How much fuel do I need per day camping?

For basic meal preparation (2 boils per day for drinks and dehydrated meals), budget 20-30g of canister gas per day at low altitude. This means a 100g canister lasts 3-5 days, and a 230g canister lasts 7-10 days. Cold weather and altitude increase consumption by 10-35%.

Does altitude affect fuel consumption?

Yes. Water boils at a lower temperature at altitude (about 1°C less per 300m), but the lower air pressure also reduces stove efficiency. Budget 10% more fuel per 1,000m of altitude. Wind is also more prevalent at altitude — always use a windshield to protect your stove.

How do I know how much gas is left in a canister?

Weigh the canister — the empty weight is printed on it (typically 95-200g depending on size). Subtract the empty weight from current weight to find remaining gas. A 230g canister has an empty weight of about 130g, so full it weighs 360g. Never rely on the feel or sound test.

Can I take gas canisters on a plane?

No. Gas canisters are prohibited on all flights (cabin and hold). Buy canisters at your destination. In the UK, outdoor shops, camping stores, and many petrol stations stock standard screw-thread canisters. If travelling internationally, check that the thread type matches your stove.

CampCalcs

Fuel Canister Calculator

Calculate how many fuel canisters you need based on meals, boil times and altitude.

Trip Days

Number of days

Hot Meals per Day

Meal planning parameter

Boils per Meal

Including hot drinks

Water per Boil

Water volume or measurement

AltitudeEnter the altitude

Stove TypeStove specification

How We Calculate This

Fuel Calculation

Total boils = Days x Meals/day x Boils/meal

Fuel per boil = Fuel rate x Water volume x Altitude factor

Total fuel = Total boils x Fuel per boil

Fuel Rates (per litre boiled)

Canister: 20g, White gas: 18g, Alcohol: 35g, Solid fuel: 15g.

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Calculators

Calorie Calculator

Calculate daily calorie needs based on activity level, terrain and pack weight.

Water Requirement Calculator

Estimate water needs per day based on temperature, exertion and altitude.

Meal Planning Calculator

Plan meals for your trip with calorie targets, weight budgets and shopping lists.

Stove Burn Time Calculator

Estimate how long your stove fuel will last based on canister size and burn rate.

Food Weight Calculator

Calculate the total weight of food for your trip based on calories per gram.

Last updated: February 2026

All calculations are estimates. Always verify conditions and use proper safety equipment outdoors.