Imagine this: you’re deep in the backcountry, miles from any comfort. Nature calls, and you need to properly bury your waste to leave no trace. But your flimsy trowel bends, or worse, you forgot one entirely! It’s a common, and frankly, annoying problem for many backpackers.
Choosing the right backpacking shovel can feel like a quest in itself. Do you need something super lightweight? Does it need to be tough enough for frozen ground? The sheer number of choices can be overwhelming, and a bad choice can lead to frustration, extra weight, or even a less-than-ideal experience out in the wild. We’ve all been there, wishing we’d done a little more research.
Don’t let shovel selection stress you out! This post is here to be your trusty guide. We’ll break down exactly what makes a great backpacking shovel, the key features to look for, and how to pick the perfect one for your adventures. Get ready to dig into the details and find a tool that will serve you well on every trip!
Our Top 5 Backpacking Shovel Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Backpacking Shovel Detailed Reviews
1. Ultralight Backpacking Trowel Aluminum Shovel Small Potty Multitool with Longer Handle Design Essential for Hiking
Rating: 8.7/10
When you’re out exploring the great outdoors, having the right gear makes all the difference. The Ultralight Backpacking Trowel Aluminum Shovel is designed to be your go-to tool for all sorts of outdoor needs. It’s built tough from high-quality aluminum, so it won’t rust or break easily, even when it’s wet. This trowel is a lifesaver for backpackers who need to leave no trace behind.
What We Like:
- It’s super light and made of strong aluminum that resists rust and breaking.
- The longer handle makes digging easier and more comfortable.
- It digs holes quickly and effectively, even in tough or rocky ground.
- The sharp edges help cut through roots and get the job done fast.
- It’s a handy tool for cleaning up campsites, burying waste, and general survival needs.
- Buying two or more saves you 5%.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s great for most soil, extremely hard, compacted clay might still be a challenge.
- The “small potty” aspect means it’s best for individual use, not large group needs.
This trowel is an essential piece of gear for any outdoor adventure. It’s durable, functional, and makes responsible outdoor practices easy.
2. Coghlan’s Trowel – Lightweight ABS Plastic Camping Shovel
Rating: 9.0/10
The Coghlan’s Trowel is a super handy tool for anyone who loves the outdoors. It’s a small, lightweight shovel made of tough ABS plastic. It weighs next to nothing, only 2 ounces, so it won’t slow you down on your hikes. This makes it perfect for backpacking and camping when you need to pack light.
What We Like:
- Super light and easy to carry – fits right in your backpack.
- Made of strong plastic that can handle tough conditions.
- Great for digging cat holes for waste or making small trenches to keep your campsite dry.
- The handle feels good in your hand and helps you dig even in tricky spots.
- It’s a really useful tool for all sorts of camping jobs.
What Could Be Improved:
- While durable for its size, it might not be the best for digging through very hard, rocky ground repeatedly.
- It’s a simple tool, so it doesn’t have extra features like a serrated edge.
This trowel is a fantastic, affordable tool for campers and hikers. It’s a simple yet effective addition to your outdoor gear.
3. NACETURE Ultralight Backpacking Trowel Aluminum Shovel Small Potty Multitool with Longer Handle Design Essential for Hiking
Rating: 9.4/10
The NACETURE Ultralight Backpacking Trowel is a must-have for any outdoor adventurer. This orange trowel is made of strong aluminum, so it won’t rust or break easily. It’s designed to be super light, making it perfect for backpacking where every ounce counts. You can use it for many things, like digging catholes, cleaning up your campsite, or even burying pet waste.
What We Like:
- It’s ultralight, so it won’t weigh down your backpack.
- Made from high-quality aluminum, it’s built to last and resist rust and corrosion.
- The longer, easy-grip handle makes digging easier and more comfortable.
- Its sharp edges help you dig through tough ground, roots, and even rocky soil quickly.
- It’s a versatile multitool, perfect for camping, hiking, and survival situations.
- You can save 5% if you buy two or more.
What Could Be Improved:
- The color orange might not be everyone’s favorite for an outdoor tool.
- While durable, excessive force on extremely hard or rocky ground could still pose a risk of damage.
This trowel is a reliable and practical tool for any outdoor trip. It’s a smart addition to your gear for responsible outdoor practices.
4. RHINO USA Folding Survival Shovel w/Pick – Heavy Duty Carbon Steel Military Style Entrenching Tool for Off Road
Rating: 8.8/10
Get ready for anything with the RHINO USA Folding Survival Shovel w/Pick. This tough tool is built for adventure, from digging out your car stuck in the mud to tending your garden. It’s a reliable companion for campers, off-roaders, and even beachgoers. Plus, it’s from a family-owned American business.
What We Like:
- It’s a 3-in-1 tool: a shovel, a pickaxe, and a pick hoe. You can change its shape easily for different jobs.
- It’s super portable. It folds down small, about the size of a large book, and comes with a strong carrying case.
- It’s made of strong carbon steel with a special coating to stop rust. This makes it last a long time.
- Rhino USA offers a lifetime replacement guarantee. If it breaks, they’ll replace it.
- It’s a father and son business, and they offer great customer support from the USA.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s tough, it only weighs 2 pounds. For some really serious digging, you might want something heavier.
- The folding mechanism, while convenient, might be a point of weakness over many years of heavy use compared to a solid, one-piece shovel.
This shovel is a fantastic, versatile tool for anyone who enjoys the outdoors or needs a handy digging implement. Its durability and portability make it a smart investment for your adventures.
5. TheTentLab(R Deuce(R) of Spades™Ultralight Backpack Trowel in Three Sizes (#2
Rating: 8.6/10
The TentLab Deuce of Spades Ultralight Backpack Trowel is a game-changer for anyone who enjoys spending time outdoors. Designed for backpackers and campers, this trowel makes digging a “poop-hole” much easier and cleaner. It’s made with super strong aluminum, like what’s used in rockets and planes. Plus, it comes in fun colors and has a lifetime warranty, so you know it’s built to last.
What We Like:
- It’s super light, especially the #1 size at just .45oz.
- You can use it upside down to check the ground for rocks or roots before you dig.
- Using it upside down also helps you break up hard dirt and pull out rocks, making digging up to 4 times easier.
- The scoop is big enough to quickly move dirt.
- It’s made from strong, aerospace-grade aluminum in the USA and South Korea.
- The edges are smooth and rounded, so it’s comfortable to hold.
- It comes in cool colors that stop it from getting smudged and prevent rust.
- It’s a great tool to help you practice Leave No Trace principles.
- It has a lifetime warranty.
What Could Be Improved:
- The #1 size might be too small for some people who aren’t super focused on ultralight gear.
- The #3 size, while strong, is heavier than the other two.
This trowel is a smart addition to any outdoor kit. It makes a sometimes unpleasant task much more manageable and eco-friendly.
Your Essential Guide to Choosing the Best Backpacking Shovel
When you’re out in the wilderness, far from civilization, a good backpacking shovel is more than just a tool; it’s a lifesaver. Whether you need to dig a cathole for waste, level a campsite, or even dig yourself out of a snowdrift, having the right shovel makes a huge difference. This guide will help you pick the perfect one for your adventures.
1. Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for a backpacking shovel, keep these important features in mind:
- Size and Weight: You’ll be carrying this shovel, so it needs to be lightweight and compact. Look for shovels that fold or collapse easily. They should be small enough to fit in your backpack without being a burden.
- Durability: Your shovel needs to withstand tough conditions. It should be strong enough to dig into hard soil, snow, or even ice without breaking.
- Ergonomics: How the shovel feels in your hands matters. A comfortable grip will make digging easier and less tiring, especially if you’re doing a lot of work.
- Blade Shape: The shape of the shovel’s blade affects its use. Some are pointed for piercing tough ground, while others are wider for moving more material. A good all-around shovel often has a slightly curved blade.
- Adjustable Handle: Some shovels have handles that you can adjust to different lengths. This can be helpful for getting the right leverage for different tasks.
2. Important Materials
The materials used to make your shovel play a big role in its performance and lifespan.
- Aluminum: This is a very popular choice because it’s lightweight and strong. Many high-quality backpacking shovels use aircraft-grade aluminum. It resists rust, which is great for outdoor gear.
- Steel: Steel is very strong and durable. However, it can be heavier than aluminum. Some steel shovels are treated to prevent rust.
- Plastic: Some very lightweight, inexpensive shovels use strong plastics. These are usually best for lighter tasks like moving soft snow or loose dirt. They might not hold up to hard use.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things can make a backpacking shovel better or worse.
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Improved Quality:
- Thickened Materials: Shovels made with thicker aluminum or steel are usually more durable.
- Reinforced Joints: If the shovel collapses or folds, look for strong connections that won’t bend or break easily.
- Good Finish: A smooth, protective coating on metal parts helps prevent corrosion and makes the shovel easier to clean.
- T-Handle or D-Handle: These types of handles offer a better grip and more control than a simple straight handle.
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Reduced Quality:
- Thin or Weak Materials: Shovels made with thin metal or cheap plastic might bend or snap.
- Poorly Made Joints: Loose or flimsy connections in folding or telescoping shovels are a sign of low quality.
- Rust Prone Materials: If a steel shovel isn’t treated properly, it can rust quickly.
- Uncomfortable Grip: A slippery or poorly shaped handle can make the shovel difficult and painful to use.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
How will you use your shovel? Thinking about this helps you choose the right one.
- Camping: You might use it to clear a fire pit, dig tent stakes into hard ground, or create a level spot for your tent.
- Hiking: For day hikes or longer treks, a compact shovel is useful for digging catholes for human waste, following Leave No Trace principles.
- Snowshoeing/Winter Camping: In snowy conditions, a shovel is essential for digging out your tent site, building snow walls for shelter, or even digging a snow cave.
- Emergency Situations: In unexpected events, like getting stuck in mud or needing to clear debris, a sturdy shovel can be a lifesaver.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the most important feature of a backpacking shovel?
A: The most important feature is a balance between being lightweight and durable. You need it to be strong enough for tough jobs but light enough to carry comfortably.
Q: Should I get a metal or plastic shovel?
A: For most backpacking, a metal shovel (aluminum or steel) is better because it’s much stronger and more durable than plastic. Plastic shovels are only good for very light snow or loose dirt.
Q: How small should a backpacking shovel be?
A: It should be compact enough to fit easily into your backpack. Many fold or collapse down to the size of a small hand tool.
Q: Does the shape of the blade matter?
A: Yes, the shape matters. A pointed blade helps break up hard ground, while a wider blade moves more dirt or snow at once. A slightly curved blade is good for general use.
Q: Is a T-handle or D-handle better?
A: Both T-handles and D-handles offer a better grip and more control than a simple straight handle. A T-handle is often good for digging, while a D-handle can be useful for prying.
Q: How do I know if a shovel is durable?
A: Look for shovels made from thick aluminum or steel. Check reviews to see if users report them breaking or bending easily.
Q: Can I use a regular garden shovel for backpacking?
A: No, regular garden shovels are too big and heavy for backpacking. Backpacking shovels are specifically designed to be lightweight and collapsible.
Q: How do I maintain my backpacking shovel?
A: After use, clean off any dirt or mud. If it’s metal, dry it thoroughly to prevent rust, especially if it’s made of steel.
Q: What are Leave No Trace principles, and how does a shovel help?
A: Leave No Trace principles help protect the outdoors. A shovel helps you dig catholes for human waste at least 200 feet from water sources, campsites, and trails, then cover them up to minimize impact.
Q: When should I consider a specialized shovel (like for snow)?
A: If you frequently go winter camping or snowshoeing, a wider, lighter snow shovel is much more efficient for moving snow than a general-purpose digging shovel.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Melody Smith is a passionate writer, outdoor enthusiast, and camping expert based in the Seattle Metropolitan Area. With a deep love for nature and adventure, she shares her personal experiences, tips, and insights on MyCampingPro.com. A seasoned camper and traveler, Melody combines her creative background in design and writing with her love for the great outdoors, offering practical advice and inspiring stories to help others make the most of their outdoor experiences. When she’s not exploring the wilderness, you can find her painting, collecting vintage treasures, or diving into a good book.