Picture this: you’re deep in the woods, ready to set up camp, and suddenly realize you don’t have the right shovel to clear a spot or dig a small fire pit. Frustrating, right?
Carrying a heavy or bulky shovel can make backpacking even harder. That’s why choosing the best shovel for backpacking is so important. The right tool is lightweight, strong, and easy to carry. It makes your outdoor trips safer and more enjoyable.
Whether you need to dig, clear dirt, or even use it as a multitool, having the perfect shovel saves time and effort. In this article, I’ll share the best options that fit perfectly in your backpack and handle all your outdoor needs. Keep reading to find the shovel that will make your next adventure smoother and more fun.
Naceture Ultralight Backpacking Trowel
The NACETURE Ultralight Backpacking Trowel Aluminum Shovel is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts who prioritize lightweight and compact gear. Perfect for hikers, campers, and survivalists, this multitool is designed for those who need an efficient and durable tool to assist with digging, small potty needs, and other outdoor tasks without adding unnecessary weight to their packs.
Pros:
- Made from durable aluminum for strength and longevity
- Ultralight design weighs only 0.06 pounds, minimizing pack load
- Compact dimensions (7.6 x 2.8 x 0.7 inches) fit easily in survival and camping bags
- Longer handle design offers better leverage and ease of use
- Bright orange color makes it easy to locate in your gear
Cons:
- Smaller size may limit digging depth for some heavy-duty tasks
- Aluminum, while durable, may bend under extreme pressure compared to steel alternatives
The NACETURE Ultralight Backpacking Trowel stands out for its combination of lightweight construction and practical functionality. Crafted from sturdy aluminum, it provides a reliable tool for digging tasks and managing small potty duties during backcountry adventures. The longer handle design enhances user comfort and efficiency, reducing strain when digging or scooping, which is essential on long hikes or survival situations.
Its compact size and bright orange color make it an excellent addition to any outdoor kit, ensuring it won’t be easily lost and is convenient to carry. Ideal for hikers and campers who need a balance of portability and utility, this trowel integrates seamlessly into survival bags without adding bulk, making it a smart choice for those who value preparedness and convenience.
To buy this product, click here.
Ultralight Backpacking Trowel Aluminum Shovel
The Ultralight Backpacking Trowel Aluminum Shovel with a Longer Handle Design is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts who prioritize lightweight and compact gear. Perfect for hikers, campers, and those preparing survival bags, this multitool offers convenience and functionality without adding unnecessary bulk. If you need a reliable tool for digging small holes, managing campsite waste, or other outdoor tasks, this trowel is designed for you.
Pros:
- Constructed from durable aluminum making it both lightweight and sturdy
- Longer handle design provides better leverage and easier digging
- Compact size with dimensions of 7.6 inches height, 2.8 inches width, and 0.7 inches length for easy carrying
- Extremely lightweight at approximately 0.06 pounds, ideal for ultralight backpacking
- Multipurpose tool suitable for digging, small potty needs, and other campsite uses
Cons:
- Limited to small digging tasks due to compact size
- Single color option (Black 1 Pack) may not appeal to everyone
- Aluminum material, while strong, may not withstand extremely heavy-duty use
This ultralight aluminum trowel offers an excellent balance between portability and performance, making it a must-have for anyone involved in backpacking or camping. Its longer handle enhances grip and leverage, allowing for more efficient digging while minimizing hand fatigue. The compact design fits comfortably in most survival bags and packs without taking up much space, ensuring that you can carry it without burden.
In addition to its primary function as a digging tool, this multitool serves as a practical accessory for campsite hygiene needs, such as managing waste in the outdoors. The durable aluminum construction guarantees resilience against rust and wear, ensuring long-term reliability in various weather conditions. Overall, the NACETURE Ultralight Backpacking Trowel is an essential item for outdoor adventurers who demand lightweight, functional, and versatile gear.
To buy this product, click here.
Survival Shovel With Pickaxe
The Survival Shovel with Pickaxe is an ideal tool for outdoor enthusiasts, including campers, hikers, off-roaders, and survivalists who require a versatile and compact piece of equipment. Those who frequently engage in outdoor activities and need a reliable, multifunctional tool for digging, chopping, or emergency situations will find this item especially useful. Its adjustable folding design makes it perfect for anyone looking for portability without compromising on functionality.
Pros:
- Heavy-duty, multifunctional design combining shovel and pickaxe
- 3-section adjustable folding mechanism for easy storage and transport
- Durable construction suitable for demanding outdoor tasks
- Compact dimensions (14.0 inches length) make it portable and space-saving
- Silver color gives it a sleek, tactical look
Cons:
- May be heavier than simpler single-purpose tools
- Requires practice to assemble and adjust efficiently
- Limited blade size may not be suitable for very large digging tasks
The TigerParty Survival Shovel with Pickaxe features a robust construction that ensures durability in tough outdoor conditions. Its 3-section adjustable folding design allows users to easily customize the length and compactness of the tool, enhancing portability without sacrificing performance. This makes it a practical choice for carrying in backpacks or vehicle storage compartments during camping, hiking, or off-roading trips.
Additionally, the multifunctional aspect of the shovel, which incorporates a pickaxe, provides versatility for various outdoor tasks such as digging fire pits, clearing debris, or breaking hard ground. The heavy-duty tactical design offers strength and reliability, ensuring that users can depend on this gear for survival situations or routine outdoor activities. Overall, this survival shovel combines convenience, durability, and versatility, making it a valuable addition to any outdoor gear collection.
To buy this product, click here.
Rhino Usa Folding Survival Shovel
The RHINO USA Folding Survival Shovel w/Pick is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, campers, off-road adventurers, and gardeners who need a reliable, multi-functional digging tool. Whether you’re tackling tough soil, sand, mud, or snow, this heavy-duty entrenching tool is designed for those who value durability and versatility in a compact, portable design.
Pros:
- Heavy-duty carbon steel construction ensures long-lasting strength and durability.
- Folding design for easy storage and portability during outdoor activities.
- Multi-functional with an integrated pick, suitable for digging in various terrains.
- Lightweight at just 2.0 pounds, making it easy to carry without sacrificing performance.
- Military style design provides rugged reliability for demanding environments.
Cons:
- Handle length may feel short for some users requiring deeper digging leverage.
- Black finish can show scratches more prominently after heavy use.
The RHINO USA Folding Survival Shovel features a robust carbon steel blade that can easily cut through dirt, sand, mud, and snow, making it a versatile tool for a variety of outdoor scenarios. Its folding mechanism allows it to collapse into a compact size, which is perfect for storage in a backpack or vehicle without taking up much space. The addition of the pick tool enhances its functionality, enabling users to break up hard ground or dig trenches with ease.
With dimensions of 23.0 inches in height and a lightweight design of only 2.0 pounds, this entrenching tool balances portability with effective digging power. The military-style construction ensures that users receive a dependable tool that can withstand tough conditions. Whether you are camping, gardening, or navigating off-road trails, the RHINO USA Folding Survival Shovel provides convenience and strength for all your digging needs.
To buy this product, click here.
Thetentlab R Deuce Of Spades Ultralight Backpack Trowel
The TheTentLab(R Deuce(R) of Spades™ Ultralight Backpack Trowel in Three Sizes (#2, Fire!, .6oz) is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, backpackers, and campers who prioritize lightweight and compact gear. If you need a reliable tool for digging small holes for campsite sanitation or other outdoor tasks, this trowel is designed to offer convenience without adding bulk to your pack. Its ultralight weight and durable construction make it perfect for those who want efficiency and portability combined.
Pros:
- Extremely lightweight at only 0.6 ounces, ideal for ultralight backpacking
- Compact dimensions (7.7 inches length, 2.6 inches width, 0.75 inches height) make it easy to carry
- Durable build by TheTentLab, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Vibrant Fire! color for easy visibility in your pack or campsite
- Available in three sizes to suit different digging needs
Cons:
- Small size may not be suitable for heavy-duty digging tasks
- Ultralight design might compromise some sturdiness compared to heavier trowels
- Limited to specific outdoor uses and not versatile for general gardening
The Deuce(R) of Spades™ Ultralight Backpack Trowel is thoughtfully designed to balance weight and functionality. Its ultralight build ensures that backpackers and campers can carry it without worrying about extra weight, while the ergonomic shape allows for efficient digging. The choice of three sizes provides flexibility so users can select the perfect tool for their particular outdoor activity. Its compact size makes it easy to store in any backpack or pocket, enhancing portability on long treks.
Crafted by TheTentLab, this trowel combines durable materials with a sleek design. The bright Fire! color not only adds a stylish touch but also prevents it from getting lost among other gear. Whether you need to dig a cathole or clear a small area, this trowel delivers reliable performance. Its lightweight nature helps reduce fatigue during use, making it an essential companion for all your outdoor adventures.
To buy this product, click here.
Boglerco Ultralight Backpacking Trowel
The BoglerCo Ultralight Backpacking Trowel is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, and backpackers who prioritize lightweight and compact gear. Ideal for those who need a reliable tool for digging small holes or managing campsite hygiene without adding unnecessary weight to their pack. This trowel suits anyone looking for efficiency and convenience on the trail.
Pros:
- Extremely lightweight at just 0.48 oz (13.5g), minimizing pack weight.
- Compact dimensions (7.25 inches length, 2.25 inches width, 0.5 inches height) for easy storage.
- Durable construction from BoglerCo, ensuring long-lasting use.
- Bright orange color for high visibility and easy location.
Cons:
- Small size may limit digging capacity for larger tasks.
- No additional features such as a foldable handle or multi-tool functions.
The BoglerCo Ultralight Backpacking Trowel stands out for its exceptional portability and simplicity. Its ultralight weight makes it an excellent choice for minimalist backpackers who need to reduce every ounce in their pack. Despite its small size, the trowel is sturdy enough to handle typical campsite digging tasks such as burying waste or creating fire pits, enhancing outdoor hygiene and safety.
Crafted with durable materials by BoglerCo, this trowel ensures reliability in rugged conditions while its bright orange color reduces the risk of losing it in the wilderness. The ergonomic design allows for comfortable use, making it a practical companion for any outdoor adventure. Overall, this trowel offers a perfect balance of functionality and convenience for those who value efficiency in their backpacking gear.
To buy this product, click here.
Dartmoor Mini Folding Shovel
The DARTMOOR Mini Folding Shovel High Carbon Steel is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, campers, hikers, and anyone who needs a reliable, portable tool for survival or emergency situations. This compact and lightweight shovel is perfect for those who require a versatile digging tool that can easily fit into a backpack or car emergency kit. Whether you’re planning a backpacking trip, camping adventure, or need a tactical tool for survival, this folding shovel is designed to meet your needs.
Pros:
- Made of durable high carbon steel ensuring long-lasting strength and reliability.
- Portable and lightweight design (weighing only 1.76 pounds) makes it easy to carry during outdoor activities.
- Foldable and compact dimensions allow for easy storage in backpacks or car emergency kits.
- Multi-functional use for camping, hiking, digging, and survival tasks.
- Ergonomic design provides comfortable handling and efficient digging.
Cons:
- Smaller size may limit heavy-duty digging tasks.
- Black coating might wear off with extensive use.
The DARTMOOR Mini Folding Shovel features a robust high carbon steel construction that ensures durability and resistance to wear and tear. Its foldable design reduces the overall length to just over 5 inches when packed, making it extremely convenient for transport and storage. This shovel’s compact nature does not compromise its functionality, allowing users to perform a variety of outdoor tasks such as digging fire pits, clearing debris, or even emergency snow removal.
Additionally, the lightweight build of just 1.76 pounds means it won’t add unnecessary bulk to your gear. The shovel’s tactical and ergonomic design enhances grip and control, making digging easier and more efficient. Whether you are an avid camper, hiker, or someone who keeps emergency supplies in your car, this foldable mini shovel is a practical and dependable tool that combines portability with functionality.
To buy this product, click here.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Best Shovel For Ultralight Backpacking?
The best shovel for ultralight backpacking is compact and weighs under 1 pound. Models like TheTentLab Deuce of Spades and BoglerCo Trowel are excellent. They balance durability with minimal weight, ideal for hiking and survival needs.
How Do Folding Shovels Compare For Backpacking Use?
Folding shovels are convenient and space-saving for backpackers. They offer sturdy construction and easy portability. The Survival Shovel with Pickaxe and RHINO USA Folding Survival Shovel are popular for their strength and compact design.
Are Aluminum Shovels Good For Camping And Survival?
Yes, aluminum shovels are lightweight, rust-resistant, and strong. NACETURE Ultralight Backpacking Trowel models are great examples. They work well for digging, campsite tasks, and emergency situations without adding much weight.
What Features Matter In A Backpacking Survival Shovel?
Key features include lightweight design, durable materials, foldability, and multifunctionality. A longer handle improves leverage. Tactical shovels with pickaxes add versatility for digging and chopping in outdoor conditions.
Can Mini Folding Shovels Handle Tough Terrain?
Mini folding shovels like DARTMOOR’s high carbon steel model are surprisingly durable. They can dig through dirt, sand, and snow effectively. These tools are practical for emergencies and light outdoor tasks without bulky weight.
Why Choose A Multitool Shovel For Hiking Trips?
Multitool shovels combine digging, cutting, and other survival functions in one. This reduces gear weight and increases efficiency. Models like NACETURE’s multitool shovel are essential for versatile outdoor use on backpacking trips.
Conclusion
Choosing the best shovel for backpacking means balancing weight, size, and strength. Each shovel on this list offers unique benefits for different outdoor needs. Whether ultralight or heavy-duty, these tools can help with digging, camping, or survival tasks. A compact shovel fits easily in your backpack and saves space.
Strong materials ensure durability during tough jobs. Think about your trip length and terrain when picking a shovel. Carrying the right shovel makes camping safer and more comfortable. Remember, a good shovel is more than just a tool—it’s a reliable companion on your adventure.
Pick one that matches your style and needs. With the right choice, you’ll be ready for any outdoor challenge. Safe travels and happy hiking!
