Where to Rent Bear Spray in Alaska (My Complete Guide + Locations)

Chances are if you're visiting Alaska and planning to spend time outdoors - whether you're hiking to an epic viewpoint, fishing on the river, or exploring one of Alaska's small towns, you'll probably have a few questions about bears. While bear encounters are still pretty uncommon, Alaska is home to a large population of both black and brown bears, so it's always important to be prepared when you're exploring the outdoors. Even though bear bells are nice, I always recommend carrying bear spray. It's the easiest and most dependable way to add an extra layer of protection during your Alaskan adventures.

My Essential Alaska Travel Resources :
There are plenty of travel companies out there, but these are my favorite websites and resources for planning an unforgettable trip to Alaska. This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Car rentals, arguably the best way to see Alaska, are best through Discover Cars!

I always use Expedia's to compare the best rates & stays in the state.
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If you're traveling internationally, I use Airalo’s easy to purchase eSIM’s (no installation required).

For fun things to do, I recommend Viator or Get Your Guide to find the best tours in the area.

Just in case, Safetywing is the insurance I always use for travel insurance.

Lastly, my packing list for your travels to the great state of Alaska.

Can You Bring Bear Spray to Alaska? (Why Renting Makes More Sense)

Don't Buy, Rent

Before you "prepare" for your trip and purchase bear spray before you even arrive to Alaska - don't. Bear spray isn't allowed in carry-ons or in your checked luggage, and you can get some pretty hefty fines if you're caught with it at TSA, so you'll want to avoid traveling with it. Similar to airlines, most boat and air tours in Alaska also don't allow bear spray onboard, and if they do they typically require that you have it safely tucked away in a backpack or pre-approved storage container.

​Once you land, you have two options to make sure you're prepared and have bear spray on you. The first is to purchase a new can at stores like REI, or rent a can once you land in Alaska. Because I live in Alaska year round, in the past I've only purchased my own bear sprays. However, renting a can usually costs around $20, whereas purchasing a new can typically costs about $50. Obviously the choice is up to you, but if you're just visiting I highly recommend renting a can.

-> Rent Bear Spray Through Viator <-

Best Tour to See Bears Up Close :
- Brooks Falls, Katmai National Park

Where to Rent Bear Spray in Alaska (Anchorage & Beyond)​

Below you'll find my list of top businesses that rent bear spray in Alaska, organized by the town they're in or closest to. If you don't have any luck with these, try checking out this Facebook Group where locals and travelers buy, sell, and exchange bear sprays for pretty cheap (or if you're lucky, sometimes for free).

Anchorage 

• Alaska Bear Spray Rental - $12/day, the more days you rent the lower the price will be (never exceeding $28), they are my top choice because not only can they deliver for a fee, but they also have a location in Fairbanks now so you can do one way rentals (pick up in Anchorage, drop off in Fairbanks, and vice versa)
• Alaska Outdoor Gear Rental - $18/day or $40/7 days, they also offer one way rentals to multiple cities​

Cooper Landing

• Gwin's Lodge Tackle Shop - in the past bear spray rentals were listed right on their site, however in recent years they've taken it off (rumor is it's still available right at their counter)
• Kenai Cache Outfitters - bear spray rentals at Kenai Cache aren't always available, so it's best to call ahead if you plan to pick up your can here
• Lakeview Outfitters - $10 for up to 3 days, or free if you rent their rod + reel or wader combos

Denali

• Bike Denali - each of their 24 hour bike rentals includes bear spray

Fairbanks​

• Alaska Bear Spray Rental - $12/day, the more days you rent the lower the price will be (never exceeding $28), they are my top choice because not only can they deliver for a fee, but they also have a location in Fairbanks now so you can do one way rentals (pick up in Anchorage, drop off in Fairbanks, and vice versa)
• Alaska Outdoor Gear Rental - $18/day or $40/7 days, they also offer one way rentals to multiple cities

-> Viator Bear Spray Rental <-

Homer

• Kachemak Bay Adventures - $13 for your first night, and $10/day afterwards

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Kodiak

• Harborside Cafe - their website doesn't have any information on bear spray rentals, but last time we visited Kodiak both their Harborside and Wheel Watch locations had bear spray rentals available

Palmer + Wasilla Areas

• Adventures by True North - they offer multiple gear rentals on their website, including bear spray rentals for $5

Seward

• Adventure Sixty North - $12/day, but you'll have to call to book (they used to have a 2 day minimum, but I'm not sure if this rule is still in place)
• Seward Bike Shop - they have daily rentals available, but there's no price on their website
• Seward Outdoor Store - similar to the Seward Bike Shop I couldn't find prices listed on their website, but they also have daily rentals available

Talkeetna

• Talkeetna Gear Shop - $10/day, with optional add-ons for delivery to wherever you're staying

Watch My Biggest Bear Adventure Here!

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Other Alaska blog posts you might be interested in : 
-> 11 Best Waterfalls in Anchorage and Beyond
-> 15 Easiest Glaciers to Visit in Alaska
-> Bear Viewing in Lake Clark NP

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