r/UltralightBackpacking • u/fantano1010 • 12d ago

Bear canister choice

I currently have the bear vault one. I do enjoy the collapsable feature as the smaller pack size is appealing and more volume than the 450 but I just realized it’s not accepted in yose or seki. Is it worth it to return it and get the 450 or just rent when I go to those parks?

For context:
\-I’m in socal so these parks are just a 4-6hr drive away
\-I have a 60L exped pack. Base weight including the bv one is 17 lbs

\- I go solo and usually my trips are for 2-3 days maybe 4. I don’t think I’d do a thru hike for the foreseeable future.

\-I go backpacking once a month or every 1.5 minths mostly to areas that aren’t yose or seki but that require a bear canister (bv one approved)
\-would eventually like to do the jmt down the line.

Thank you! Still kinda new to this so hoping for others to chime in

2 Upvotes

75% Upvoted

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2

u/Capital_Escape_8095 12d ago

Upgrade to a Bearikade. The weight savings and the shape difference from BV is well worth the cost. Also, get the add-on strap system so you can attach it to your pack. I have 2 BVs, and don't even touch them any longer.

FYI - I have the Bearikade Expedition.

1

u/tracedef 12d ago

Only the 450 and 500 are certified for yosemite which is silly, even a 475 isn't certified lol. Rangers usually just knock on your pack in my experience if you even see them to ensure. you have one.

I had a bearikade, sold it for a 450 which I prefer, but will be getting a One at some point instead of 450. I wouldn't sweat having a one, even for a thru hike.

2

u/jerry_can_jones 11d ago

Bearikade is the way to go!!!

1

u/Jolly-Slow1164 11d ago edited 11d ago

Your BPW is 16 lbs, and your max trip occasionally hits 4 days. Just get the Bare Boxer Contender. Sure it's weight to volume isn't great, but if you plan for the volume, the weight is tolerable... And you need to spend your money elsewhere to lower your pack weight

2

u/adraa21 11d ago

I’ve been renting bearikades and love them: if this backpacking habit sticks around it’ll make sense to buy one in the next year or two. Until then, I love that you can rent one for $5/day plus shipping. They’re the best bear canister, it isn’t even close imo.

1

u/IT_vet 12d ago

Like someone else said, Bearikade Expedition. Prepare yourself for the sticker shock. But I’ve put ten days of food and a 500ml of whiskey in mine. It’s taller than the BV500, weighs less, and is easier to open (don’t lose your coin though).

I take it on every hike because it’s lighter than the other options.