Last updated on December 30th, 2023 at 12:50 pm
The Best Backpacking Shovel: 12 Top Picks for Your Next Outdoor Event in 2022
Ever been stuck out in the wilderness with a dull shovel? It’s not the most pleasant experience. If you’re looking to get into camping, hiking, or backpacking and want to know what the best backpacking shovel is for your next outdoor event, we’ve got you covered.
When it comes to backpacking, a good shovel can make or break your experience. It’s not just about having a shovel that can handle heavy digging; it also needs to be lightweight enough to carry with you everywhere. If you’re planning on spending a lot of time outdoors, invest in a quality shovel that will last through several trips.
In this review article, we’ve analyzed 12 top products on the market based on durability, portability, and price-to-quality ratio.
Table of Contents
Quick Recommendations: The Best Backpacking Shovel
Rhino USA Folding Survival Shovel – Overall Best Backpacking Shovel
FiveJoy Military Folding Shovel C1 – Best Shovel with Unique Lock Adjustment
Gerber Gear Gorge Folding Shovel – Best Portable Camping Shovel
SOG Entrenching Tool Folding Shovel – Best Lightweight Backpacking Shovel
Tyger Shovel Military Compact Tool – Best Heavy Duty Backpacking Shovel
iunio Military Portable Folding Shovel – Best Affordable Camping Shovel
Gerber E-Tool Folding Spade – Best E-Tool for Backpacking
REDCAMP Military Folding Camping Shovel – Best Easy to Setup Shovel
Coleman Folding Shovel and Pick – Best Small Shovel for Camping
Stansport Prospecting Hand Trowel – Best Shovel with Measuring Scale
UST Light Duty Shovel – Best Shovel for Light Outdoor Works
Sea to Summit Pocket Trowel – Best Backpacking Pocket Shovel
12 Best Backpacking Shovels
Here are the best backpacking shovels, in our humble opinion. We have included both lightweight and durable options in this list. The idea is that you can choose one that matches your needs and preferences.
Rhino USA Folding Survival Shovel (Overall Best Backpacking Shovel)
Specifications:
Size: 24 x 6 x 3 inches
Weight: 2 pounds
Material: Alloy Steel
Looking for a versatile and durable shovel that can help you when camping or backpacking? The Rhino USA Folding Shovel could be a great option to take with you on your next trip.
This amazing tool can be extended to 31 inches long, or collapsed down to 7 inches, making it easy to store and transport. It’s also made of sturdy materials that can withstand harsh weather conditions.
The multi-function tool can help you dig your car out of the snow, start a fire, open a beverage and so much more. The possibilities are endless with this helpful gadget. The shovel folds up into a compact carrying bag, so you can take it with you wherever you go.
Rhino USA Folding Survival Shovel is useful for outdoor enthusiasts and anyone who wants a reliable, portable shovel they can depend on.
FiveJoy Military Folding Shovel C1 (Best Shovel With Unique Lock Adjustment)
Specifications:
Size: 18.5 x 4.5 inches
Weight: 2.44 pounds
Material: Carbon Steel and Aluminum
Another best backpacking shovel is FiveJoy Military. It is an ingenious tool that can be used as a shovel, hoe, or hook and has multiple angles so you can get the most use out of it.
The shovel’s sharp ax blade can easily cut through branches or logs, while the serrated saw edge makes short work of cutting through tougher materials. And if things take a turn for the worse, the hidden rescue knife can be accessed quickly and easily in an emergency situation.
This creative tool comes with a unique lock adjustment, so you can use it as both a shovel and a spade. It also has an emergency whistle, fire starter, and bottle opener – perfect for any outdoor enthusiast.
It’s lightweight, compact, and easy to transport, and the slip-proof foam cushion on the handle makes it comfortable to use.
Gerber Gear Gorge Folding Shovel (Best Portable Camping Shovel)
Specifications:
Size: 13.5 x 5 x 3 inches
Weight: 1.7 pounds
Handle Material: Fiberglass
The Gorge Folding Shovel is a good portable option for backpacking. This handy tool has a fold-down design for space-saving movability. While, its easy-to-use pushbutton slide mechanism makes it simple to set up, so you can get to work quickly.
The shovel features a pick which is great for tackling hard-packed ground, and it also has a hammer feature at the base to make things a little easier.
Gerber Gear Gorge Folding Shovel comes with a nylon bag to protect it when not in use, and its small size makes it easy to store or take with you on camping trips, hikes, or anywhere else you might need it.
SOG Entrenching Tool Folding Shovel (Best Lightweight Backpacking Shovel)
Specifications:
Size: 12 x 9 x 3 inches
Weight: 1.53 pounds
Material: Carbon Steel
If you are looking for a lightweight and multi-use shovel to take with you on your next backpacking trip, the SOG Entrenching Tool Folding Shovel could be a better choice. This tool features a three-way folding design and can fold down to just 10 inches, making it easy to store and transport.
The E-Tool has a wood saw edge for cutting small branches or logs and a rotating spade blade that can be adjusted to work as a pick or hoe.
SOG’s Entrenching Shovel is compact and portable, making it easy to take with you wherever you go. The high-carbon steel construction ensures durability and longevity.
This is a great tool for camping trips, emergencies, or any situation where you need to quickly dig yourself out of a hole!
Tyger Shovel Military Compact Tool (Best Heavy Duty Backpacking Shovel)
Specifications:
Size: 10 x 6 x 2 inches
Weight: 3 pounds
Material: Aluminum, Carbon Steel
This innovative Tyger Shovel Military Compact Tool is made for people who are looking for a heavy-duty shovel for backpacking.
The shovel’s unique instant switch mechanism and pull slider make it easy to switch between modes in seconds, so you can get the job done fast.
This versatile tool can do everything from start a fire to chop wood, making it perfect for any situation. Plus, it comes with a handy knife, ice pick, screwdriver, and more, so you’re always prepared for whatever comes your way.
This easy-to-use shovel is simple to store in your vehicle for emergencies.
iunio Military Portable Folding Shovel (Best Affordable Camping Shovel)
Specifications:
Size: 18.1 x 4.6 x 1.7 inches
Weight: 1.69 Pounds
Material: High Carbon Steel
The iunio Military Portable Folding Shovel is perfect for anyone who loves spending time outdoors but looking for an affordable option. Its 3-way trifold design makes it easy to carry, and the positive locking collar ensures that it stays in place. Plus, its multi-functionality makes it a valuable tool for any situation.
This shovel is made with a black powder coat finish to help prevent slips, and it can be used as a garden shovel, snow shovel, or trench shovel.
This handy tool is great for camping, backpacking, and all other outdoor activities. It’s easy to use and can be carried in your pocket or the included carrying bag.
Gerber E-Tool Folding Spade (Best E-Tool for Backpacking)
Specifications:
Size: 2.5 x 7 x 10.25 inches
Weight: 3.24 pounds
Material: Aluminum and glass-filled nylon
If you are in search of a reliable E-Tool for your next backpacking adventure, Gerber Folding Spade could be a useful option. This spade is made of powder-coated carbon steel and is Nato approved, making it tough enough to handle any terrain. It also features a serrated blade edge that can easily cut through tough materials.
It has sturdy anodized aluminum and glass-filled nylon, so it can handle whatever you throw at it. And when you’re finished using it, just fold it down to 9.3 inches long and stow it away in your pack.
The head of the spade also folds back so that you can use the pick, making this tool versatile and practical.
REDCAMP Military Folding Camping Shovel (Best Easy to Setup Shovel)
Specifications:
Size: 10.2 x 7.5 x 10.2 inches
Weight: 2.46 pounds
Material: Alloy Steel
This easy-to-setup and a multi-functional tool is very useful whether you’re backpacking in the wilderness or camping in your backyard.
It can be used either as a straight or angled shovel, hoe, pick, or saw, making it perfect for all sorts of applications.
The shovel is made of durable materials and has a triangular handle that makes it easy to grip and use. Plus, its blade thickness of 1.5mm ensures that it can handle even the most rugged terrain.
It folds up with a carrying pouch, making it easy to take with you on camping trips, hikes, or anywhere you might need it.
Coleman Folding Shovel and Pick (Best Small Shovel for Camping)
Specifications:
Size: 4.25 x 2.3 x 7.25 inches
Weight: 10 Grams
Material: Metal
This Coleman Folding Shovel and Pick is a great backpacking tool that’s compact and made of durable steel. It has a serrated edge for sawing, making it an essential piece of gear for any outdoor excursion.
This handy little shovel folds up easily to fit in your bag or pocket, and the locking mechanism ensures that it stays safe and secure while you’re using it.
The Coleman Folding Shovel is perfect for when you need to do some quick digging. It can be carried in its small carrying case, so it doesn’t take up much space in your pack. And when you need it, it’s ready to go.
Stansport Prospecting Hand Trowel (Best Shovel With Measuring Scale)
Specifications:
Size: 11 x 3.25 x 1.75 inches
Weight: 0.23 pounds
Material: Blend
If you are looking for a comfortable hand trowel for backpacking, this shovel could be a great inexpensive choice for you. With a reinforced handle and rugged ABS plastic construction, this trowel is built to last. It also comes with a comfortable grip, making it easy to use for extended periods of time.
With its handy measuring scale, you can easily gauge the depth of your digging. Whether you’re looking for gold or just some fresh air, this tool is sure to come in handy.
It’s lightweight and easy to carry, making it the perfect tool for any outdoor adventure.
UST Light Duty Shovel (Best Shovel for Light Outdoor Works)
Specifications:
Size: 6.8 x 2.4 x 0.8 inches
Weight: 0.64 ounces
Material: Aluminum
This handy tool is made of durable 7075-T6 aluminum and is perfect for backpacking and other lightweight activities.
UST’s Light Duty Shovel can be used effectively for little tasks like digging a fire pit or cleaning out your car. The handy carabiner makes it easy to attach to your gear, bag, or belt, and the lightweight construction makes it easy to take with you wherever you go.
Sea to Summit Pocket Trowel (Best Backpacking Pocket Shovel)
Specifications:
Size: 9.45 x 2.76 x 1.18 inches
Weight: 3.17 ounces
Material: Nylon
Whether you’re looking for a lightweight and compact backpacking trowel or something to help with general camping and gardening needs, the Sea to Summit Pocket Trowel can be a good choice for any outdoor enthusiast. With its reinforced nylon 66 construction, this handy tool has the ability to handle even the toughest soil.
The storage space in the trowel’s handle is perfect for carrying a lighter or some toilet tissue, and the trowel itself can withstand extremely cold temperatures. It’s also great for use on hard ground.
Comparison Table
| Shovel | SIZE | Weight | Material |
| Rhino USA Folding Survival Shovel | 24 x 6 x 3 inches | 2.35 pounds | Alloy Steel |
| FiveJoy Military Folding Shovel C1 | 18.5 x 4.5 inches | 2.44 pounds | Carbon Steel and Aluminum |
| Gerber Gear Gorge Folding Shovel | 13.5 x 5 x 3 inches | 1.7 pounds | Fiberglass |
| SOG Entrenching Tool Folding Shovel | 12 x 9 x 3 inches | 1.53 pounds | Carbon Steel |
| Tyger Shovel Military Compact Tool | 10 x 6 x 2 inches | 3 pounds | Aluminum, Carbon Steel |
| iunio Military Portable Folding Shovel | 18.1 x 4.6 x 1.7 inches | 1.69 pounds | High Carbon Steel |
| Gerber E-Tool Folding Spade | 2.5 x 7 x 10.25 inches | 3.24 pounds | Aluminum and glass-filled nylon |
| REDCAMP Military Folding Camping Shovel | 10.2 x 7.5 x 10.2 inches | 2.46 pounds | Alloy Steel |
| Coleman Folding Shovel and Pick | 4.25 x 2.28 x 7.24 inches | 10 Grams | Metal |
| Stansport Prospecting Hand Trowel | 11 x 3.25 x 1.75 inches | 0.23 pounds | Blend |
| UST Light Duty Shovel | 6.8 x 2.4 x 0.8 inches | 0.64 ounces | Aluminum |
| Sea to Summit Pocket Trowel | 9.45 x 2.76 x 1.18 inches | 3.17 ounces | Nylon |
Conclusion
With the top backpacking shovels reviewed in this article, you should have no problem selecting one that is perfect for your next outdoor adventure.
There are several things to consider when shopping for the best backpacking shovel. It’s important to think about how often you’ll need your shovel and what kind of jobs it will be used for.
As you can see from the above list, there are a lot of options when choosing the right shovel for outdoor activities. In our opinion, the Rhino USA Folding Survival Shovel is your best bet as it combines excellent quality with an affordable price tag. It’s durable and well-made, definitely worth checking out if you’re looking to buy a new backpacking shovel.
We hope that we’ve been able to provide you with some useful information about the best backpacking shovels on the market and help you make an informed decision.
Also Read: Backpacks for Hunting
Buying Guide: 7 Factors to Look For When Choosing
the Best Backpacking Shovel
One of the most important items when it comes to camping and hiking is a shovel. However, finding the best one can be a challenge, depending on your needs. When choosing a shovel, here are different aspects you need to consider if you want it to last for a long time.
Durability
If you’re looking for a shovel, you must be aware of its durability. That is why it is necessary to check the quality of the shovel before purchasing it. The quality of the shovel depends on its material.
In terms of material, the shovel can be divided into two categories, one is a plastic shovel, and the second is a metal shovel. Both of them can dig the soil. But the durability of them is different.
The plastic shovel is more suitable for carrying out light work, while metal shovels are made for more heavy-duty digging.
Weight
Many people make the mistake of buying a shovel that is too light for the job at hand. When you’re shoveling dirt, snow, or other heavy materials, having a light shovel can be extremely frustrating. However, if you are planning a simple backpacking trip, a lightweight shovel can be the best option.
Capacity
The capacity of a shovel refers to how much weight it can hold. Shovels with higher capacities will be able to carry more material than those with lower capacities.
Portability
Many hiking shovels are designed with portability in mind. The best backpacking shovels are compact and lightweight so they can be easily carried.
Multiple Usage Option
While backpacking, you may need to bury your poop and find water. You may also need to dig a hole and sleep in it or build a snow cave in winter. So the best shovel is one that can do all these things – and more.
Foldable Handle
If you are an avid backpacker, you know that space is at a premium. That’s why it’s essential to pack your gear intelligently and efficiently. The best way to do that is with a backpacking shovel that folds down into a small, portable package.
Locking System
If you are looking for a good shovel for camping, hiking, or backpacking, then finding one with a locking mechanism is important. The locking system will help to keep your blade in place and won’t let the handle slip off.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a poop shovel?
A poop shovel is a tool that you must have if you’re a dog owner. It’s an essential accessory for scooping the poop of your dog.
Do I need a trowel for backpacking?
Trowels are not a necessity for backpacking, but they can make your experience more pleasant. You can use a trowel to dig a cat hole to relieve yourself while in the backcountry.
Why do you need a shovel for backpacking?
While backpacking, you need a shovel for digging, cutting, and many other applications. In the backwoods, you can use it to create a fire pit for cooking.
What is a tactical shovel?
A tactical shovel is a tool that has been designed and crafted specifically for use in a combat or survival situation. Most tactical shovels are designed with military use in mind, although they are also great for camping and other outdoor activities.
The main difference between a traditional shovel and a tactical shovel is that the former is designed for digging and the latter is designed for combat. Tactical shovels tend to be larger than standard shovels, and are much sturdier. The handles are thicker and can be made from high-impact materials such as steel.
Should I bring a shovel backpacking?
One of the most important things to consider when packing for a backpacking trip is whether or not to bring a shovel. A shovel can be a lifesaver if you need to dig a latrine, build a shelter, or make a fire. However, shovels are also bulky and heavy, so you’ll need to decide if the extra weight is worth it.
Consider the following factors when making a decision:
· The climate you’ll be backpacking in. If you’re expecting snow, you’ll need a shovel to dig out your tent.
· The terrain you’ll be backpacking in. If you’re hiking in rocky or mountainous terrain, a shovel can help you build a fire ring.
· If you’re backpacking with a large group, you may be able to share the weight of the shovel.
Do you need a shovel when camping?
When planning a camping trip, you’ll need to carefully consider what gear to bring. One of the most essential pieces of camping gear is a shovel. A shovel can be used for a variety of tasks, from digging a latrine to clearing a path. It’s also a good idea to bring a shovel if you’re planning on doing any hiking or backpacking, as you may need to use it to build a shelter or clear a trail.
Do you need a shovel when camping? It depends on your individual needs and the type of trip you’re taking. However, in most cases, it’s a good idea to bring one along.
What is the best shovel for camping?
When it comes to finding the best shovel for camping, there are many factors to consider. First, you need to decide what type of shovel you need. There are many different types of shovels on the market, from small hand shovels to large snow shovels. Once you’ve decided on the type of shovel you need, you can then narrow down your options by considering things like size, weight, and material.
Shop around and compare different shovels before making your final decision. And remember, the best shovel for camping is the one that best meets your needs.
What is a survival shovel?
A survival shovel is a tool that can be used for a variety of purposes in a survival situation. It can be used to dig a fire pit, build shelter, dig through snow, and even do self-defense. A good shovel will have a durable blade that can stand up to heavy use, a comfortable handle that won’t rub your hands raw, and a sturdy build that won’t collapse under pressure.
A survival shovel is an essential tool for anyone who wants to be prepared for the worst. Make sure you have one in your survival kit and know how to use it before you find yourself in a situation where you need it.
