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BearVault
The industry standard for a reason. IGBC certified, clear sides for finding items, and a lid that opens without tools—BearVault nailed the balance.
7.2L (700 cu in)
2 lbs 9 oz
7 days food
IGBC approved
| Product | Rating | Price | Action |
|---|---|---|---|
| BV500 Bear Resistant Container Best BearVault | 4.7 | $80 | View |
 Bear Keg Food Container Value Counter Assault | 4.5 | $70 | View |
 Major XL Bear Bag Ursack | 4.4 | $130 | View |
 Expedition Carbon Fiber Canister Bearikade | 4.8 | $330 | View |
 Backpacker Cache Bear Canister Garcia | 4.3 | $65 | View |
* Prices may vary. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
BearVault
The industry standard for a reason. IGBC certified, clear sides for finding items, and a lid that opens without tools—BearVault nailed the balance.
7.2L (700 cu in)
2 lbs 9 oz
7 days food
IGBC approved
Counter Assault
Proven bear protection at a lower price. The coin-operated lid frustrates bears (and some humans), but that's the point.
716 cu in
2 lbs 12 oz
IGBC approved
Coin/screwdriver
Ursack
Bear-resistant without the bulk. Spectra fiber stops teeth and claws—your food stays safe at a fraction of canister weight. Check if allowed in your area.
15L
8.8 oz
Spectra fiber
IGBC approved
Bearikade
The ultralight choice for thru-hikers who count ounces. Carbon fiber construction at half the weight of plastic canisters—if you can stomach the price.
900 cu in
2 lbs 1 oz
Carbon fiber
IGBC approved
Garcia
The budget bear canister that's protected Sierra food for decades. Heavy but proven—sometimes classic designs endure for good reason.
614 cu in
2 lbs 12 oz
IGBC approved
Finger operated
At least 100 feet from your tent, 100 feet from cooking area, and ideally downwind. Don't hang it—bears can defeat hung canisters. Set it on the ground where you can hear if a bear investigates.
Check local regulations. Many campgrounds have bear boxes. Without them, yes—car storage isn't bear-proof (bears break into cars regularly).
Yes! Many outdoor stores and ranger stations rent canisters for $3-5/day. Great option for occasional trips or trying before buying.
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