This is a must have item in a growing number of backpacking destinations. I have used the Garcia bear can for a couple of years without any problem. I personally have never observed this can under attack from a bear, but as far as I have heard it is indestructible. Compared to hanging food bags, the can is superior in a number of ways. No rope is needed to hang the can, rather it is just placed on the ground away from the sleeping area. The can is useful in places where there are no suitable places to hang food (e.g. above treeline, in the desert, etc.). In addition, the can suppresses the spread of attractive food odor, which helps to keep bears and other animals from coming into camp at all. The downside of the Garcia can (compared to just hanging food in bags, at least), is that it is relatively expensive, especially considering that it's just a heavy plastic can. And heavy it is--about 2 lbs, which is about the same as an extra liter of water. The can holds 5 days worth of food, and typically leaves enough room for toothpaste, soap, and other scented animal attractants at night. I find it just the right size for me and a companion to take on a weekend (2 night) backpacking trip with mostly dried and repackaged food. I wish it were lighter and cheaper, but I sleep better at night knowing that my food will be there in the morning.

Customer Service

Garcia: N/A Whitney Portal Store: Great and friendly

Similar Products Used:

hanging bags