Ever been caught in the woods, nature calling, and suddenly realize you’re missing a very important tool? That’s right, a trowel! Backpacking is awesome, but it comes with a responsibility: Leave No Trace. This means properly burying your waste, and that’s where a good trowel comes in handy. But choosing the right one can be tricky. There are so many different types, materials, and sizes. How do you pick the best trowel for your backpacking adventures?
Ignoring this important step can lead to some unpleasant situations and can also damage the environment. Imagine the mess! Plus, a poorly chosen trowel might break on the first trip, leaving you in a bind. This blog post cuts through the confusion. We’ll explore the best trowels for backpacking and help you understand what features to look for.
By the end of this post, you’ll be a trowel expert! You’ll know the essential features, how to choose the right size and material, and which trowels are top-rated. Get ready to dig into the details and prepare for your next outdoor adventure. Let’s get started!
Our Top 5 Trowel For Backpacking Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Trowel For Backpacking Detailed Reviews
1. TheTentLab(R Deuce(R) of Spades™Ultralight Backpack Trowel in Three Sizes (#2
Rating: 9.0/10
TheTentLab(R) Deuce(R) of Spades™ Ultralight Backpack Trowel is a clever tool for outdoor adventures. It helps you follow Leave No Trace principles. This trowel makes digging a cathole easy. The Deuce of Spades comes in three sizes to fit your needs. It is a must-have for any backpacker.
What We Like:
- Probing for rocks is easy with the Deuce. Use it upside down to find any rocks or roots.
- The scoop is big enough to quickly remove dirt.
- It can break up hard dirt and pry out rocks. This gives you more digging power.
- Three sizes are available to suit your needs.
- It’s made from strong, aerospace-grade aluminum.
- The trowel is anodized in fun colors. This prevents corrosion and smudges.
- It has a lifetime warranty.
- The edges are smooth and rounded for comfort.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users may want a smaller size for even more weight savings.
The Deuce of Spades is a great tool for outdoor enthusiasts. It is well-made and easy to use. This trowel will help you do the right thing on your next adventure.
2. BoglerCo Ultralight Backpacking Trowel
Rating: 8.6/10
The BoglerCo Ultralight Backpacking Trowel is a must-have for any hiker. This tiny trowel is super light! It weighs only 0.48 oz (13.5g). That’s less than three nickels! It’s bright orange, so you won’t lose it easily. This trowel helps you dig a proper cat hole. It is great for burying waste on the trail. It is made in the USA and has a lifetime warranty.
What We Like:
- It’s incredibly light. You won’t even feel it in your pack!
- The end cap is comfy to hold. You can dig with power.
- It has cutting teeth on both sides. This makes digging easier.
- The trowel is made in the USA.
- It comes with a lifetime warranty.
What Could Be Improved:
- The small size might make it a little harder to dig in tough ground.
Overall, the BoglerCo Ultralight Backpacking Trowel is a great tool. It is a perfect choice for hikers who want to travel light.
3. Ultralight Backpacking Trowel Aluminum Shovel Small Potty Multitool with Longer Handle Design Essential for Hiking
Rating: 8.8/10
Need a reliable trowel for your outdoor adventures? This Ultralight Backpacking Trowel is your answer! This small, black aluminum shovel is a must-have for hikers, campers, and anyone who enjoys the great outdoors. Designed for ultralight backpacking, it’s tough, easy to use, and won’t weigh you down. It’s perfect for digging catholes, cleaning up campsites, and even for survival situations. And the best part? Buy two or more and save 5%!
What We Like:
- Made from strong aluminum that won’t rust. It will last a long time!
- Digs holes quickly, even in tough ground.
- Has sharp edges to cut through roots.
- The handle is long and easy to hold.
- It’s small and light, so it won’t take up much space in your bag.
- Works great for burying waste at campsites.
What Could Be Improved:
- None
This ultralight trowel is a fantastic tool for any outdoor enthusiast. It’s a smart purchase that will make your camping and hiking trips much more enjoyable.
4. NACETURE Ultralight Backpacking Trowel Aluminum Shovel Small Potty Multitool with Longer Handle Design Essential for Hiking
Rating: 8.8/10
The NACETURE Ultralight Backpacking Trowel is a must-have tool for any hiker or camper. This small, lightweight trowel is made from strong aluminum. It’s designed to dig holes quickly and easily, even in tough ground. This makes it perfect for burying waste, cleaning up campsites, and more. It’s a great addition to your gear for any outdoor adventure.
What We Like:
- It’s ultralight and easy to carry.
- The aluminum is strong and won’t rust.
- The sharp edges make digging easy.
- The long handle is comfortable to use.
- It’s great for burying waste and cleaning up.
- You can save money when you buy two or more.
What Could Be Improved:
- The size is good, but some might prefer a larger scoop.
Overall, the NACETURE Ultralight Backpacking Trowel is a fantastic tool for any outdoor enthusiast. It’s a small, but mighty, tool that is worth adding to your backpack.
5. Trowel
Rating: 9.5/10
The Trowel is a simple but essential tool for any gardener. It’s designed to help you dig, plant, and move soil. This trowel is made for various tasks, from small planting projects to larger garden jobs. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned gardener, a good trowel is a must-have in your gardening kit. It is a trusty companion to have in your garden.
What We Like:
- It’s lightweight and easy to handle.
- The trowel is durable and can handle tough soil.
- It’s perfect for planting seeds and small plants.
- The price is affordable for most gardeners.
- Cleaning the trowel is very easy.
What Could Be Improved:
- The handle could be more ergonomic for extended use.
- The blade could be slightly wider for bigger jobs.
In conclusion, the Trowel is a good tool for basic gardening needs. It is a good choice for those starting their gardening journey.
Digging Deep: Your Guide to the Best Backpacking Trowel
Heading out on a backpacking trip? You’ll need a trowel! It’s a small shovel for burying human waste. This keeps the trails clean and protects the environment. Here’s how to choose the right one.
Q: What is a backpacking trowel used for?
A: A backpacking trowel is used for digging cat holes. These holes are where you bury human waste in the backcountry.
Key Features to Look For
You want a trowel that works well. It should be easy to use and strong.
- Size and Weight: Backpacking is all about saving space and weight. Look for a trowel that is compact and lightweight. It should fit easily in your backpack.
- Handle Design: A good handle is easy to grip. It should be comfortable. Some handles have a textured grip for better control.
- Blade Shape: The blade needs to be strong. It should be able to dig through different types of soil. A pointed or serrated edge can help with tough ground.
- Durability: The trowel must last. Choose one made from strong materials. Check reviews to see how well it holds up.
- Depth Markers: Some trowels have markers. These help you dig the correct depth (6-8 inches).
Q: Why is a backpacking trowel important?
A: A backpacking trowel helps you follow Leave No Trace principles. It keeps the wilderness clean and healthy.
Important Materials
The material affects the trowel’s strength and weight.
- Aluminum: Aluminum trowels are popular. They’re lightweight and strong. They can bend, but they are generally durable.
- Plastic: Plastic trowels are usually the cheapest. They are lightweight but might not be as durable. They can crack or break.
- Titanium: Titanium trowels are very strong and lightweight. They are often the most expensive option. They can handle tough digging.
Q: What is the best material for a backpacking trowel?
A: The best material depends on your needs and budget. Aluminum is a good balance of weight and strength. Titanium is the strongest but most expensive. Plastic is the cheapest but least durable.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Some things make a trowel better. Other things make it worse.
- Construction: A well-made trowel is stronger. Look for trowels with a solid construction. Avoid those that seem flimsy or poorly assembled.
- Blade Thickness: A thicker blade is stronger. It will be less likely to bend or break.
- Handle Design: A comfortable handle makes digging easier. A good handle will help you dig more efficiently.
- Reviews: Read reviews from other users. They can tell you about the quality of the trowel. They may have used it in similar conditions as you.
Q: How deep should I dig with my backpacking trowel?
A: You should dig a hole at least 6-8 inches deep.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you’ll use the trowel. This affects your choice.
- Ease of Use: The trowel should be easy to handle. It should dig into the ground easily.
- Ergonomics: A comfortable grip makes digging easier. Look for a handle that fits your hand well.
- Durability in Different Soils: Some areas have hard or rocky soil. Choose a trowel that can handle these conditions.
- Storage: Think about how you will carry the trowel. Some have holes for attaching them to your pack.
Q: How do I clean my backpacking trowel?
A: You should clean your trowel with soap and water after each use. Then, let it dry completely.
Q: What should I do with the soil after burying waste?
A: You should cover the buried waste with the soil you dug out. Then, you should tamp it down.
Q: Where should I dig my cat hole?
A: You should dig your cat hole at least 200 feet away from water sources, trails, and campsites.
Q: What if the ground is too hard to dig?
A: If the ground is too hard, try to find a different location. You may also try to use your foot to help break up the ground.
Q: Can I use a regular garden trowel for backpacking?
A: You could, but it might be too heavy and bulky. Backpacking trowels are designed to be lightweight and compact.
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.