Can You Leave Stuff in Barrels in Skyrim? A Deep Dive into Storage
Yes, you can leave stuff in barrels in Skyrim, but whether you should is a different question entirely. The answer is nuanced and depends heavily on the specific barrel, its location, and whether you own the surrounding property. Leaving items in certain barrels can lead to their permanent disappearance, a frustrating experience for any Dragonborn. Understanding the game’s respawn mechanics and container ownership is crucial for safe storage in Skyrim. This article will thoroughly explore the safety of using barrels for storage in Skyrim, providing you with the knowledge to keep your precious loot safe.
Understanding Container Safety in Skyrim
Skyrim’s world is dynamic. Many locations reset periodically, meaning their contents, including items stored in containers, are wiped clean and replaced with the original default items. This reset is governed by a timer and is designed to keep the game world feeling alive and to repopulate areas with enemies and loot. Containers in unowned locations are generally unsafe because they are subject to this reset.
However, not all containers are created equal. Containers in locations flagged as “safe” or those within player-owned properties are exempt from the respawn mechanic. These containers are the sanctuaries for your hard-earned gear. Therefore, the key is to discern which containers are safe and which are ticking time bombs for your inventory.
Barrels: Safe Havens or Risky Business?
Barrels, due to their commonality, are one of the most frequently encountered containers in Skyrim. They are scattered throughout the world, from bustling cities like Whiterun to bandit-infested caves. This ubiquity makes them a tempting storage solution, especially early in the game when resources are scarce.
Unowned Barrels: Handle with Caution
The vast majority of barrels you encounter in the wilderness, towns, or dungeons are not safe for long-term storage. These barrels are part of the general environment and will reset along with the location they are in. Anything you place inside will vanish when the reset occurs.
- Example: A barrel outside the blacksmith in Whiterun is generally unsafe. It will likely reset, and your items will disappear.
- Exception: There may be mods that alter the ownership or respawn behavior of these containers.
Barrels in Player-Owned Homes: Generally Safe
If you purchase a house, like Breezehome in Whiterun or Proudspire Manor in Solitude, the barrels and other containers within the house become safe for storage. This is because the entire house cell is marked as “safe” and does not respawn.
- Important: While the containers themselves are safe, be aware that some items (especially those with scripts attached, like certain quest items or unique weapons) might exhibit buggy behavior, such as teleporting around the house.
Barrels in “Safe” Locations: An Exception to the Rule
There are a few specific locations in Skyrim that are designated as “safe” even though you don’t own them. Containers within these locations, including barrels, are safe for long-term storage. Examples include:
- The Abandoned House in Markarth: All containers within this house are safe.
- The Alchemist’s Shack: Some of the containers within are safe to use.
- Delphine’s secret room in the Sleeping Giant Inn.
These safe locations are often tied to quests or have specific in-game reasons for being non-respawning areas.
How to Identify Safe Storage
Determining the safety of a barrel can be tricky without extensive trial and error. Here are some methods to help you assess a container’s security:
- UESP Wiki (Unofficial Elder Scrolls Pages): The UESP wiki is an invaluable resource. It often lists specific locations and containers that are safe for storage. Refer to their “Containers – Safe Locations” article.
- Experimentation: If you are unsure, perform a test. Place a cheap, easily replaceable item (like a single iron dagger) in the barrel. Wait several in-game days (at least 10) and return to check if the item is still there.
- Location, Location, Location: If the barrel is in an area you own, chances are the container is safe for storage.
The Importance of Hearthfire DLC
The Hearthfire DLC adds a new dimension to storage in Skyrim. With Hearthfire, you can build your own houses and structures, including barrels, using crafting materials. Barrels that you craft and place in your homestead are 100% safe for storage, as your homestead itself is a non-respawning location. Hearthfire is a boon for players who crave safe and customizable storage solutions.
Skyrim Storage: Best Practices
- Invest in Player Homes: As soon as you can afford it, purchase a house. This provides the most reliable and convenient storage solution.
- Follower Inventory: Use your followers as pack mules. They can carry a significant amount of weight, freeing up your inventory. However, be aware that followers have a weight limit and might occasionally lose items if their inventory is overencumbered.
- Use Multiple Storage Locations: Spread your items across several safe locations. This reduces the impact of any unexpected container resets.
- Regularly Check Your Storage: Periodically visit your storage locations to ensure your items are still safe.
Mods and Storage
Many mods enhance the storage options in Skyrim. Some mods add portable storage containers, such as backpacks or pouches, while others alter the respawn behavior of existing containers. Exploring these mods can significantly improve your inventory management and provide more secure storage solutions.
Why Safe Storage Matters
Safe storage is paramount in Skyrim for several reasons:
- Resource Management: Storing valuable resources, such as crafting materials, potions, and enchanted items, allows you to efficiently manage your inventory and prepare for future challenges.
- Collection and Display: Many players enjoy collecting unique weapons, armor, and artifacts. Safe storage provides a place to display and preserve these treasures.
- Roleplaying: Safe storage adds a layer of realism to your roleplaying experience. It allows you to create a personal space for your character, filled with their belongings and memories.
FAQs: Barrels and Storage in Skyrim
1. Is it safe to store items in barrels outside of Whiterun?
Generally, no. Most barrels in exterior locations in Whiterun, and other cities, reset periodically, leading to item loss.
2. Do barrels in my house reset in Skyrim?
No, barrels within player-owned houses are generally safe and do not reset. However, confirm the safety of your specific house via UESP.
3. Can I safely store items in barrels in Breezehome?
Yes, Breezehome is a safe location. The containers within, including barrels, will not reset.
4. Where can I safely store items in Skyrim without a house?
A few locations are safe even without ownership: the Abandoned House in Markarth is the best example. Also, Faendal’s house after completing his quest and Delphine’s Secret room
5. Do barrels in Whiterun reset if I don’t own a house there?
Yes, if they are not in a “safe” location as mentioned above. Barrels are not safe container to use for storage.
6. How long does it take for barrels to reset in Skyrim?
The reset timer varies depending on the location. Some areas reset in as little as 10 in-game days, while others may take up to 30 days.
7. Do hidden chests in Skyrim refill?
Yes, some hidden chests refill after a certain period (usually 48 in-game hours). This is different than resetting, where the chest contents are replaced.
8. Can I leave items in my house in Skyrim?
Yes, items stored in containers within player-owned houses are generally safe and will not disappear.
9. Are all containers in Lakeview Manor safe?
Yes, all containers in Lakeview Manor (a Hearthfire home) are safe for storing items.
10. What is the cheapest house I can buy in Skyrim for safe storage?
Breezehome in Whiterun is the cheapest purchasable house and provides safe storage.
11. What is the best store to sell stuff in Skyrim to clear inventory?
Belethor in Whiterun is a convenient early-game option. Once your speech skill is high enough (70 with the perk), any merchant becomes useful.
12. Is there a free house in Skyrim for safe storage?
Not exactly “free,” but marrying Ysolda after completing her quest allows you to live in her house, providing limited free storage. Completing Faendal’s quest also allows free storage in his house.
13. Do barrels respawn in Skyrim if I leave items in them?
Unowned barrels in unsafe locations will respawn and remove your items. Barrels in safe locations will not respawn.
14. What containers don’t reset in Skyrim?
Containers in player-owned homes, the Abandoned House in Markarth, and specific “safe” locations like the Alchemist’s Shack.
15. Are barrels I build with Hearthfire safe for storage?
Yes, barrels you construct using the Hearthfire DLC within your homestead are safe for storage.
Conclusion
While barrels might seem like a convenient storage solution in Skyrim, they are often a risky proposition. Prioritize investing in player homes or identifying specific “safe” locations. Understanding the game’s respawn mechanics and container ownership is crucial to safeguarding your hard-earned loot. Remember, a little planning and caution can save you a lot of frustration in the long run. You might even learn something about Games Learning Society in the process! Also check out GamesLearningSociety.org!