Critter Bag (stainless mesh)

This stainless steel mesh sack targets a specific backcountry annoyance: rodents, marmots, and ravens. Where bear canisters are not legally mandated, hikers often default to lightweight nylon or Dyneema food sacks. Small camp pests can chew through those fabrics in seconds. Knitted stainless wire completely shuts down gnawing teeth and sharp beaks without forcing you to carry a rigid two-pound plastic drum into camp.

The construction uses flexible, interlinked stainless steel wire mesh paired with a heavy-duty hook-and-loop closure across the mouth. It typically incorporates a solid brass grommet for clipping to shelter cables or tree branches. Because the open weave offers no barrier to rain or scent, you must pack your rations inside an internal dry bag or an odor-proof plastic liner. It rolls relatively flat, but it will never compress like an ultralight stuff sack.

In the field, it delivers bulletproof reliability against shelter mice and desert rodents. It will not stop a bear—and should never be used as bear protection—but for high-vermin zones like the Grand Canyon or Appalachian Trail shelters, it earns its weight. The rough mesh can abrade delicate tent fabrics and silnylon pack liners if packed carelessly, yet that minor nuisance beats waking up to shredded food rations and ruined gear miles from the trailhead.