Best Bear Canister For Backpacking (2024 Updated)

When you shop through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. This educational content is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice.

If you're planning a backpacking trip in bear country, a bear canister is a must-have piece of gear. These containers are designed to keep your food and scented items safe from bears and other wildlife, and can save you from potentially dangerous encounters. However, not all bear canisters are created equal, and choosing the best one for your needs can be a daunting task. Here are five key points to consider when looking for the best bear canister for backpacking:

1. Capacity: The size of the canister you need will depend on the length of your trip and the number of people in your group. Make sure to choose a canister with enough space to hold all of your food and scented items.

2. Weight: Bear canisters can be heavy, so look for one that is lightweight and easy to carry. Remember that you'll be carrying this container for the duration of your trip, so every ounce counts.

3. Durability: A bear canister should be tough enough to withstand the claws and teeth of a curious bear. Look for one made of sturdy materials that can stand up to the elements.

4. Accessibility: Some bear canisters are easier to open and close than others. Consider how easy it will be to access your food and other items when you need them.

5. Regulations: Make sure to check the regulations in the area where you'll be backpacking. Some parks and wilderness areas have specific requirements for bear canisters, so be sure to choose one that meets those requirements.

By considering these key points, you'll be able to choose the best bear canister for your backpacking trip, and rest easy knowing that your food and scented items are safe from curious bears.

10 Best Bear Canister For Backpacking

1. Bearvault Bear Canister: 4 Sizes, Bear Resistant Food Container – Safe For Backpacking.

The BearVault Bear Canister is a must-have for backpackers who plan on traveling through bear country. This bear resistant food container comes in four different sizes, including the BV500, BV475, BV450, and BV425.

The medium-sized BV450 Jaunt is the ideal bear canister for a weekend trip for two or a solo trip for a few days. It's compact for smaller packs, yet roomy inside, and stores 3-4 days of camping food.

One of the standout features of the BearVault Bear Canister is the wide opening and transparent design, which makes it easy to find exactly what you need. No more digging through your pack trying to find your oatmeal, trail mix, or dinner.

The BearVault is also incredibly easy to use, lightweight, and durable. Its tool-free lid means there's no fiddling or losing small parts. It's rugged and impact resistant, yet the lightest weight for its volume. Plus, it doubles as a camp stool, making it a versatile addition to your gear.

But the most important feature of the BearVault is its bear-resistant design. It has been Grizzly (IGBC) and Black Bear (SIBBG) tested and approved as bear-resistant food storage. In fact, a BearVault bear can survived 48 hours locked in a cage with two hungry black bears!

The BearVault is also NPS and agency approved, meaning it has been approved by all National Parks and National Forests with bear-proof food storage requirements, including Yosemite, Sequoia King's Canyon, and Olympic National Parks.

Overall, the BearVault Bear Canister is an essential piece of gear for anyone planning on backpacking through bear country. Its bear-resistant design, easy-to-use features, and NPS and agency approval make it a reliable and trustworthy choice for campers and backpackers alike.

2. Lightweight Bear-Resistant Food Canister For Shorter Backpacking And Hiking Trips, Approved For Use In Both Grizzly And Black Bear Country By Igbc And Sibbg.

The Bare Boxer Lightweight Bear Resistant Food Canister is an ideal solution for backpackers and hikers who are looking for a compact and lightweight food storage container that is approved by the Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee (IGBC) and the Sierra Interagency Black Bear Group (SIBBG) for use in grizzly and black bear country.

Weighing only 1.6 pounds, the Bare Boxer is the lightest approved bear canister in the woods for its volume, making it easy to slip into your backpack for use in national parks and forests with canister regulations. With a diameter of 7.4 inches, a length of 8 inches, and a volume of 275 cubic inches, the Bare Boxer can store approximately a three-day supply of meals, depending on personal preferences.

The Bare Boxer incorporates a positive locking mechanism made of food-grade stainless steel that has been shown to be the strongest available on any approved bear-resistant food container. The three-latch snap-lock lid can be opened with almost any key, knife, or multi-tool, making it easy for you to open but impossible for the bear.

The Bare Boxer has been tested and approved for use in grizzly (IGBC) and black bear (SIBBG) country, which means that you can rest assured that your food will be safe from bears while you are out on your hiking or backpacking trip.

In addition to its lightweight and compact design, the Bare Boxer also comes with free shipping to the contiguous U.S., making it an even more attractive option for those who are looking for a reliable and affordable bear-resistant food canister.

Overall, the Bare Boxer Lightweight Bear Resistant Food Canister is an excellent choice for anyone who is planning a shorter hiking or backpacking trip and wants to ensure that their food is safe from bears while they are out in the wilderness. With its lightweight design, strong locking mechanism, and IGBC and SIBBG approval, the Bare Boxer is a must-have for any outdoor enthusiast who wants to enjoy their trip without worrying about their food being taken by bears.

3. Counter Assault Bear Keg Yellow Direct Case

The Counter Assault Bear Keg Yellow Direct Case is a must-have for outdoor enthusiasts who want to protect their food and the bears that roam the wilderness. This product is mandatory in many National Parks, and for good reason. It provides 716 cubic inches of storage for your food, and it is approved by both the Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee (IGBC) and the Sierra Interagency Black Bear Group (SIBBG).

The Counter Assault Bear Keg Yellow Direct Case is both durable and easy to carry. It is made of high-impact-resistant polymer that can withstand the toughest conditions. Additionally, it comes with a carrying handle that makes it easy to transport. Whether you are hiking, camping, or backpacking, the Counter Assault Bear Keg Yellow Direct Case is the ideal solution for keeping your food safe and secure.

One of the main benefits of the Counter Assault Bear Keg Yellow Direct Case is that it protects your food from bears. These animals have an incredible sense of smell and can detect the scent of food from miles away. This can lead them to your campsite, putting you and the bears in danger. By storing your food in the Counter Assault Bear Keg Yellow Direct Case, you are keeping it out of reach of hungry bears, reducing the risk of a dangerous encounter.

Not only does the Counter Assault Bear Keg Yellow Direct Case protect your food, but it also protects the bears. When bears become accustomed to human food, they can become aggressive and pose a threat to both humans and other bears. By using the Counter Assault Bear Keg Yellow Direct Case, you are helping to prevent this from happening. You are also doing your part to ensure that bears can continue to thrive in their natural habitat.

In summary, the Counter Assault Bear Keg Yellow Direct Case is the perfect solution for outdoor enthusiasts who want to keep their food safe and protect the bears that live in the wilderness. It is durable, easy to carry, and can hold up to 716 cubic inches of food. It is also approved by both the IGBC and the SIBBG, making it a trusted choice for those who want to stay safe while enjoying the great outdoors.

4. Ursack Major Xl Bear Backpack – Bear Bag For Backpacking – Camping Pack

The Ursack Major XL Bear Backpack is a top-of-the-line bear bag designed for backpacking and camping. This product has passed the Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee (IGBC) test, which means it has been deemed to be bear-resistant and has been placed on the committee's list of approved products. The Ursack Major XL Bear Backpack has a capacity of approximately 15 liters, which is enough to hold about 7+ days of food for one person.

The bag measures about 8 x 18.5 inches when cinched closed and weighs only 8.7 ounces. This makes it a lightweight and compact option for backpackers and campers who want to keep their food safe from bears and other wildlife. The bag also comes with an integrated 6 ft., 2,500 lb. tensile-strength cord, which can be used to secure the bag to a tree or other object.

While the IGBC list is relied on by many wilderness agencies, it's important to note that wilderness restrictions may still apply depending on where you travel. As such, it's always a good idea to check with local authorities before using the Ursack Major XL Bear Backpack or any other bear-resistant product.

Overall, the Ursack Major XL Bear Backpack is an excellent choice for anyone who wants to ensure their food stays safe while camping or backpacking in bear country. Its lightweight and compact design make it easy to pack, and its bear-resistant construction provides peace of mind when sleeping in the wilderness.

5. Sabre Frontiersman Bear Safe: 11.86l Food Storage, Locking Lid, Odor Prevention, High Visibility Orange.

The SABRE Frontiersman Bear Safe Food Storage Container is a must-have for anyone planning a multi-day hike in bear country. With a storage capacity of 11.86 liters (734.64 cubic inches), it provides ample space to store enough food for several days. Its smart tapered design helps to make the most of bag space, comfortably packing inside 45 liter or larger bags along with other trail gear.

The locking lid mechanism of the bear safe container helps to keep bears out but is easy for you to open. The water and airtight gasket locks in food freshness and prevents food odors, as to not attract bears. This ensures that your food stays safe and secure, no matter how long you are out in the wilderness.

In addition to its secure food storage capabilities, the SABRE Frontiersman Bear Safe Food Storage Container is also ergonomically designed for comfortable use. It prevents awkward load distribution while in your bag and minimizes banging against your body while in your pack, making long hikes and extended pack wear more comfortable.

One of the most unique features of this bear safe container is its high-pressure release valve. This helps prevent breaking by releasing pressure, allowing the container to flex when a bear attempts to break it open. This added layer of protection ensures that your food stays safe and secure, even in the face of a determined bear.

The high-visibility orange color of the SABRE Frontiersman Bear Safe Food Storage Container also makes it easy to spot in your bag or when placed outside your campsite. This is particularly useful in the event that a bear does attempt to take your food, as it can help you spot the container and take the necessary precautions to prevent further incidents.

Overall, the SABRE Frontiersman Bear Safe Food Storage Container is an essential piece of gear for anyone planning to spend time in bear country. Its high storage capacity, secure food storage capabilities, ergonomic design, and high-visibility orange color make it an ideal choice for longer hikes and family camping trips.

6. Udap Brc No-Fed-Bear, Multi,small

UDAP Industries, Inc. is a company that specializes in producing high-quality outdoor products such as pepper spray and bear-proof food canisters. The company's NO-FED-BEAR canister is an essential tool for anyone who enjoys camping, hiking, or backpacking in bear country.

The NO-FED-BEAR canister is designed to keep your food safe from bears and other wildlife. Its sturdy construction and locking mechanism make it virtually impossible for bears to access your food. This means that you can rest easy knowing that your food is secure and that bears won't be attracted to your campsite.

UDAP Industries, Inc. is known for producing the world's hottest self-defense pepper spray. Their pepper spray products are widely used by law enforcement agencies, military personnel, and individuals who want to protect themselves from potential threats.

The company's pepper spray products are made using high-quality ingredients and are rigorously tested to ensure their effectiveness. They come in a variety of sizes and strengths, making them suitable for different situations and levels of threat.

UDAP Industries, Inc. is committed to providing its customers with the highest quality outdoor products. Their products are designed to be durable, reliable, and effective in a variety of outdoor situations. Whether you're hiking in bear country or looking for a way to protect yourself from potential threats, UDAP Industries, Inc. has a product that can help.

7. Ultralight Rodent-Proof Dry Bag For Backpacking With Odor And Waterproof Bag, Survival Rope, And Carabiner.

The RATSACK Bundle is an essential camping accessory for anyone looking to protect their food and other items from rodents and critters. Proudly made in the USA since 2002, these ultralight bags are handcrafted in Flagstaff, Arizona and designed with a stainless steel mesh and hook and loop enclosure, making it nearly impossible for rats, ravens, birds, rodents, squirrels, raccoons, possums, mice, and other critters to chew through.

This complete system is perfect for backpacking, hunting, camping, backcountry trips, fishing, glamping, watersports, and even prepping. The ultralight bag is made of a stainless steel mesh that won't rust or break down, and a forceful hook and loop fastener provides top-notch critter and rodent defense for your backpacking trips.

The RATSACK Bundle is waterproof, odor proof, ultralight, and spacious, making it an easy-to-use must-have for your camping, backpacking, or hunting needs. The bundle includes Coughlan's Odor Proof Storage bags, Coghlan's 50 ft paracord, and a carabiner, all the essentials to successfully defend your items from those pesky critters and rodents in one purchase.

Unlike bear proof bags or bear proof canisters, the RATSACK paired with the Coghlan's Odor proof storage bag will not draw any bear's attention to your food, making it a practical and cost-effective solution for bear defense.

Backed by Amazon’s A to Z 30 day money back guarantee with Prime eligibility, the RATSACK Bundle includes 1 Large Ratsack, 5 Coghlan Odor Proof Storage Bags, 1 Carabiner, and 50 ft Coghlan's 3mm utility cord. Whether you're venturing out into the wild or just camping in your backyard, the RATSACK Bundle is the perfect way to keep your food and other items safe from unwanted critters.

Best Bear Canister For Backpacking FAQs

Are there any bear canisters that are particularly lightweight or easy to pack?

Yes, there are bear canisters that are particularly lightweight and easy to pack. One such example is the BearVault BV450, which weighs just 2 pounds and has a slim design that makes it easy to pack in a backpack. Another option is the Ursack Major, which is a lightweight and flexible option that can be easily stuffed into a backpack. It is made of a durable fabric that is resistant to bear attacks. The Lighter1 Big Daddy Bear Canister is another lightweight option that weighs just 1.6 pounds and has a wide opening that makes it easy to access your food. Ultimately, the best bear canister will depend on your specific needs and preferences, but there are many options available that are both lightweight and easy to pack.

How do I determine the appropriate size of bear canister for my backpacking trip?

The appropriate size of a bear canister for your backpacking trip depends on several factors such as the length of your trip, the number of people in your group, the amount of food you plan to carry, and the type of bear canister you prefer. Generally, a 10-12 liter bear canister is suitable for solo backpackers or weekend trips, while a 14-16 liter canister is ideal for two to three people on a week-long trip. For larger groups or longer trips, a 20-30 liter canister may be required. Be sure to check the regulations of the area you will be backpacking in to ensure that the bear canister you choose meets their requirements. It's also important to consider the weight of the bear canister, as larger sizes may add more weight to your backpack.

What are the best features to look for when choosing a bear canister for backpacking?

When choosing a bear canister for backpacking, there are several important features to consider. Firstly, the size of the canister should be appropriate for the length of your trip and the amount of food you will need to carry. A canister with a capacity of 10-12 liters is generally suitable for trips of up to a week. Secondly, the canister should be made of a sturdy, durable material that can withstand the strength of a bear's claws and teeth. Look for canisters made of materials such as polycarbonate or carbon fiber. The canister should also be easy to open and close, preferably with a tool or mechanism that is difficult for a bear to manipulate. Finally, the canister should be lightweight and easy to pack, so it doesn't add unnecessary weight to your backpack.

What are the regulations and guidelines for using bear canisters when backpacking in different areas?

The regulations and guidelines for using bear canisters when backpacking in different areas vary depending on the location. In some areas, such as national parks and wilderness areas, the use of bear canisters is mandatory. These areas may also have specific requirements for the type of canister and its certification. For example, bear canisters used in Yosemite National Park must be approved by the Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee.

In other areas, such as national forests and state parks, the use of bear canisters may be recommended but not required. In these areas, it is important to research the local regulations and guidelines to determine the best course of action.

Regardless of the specific regulations and guidelines, it is always important to properly store food and other scented items to prevent attracting bears and other wildlife. This includes keeping a clean campsite, storing food and garbage in bear-resistant containers, and properly disposing of waste.

Which brands make the most durable and reliable bear canisters for backpacking?

There are several brands that make durable and reliable bear canisters for backpacking. Some of the top brands include BearVault, Frontiersman, and Ursack. BearVault offers a range of bear-resistant canisters made from polycarbonate materials that can withstand bear attacks. The canisters are also lightweight and easy to carry. Frontiersman produces a range of bear-resistant canisters made from durable materials that can withstand the toughest bear attacks. The canisters are also certified by the Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee. Ursack offers a range of bear-resistant bags made from bulletproof Spectra fabric that can withstand even the most determined bears. The bags are lightweight and easy to pack. When choosing a bear canister, it's important to consider the size, weight, and durability of the canister, as well as any certification it has received from organizations like the Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee.

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate it!

Average rating 0 / 5. Vote count: 0

No votes so far! Be the first to rate this post.

Sharing is caring!

Leave a Comment