A bear encounter can happen when you least expect it and seasoned hikers, campers, hunters and fishermen know to be prepared. Bear spray is an important piece of gear in any outdoor enthusiast’s pack.

What is bear spray? Bear spray is a non-lethal, pepper-spray-based deterrent against large mammals, like bears and mountain lions. The active ingredient is oleoresin capsicum (OC), the compound that makes peppers spicy. Unlike pepper spray you might carry for personal protection, bear spray has a longer range and greater potency – it’s also only available for use against large animals, never humans.

In addition to the unique considerations for where to purchase and how to travel with bear spray, it’s important to understand why it’s necessary gear for anyone entering bear country. 

Bear spray is a less lethal deterrent that is safer and more effective than a gun, for instance. Leading publications and wildlife experts, like The Journal of Wildlife Management, studied bear spray effectiveness and found its success rate exceeds 90% – it stopped undesirable bear behavior 92% of the time when used on brown bears, 90% for black bears and 100% for polar bears. Conversely, when weaponry like guns are used, both the human and the bear are more likely to be killed. The National Park Service writes, “Firearms are not a substitute for proper bear avoidance practices and knowing how to properly handle a bear encounter.”

Before travelling with bear spray, be sure to check applicable laws and local ordinances. Certain states, parks and counties have different requirements. It is not allowed on an airplane in either checked or carry-on luggage, so you’ll need to purchase it once you arrive at your destination, if flying.

Where to buy bear spray near me?

Always purchase bear spray from a reputable brand, like SABRE. SABRE, for example, is ISO 9001:2015 certified and registered with the American EPA and Health Canada to ensure its bear (and dog) sprays provide humane protection. The company’s rigorous safety and quality standards also mean you're getting the best defense available.

Outdoor retailers & brick-and-mortar

Retailers like Dick’s Sporting Goods, Bass Pro's, and Academy carry trusted brands and their teams are available to answer questions. There are also many regional and local sporting goods stores near popular fishing, camping, hiking and hunting hot spots. Purchasing in-person is required if flying to your destination, since bear spray cannot be taken on a plane, and it allows purchasers to review the packaging and talk with a retail associate before buying. 

Online retailers

Amazon, Walmart and other specialty e-commerce sites offer bear spray from trusted brands, like SABRE. The benefit of shopping on these sites is convenience and fast shipping. Keep in mind that some states restrict air shipment of bear spray; eligible shipping options will be clearly shown at checkout.

On Amazon, SABRE Frontiersman Max Bear Spray is a #1 best seller with an average 4.75/5 rating from nearly 1,000 people!

Manufacturers’ websites

Purchasing directly from the manufacturer’s site guarantees authenticity with direct customer support. You can purchase bear spray on the SABRE bear spray website. For example, you’ll also find the full line of products and carrying accessories, in addition to detailed instructions, how-to videos and training resources to help you feel confident and safe carrying bear spray.

Buy bear spray at National Park visitor centers and gift shops

Seasonally, you might find bear spray available in the national park you’re visiting; however, this is not guaranteed and we suggest purchasing it beforehand or at a local retailer.

What else should I know about bear spray?

SABRE has a full complement of blogs to help you select and safely use bear spray. The perfect starting point for first-time purchases is our bear spray FAQ and Bear Spray 101. Next, check out How to Pick the Most Effective Bear Spray. Bear spray is a last line of defense in the event of an approaching animal. Read How to Protect Yourself Against Bears for all the ways to deter a bear attack before one happens.

Let’s clear up a common point of confusion. Many people ask, “Where can I buy bear mace?” The term “mace” is often used generically to describe pepper spray, but Mace® is actually a brand name – like SABRE. SABRE stands out as an industry leader with its 40 ft spray range, rigorous testing, ISO certification, proven reliability, guaranteed strength and extended range. Additionally, SABRE’s Frontiersman MAX Bear & Mountain Lion spray is registered with the EPA, which means our products meet strict environmental and health safety standards, ensuring they are both effective and responsibly manufactured.

Bear spray is more than a product – it’s an essential safety tool for everyone who travels through bear country. Always purchase products from reliable, well-known and reputable retailers or directly from the manufacturer’s site, and only from trusted brands like SABRE, which has decades of expertise in safety and wildlife deterrence.