How to Properly Store Food in Bear Country

25 December 2024

Planning a trip to bear country? Maybe you’re excited about the idea of hiking through dense forests or setting up camp near pristine lakes. But whether you're a seasoned adventurer or a first-time camper, there’s one thing you absolutely cannot afford to overlook: knowing how to properly store food in bear country.

Why? Because bears have incredible noses. Their sense of smell is about seven times stronger than a bloodhound's and a whopping 2,100 times better than ours. That means even the faintest whiff of your granola bar or leftover hot dog can turn your camping trip into an unexpected encounter with a 500-pound furry visitor. And trust me, no one wants to wake up at midnight to find a bear rummaging through their camp kitchen.

In this guide, I’m going to walk you through everything you need to know about safely storing food in bear territory. I’ll cover the dos and don'ts, break down the best storage methods, and share practical tips to keep both you and the bears safe. Let’s dive in!

Understanding the Bear Basics: Why Food Storage Matters

Before we jump into the how, let’s talk about the why. Bears are incredibly opportunistic. They’re like that person at a buffet who piles their plate high with whatever food looks easiest to grab. If a bear smells food—or even things that smell like food, like toothpaste or deodorant—they’ll go for it.

The problem? Once a bear learns it can get food from humans, it’s no longer afraid of us. That’s bad news for campers and worse news for the bear. "Food-conditioned" bears often have to be relocated, and in some cases, they’re euthanized because they become persistent threats. So keeping your food secure isn’t just about protecting yourself; it’s about protecting wildlife too.

The Golden Rules of Food Storage in Bear Country

When it comes to storing food in bear country, there are a few hard-and-fast rules. Memorize ’em. Live by ’em. They’ll make your adventure safer and a whole lot less stressful.

1. Never Keep Food in Your Tent

Rule number one, folks. Your tent is for sleeping, not snacking. Even the smallest crumb left behind could attract a bear. Think of your tent as a "food-free zone." Not only does this keep bears away, but it also makes for a cleaner and more comfortable sleeping space.

2. Use a Bear-Resistant Container

Say hello to your new best friend: the bear canister. These tough, bear-resistant containers are designed to keep your food safe, even if a bear decides to take a swipe at it. Seal up anything edible (or scented) inside, and a properly latched bear canister will keep your snacks—and the bear—out of trouble.

3. Follow the 100-Yard Rule

Here’s a little camping mantra: "100 yards is your friend." Keep your cooking area, food storage, and sleeping area at least 100 yards apart from each other. Why? If a bear smells your food and comes to investigate, it’s better they check out your cooking area while you’re safely tucked away in your tent.

4. Pack Out Your Trash

Think bears can’t tell the difference between garbage and food? Think again. Always pack out your trash in a sealed bag, and treat it with the same care as you would your food. Leaving behind bits of trash or food wrappers can attract wildlife long after you’re gone.

The Best Methods for Storing Food in Bear Country

So, how exactly should you store your food? Let’s explore the most common methods, including their pros and cons.

1. Bear Canisters

Bear canisters are the gold standard for food storage in bear country. They’re basically indestructible, and most national parks even require them in certain areas.

- How to Use: Place all food, scented items, and trash in the canister. Seal it tightly and leave it on the ground at least 100 yards away from your tent.
- Pros: Highly effective, portable, and easy to use.
- Cons: A bit bulky and heavy, especially for backpackers trying to pack light.

2. Bear Bags and Hanging Systems

Another popular option is hanging your food in a bear bag. While not as foolproof as a canister, it’s a solid choice if done correctly.

- How to Hang: Find a sturdy tree branch at least 12 feet off the ground and 6 feet away from the trunk. Toss a rope over the branch, attach your bear bag, and hoist it up. Tie the rope securely to a nearby tree.
- Pros: Lightweight and easy to pack.
- Cons: Not effective against determined bears or in areas with few suitable trees.

3. Backcountry Lockers

If you’re camping in a developed or popular backcountry area, you may find metal bear lockers installed near campsites. These are an excellent, hassle-free option when available.

- How to Use: Simply place your food inside, close the locker, and secure it with the provided latch.
- Pros: Super convenient and extremely bear-resistant.
- Cons: Only available in certain locations.

What About Smelly Items?

Here’s the deal: anything with a scent can attract bears. This includes food, obviously, but also items you might not expect—like toothpaste, sunscreen, soap, or even your dirty dishes. Yup, anything that smells yummy to a bear needs to be stored properly.

To avoid any surprises, create a "scent inventory" before your trip. Check everything you’re packing for strong odors and keep those items in your bear canister or bear bag when you’re not using them.

Cooking and Eating in Bear Country

Storing food is half the battle; the other half is being smart about where (and how) you cook and eat. Bears associate smells with food, so preparation matters.

- Cook Away From Camp: Set up your cooking area at least 100 yards downwind from your tent. This keeps food odors away from where you sleep.
- Don’t Toss Scraps: Resist the urge to throw food scraps, even biodegradable ones, into the forest. Instead, pack them out in a sealed bag with your trash.
- Change Clothes: If you’ve been cooking, change your clothes before bed. You don’t want your pajamas smelling like dinner.

Tips for Handling Bear Encounters

Okay, let’s say you’ve done everything right, but you still spot a bear near your campsite. What now?

- Stay Calm: Don’t panic or run. Bears can run up to 35 mph, so it’s not exactly a fair race.
- Make Noise: Use a firm voice to let the bear know you’re there. Clap, shout, or bang pots together if needed.
- Back Away Slowly: If the bear doesn’t leave, slowly back away while keeping an eye on it. Never turn your back.
- Defend Your Territory: If a bear charges, stand your ground. Use bear spray as a last resort.

Leave No Trace

Finally, remember this: the goal is to leave bear country exactly as you found it. Follow "Leave No Trace" principles by packing out all your trash, food scraps, and gear. The less evidence of human food left behind, the safer and more natural the environment stays for wildlife.

Wrapping Up

Camping in bear country is an adventure like no other. But with that adventure comes responsibility. Properly storing your food, keeping your campsite clean, and respecting wildlife are essential for your safety and the well-being of the bears. So pack your bear canister, brush up on your food storage skills, and get ready for a truly unforgettable trip. After all, there’s nothing quite like sleeping beneath the stars—with the peace of mind that you won’t wake up to a bear-sized surprise.

Happy camping, and don’t forget the bear spray!