The honest answer: less than you fear, more than you plan

Water usage isn’t about tank size - it’s about habits.

Typical daily water use (per person)

• Drinking & cooking: 3-5L
• Washing dishes: 5-10L
• Quick showers: 10-15L

Rough average: 20-30L per person per day

Where water disappears fastest

• Long showers
• Washing sand-covered gear
• Leaks and loose fittings (often unnoticed)

Off-road specific risks

Corrugations loosen:

• Hose clamps
• Fittings
• Tank breathers

Small leaks add up fast.

Stretching water responsibly

• Navy showers
• Shared dishwashing water
• Checking fittings after rough roads

The most experienced travellers don’t carry more water - they waste less.

The takeaway

Running out of water is rarely bad luck. It’s usually unplanned usage or unnoticed loss.