SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/hike-bear-food-storage

Where should food be stored in bear country at night?

In a bear canister or bear locker away from your tent.

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  1. Inside your tent
  2. On the picnic table
  3. In a bear locker or canister away from the tent ✔

Why: Bears follow their noses to food smells. Never keep food in your tent. Use the food lockers or bear canisters the park requires.

Huh, didn't know that: Store your food, garbage and other scented items as soon as you get to your campsite.

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Why did the hiker keep food away from the tent? He did not want a bear-y late visitor.
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References

Answer: In a bear locker or canister away from the tent. Bears follow their noses to food smells. Never keep food in your tent. Use the food lockers or bear canisters the park requires.

  1. NPS: Storing Food www.nps.gov/subjects/bears/storingfood.htm
    Do NOT store food in your tent or backpack.
    Checked 2026-10-12.
  2. NPS: Storing Food www.nps.gov/subjects/bears/storingfood.htm
    Some parks require food lockers or bear-resistant food containers ("bear canisters")
    Checked 2026-10-12.

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Outdoors & CampingWhich group first came up with the Ten Essentials packing system for hikers?Outdoors & CampingWhy does the Park Service recommend a headlamp over a regular flashlight for hiking?Outdoors & CampingHow much extra food does the Park Service suggest packing as one of the Ten Essentials?

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