How Much Butane Do I Need for Backpacking?

By Anna Duncan

When you’re heading out on a backpacking trip, it’s essential to have the right supplies and equipment. One such item that can make or break a camping experience is butane.

But how much butane do you need for backpacking? The answer depends on several factors, including the size of your camping group, the type of camping stove you’ll be using, and the length of your camping trip.

For starters, if you’re camping with a large group, then you’ll need more butane than if you were backpacking solo or with just one other person. A good rule of thumb is to bring one canister of butane per two people in your party. For example, if four people are going on a weekend trip, then two cans of butane should be sufficient.

The type of backpacking stove that you use also has an effect on how much butane you’ll need. For instance, if you use a traditional open-flame stove that burns fuel such as wood or coal, then you won’t need any additional butane at all. However if you opt for a more modern backpacking stove that runs off canisters of propane or butane fuel, then it will require more fuel than an open-flame stove.

Finally, the length of your camping trip is another important factor to consider when determining how much butane to bring. Generally speaking, one 8-ounce canister should last about three days for two people when using a modern backpacking stove. However if your trip is longer or shorter than three days, then adjust accordingly.

Conclusion:

When figuring out how much butane to bring on your next backpacking trip, consider the size of your party and the type and duration of your camping adventure. A good rule to follow is one 8-ounce canister per two people in your party for a three day period when using a modern backpacking stove. Keep in mind that these guidelines may vary depending on specific circumstances so adjust as needed.