First off, definitely bait barrels. This may ruffle some feathers and I am not trying to start a debate. I baited without a barrel for the first few years and changed my ways. By using a barrel, it will take from 4 days to 10 days for the bears eat it all. That allows you to get in further, and do it once a week. You need to bring enough bait to fill the barrel. That allows you to set it up, set your camera, and come back in a week to check it out. Barrels don't weigh that much, yes they are ungainly but not that hard to deal with.
http://www.monstermuleys.info/photos/user_photos_2019/64245baitbarrel.jpeg
Secondly, use an attract as you bait, we sometimes use a combo of marshmallow and jello, honey, etc. Use a burner to heat it or a sterno can. That will help get the ball rolling.
http://www.monstermuleys.info/photos/user_photos_2019/44920marshys.jpeg
Barrels also make it much harder for bears to get to the bait, holding bears much longer, and making bait last longer.
http://www.monstermuleys.info/photos/user_photos_2019/84872bearonbarrel.jpeg
Lastly, DO NOT USE PLASTIC OF ANY KIND! My buddy had a plastic barrel and got a ticket for it. It is right in the regulations, not even in a pale or milk jug!! The bears will tear it up and leave plastic everywhere.
"Containers: No bait may be contained within paper, plastic,
glass, metal, wood, or other nonbiodegradable materials,
except that a single metal container with a maximum size of
55 gallons may be used if securely attached at the bait site.
? No bait may be contained in any excavated hole greater
than 4 feet in diameter."