How to Use GUNNER Food Crates for Camping and Outdoor Meal Storage

Quick Answer

Use a GUNNER Food Crate as your go-to camping food storage: pack dry kibble and meal ingredients, seal it airtight, and keep it in a shaded, elevated spot. The IP66-rated, odor-proof design protects food from moisture, pests, and temperature swings, so you can focus on the trail.

Camping trips come with a long packing list, and keeping your dog's food fresh and safe is often an afterthought. A GUNNER Food Crate solves that problem with a rugged, airtight container that handles the outdoors as well as it handles your kitchen.

This guide walks you through practical steps to use a GUNNER Food Crate for camping, from packing to mealtime, so your dog eats well no matter where you pitch the tent.

Why a GUNNER Food Crate Works for Camping

The GUNNER Food Crate is built with the same principles as the G1 Kennel series, giving it an IP66 rating. That means it's waterproof and dust proof, which is exactly what you need when rain, dirt, and wind are part of the plan. It's also odor proof, so the smell of kibble won't attract curious wildlife to your campsite.

The angled nylon lid, lockable latch, and elevated rubber feet add another layer of protection. Food stays off the ground, away from moisture, and shielded from UV light that can speed up spoilage. That makes it a reliable choice for a weekend trip or a longer overlanding adventure.

• Check the latch before every trip to ensure a tight seal.

Packing Your GUNNER Food Crate for a Camping Trip

Start by measuring how much food your dog needs for the entire trip, plus a couple of extra meals in case of delays. Portion the kibble into resealable bags or containers before you leave. This makes mealtime easier and lets you grab a single serving without opening the whole crate.

Place the portions inside the GUNNER Food Crate and close the lid firmly. The airtight seal keeps moisture out and locks odors in. If you're packing wet food or treats, store them in a separate sealed container inside the crate to avoid cross-contamination.

A common mistake is overpacking the crate until the lid can't seal properly. Leave a little headroom so the gasket can do its job. If the latch feels loose or the lid doesn't sit flush, remove a few items and try again.

• Use the Food Crate Handle for easier carrying when the crate is full.

Storing the Crate at Camp

Once you're at camp, find a spot that's shaded and level. The elevated rubber feet keep the crate off damp ground, but you can also place it on a picnic table or a camp shelf for extra airflow. Avoid direct sunlight, because UV exposure can degrade food quality over time.

Keep the crate away from your sleeping area and cooking zone to reduce the chance of attracting animals. The odor-proof design helps, but smart placement is still important. Lock the latch if you're stepping away, especially in areas with raccoons or bears.

A checkpoint: every evening, inspect the crate for scratches or cracks that could compromise the seal. The crate is built tough, but no gear is indestructible. Catching damage early keeps your food safe for the next meal.

• Use a bungee cord to secure the crate to a tree or table if you're in a windy spot.

Feeding Your Dog at Camp

At mealtime, open the crate and take out one pre-portioned bag. Pour the kibble into a GUNNER Dog Bowl, which is rust proof, slip proof, and impact resistant. The spill-proof lid is handy for travel days or if your dog eats in the tent.

After your dog finishes, clean the bowl with camp-safe soap and water. Store the bowl inside the crate with the remaining portions to keep everything in one place. This cuts down on clutter and keeps your camp tidy.

A common mistake is leaving the crate open while you eat. Always close it right after grabbing a portion. That way, the odor-proof seal is active and your food stays protected from pests and weather.

• Pack a small brush to clean the bowl and crate interior at camp.

Step-by-Step: Using Your GUNNER Food Crate on a Camping Trip

1. Measure and portion: Calculate the exact amount of food your dog needs for the trip, plus a few extra meals. Portion kibble into sealed bags or containers. Checkpoint: You should have one bag per meal, ready to grab.
2. Load and seal: Place the portions inside the GUNNER Food Crate, leaving some headroom. Close the lid and ensure the latch clicks securely. Common mistake: Overpacking prevents a proper seal. Remove items if the lid doesn't sit flush.
3. Store at camp: Position the crate in a shaded, level spot, elevated off the ground. Lock the latch when not in use. Checkpoint: The crate should be away from direct sun and your sleeping area.
4. Feed and reseal: Open the crate, take one portion, and pour it into a GUNNER Dog Bowl. After feeding, clean the bowl and return it to the crate. Common mistake: Leaving the crate open. Always close it immediately to keep the odor-proof seal active.
5. Inspect daily: Each evening, check the crate for any damage that could compromise the seal. Wipe down the exterior if needed. Checkpoint: A clean, intact crate keeps your food safe for the next day.

Key GUNNER Products for Camping

• GUNNER FOOD CRATE - Black: Built with the same principles as our G1TM kennel series, the patent-pending GUNNER Food Crate has a IP66 rating, meaning it is waterproof and dust proof. It's also odor proof. It boasts an ultra-durable angled nylon lid, a draw-style lockable latch and elevated rubber feet to better protect pet food from outside elements, temperatures, and UV light. These features directly address the top camping challenges: rain, dirt, pests, and sun damage, so your dog's food stays fresh and safe on multi-day trips.
• GUNNER DOG BOWL - GUNNER GREEN: Designed for the home and ready for the road with our spill-proof lid: the GUNNER Dog Bowl is rust proof, slip proof & impact resistant. Made in America. A durable, spill-proof bowl is essential for feeding on uneven campsite ground or inside a tent, and it pairs perfectly with the Food Crate for a complete outdoor feeding setup.
• Food Crate Handle: Built with the same GUNNER-Grade materials and construction you trust, the ridged, rubber handle stays secure in hand, wet or dry. Fits the Food Crate 30. Carrying a full crate from the car to camp is easier with a secure, non-slip handle, especially when your hands are wet from rain or a stream crossing.

A GUNNER Food Crate turns one of camping's biggest hassles—keeping dog food fresh and safe—into a simple, reliable routine. With smart packing, proper placement, and a quick daily check, you and your dog can enjoy the outdoors without worrying about mealtime.