Backpacking Water Weight Calculator
Water is one of the heaviest items in a backpack. Use this calculator to estimate how much water you'll need to carry between refill sources, and how much it will add to your pack weight, so you can plan resupply stops wisely.
About this calculator
Calculate how much your water supply will weigh on a hike or backpacking trip based on distance between refill points, consumption rate, and number of hikers.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a liter of water weigh?
A liter of water weighs about 2.2 pounds (1 kilogram), which adds up quickly when carrying multiple liters.
How much water should I drink while hiking?
A common guideline is 0.5 to 1 liter per hour depending on heat, exertion, and elevation, adjust the consumption rate slider to match conditions.
Why include a safety margin?
Trail conditions, heat, or delays can increase your water needs beyond your normal rate, so a buffer helps avoid running dry between sources.