items like Larval Tears to speed up your progression if you're stuck.
Death is part of the Elden Ring experience, but it doesn’t have to be punishing every time. With the right preparation and the smart use of items, you can reduce penalties, recover faster, and get back into the action without losing momentum. Sometimes, all it takes is a well-timed Flask or a backup Twig to turn disaster into triumph.
The next time you're carrying a mountain of Runes and heading into the unknown, pack smart. Your future self will thank you.