I started by assuming that I'd take the full 21 days to complete the trail as per the guidebook, on this basis there were two key checkpoints, Vermillion Valley Resort VVR (meals accommodation and food to buy) and the Muir Trail Ranch MTR (Food pickup only unless booked well in advance).

The initial plan was therefore:

6 days food for setting out. Although VVRarrival was evening of Day 8 there were two opportunities to buy meals before then. I would then buy two days food at VVR to get me to MTR.

MTR - 10 days food required to the end of the trail. However I decided to pack only 8, if I was only making the guidebook timings I would need to buy more at VVR to supplement the 8 days that I wouldpick up at MTR.

In reality I arrived at VVR in the morning of Day 6, still with some food leftover. It took a day and a bit to get to MTR where I picked up the rest of my food. I walked out of the mountains with about 2oz of Cous Cous left!