When choosing a good propane tank, it’s easy to want to go with the cheapest option on the open market.
In some cases, this is all you are going to need.
A lot of people that are using the propane tank as a standby option or will be going for a short camping trip don’t need anything more than a 1lb propane tank.
However, others will need a bigger propane tank, which is where the 5lb version comes into action. When getting one, it is best to ask, how long will a 5lb propane tank last?
A 5lb propane tank will last 10 camping days on average. It will last 10.5 hours for 10,000 BTU appliances. It is common to use these tanks for longer camping trips.
If you are thinking about going on a long camping trip, the 5lb propane tank will be advantageous. It is not going to get in the way and it will offer the energy source you are on the hunt for.
Do not look to go with the 1lb propane tank in such situations.
This article will provide tips on how to manage a 5lb propane tank to get it to last longer. If a 5lb propane tank lasts longer, you will enjoy its value.
Table of Contents
Tips For Managing A 5lb Propane Tank
1. 1/2 Lb of Propane Used Per Camping Day
To get a 5lb propane tank to last longer, you will need to do a few simple calculations.
The first detail to think about is how long the camping trip is going to be. How long will you need the propane tank?
For the most part, your camping trip needs to be less than 10 days for the propane tank to do its job. This is assuming you are not going to overextend it and you will use it as most people would.
If that is the case, you are going to only use 1/2 lb of propane per camping day.
This is the listed average based on studies done on this subject.
2. Use For Longer Camping Trips
If you are thinking about getting a propane tank for your camping needs, it is important to consider how you will use it.
You will want to think about what will happen if the propane tank runs out. Will you have access to another propane tank? Will you have a way to get another propane tank from the store?
If that is not the case, you will want to go with the bigger version.
As expected, the 5lb propane tank will last longer than the 1lb propane tank.
This is why most people use the 5lb propane tank for longer camping trips as it will last and is not going to get in the way.
3. Always Check Personal Usage Requirements
You will want to consider personal usage requirements too.
How will you be using the propane tank as soon as it is on-site? This matters because some will only use it as a temporary solution while others are going to be using it as their main energy source for appliances.
If that is the case, you will always want to go with the bigger propane tank.
You can get it to last longer when you are optimizing how it is used. Based on the calculations in this guide, you will know it is going to last around 10 camping days.
4. Keep The Propane Tank Protected
Your method for storing the propane tank while camping is also important.
Do not leave it out in the open.
If you leave it out in the open, this is dangerous but it is also going to compromise the tank’s performance. You will start losing propane and that is not good for how long you want it to last outdoors.
To get a propane tank to last longer outdoors, you will need to keep it safe.
This means not having it out in the rain or in a place where it will be exposed. Look to find a way to cover it and make sure the propane tank is safe.
Final Thoughts
How long will a 5lb propane tank last?
A 5lb propane tank will last approximately 10 days or 10.5 hours when used for a 10,000 BTU appliance. It’s recommended to use this type of propane tank for longer camping trips as it can handle the additional load.
Anyone that is thinking about taking a propane tank while camping will want to look at this option. This is big enough for most camping trips and will offer good results.
This is ideal for those who want to do things properly.
Do not compromise on this and make sure you are looking at going with a propane tank that works.
