3 Best Bear Proof Containers for Camping

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Hey there campers and welcome to my post where we will check out my 3 best bear proof containers for camping to keep your stuff safe this year.  When we are out enjoying what mother nature has to offer, it goes with the territory that the great outdoors is filled with animals ready to devour our stash, bears included.

But the good news here is we can store whatever food ration we have safely and secured inside bear-proof containers. So to help you out here I have had a good look around and come up with three good options below. 

Let’s have a look…

My three recommended bear-proof containers for camping

I will review these in more detail below, however if you just want to get moving without all the carry-on, my recommended products are listed here for your convenience: 

 Bear Proof Container For CampingPriceGet it
bear proof containers - Udap NO-FED-Bear Bear Resistant CanisterUdap NO-FED-Bear Bear Resistant Canister$CURRENT PRICE
bear proof containers - Backpacker's Cache - Bear Proof ContainerBackpacker’s Cache – Bear Proof Container$$CURRENT PRICE
bear proof containers - BearVault Bear Canister for BackpackingBear Vault Bear Canister for Backpacking$$$CURRENT PRICE

What are bear proof containers?

Bear-proof containers (or more popularly called bear canisters), are hard shell containers or boxes that keep your camping foods safe from starving bears. By using these specialized containers, you are preventing bears or any other rodents from accessing your stuff and significantly reducing any kind of interaction that would lead to accidents.

bear proof containers - full containers

What should you be looking for?

The following factors should be considered when looking for a good bear proof containers for camping.

  1. Weight
  2. Capacity
  3. Durability
  4. Legality
  5. Additions

Weight

Bear-proof canisters need not be heavy that they would slow your movement, especially if you are backpacking. It is also not guaranteed that heavier products are sturdier than their lighter counterparts. So, the rule of thumb to observe here is as with all camping gear, keep it as light as possible. 

Capacity

This quality answers the question, “How much food can the canister hold?” 

If you are a weekend camper who only spends a few days in the backcountry, a smaller bear canister will do the trick. On the other hand, if you enjoy going on a long-distance backpacking trip, or want to stay for a while, canisters that can contain several days’ worth of food is a natural choice.

Durability

Bear-proof containers should be able to withstand the curiosity of bears in scavenging for food – afterall, that really is their main purpose. Most bear-resistant canisters are cylindrical hard-shell containers that are typically made of rugged, smooth plastic and constructed so that a bear cannot latch onto them or pull the clips off.

bear proof containers - bear at tent

Legality

Since bears become aggressive when in contact with human foods, certain parks and camping grounds only allow certain types of bear-proof container. The reason behind this is to minimize bears’ accessibility to human foods effectively. so before purchasing bear-resistant containers, always double-check what kind of canisters the are allowable in your camping areas.

Additions

Other potential additions include

  1. Multipurpose lid: Some products have aluminum lids or other sturdy metals and can be used as pans to cook your foods.
  2. Mouth opening: Ensure that the mouth of the canister is wide enough that you can insert your food items with convenience.
  3. Opening mechanism: Bear-resistant canisters may be opened by simply twisting the lid, while others are constructed using a twist and lock design. Choose which one appeals to your preference.

My three recommendations broken down

So based on the information above and my own experience, I recommend the following options:

1. Udap NO-FED-Bear Bear Resistant Canister

This first bear-proof container is approved on many camping grounds with many backpackers choosing this item due to its intermediate size and ease of carrying on the trails.  See its specifications below:

  • Brand: Udap
  • Capacity: Up to 4 days of food for one person
  • Dimensions: ‎10.4 x 8.5 x 8.5 inches
  • Weight: ‎2.4 Pounds

Other inclusions:

  • Twist and lock lid

Why have I chosen it?

The bear canister is made of a long-lasting bear-proof polymer blend. It also takes little space inside your pack or you can just attach it to your camping backpack. This product can hold up to four days’ worth of food, so this is a good choice for your weekend outdoor adventure with food safety guaranteed as you must open it with a coin or a screwdriver.


2. Backpacker’s Cache – Bear Proof Container

This next bear-resistant food cache has an excellent design to prevent bears from enjoying your camping goods.  It also meets the regulations of many wildlife parks.  See its specifications below:

  • Brand: Backpacker’s Cache
  • Capacity: Up to 5 days of food for one person
  • Dimensions: 12 x 12 x 12 inches
  • Weight: 3 Pounds

Other inclusions:

  • Twist and lock lid
  • Adherence to National Park Service regulation

Why have I chosen it?

This canister comes with an opaque exterior to prevent animals from viewing its contents. The product’s manufacturers give it rounded edges as well as smooth sides designed to keep bears from grasping the canister and dragging it away. This bear canister also serves as a camping chair as well.


3. Bear Vault Bear Canister for Backpacking

This final product is a reliable bear-proof container that comes with a generous capacity that is perfect for an extended trip. The lid is simple to operate yet string enough to resist a hungry bear. See its specifications below:

  • Brand: BearVault
  • Capacity: Up to 7 days of food for one person
  • Dimensions: 8.7 x 8.7 x 8.3 inches
  • Weight: 2.1 Pounds

Other inclusions:

  • Simple twist open-lock mechanism
  • Adherence to national parks and national forests regulations

Why have I chosen this?

The final product is arguably one of the best bear kegs because it is lightweight whilst still being extremely durable. This bear canister has been tested and proven to withstand up to 48 hours in a cage with two hungry bears. Furthermore, it’s simple to open and close when you need to store or take food out.

Conclusion

There you have it, my three best bear-proof containers to deal with any wildlife food poachers. I would be pleased to know how this article helped you, and as usual,  let me know of your experiences with them.

Also, please do not hesitate to comment below if you have any questions, concerns, corrections, or would like me to check anything else out for you.

Until next time.

Have fun

Paul

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Hi, I'm Paul

I am a passionate fishing, camping and four wheeled driving hobbyist who researches, tests and educates around issues and equipment relevant to them.

I am by no means a professional however my passion is to assist you in making informed decisions about buying and using awesome gear that will give you the best chance of success at whatever you are doing for the best price.

Please get in touch if you have any questions.

Paul