When I started backpacking in certain areas around Seattle that require bear protection, I was originally disappointed. My Bear Vault BV500 added over two and a half pounds to the gear list that I’ve tried to lightweight over the years.
But ever since starting to use the bear can, I’ve learned to appreciate it. Here are 4 reasons why:
- Take that, chipmunks! The bear can is more than bear-proof. And really, I’m usually not worried about bears. I’m more worried about chipmunks or squirrels or mice eating through whatever I keep my food in. So it was with a big smile that I watched a chipmunk climb on and try and get in to my bear can…failing miserably. The bear can just removes all worry at all times of the day. So even if I just leave camp to do dishes or some other business, I don’t have to do anything special to protect my food.
- No hanging required. Most of the time, hanging a bear bag isn’t that difficult in the spots I backpack. But there have been a couple times where finding a suitable tree meant a long walk from camp. And then if I forgot something in there or wanted to add something, it’s a pain to go to it, get it down, and put it back up. With the bear can, I still get it out of camp, but not nearly as far and I don’t need to be picky about where it is. Less time hanging a bear bag is more time relaxing or enjoying the view.
Take a Seat. I’ve never brought a chair backpacking because I think about the weight and the fact that a chair only does one thing. Often I have rocks or downed trees as camp furniture, not to mention the occasional hammock. But when those options aren’t available, the bear can is a convenient chair.
- Everything is visible. When I used to have a dry bag as a food bag, I would peek inside, then blindly fish for what I was looking for. With the translucent blue color of the Bear Vault, I can see where I need to go, then watch my hand fish for that thing, simplifying that process. It’s a little thing for sure, but everything is with backpacking.
For these 4 reasons, a bear can is with me on every trip, whether required or not.
