I'd like to find a place to store stuff while I'm out adventuring, without spending 5000 on a house (at least, until I can afford that…). Where can I safely store items without worrying about them disappearing?
There are two possible places that come to mind, Gerdur's house (to which I have the key and was told I could stay), and the small bedroom given to me at the College of Winterhold (which I was told was mine, despite seeing J'zaro sitting in it later). Can I store items safely in either of these places?
Best Answer
Places you can safely store your items include any houses you buy, your companion(s), and your horse.
Places considered to be owned by you (and therefore contain safe containers) are (spoiler warning):
I have personally stored items in my apprentice quarters in the College of Winterhold without problems, however others have had stuff go missing from there, so be careful.
Other containers may not be safe. Given what some other answers have said, Gerder's house does not seem like a safe place for long-term storage.