Best Bear Bags of 2024

JUMP TO: URSACK MAJOR | LOCTOTE FLAK SACK II | URSACK ALLMITEY | ZPACKS BEAR BAGGING KIT | SEA TO SUMMIT ULTRA-SIL DRY SACK | BUYING ADVICE  | COMMON QUESTIONS

Author: Steve Edgerton | Updated: Nov 5, 2023
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The Short Version

The Long Version

Backpacking in bear country demands you take extra care when planning out your food storage system. Although many backcountry sites feature bear lockers or poles, safe food storage is your responsibility in more remote wilderness areas.

Bear bags are our preferred food storage option in these situations. Bear-resistant bags can rival the reliability of unwieldy canisters while eliminating the need to set up fussy bear hangs, notoriously prone to user error. However, options for soft-sided containers are limited. Only a select few have been certified bear-resistant by the Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee (IGBC), and deemed suitable for use in high-risk bear areas.

 

Bear hangs — like the Zpacks Bear Bagging Kit — weigh far less than bear-resistant bags, but setting up a hang each night is not always straightforward.

 

In this article, we review the best IGBC-approved bear bags for backpackers. For ultralighters and those committed to the art of the bear hang, we also consider our favorite non-bear-resistant bags. While not equipped to withstand curious claws and teeth, these ultralight bags will keep your food safe and dry when used in a bear hang.

If you love reading this review of the best bear bags, then you'll likely love reading some of our other hiking and backpacking content:

 

Need To Know What To Look Out For?

Food storage in bear country is a complex topic. The best option for you will depend on local regulations, backcountry facilities, and your personal risk tolerance. Our buying advice at the bottom of the article will walk you through the factors to consider before investing in a bear bag.

 

Best Overall: URSACK MAJOR

CAPACITY: 10.65 L (Standard), 15 L (XL), 30 L (2XL)

WEIGHT: 7.6 oz / 215.5 g (Standard), 8.8 oz / 249.5 g (XL), 10.9 oz / 309 g (2XL)

CERTIFIED BEAR-RESISTANT: Yes

MATERIALS: Ultra high molecular weight plastic (UHMW)

PRICE: $$

PROS: Lightweight, extremely durable, certified bear-resistant

CONS: Absorbs water in heavy rain, not completely critter-proof

The Ursack Major Bear Bag is the gold standard for lightweight, bear-resistant food storage systems. It is one of only a few soft-sided containers to be approved as bear-resistant by the Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee (IGBC). This means that the Ursack Major can be used instead of bulky, heavy bear canisters in many areas where bear-resistant food storage is mandatory.

Even while backpacking elsewhere in bear country where food storage laws are not as stringent, the Ursa Major is far superior to setting up an unreliable and time-consuming bear hang. Simply secure the drawstring opening correctly, tie it to a tree at least 100 ft from your camp, and you are good to go.

The bag is available in 3 different sizes. The standard (10L) bag fits about 5 days' worth of food for one person. The XL (15 L) is good for about a week. The 2XL (30L) can store 2+ weeks of food for a single person, making it ideal for extended expeditions or as a group storage option on shorter trips.

Made from ultra high molecular weight plastic (UHMW), Ursack bags are practically invincible. They were rigorously tested to earn the IGBC stamp of approval. When tied shut correctly, they really are bear-resistant, but with a caveat. Bears won’t be able to eat your food, but an Ursack can’t stop them from smashing a week’s worth of food into an unrecognizable pulp. Plus, the Major, unlike Ursack’s AllMitey bag (reviewed below), is not entirely critter-proof. To avoid attracting unwanted dinner guests, it is best to pair the Ursack Major with an aluminum liner and store all scented items in reusable odor-proof bags.

Ursacks are not cheap, especially factoring in these essential add-ons. But we think they are absolutely worth it when camping in bear country. The Ursack Major is far lighter and more packable than any canister, while being easier to set up and more reliable than a traditional bear hang. It’s the best of both worlds.

Best for Versatility: LOCTOTE FLAK SACK II

CAPACITY: 18 L

WEIGHT: 32 oz / 907 g

BEAR-RESISTANT: Yes

MATERIALS: FLAKnit, leather, and 200D nylon lining

PRICE: $$$

PROS: Stylish anti-theft drawstring travel pack with IGBC approval

CONS: Heavy for a dedicated bear bag, expensive

LOCTOTE’S Flak Sak II occupies an unexpected and entirely unique category of packs: it is a stylish drawstring bag that happens to be IGBC-certified as bear-resistant.

The Flak Sak II is the only backpack to achieve such a rating. The cynic in us was quick to judge this as little more than a marketing stunt from what boasts to be the “world’s toughest travel bag”, but achieving IGBC approval is no casual undertaking. This backpack is the real deal.

Admittedly, the Flak Sak II is not designed for use as a backpacking bear bag, but rather as a theft-proof day pack for traveling. It just so happens that thieve-thwarting features, like ANSI cut rating A9 fabric, cut-resistant drawstrings, heavily reinforced seams, a padlocked opening, and RFID blocking are equally handy for thwarting bears. Well, maybe not the RFID blocking. But you never know.

If all you’re looking for is a dedicated bear bag then make no mistake: Ursack is a far better option, as even their larger bags weigh only a fraction of the Flack Sack II. But the versatile crossover potential of this backpack is attractive. It is one of the very few soft-sided IGBC-certified containers on the market. If you need a bear bag for casual overnighters or don’t mind a few extra ounces on longer trips, then going with a bag that seamlessly doubles as a well-made, stylish, and secure travel pack is a pretty cool option.

Best for Critters: URSACK ALLMITEY

CAPACITY: 10.65 L (Standard), 20 L (Grizzly), 30 L (Kodiak)

WEIGHT: 13 oz / 368.5 g (Standard), 13.8 oz / 391.2 g (Grizzly), 15.3 oz / 433.7 g (Kodiak)

BEAR-RESISTANT: Yes

MATERIALS: UHMWP and Kevlar

PRICE: $$$

PROS: Fully bear-resistant and critter-proof

CONS: Expensive, heavier than the Ursack Major

It may come as a surprise that bear-resistant bags can still be susceptible to the teeth and claws of far less imposing creatures. Even the robust Ursack Major can incur tiny punctures and weave separations. We’re talking fractions of an inch, but for mice, raccoons, squirrels, and other similarly small and devious “mini-bears”, that is more than enough to do some damage.

Enter the Ursack AllMitey Bear Bag. The AllMitey takes the rugged design of the Ursack Major up a notch with laminated UHMWP and Kevlar fabric. Like the Major, the AllMitey is best paired with an aluminum liner and odor-proof bags and is approved for use in most parks where bear-resistant food storage is mandatory. It is available in 10 L, 20 L, and 30 L varieties.

The AllMitey is considerably heavier and pricier than the Major, but effectively puncture-proof. It is still much lighter and more packable than bear canisters while getting close to rivaling their comprehensive protection from bears, critters, and the elements. You can rest easy at night knowing your food stash is safe from any and all forest inhabitants in the AllMitey. Read our full review here.

Best Ultralight Bear Hang Kit: ZPACKS BEAR BAGGING KIT

CAPACITY: 10.7 L (Big Kit), 14 L (Large Kit)

WEIGHT: 3.1 oz / 87 g (Big Kit), 3.4 oz / 96 g (Large Kit)

BEAR-RESISTANT: No

MATERIALS: DCF bag and Dyneema 2 mm cord

PRICE: $

PROS: Ultralight, durable, affordable food storage kit

CONS: Not bear-resistant, requires setting a bear hang

The Zpacks Bear Bagging Kit is an ultralight, all-in-one package for food storage and bear hangs. Unlike the other bear bags covered so far, this kit is not bear-resistant. It must be hung appropriately and cannot replace an IGBC-certified canister or bag in wilderness areas where bear-resistant storage is mandated.

But for thru-hikes and ultralight trips in less sensitive bear country, this kit is a game-changer. It is ideal for those looking to minimize their pack weight without compromising on functionality. The large kit weighs just 3.4 ounces, and that includes 50 ft of Dyneema cord, a carabiner, a rock sack, and a 14 L Dyneema Composite Fiber (DCF) sack. It is astonishingly lightweight, and our top pick for ultralighters with decent bear hang skills.

One of the standout features of this kit is its durable and high-quality construction. The DCF bear bag is waterproof and tear-resistant. Though it won’t withstand bear claws the way IGBC-certified bags can, it will keep your food dry and well-protected from the elements. The included carabiner and Dyneema cord are also exceptionally strong, providing reliable support for hanging your bag securely. The small rock sack is nice for tossing the cord over a tree branch and makes setting up a good hang a little less frustrating.

Overall, the Zpacks Bear Bagging Kit excels in melding an ultralight design with excellent durability. It is a do-it-all kit at a reasonable price. The bag is not bear-resistant and not a sufficient storage method for certain national parks, but it is the best ultralight solution for most backcountry situations. The Big (10.7 L) kit can hold 3-4 days of food for a single hiker, while the Large (14 L) is good for 5-7 days. Get your PCT-style bear hangs dialed in, and this kit will be all you need. Read our full review here.

CAPACITY: Many sizes, from 3 L to 35 L

WEIGHT: 1.1 oz (3 L), 1.1 oz (5 L), 1.4 oz (8 L), 1.7 oz (13 L), 2 oz (20 L), 2.6 oz (35 L)

BEAR-RESISTANT: No

MATERIALS: 30-denier CORDURA nylon

PRICE: $

PROS: Cheap, versatile, variety of sizes

CONS: Not bear-resistant, requires cord and a carabiner for complete kit

Sea to Summit’s Ultra-Sil Dry Bags are not specifically marketed as a bear bag, but they do an excellent job at storing food, at an excellent price too.

Ultra-Sil Dry Bags come in 6 different sizes. They all feature a durable water-repellent (DWR) finish and are made from durable 30-denier CORDURA nylon. A roll-top closure system provides a secure seal. The bags are not quite as weather-resistant or durable as Z Packs’ DCF bags, but they are similar in weight and more than capable of protecting food when used in a bear hang.

What sets Ultra-Sil Dry Bags apart as the best budget bear bag option is their versatility. When not being used for bear hangs, it can be repurposed for other storage needs on the trail, such as organizing gear or keeping your clothes dry. They are also a simple food storage solution on their own when camping at sites with bear lockers.

For use in a bear hang, you will of course need to complement the Ultra-Sil Bags with some utility cord and a carabiner, at minimum. Lining them with odor-resisting materials will also help your hang go unnoticed by bears and critters.

The Ultra-Sil Dry Bag’s combination of durability, waterproofing, and affordability make it a solid choice among the budget-conscious options for setting up simple bear hangs. These versatile and lightweight dry sacks are a worthwhile addition to any gear closet—for use as a bear bag and beyond.

BUYING ADVICE FOR BEAR BAGS

Bear Bags vs. Bear Canisters

Bear-resistant bags are a relatively recent innovation. Hard-sided canisters have traditionally been the food storage solution of choice in areas with strict regulations or high bear activity. And although there are now a few IGBC-certified soft-sided bear bags, like those from Ursack, canisters remain the most reliable option.

In some national parks and forests in the US, canisters remain the only option. Before deciding on a bear bag vs. a bear canister, consider where you will be using it and understand the backcountry regulations in those areas. This national park approval map from Ursack is a handy resource.

While canisters are reliable, they are heavy and comically awkward to pack. Outside of parks in which they are mandated, we prefer going with an IGBC-certified bag. These bags, like the Ursack Major and AllMitey, offer a middle ground between the bulk of canisters and the tedium of setting up ultralight bear hangs. They are certified bear-resistant, yet far lighter and more packable than canisters. Although bears will not be capable of accessing the bag’s contents (when used correctly), the soft sides mean they can potentially smash your food supply to smithereens. But the risk of this can be effectively minimized by using an aluminum liner and odor-proof bags.

Non-IGBC-certified bags, like the Zpacks Bear Bag and Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Dry Bags, are not bear-resistant. But they are an ultralight option if you plan to set PCT-style hangs or will be staying at campgrounds with food storage facilities, like lockers or hanging poles.

 

The soft sides mean a bear can potentially smash your food supply to smithereens. But the risk of this can be effectively minimized by using an aluminum liner and odor-proof bags.

 

IGBC Approval

Bear bags with IGBC approval means they have passed bear resistance standards developed with human-bear conflict experts and bear biologists. It DOES NOT mean that the bag is unfailingly bear-proof. But when used appropriately, alongside responsible backcountry cooking and sanitation practices, IGBC-certified bags from Ursack or LOCTOTE are a highly effective and reliable way to safeguard your food from bears and other critters.

Capacity

Your bear bag must be big enough for all of your food and any other scented items in your pack—toothpaste, sunscreen, cooking supplies, lip balm, and the like. As a general rule, you will need about 2 L of capacity per person for every day you’ll be on the trail. For example, a 10 L bag is typically adequate for 4-5 days, 15 L for about a week, and 30 L for 2 weeks.

If in doubt, go for the bigger size. The slight weight penalty will be worth the added versatility.

 

You will need about 2 L of capacity per person for every day you’ll be on the trail, so in most cases it’ll be worth choosing a bigger sized bear bag — the slight weight penalty will be worth the added versatility.

 

Odor Resistance

Bear bags or not odor-resistant by themselves. Lining them with reusable odor-resistant bags like a LOKSAK OPSAK will significantly help your food supply go unnoticed by bears and other critters.

Materials

Making a soft-sided, lightweight bear-resistant bag is no small task. It is accomplished through a combination of extremely strong fabrics like ultra high molecular weight plastic (UHMW) and Kevlar—the material used in bulletproof vests. As a result, IGBC-certified bags are fairly expensive, more so than bear canisters.

You have many more options if you only need a bag for bear hangs or on trails with reliable food storage facilities. Look for dry bags made from durable, water and tear-resistant materials like Dyneema or high-denier nylon with a waterproof coating.

 

The Ursack AllMitey is made from ultra-high molecular weight plastic and Kevlar – the stuff bulletproof vests are made from.

 

Weight

Weight savings is perhaps the biggest advantage of choosing a bear bag over a canister. For example, the Ursack Major (10.65 L) Bag weighs 9.5 oz, while an equivalently sized BearVault canister weighs more than 4 times as much. Even the LOCTOTE Flak Sak II, designed as a travel pack first, weighs less than canisters and offers 18 L of capacity. Bags are also much easier to pack.

Bear hangs are even lighter than bear-resistant bags. The Zpacks Bear Bagging Kit weighs just over 3 ounces. But this means setting an effective bear hang every single night. Finding a suitable branch and tossing a cord over it sounds straightforward, but it rarely is. It is often frustrating, and for most people, not worth the hassle. Outside of areas that mandate canisters, IGBC-certified bear bags are simply the best food storage option.

 

The Zpacks Bear Bagging Kit weighs just over 3 ounces – much lighter than a bear-resistant bag. But it means setting up a bear hang each night.

 

COMMON QUESTIONS

Can you use a dry bag as a bear bag? You can, but only if you are storing your food in bear lockers or setting up a bear hang, as they are not bear-resistant at all. Durable and weather-resistant dry bags made from Dyneema or high-denier nylon are best for this.

Can I use a bear bag instead of a canister? In some areas with bear regulations—usually in grizzly country or areas with high incidences of bear-human interactions—a bear canister may be required. However, in most wilderness areas IGBC-certified bear bags are considered suitable alternatives for safely storing food.

Are bear bags really bear-resistant? Bear bags are not 100% bear-resistant. Neither are canisters. But when used properly (closing and securing the bag properly, using odor-resistant liners) they are as close to bear-resistant as you can get—far better than bear hangs, especially considering they are rarely set correctly.

Do you need to hang a bear bag? IGBC-certified bear bags like the Ursack Major and AllMitey do not need to be hung. Use the drawstrings to tie them around a sturdy tree, as high as you can reach. Bears will be unable to open them or carry the bags away, but they can smash up the bag’s contents, so they work best when paired with an aluminum liner.

Will bear bags keep critters out of my food? Bear bags are primarily designed to deter bears from accessing your food, but they may not be effective at keeping smaller critters like mice and squirrels out. The extra reinforced Ursack AllMitey is the best option for bear and critter protection.

MORE INFORMATION

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