Camping Supply Calculator
Calculate camping gear and food supply amounts from trip length, group size, and season.
Returns sleeping bags, tent capacity, meals, water, and fuel counts.
Camping Supply List
Trip pack weight is the single biggest factor in camping comfort. This calculator helps you stay within a safe carry weight and ensures no critical item is forgotten.
Total Pack Weight = Sum of All Item Weights
Recommended Max = Body Weight × 0.20 (20% of body weight rule)
The 20% Rule: Most hiking and backpacking experts recommend keeping your pack at or below 20% of your body weight for day hikes, and 25–30% for multi-day trips if you are conditioned.
Worked example: A 160-lb hiker on a 3-day trip:
- Recommended max: 160 × 0.20 = 32 lbs
- Tent: 4 lbs | Sleeping bag: 3 lbs | Pad: 2 lbs | Food: 6 lbs | Water: 4 lbs | Clothing: 5 lbs | Misc: 4 lbs
- Total: 28 lbs — safely within limit
Core gear categories and typical weights:
| Category | Ultralight | Standard |
|---|---|---|
| Shelter (tent) | 1–2 lbs | 3–6 lbs |
| Sleep system | 1.5–2.5 lbs | 3–5 lbs |
| Clothing | 2–3 lbs | 4–7 lbs |
| Food (per day) | 1.5 lbs | 2–2.5 lbs |
| Water + filter | 1 lb + water weight | 1.5–2 lbs |
| First aid + misc | 1–2 lbs | 2–4 lbs |
Never leave behind:
- Navigation (map + compass or GPS)
- Sun protection (SPF 30+, sunglasses, hat)
- Insulation (extra layer, emergency blanket)
- Illumination (headlamp + spare batteries)
- First aid kit
- Fire starter (lighter + waterproof matches)
- Repair tools (multi-tool, duct tape)
- Nutrition (extra emergency snacks)
- Hydration (water + purification)
- Emergency shelter (bivy or space blanket)