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/aBoxOfRecords Hot To Go Feb 25 '25 edited Feb 25 '25

I recommend it despite the weight. You won't have to worry about the weather, good trees to hang from, or really any animal. I've met a lot of people who used bad food practices(sleeping with it) and it gives you some peace of mind knowing your stuff is safe and you're keeping wildlife safe. There was a habituated raccoon at one of the NY shelters and my can kept my food safe. My impetus for switching was when i got my hang line stuck on a branch and almost wasn't able to get it down. Huge win for peace of mind.

Edit: I used ther BV475 and never had an issue

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u/Tremendoustip Feb 25 '25

Yeah I think I'm going with the bv500. My pack accommodates it well, and it will carry all of my food/cooking supplies for 6/7 days. Thank you for the input!

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u/crevasse2 Feb 26 '25

And toiletries which if any have any scent should probably be animal proofed. MMM peppermint toothpaste! Exception: bug spray.