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Do you love hiking, backpacking, and other outdoor activities where you stay outside for a couple of days? If yes, you came to the right place, we are going to have a look at the best 10 bear canisters for Hiking and Hikers, fully updated for 2022. If you plan to go backpacking or camping in northern America, you definitely might need to care about bears, at least if you plan to go to the western United States or Canada. Chances are you won’t even see a bear, so don’t panic, but a grizzly bear or black bear can be a dangerous animal if you encounter it. A bear canister is obligatory to store food, to minimize the chance of a bear encounter. Bears are popular for having one of the strongest senses of smell on the globe. It is said that grizzly bears can track animal carcasses even from 20 miles away. Therefore, you must be responsible enough to protect your food from these hungry bears. The best thing to do is to get the best bear canister for your adventure. Meanwhile, there are several brands available in the market, and you’re not sure which one is the right for you. Worry no more because we are here to help you find the right bear canister for you. The following is a comprehensive list of the best 10 bear canisters in 2020 for hikers that you can select from for your individual needs, we reviewed them and give you detailed pros and cons of each model. Some of them have been upgraded for 2020. Some are still what they always used to be: A big plastic jug for your belongings.
Why should I bring a bear canister?
No, I am not saying that bears are the biggest threat when you go hiking. In fact, you are way more likely to suffer from hypothermia or a sprained ankle or just get lost when you go hike. But a bear threat is something that also keeps you tense psychologically, so it’s a smart idea to prepare. Besides: You can use bear canisters perfectly for storing food away from other animals who might like your leftovers – like raccoons, mice, etc.
The bear canister is a thick container that is used for the protection of your scented items and food from bears and other animals during your outdoor trip. It is also called a bear barrel or bear bin. The bear has the strongest smell sense on the planet. So, it can smell your food even you are miles away from them.
If you don’t want the bear to eat your packed food on your outdoor adventure, the bear canister is the perfect solution. Even more important, the bear canister is also beneficial for the bear’s safety. If the bear eats human food, they can grow dependent.
With the bear canister, you can store your food, toiletries, trash, dishes, and other items during your outdoor getaway. The canister can prevent the bear from eating your food. You don’t have to worry because the container can airtight seal avoiding the strong smell which can attract the bear.
Review of 10 Of The Best Bear Canisters in 2020
We put 10 of the hottest bear canisters on the market through our review procedure, so you can decide which one you want to buy.
Backpackers Cache Bear Resistant Container
The Backpackers Cache Bear Resistant Container is among the top bear canisters you can avail in the market. It features an opaque exterior that can avoid the bear and other animals to see the contents of the canister. It is an effective and huge bear canister for intelligent camping. You don’t have to fear because it meets the National Park Service’ regulation requirements. It makes a good seat too. Meanwhile, it can be a little bit heavy for some hikers. It weighs about 2 Ibs. 12 oz. If you are camping in areas where smart bears are present, it can be a good option. You can buy a carrying case separately to attach the canister on the exterior of your pack. The money and time you invest in this product can give you a satisfying return.
Pros
• It features an opaque exterior that avoids animals to view the contents of the canister
• This bear canister makes a good seat, too. If you want a functional bear canister, it is the best choice
• It adheres to the National Park Service’ regulation requirements, so you can expect the best quality you need
• This comes with a strong build so that you can expect greater efficiency from this bear canister
• Smooth exterior that makes it almost impossible to open by bears, this can make your food and valuable items secured and safe for your peace of mind
Cons
• The bear canister can be a little bit heavy for some hikers.
• It can be a pain to fit in your pack because of its size and dimensions
• Some complain that it is not waterproof, so you must be careful and don’t place it near the water
Bear Vault BV500 Bear Resistant Food Canister
The Bear Vault BV500 Bear Resistant Food Canister can be your great companion for fishing, hiking, hunting, backpacking, canoe, and kayak trips. It can be purchase in different sizes, so you can get the best for your needs. It comes with a huge capacity that is perfect for an extended trip. So, you can store your food and other items in the best possible way.
It is very easy to handle because of its exterior ridges. It has a lightweight design, which makes it a top choice for adventurers. It only weighs about 2 Ibs, 9 oz. However, it has a transparent exterior that enables other hikers and bears to see its content. It is designed from transparent, robust polycarbonate material. If you want to unload, load, and locate items faster, this is the best bear canister for you.
Pros
• This bear canister is ideal for hunting, backpacking, fishing, and other outdoor adventure
• It has a lightweight design, so you can carry it with more convenience
• It is easy to handle because of its exterior ridges, so you can have hassle-free experience upon its usage
• Big capacity for extended outdoor activity, it can store enough food for your outdoor adventure
• Different sizes you can choose from for more customized experience
• It was designed from sturdy, transparent polycarbonate material
• Perfect for locating, unloading and loading items faster, so you can have a hassle-free experience in using it
• It is approved to be used in State and National Parks, so you have nothing to doubt with its efficiency
• Available with built-in straps, so you don’t need for additional carry case, you can easily handle it during your hiking or camping trip
Cons
• It is quite challenging to open during cold weather, so you can make sure that your food is secured from bears and other wild animals
• One drawback of this product is its transparent exterior that allows others and bears to see the content inside -this applies to most transparent containers
Lighter1 Lil’ Sami Bear Canister
If you want a unique bear canister, the Lighter1 Lil’ Sami Bear Canister is for you. The canister cap can be used for cooking like a pan. Meanwhile, you must remember that this frying pan can heat up faster and doesn’t have a non-stick coating. This canister is designed from strong polycarbonate. It comes with lightness and high strength.
Lighter1 bear canister comes with great durability and can be used as a seat. It can accommodate a person about 200 pounds safely. You can lock using a special stop valve. If you want a canister with a huge capacity, this can be a good choice. It has a capacity that is enough for 4 days. If you need family use, this product can be the perfect one. It can store your food safely during your hiking and other adventures.
Pros
• The canister cap serves as a cooking pan, making it perfect for those who love cooking while on a trip
• It is lightweight and durable for more convenient use
• You can use it as a chair when you need to rest during your hiking
• Its capacity can be enough for about 4 days, so you don’t have to worry when it comes to your food and other items storage needs
Cons
• It is a little bit pricey. If you are conscious to budget, this may not be the perfect bear canister for you
• The canister cap is very light, so the handle can tip the pot
Counter Assault Bear Keg
The Counter Assault Bear Keg is made from sturdy polymer plastic in garish yellow. You must not doubt in this bear canister since it is approved to use in US National Parks. It comes with a big capacity that can contain about 4 days of food. With its opaque plastic, you can prevent other hikers apotekbutiken and animals from seeing your food. It has 700 cubic inches capacity. However, it doesn’t come with a free carrying case, so you can buy it separately.
Pros
• It features opaque plastic that avoids others and animals to view your food
• Big capacity which can contain food for 4 days, so you can make the best of your outdoor getaway without being worried about your food
• It is approved to use in most US National Parks, so you can expect great quality from this product
• This bear canister is made from tough polymer plastic in garish yellow. It can be your powerful tool to keep your food and toiletries safe against bear and other wild animals during your camp or hiking
• It is robust and durable that can secure your food from a bear and other animals
Cons
• It doesn’t have a free carrying case, so you need to buy it separately
• The canister weighs 3.5 Ibs which is a little bit heavy. It can be a pain if you have extended trips
• It has a lid that is a bit fiddly
UDAP No-Fed Bear Canister
The UDAP No-Fed Bear Canister is among the best bear canisters you can buy in the market. It comes with great quality that can satisfy your camping and hiking needs. If you’re a camper and outdoor enthusiast, this bear canister can be your great companion.
The bear canister is safely tested, even for extreme environments. It is a durable and reliable food container for your outdoor activities. It is made from durable plastic. The bear can leave scratches on the canister, but they can’t open it. With its rugged body, you can use it as a camp seat. It weighs 2 Ibs 4 oz, which comes with great strength and reliability.
It was approved by the Yosemite National Park. In addition, it also meets the standards of federal and CA state camping. You can lock the canister using 2 screws. You need a knife or coin to close and open the canister. However, the bear can’t open the canister, but they can push it into water. This can make the content wet. Therefore, you must not place it near water. With its features and functions, you can have the assurance that it is a good value for your money and time.
Pros
• It has a high level of reliability and strength to withstand even tough conditions
• The canister meets the requirements for federal and CA state camping, so it has a reliable quality you can trust
• The item has a volume of 500 cubic inches which can contain food that is enough for 4 days
• It can be locked with 2 screws, so your food is secured from bear and other animals
• The bear canister is ideal for motorcycle adventure trips
• The product works well even on tough environments
Cons
• It can be a bit heavy for some outdoor enthusiasts, so you must find a great alternative
• Some complain that it doesn’t work well on temperature below 50 degrees
Lighter1 Big Daddy Bear Canister
The Lighter1 Big Daddy Bear Canister can be your efficient tool for your outdoor activities. It is beneficial if you want to store more food for your adventure. It weighs 2 Ibs 4 oz. It has a maximum volume capacity of 650 cubic inches. It can be enough for 7 days. However, it can be a little bit heavy. One drawback of this bear canister is that it has a transparent exterior, so other campers and animals can see the foods and items inside the canister.
Pros
• Excellent quality and reliability for your outdoor activities
• It has a huge capacity of 650 cubic inches, so you can take your foods with you which can be enough for 7 days
Cons
• The bear canister is quite heavier for some hikers and outdoor enthusiasts
Bear Vault BV450 Canister
The Bear Vault BV450 Canister can be your best equipment for camping, backpacking, hiking, and other outdoor adventures. It weighs 2.1 Ibs and has 440 cubic inches volume. This can be perfect for short backpacking trips that can last from 2 to 4 days.
You don’t have to doubt because the Bear Vault BV450 Canister is approved as a certified bear-resistant by IGBC (Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee). It is lightweight so you can easily take it with you in your outdoor activities. It is easy to use and comes with great durability. However, it has a transparent exterior that allows other hikers and other animals to view the inside content.
Pros
• Durable and simple to use
• You can also use it as a seat
• It comes with a tool-free lid
• The canister is a black bear, and grizzly tested
• The product is also approved by Sierra Interagency Black Bear Group and Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee
• It is also approved by National Parks and National Forests
• The bear canister is also available with a lifetime warranty
Cons
• One negative thing we can say about this bear canister is that it has a transparent exterior that enables other hikers and animals to see the inside of the canister
Ursack Major
Ursack Major can be your essential tool for your food protection when backpacking. It comes with 10.65 L capacity, which can hold your food that is enough for 5 days. It is lightweight and weighs only 7.8 oz. This product is ultralight and spacious. Ursack Major is designed from woven Spectra fibers that are used for bulletproof fabric. It is made from a tough material.
The Ursack Major is durable and bear-resistant. It is certified by IGBC, so you can use it in your different outdoor activities. Unlike other products in the market, it can compress and can be fit inside your pack while you’re eating your food. It can be easily packed for more convenience in your outdoor adventure.
The downside of this bear-resistant container is that bears can crush the food on the inside. Furthermore, it is also not allowed in some areas, so you must first check the regulation of your destination before purchasing the product.
Pros
• Lightweight and spacious which is ideal for camping, hiking, and other outdoor activities
• Big capacity which can hold food that is enough for 5 days trip
• IGBC certified and bear-resistant
• Can be easily compressed and fit inside your pack while you’re eating
• It is made from a bulletproof UHMWP fabric material that avoids bears from getting your food
• It was flexible equipment for a hassle-free outdoor experience
• Water and torn-resistant and provides critter protection
• It comes with aluminum liner for more comfortable use
Cons
• Some complain that water gets in with this bear-resistant container
Frontiersman Insider
The Frontiersman Insider weighs 48 ounces (3 pounds). It is available in tapered shape for equal weight distribution and easy storage. If you are a budget-conscious outdoor enthusiast, this bear canister, this can be a good investment for you. It has an airtight lid that can be easily closed and open using a screwdriver or coin. It can hold about 11 liters of toiletries and food.
If you want a quality bear canister, the Frontiersman Insider bear canister will not fail you. It can preserve the freshness of your food and avoid foul odors. It is an airtight seal, so it can avoid attracting bears. It is a no-break and malleable polypropylene container that comes with a tight lid using 3 solid screws. You don’t have to doubt because it is field certified and tested. It passed the testing of the Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee’s bear-resistant products testing program.
Pros
• It can preserve the freshness of your food and avoid odors which can prevent attracting bears
• It has no-break, malleable polypropylene container which has a lid that can tightly secure with 3 solid screws
• The bear canister is field certified and tested
• The product passed the requirements of the Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee for bear-resistant products testing program
• It can withstand up to 60 minutes of bear’s attempt to open and break the canister
• This product is lightweight, slim and easy to carry with you everywhere you go
• It has a huge capacity which is perfect for family use
• The product is designed for comfortable and easy use
Cons
• Some find its lid hard to secure and remove
• One drawback of the bear canister is that it is not waterproof
Garcia Bear-Resistant Container
The Garcia Bear-Resistant Container weighs 33 ounces. If you want a functional bear canister, this product can be your top option. It is lightweight, durable and odor, and water-resistant. It can be your reliable canister for your hiking, camping, and other outdoor activity needs.
It can hold up to 10 liters of toiletries and food. It has a food-grade plastic bag wrapping for an additional layer of protection. The Garcia Bear -Resistant Container is designed from sturdy ABS polymer that comes with rounded edges and smooth sides, so the bears can’t grip on it. It features stainless-steel locks that are easy for humans to open using a screwdriver or coin. On the other hand, it is difficult for bears to open the canister. It was made in the USA and offered you great quality for your storage needs. However, it can also be a bit heavier for some backpackers and hikers.
Pros
• It comes with a huge capacity of 10 liters that can secure your food and toiletries during your trip
• The bear canister also comes with food-grade plastic bag wrapping for an additional layer of protection
• It has a smooth side and rounded-edged which make it difficult for bears to grip on
• It was made in the USA and can offer you a high level of quality for your storage needs
• The product comes with stainless-steel locks that you can easily open, but difficult for the bear
• This item is very durable and lightweight for your convenience
Cons
• The downside of the Garcia Bear-Resistant Container is that it is a little bit heavy for some hikers and outdoor enthusiasts
Here we go, now that you have learned about the best 10 bear canisters in 2020 for hikers, you can pick the best one that suits your individual needs. With each bear canister’s features, advantages and disadvantages, you can make a wise decision on which one works well for your hiking, camping, and other outdoor activity needs.
Meanwhile, let us talk about why bear canister is important for your hiking and outdoor trips.
Quick Buying Guide for Bear Canister for Hikers
There are different bear canister brands available in the market, so you must be careful in choosing the best one for your specific needs. Worry no more because, in this section, we will provide you the list of factors you must consider in buying your bear canister.
Opening procedure
Before you buy your bear canister, you must know how to open it. Make sure that you can easily open it, but difficult for bear and wild animals to open. There are bear canisters that can be open using additional key or coin or screws.
Weight
Another important factor to consider is the weight of the bear canister. Make sure you can’t find it heavier as you go on your hiking or camping habit. It is advisable to purchase a bear canister that is not more than 3 Ibs. It can be heavy and bulky, which can provide you with pain and inconvenience. You must choose the weight that you can manage to avoid regrets in the end.
Approval
You must take note that not all bear canisters available in the market are sturdy enough to resist the bear’s break-in. Therefore, you must check its approval. Does it pass the National Park Service list? Can it make your food safe and fresh? You can check the IGBC’s certified list. With that, you have the assurance that the time, effort, and hard-earned money you invest for the bear canister are all worth it.
Mouth opening
It is necessary to choose a wide and big mouth to avoid the black hole effect. You can also opt for a transparent bear canister, so you can easily view the food on the container. However, it can allow other hikers, bears, and other animals to see what is inside of it.
Volume
You must check the volume capacity of the bear canister before you buy it. You can decide based on your trip’s number of days. For example, you can get 600 cubic inches bear canister for 6 days hiking trip. If you need family use, you must choose a bigger capacity to bear canisters.
Quality
You must choose a quality bear canister, so it can bring you the highest level of satisfaction you need. More importantly, you can make sure that you’re not wasting your budget and time for an ineffective bear canister. If you want to secure your food and other items from bear and other animals during your outdoor trip, get a bear canister with superior quality. You can check the materials used in the bear canister and if it comes with great durability.
Price
Different bear canisters come in different pricing. So, you must pick the bear canister that perfectly matches your budget. If you are a budget-conscious outdoor enthusiast, there are many affordable but quality bear canisters you can choose from for your needs.
Conclusion
By simply considering these essential factors, you can buy the best bear canister that will offer you with convenient storage for your outdoor activities. It is quite disappointing if a bear has eaten your food and you get hungry. Don’t let this problem happen. What are you waiting for? Choose the best bear canister today!
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