In the field of structural health monitoring the measuring of strain is prevalent beside temperature and displacement. The strain is used to determine the utilization rate and to estimate the fatigue strength of a structure. A very common measurement method for strains at and in components is the usage of strain gauges. Further, a climate cycle for analysis of long term stability of strain gauges is introduced, that simulates an accelerated temperature and humidity stress. This cycle consists of four phases, which lasts 240 h and covers different combinations of temperature and humidity conditions up to freezing and thawing. The results of a 85 d lasting long term test are presented and used to describe characteristic values for long term stability of strain gauges. The measurement results show significant differences for the strain gauge types in the zero point drift and underline the role of correct choice and protection to achieve reliable strain measurements.