Why did Roman soldiers carry food for 4 days? ?
You intrigued me with this question as I am also interested in the period! I found this stuff: In addition to his weapons and armour a Roman soldier was trained to carry a considerable amount of other equipment. This was mainly carried on his shoulder as a pack mounted on a wooden cross frame. The contents of this pack are thought to include three days rations (although some sources quote as much as 17 days), a canteen of water, cooking equipment, a selection of tools, a cloak for bad weather and sleeping under and probably some spare clothing. Here’s the link. Although as a military man and an infanteer by profession over the last twenty years, the amounts may vary depending on the mission, how much was available to issue them and how far they had to go. Just some of the reason as to why the number varies so much. Although our learned colleague is correct do not get fixated with 4!
