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A 220g cartridge does not come with a fixed number of breakfasts. Runtime depends on the stove’s consumption and how you cook. Start with the appliance specification, then turn burner minutes into a realistic meal plan.
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Use fuel mass and consumption in the same units
The basic calculation is fuel mass in grams divided by consumption in grams per hour. For a hypothetical stove using 160g/h continuously, 220 ÷ 160 gives 1.375 hours, or about 83 minutes. This is a simple estimate, not a tested runtime for every 220g cartridge.
Check that the number on the cartridge is the fuel content, not the total weight of the metal container and gas. Use the consumption figure for the actual appliance and, where relevant, the number of burners operating.
Keep published runtime separate from arithmetic
The Campingaz Camp’Bistro 3 specification lists 160g/h consumption and a CP250 runtime of 1 hour 15 minutes. Those published figures do not exactly match a simple 220g division. Do not replace the maker’s stated runtime with the arithmetic result and call it guaranteed performance.
The Camp’Bistro 3 on Amazon UK is one stove to compare, with its specified cartridge. A similar-shaped cartridge is not automatically an approved substitute.
Count burner time across the day
Write down each cooking session: morning drinks, breakfast, lunch and dinner. If your own observed use totals 25 minutes a day, that is a planning input—not evidence that every cartridge will provide three full days.
Wind, water temperature, pan choice and cooking method affect the work required. Lower heat can reduce instantaneous consumption, but a dish that cooks for longer still uses fuel. Include repeated boils for a group rather than counting a family breakfast as one cup.
Build a practical reserve
Measure your routine on a short trip or a controlled outdoor practice session, following the stove instructions. Keep a note of burner time and cartridge changes. Use that experience alongside the specification when packing fuel.
Allow for delays, extra hot drinks and the possibility of a partly used cartridge. Do not try to extract the final fuel by heating, refilling or modifying a disposable cartridge. Store and dispose of it according to the supplier and local waste guidance.
A useful fuel plan ends with sufficient compatible cartridges and a simple backup meal, rather than an exact-looking runtime treated as a promise.
Continue with our camping gas guide.
Reviewed 10 September 2026. This guide is based on published specifications and guidance.