If I'm leaving something unused for a while and don't mind spending some money I've had good success spaying the Barricade product from Birchwood Casey. The firearm spray works nicely and it don't stink like the lube oils. I would use Barricade a lot more if I had money to burn, it does work nicely though. Its about the same price as good dry style motorcycle chain lube too. For about $10, you can get a large spray can of Original Bike Spirits chain lube. It dries and is not overly sticky, makes a thin protective film. I have motorcycles, so I tried it on other stuff and yep, works good as a protectant on most things.
If it can be a little messy, I brush on Tractor Supply Bar and Chain oil. Its fairly thin with some sticking ability and around $10 a gallon. Lowes sales their version of WD40 in the blaster line, its cheaper although not that great to smell. I like WD40 better, but the Blaster brand can be had for less at Lowes. Harbor Freight usually has the gallon jugs of WD40 or Liquid Wrench for $20 or so. TSC Chain and Bar oil is half the price though. So many options, I mix it and use whats on sale.