Best practices for keeping food secure from animals at night?

Choosing the Right Storage Location

When selecting a location to store food, choose a spot at least 100 feet away from your campsite to prevent attracting scavengers. Avoid areas with dense vegetation or rocky outcroppings, as these can provide easy access to your food. Instead, opt for a flat area with minimal cover.

Securing Food Containers

To prevent animals from getting to your food, use airtight containers made of durable materials like plastic or metal. Store food in airtight bags or containers with tight-fitting lids, and consider adding a layer of protection like a mesh or a piece of cheesecloth to prevent insects from getting in. When storing food, consider the “rule of three”: store food in three separate containers, each with a different combination of food items, to prevent a single animal from getting to all of your food at once.

Elevating and Hanging Food

To prevent animals from accessing your food at night, elevate containers at least 3 feet off the ground using rocks or branches. Consider hanging food containers from a sturdy tree branch or a metal hook, making sure they are secure and won’t fall. Use a rope or twine to tie off the container, and consider adding a secondary knot or two for added security.