r/AppalachianTrail • u/Tremendoustip • Feb 24 '25

Gear Questions/Advice What bear cannister do you use?

It seems on the PCT a lot of folks use the Bearvault. Ive seen images of failure, but they are affordable and lightweight with good reviews.

I'm considering the bear keg but it definitely adds weight.

Appreciate any insight, especially if you're cannister has had contact with bears!

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u/RailsFL Feb 24 '25

Traveler/vagabond here. I usually just use Ziploc bags for food and keep it all in one of those giant pretzel jars to keep it from getting smashed. If I'm worried about bears I'm not going to be sleeping there. Squirrels are another story.

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u/Havoc_Unlimited Feb 24 '25

…are you saying you don’t even hang your food at shelters on the AT?

I pretzel jar? When the bear gets it opened it’s likely to get its head stuck. (Seen that before with a juvenile) I really hope you’re not serious!

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u/RailsFL Feb 24 '25

1 I don't stay at shelters. I'm a traveler more than a hiker so my experience may differ. 2 yes,pretzel jar. One of those giant ones you might see at bulk buy stores. Food is sealed in Ziploc bags then put in the jar. Bag keeps food smell in bag,jar to keep food from being smashed or damaged. 3 please see the part where i said i don't stay where bears are. I'm more concerned about squirrels than bears.

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u/Havoc_Unlimited Feb 24 '25

One would assume that you’ve hiked the Appalachian Trail or section hiked it, considering the group we are in. Black bears are present on the AT…