Bear Spray and Trail Bells: What You Really Need in Bear Country

When visitors pack for their dream trip to Canada, many picture rugged mountains, crystal-clear lakes—and bears. Lots of bears. Some even ask if Canadians wear bear bells to the grocery store.

We don’t. (Well, not most of us.)

But when it comes to actual bear safety—especially for those heading into the wild—there are a few things worth knowing and bringing. This guide will help separate fact from fiction, souvenirs from safety gear, and help you feel more confident exploring Canada’s incredible outdoors.

Let’s set the record straight: Canada is not overrun with bears. But if you’re venturing outside of urban centres—say, into national parks, alpine forests, or riverside campgrounds—then yes, you are entering bear country.

And just occasionally, the bears come to you.

In 2011, downtown Vancouver had an unusual visitor: a young black bear that somehow hitched a ride on top of a garbage truck from the nearby North Shore. It had been searching for food in a theatre dumpster when the entire contents—bear included—were tipped into the truck. The bear climbed out mid-transit, balanced precariously on the vehicle roof, and caused quite a stir before a quick-thinking conservation officer climbed aboard and safely sedated it. The bear was later released into the wild, well north of the city.

More recently, in May 2025, a video from Mission, B.C. went viral: a young bear was spotted pushing a dumpster down a residential street at 5 a.m., (see video HERE) trying—and thankfully failing—to break into the bin. The clip, viewed over half a million times, drew comments like “Vancouver so expensive even the animals have to work” and “Interesting seeing a bear push a Tesla Cybertruck.”

Humorous as they are, these stories highlight a serious truth: bears that get used to human food sources can become a danger to themselves and to us. That’s why prevention is key—and when prevention fails, bear spray is your best backup plan.

Bear spray is a powerful, chili-based deterrent designed to stop an aggressive bear at close range. It works by creating a cloud of capsaicin—the same compound that makes hot peppers hot—which temporarily overwhelms a bear’s senses of smell, sight, and breathing. It doesn’t cause permanent harm, but it gives you time to safely retreat.

This isn’t bug spray. Do not apply it to your clothing or tent.

And it’s not for humans either—threatening someone with bear spray is a criminal offense.

Modern canisters spray up to 10.5 metres, and Canadian regulations allow up to 1.84% CRC (capsaicin and related compounds), which is the highest permitted strength. Think of it like a fire extinguisher: it’s there for emergencies only.

In Canada, bear spray is sold at:

• Outdoor stores like MEC, Cabela’s, and Valhalla Pure
• Hardware chains like Canadian Tire and Home Hardware
• Park visitor centres and gear outfitters in bear country
• Online Canadian retailers (note: delivery restrictions may apply)

To purchase, you must:

• Be 18 years or older
• Sign a “Notice to Purchaser” form stating the spray is for use against animals only

You cannot carry bear spray in urban areas “just in case.” And you definitely can’t use it against a person. Under Section 90 of Canada’s Criminal Code, that could count as carrying a concealed weapon—a serious offense.

You bought it. You didn’t use it (great!). Now you’re flying home and wondering: Can I bring it back in my checked bag?

Nope. Absolutely not.

Bear spray is a prohibited item on all commercial flights, both in checked and carry-on luggage. Attempting to board a plane with it—especially internationally—can land you in hot water fast. If you’ve got leftover spray, ask a park office, outdoor retailer, or local guide about safe disposal or donation.

Bear spray is only useful if you can reach it in under three seconds. Don’t bury it under your lunch, sunscreen, and backup socks.

Instead, use:

• A belt holster
• A chest rig
• The side pocket of your backpack (only if it’s easily accessible)

Also check:

• Expiration date (canisters lose pressure over time)
• The safety clip is secure but removable
• The spray weight is at least 225 grams for full coverage

When not in use, store it in a cool, dry place, and avoid leaving it in hot cars—it can rupture under heat.

For full instructions on how to carry, store, and use bear spray, visit the official Parks Canada Bear Spray Guide — their definitive resource for hikers, campers, and visitors in bear country.

You’ve seen them: tiny jingle bells attached to backpacks, sold in every mountain gift shop from Banff to Jasper. The idea is that they make constant noise, warning bears of your approach.

They do make noise—when you’re moving. But they go silent if you stop to take a photo, rest, or pick blueberries. That’s why most experts recommend something more reliable: your voice.

Talk loudly, clap occasionally, or narrate your hike. It might feel silly, but it works. And if you’re in a group of four or more, that’s even better—bears tend to steer clear of noisy humans.

Still want the bell? Go ahead. It’s a great souvenir and adds a whimsical jingle to your hike. Just don’t rely on it to keep bears away.