This information does not apply to areas inhabited by grizzly bears. Share food storage boxes with other campers. The counterbalance method of hanging food from trees has proven to be ineffective in many areas of the Sierra back country. Store soap, sunscreen, deodorant, toothpaste and garbage in the same way as food. Bears are attracted to anything with an odor.
Bears are active both day and night.
At night and any time you are away from camp, remove all food from your pack and store it properly. Leave your empty pack on the ground with flaps and pockets open. When you leave an area, clean out the storage box and take all your garbage with you. If a bear does get your food, you are responsible for cleaning up and packing out all debris, and for reporting it to the nearest ranger. However, bear damage and confrontations are still possible, even when all guidelines are followed.