About the Backpack Weight Calculator
Is your pack too heavy? Compares base weight and total pack weight with your body weight.
Also known as: backpack weight percentage, pack weight rule, base weight calculator.
How to use this calculator
- Enter weight unit, base pack weight (kg), food (kg), water (litres) and the other fields.
- The result updates instantly as you type — press Calculate (or Enter) at any time.
- Review the breakdown shown under the main result.
- Use Copy result or Share to save the answer or send a link with your inputs.
Formula
Aim for ≤ 20% of body weight (≤ 10% for ultralight base weight)
Worked example
Using the values pre-filled in the calculator above:
- Weight unit: kg
- Body weight = 75 kg
- Base pack weight (kg) = 7
- Food (kg) = 2.5
- Water (litres) = 2
the calculator returns:
- Total pack weight: 11.5 kg
- Percentage of body weight: 15.3%
- Recommended maximum (20%): 15 kg
- Verdict: Comfortable ✓