How Do You Store Food From Bears While Backpacking?

By Robert Palmer

When it comes to backpacking, one of the most important things to consider is how to store food from bears. Bears can be a very dangerous animal and should not be taken lightly, as they are powerful and territorial.

To ensure that you and your party remain safe while backpacking, it is essential to take all the necessary precautions when storing food.

The first step in storing food properly is to choose a secure location. You should always select an area that is away from your campsite or hiking trail, preferably one that is at least 100 yards away.

This will not only keep the bear away from your food, but also give you peace of mind knowing that your food will be safe.

Once you have chosen a secure location for your food storage, the next step is to choose the proper container. Hard-sided containers are ideal, as they are more difficult for bears to get into and provide more security than soft-sided containers such as bags or storage boxes. When selecting a container, make sure it has a tightly fitting lid and can be securely fastened shut with straps or clasps.

In addition to using a secure container, you should also hang your food at least 10 feet off of the ground and 4 feet away from any trees or structures. This will make it more difficult for bears to access the food and keep them away from your campsite or hiking trail.

Conclusion:

Storing food from bears while backpacking can be difficult but with proper planning and preparation it can be done safely and effectively. By choosing a secure location away from camp sites or trails, selecting a hard-sided container with a tightly fitting lid, and hanging the food 10 feet off of the ground and 4 feet away from any trees or structures you can ensure that your food remains safe while out in the wilderness.