Supplies needed for the Voyage West
Durring the time of the Oregon Trail many voyagers tried to carry nothing over 2,000 pounds. This was th ensure on that nothing would tax the ox to much (or any animal pulling the wagon) on the five month voyage.
The average family carried about 1,600-1,800 pounds of supplies in just food alone. Typical foods brought along the Oregaon Trail were flour, hard tack or crackers, bacon, sugar, coffee, tea, beans, rice, dried fruit, salt, pepper, and saleratus (used for baking soda). Some people also brought whiskey or brandy, and medicines. Minimal cooking utensils included a cast iron skillet or spider, Dutch oven, reflector oven, coffee pot or tea kettle, and tin plates, cups, and knives, forks, spoons, matches, and crocks, canteens, buckets or water bags for liquids.
Weapons such as rifles, pistols, powder, lead, and shot were recommended for various acts. These acts include fighting off raiders or just for hunting different game along the trail.
As for clothing, people brought at least three worm cotton and linean pieces of clothing that would last the whole journey. It was also best that there was a sewing kit around for repairing any damged articles of clothing.
Although the price and supply of certain goods varied from year to year, for most emigrants it cost a minimum of $600 to $800 to assemble a basic outfit of wagon, oxen, and supplies.