Choosing the best folding shovel for backpacking can make your outdoor trips easier and safer. A good shovel is lightweight, strong, and easy to carry.
Backpacking often means carrying only essential gear. A folding shovel helps with digging fire pits, clearing trails, or emergency tasks. It must be compact and durable to fit your pack without adding much weight. Many models offer features like carbon steel blades, folding handles, and multi-use designs.
Some shovels come with extra tools like picks or saws to increase their usefulness. Whether camping, hiking, or facing unexpected situations, having a reliable folding shovel can improve your experience. This guide reviews top folding shovels known for quality, portability, and strength, helping you pick the right tool for your adventure.
Rhino Usa Folding Survival Shovel
The RHINO USA Folding Survival Shovel w/Pick is an ideal tool for outdoor enthusiasts, campers, off-road adventurers, and gardeners who require a reliable and versatile digging tool. If you often find yourself in situations involving digging through dirt, sand, mud, or snow, this heavy-duty entrenching tool is designed to meet your needs efficiently and effectively.
Pros:
- Heavy-duty carbon steel construction ensures durability and long-lasting use.
- Compact and foldable design for easy portability and storage.
- Multi-functional with a shovel and pick, suitable for various terrains.
- Military-style build offers robust performance in tough conditions.
- Lightweight at only 2.0 pounds, making it easy to carry on any adventure.
Cons:
- The handle length of 23 inches may be short for some digging tasks requiring more leverage.
- Black color may show scratches or wear more visibly over time.
- Not suitable for heavy excavation jobs due to its compact size.
The RHINO USA Folding Survival Shovel features a strong carbon steel blade that can withstand rigorous use, making it perfect for digging in various environments such as dirt, sand, mud, and snow. Its compact size and folding capability allow users to carry it conveniently in backpacks or vehicle tool kits without adding unnecessary bulk. This design also makes it an excellent choice for emergency kits and military applications.
Additionally, the shovel’s integrated pick enhances its versatility, enabling users to break through harder surfaces or roots with ease. The lightweight yet robust construction ensures that users can handle tough outdoor conditions without fatigue. Whether you’re gardening, camping, or tackling off-road challenges, this entrenching tool combines functionality with convenience, delivering reliable performance wherever you go.
Military Folding Camping Shovel
The 18” Military Folding Camping Shovel by AugTouf is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, survivalists, and off-road adventurers who require a reliable, compact, and durable tool. If you often find yourself camping, hiking, or in need of a versatile shovel for emergency situations, this high-quality folding shovel is designed to meet your needs efficiently.
Pros:
- Constructed from high carbon steel for enhanced strength and durability.
- Folding design allows for easy portability and compact storage.
- Lightweight at just 1.5625 pounds, making it convenient to carry.
- Finished in olive color for a tactical, military-style appearance.
- Multi-functional use including digging, chopping, and survival tasks.
Cons:
- Smaller size may not be suitable for heavy-duty excavation tasks.
- Folding mechanism requires regular maintenance to avoid rust and ensure smooth operation.
- Not ideal for prolonged continuous digging due to compact size.
The 18” Military Folding Camping Shovel features a robust construction made from high carbon steel, ensuring it withstands tough outdoor conditions. Its compact dimensions (Height: 2.75 inches, Width: 5.11 inches, Length: 7.87 inches) and lightweight design make it an excellent choice for those who prioritize portability without sacrificing functionality. The folding mechanism allows the shovel to be conveniently packed into backpacks or vehicle compartments, making it a practical tool for survival kits and camping gear.
Beyond its portability, the shovel’s versatile design serves multiple purposes such as digging fire pits, clearing debris, or even chopping small branches. The olive color finish not only adds to its tactical appeal but also helps reduce visibility in natural surroundings, which is particularly beneficial for military or stealth operations. Overall, this tool offers a perfect balance between durability, convenience, and multifunctionality for users who demand reliability in challenging outdoor environments.
Dartmoor Mini Folding Shovel
The DARTMOOR Mini Folding Shovel High Carbon Steel is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, campers, hikers, and anyone who needs a reliable, compact tool for survival and emergency situations. If you often find yourself backpacking, camping, or preparing for car emergencies, this lightweight and portable entrenching tool is designed to meet your needs effectively.
Pros:
- Made from durable high carbon steel for long-lasting strength and reliability
- Foldable and compact design makes it easy to carry and store
- Lightweight at just 1.76 pounds, ideal for backpacking and hiking
- Multi-functional use for digging, camping, tactical, and survival situations
- Ergonomic handle provides comfortable grip during use
Cons:
- Smaller size may limit heavy-duty digging tasks
- Black coating might wear off with extensive use
- Not suitable for extended digging projects due to compact length
The DARTMOOR Mini Folding Shovel features a robust construction using high carbon steel, ensuring it withstands tough outdoor conditions. Its foldable mechanism allows the shovel to collapse into a compact form, making it incredibly easy to pack in a backpack or glove compartment without adding unnecessary bulk. This portability is a major advantage for users who prioritize lightweight gear without sacrificing durability.
In addition, the shovel’s design caters to multiple applications such as digging fire pits, clearing snow or dirt, and emergency car repairs, making it an essential tool for survival and tactical use. The ergonomic handle enhances user comfort, reducing fatigue during prolonged use. Overall, this shovel combines functionality with convenience, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to enhance their outdoor or emergency preparedness kit.
Ultralight Backpacking Trowel Aluminum Shovel Small Potty Multitool
The Ultralight Backpacking Trowel Aluminum Shovel is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who prioritize lightweight and compact gear. Ideal for hikers, campers, and survivalists, this multitool is designed for those who need a reliable and durable tool to dig small pits, clear fire pits, or manage waste discreetly while on the trail. Its longer handle design makes it especially suitable for users who want enhanced leverage and comfort during use.
Pros:
- Made from durable aluminum, ensuring long-lasting use without adding much weight.
- Extremely lightweight at just 0.0595 pounds, perfect for ultralight backpacking.
- Longer handle design improves grip and digging efficiency.
- Compact size with dimensions of 7.6 x 2.8 x 0.7 inches, easy to carry in survival bags.
- Multi-functional use as a shovel, trowel, and small potty tool, increasing versatility.
- Sleek black color for discreet and stylish outdoor gear.
Cons:
- Small size may limit digging capacity for larger tasks.
- Aluminum material, while lightweight, may not be as sturdy as steel under heavy use.
- Single color option may not suit all personal preferences.
The Ultralight Backpacking Trowel by NACETURE offers a practical solution for those who need a compact and efficient digging tool during their outdoor adventures. Its lightweight aluminum construction means you won’t have to worry about added weight in your backpack, while the longer handle design provides improved comfort and leverage, making digging easier and less strenuous. This trowel’s multi-tool functionality is especially beneficial for survival situations, camping, and hiking, where carrying versatile gear can save space and increase preparedness.
Additionally, its compact dimensions make it easy to store in survival bags or pockets without taking up much space. The trowel’s black finish not only adds a sleek look but also helps it blend into natural surroundings, which is advantageous for those who prefer discreet gear. Overall, this trowel is an essential item for anyone looking to combine efficiency, durability, and portability in their outdoor toolkit.
Naceture Ultralight Backpacking Trowel Aluminum Shovel
The NACETURE Ultralight Backpacking Trowel Aluminum Shovel is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts who need a compact and durable tool for hiking, camping, and survival situations. If you are someone who enjoys spending time in nature and requires a reliable multitool that is lightweight and easy to carry, this small potty shovel with a longer handle design is perfect for you. It is especially useful for those who prioritize convenience and efficiency in their outdoor gear.
Pros:
- Extremely lightweight at just 0.0595 pounds, making it easy to carry on long treks.
- Durable aluminum construction ensures long-lasting use in rugged environments.
- Compact dimensions (7.6 x 2.8 x 0.7 inches) fit easily into backpacks and survival bags.
- Bright orange color enhances visibility, reducing the chances of misplacement.
- Longer handle design provides better leverage and ease of use during digging tasks.
Cons:
- Small size may limit heavy-duty digging tasks compared to larger shovels.
- Aluminum material, while durable, may bend under extreme pressure.
The NACETURE Ultralight Backpacking Trowel features a thoughtfully designed longer handle that enhances user comfort and efficiency, allowing for easier digging without straining your hands. Its ultralight aluminum body means you can carry it without adding unnecessary weight to your backpack, which is crucial for long-distance hiking and survival situations. The compact size ensures it fits neatly into any camping or survival bag, making it a versatile addition to your outdoor equipment.
Additionally, the bright orange color not only adds a stylish touch but also improves visibility, so you won’t lose track of this essential tool in the wilderness. Whether you need to dig a small hole for a campfire, dispose of waste responsibly, or perform other outdoor tasks, this multitool is designed to offer convenience and practicality without sacrificing portability. Overall, it’s a smart choice for anyone looking to enhance their outdoor experience with a reliable and lightweight shovel.
Plachiday Digging Shovel
The PLACHIDAY Digging Shovel is an excellent choice for outdoor enthusiasts such as campers, backpackers, hikers, and anyone who needs a reliable, compact tool for digging tasks. Its lightweight and portable design make it ideal for those who prioritize convenience and efficiency during outdoor activities or even for emergency use in cars and homes. If you require a durable, easy-to-carry mini shovel that can handle various digging needs, this product is tailored for you.
Pros:
- Made from high carbon steel for enhanced durability and strength
- Lightweight and compact design (18.5” length) ideal for easy portability
- Folding mechanism allows for convenient storage and transport
- Multi-purpose use for camping, backpacking, hiking, car emergency, and gardening
- Sleek black color with sturdy construction
Cons:
- Smaller size may not be suitable for heavy-duty digging tasks
- Folding joint might require occasional maintenance to ensure smooth operation
The PLACHIDAY Digging Shovel features a robust construction made from high carbon steel, providing excellent strength and resistance to wear and tear. Its folding design reduces the overall length to a compact size, making it highly portable and perfect for stashing in a backpack or emergency kit. This makes it an indispensable tool for quick digging, trenching, or clearing soil during outdoor adventures or urgent situations.
Additionally, the shovel’s lightweight nature ensures that it doesn’t add unnecessary burden to your gear, while still delivering reliable performance. Its versatility extends beyond outdoor recreation, proving useful for gardening tasks or as a car emergency tool. Overall, this mini trowel combines practicality, durability, and convenience, offering great value for those who need a dependable digging tool on the go.
Pact Outdoors Backpacking Shovel
The PACT Outdoors Backpacking Shovel is ideal for avid backpackers, campers, and hikers who need a reliable, lightweight tool for outdoor activities. If you require a compact and durable trowel that can assist in digging small holes, clearing fire pits, or managing campsite tasks without adding unnecessary weight to your gear, this item is perfect for you.
Pros:
- Extremely lightweight at only 0.08 pounds, making it easy to carry on long treks.
- Constructed from durable aluminum for long-lasting use and resistance to rust.
- Compact dimensions (8.0 inches length) fit conveniently in any backpack or camping kit.
- Award-winning design recognized for functionality and innovation.
- Multipurpose use for backpacking, camping, and hiking tasks.
Cons:
- Smaller size may not be suitable for heavy-duty digging tasks.
- Limited color options, available only in silver.
The PACT Outdoors Backpacking Shovel features a sleek and ergonomic design crafted from lightweight aluminum, ensuring it does not weigh down your pack. Its compact size, measuring just 8.0 inches in length, allows for easy storage and quick access during your outdoor adventures. Whether you need to dig a small hole for waste disposal or clear debris around your campsite, this trowel delivers reliable performance without compromising portability.
Additionally, the shovel’s durability and rust-resistant material make it an excellent companion for all weather conditions. Its award-winning status speaks to the thoughtful engineering behind the product, providing users with a dependable tool that balances strength and convenience. Overall, this backpacking trowel enhances your outdoor experience by combining practicality with lightweight design, making it an essential addition to your gear.
Iunio Folding Survival Shovel
The iunio Folding Survival Shovel is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, emergency responders, and anyone who values preparedness. Whether you’re a camper, hiker, gardener, or need a reliable tool for car emergencies or disaster recovery, this military-grade entrenching tool offers versatile functionality and durability to meet your needs.
Pros:
- Collapsible and compact design for easy storage and portability
- Made from military-grade materials ensuring long-lasting durability
- Multi-functional with a spade, pickaxe, and shovel in one tool
- Lightweight at only 1.39 pounds, making it easy to carry
- Gold color finish adds a stylish and distinctive look
Cons:
- May require some practice to assemble and disassemble quickly
- Not suitable for heavy-duty digging compared to larger fixed shovels
The iunio Folding Survival Shovel features a compact size of 18.3 inches in length when assembled, with a folding mechanism that makes it incredibly easy to pack away in your backpack or car emergency kit. Its multi-tool spade and pickaxe design allows users to tackle various outdoor and survival tasks, from digging trenches and clearing debris to gardening and camping needs.
Constructed with high-quality military-grade materials, this entrenching tool delivers exceptional strength while maintaining a lightweight profile. This balance ensures that you can carry it comfortably during long hikes or trips without sacrificing reliability. The collapsible feature also makes it an excellent choice for urban survival kits or roadside emergencies where space and weight are critical considerations.
Acecamp Lightweight Small Folding Shovel
The AceCamp Lightweight Small Folding Shovel is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, gardeners, and backpackers who need a compact, versatile tool for digging and potting on the go. If you often find yourself camping, gardening in small spaces, or requiring a handy multi-tool that doesn’t take up much room, this foldable shovel is an ideal choice for you.
Pros:
- Compact and lightweight design, weighing only 0.4 pounds for easy portability.
- Durable foldable construction that fits conveniently in the included carrying case.
- Multi-functional use for gardening, camping, and backpacking tasks.
- Made by trusted brand AceCamp ensuring reliable quality.
- Measures 9.0 inches in height and folds down to just 3.0 inches in length, saving space.
Cons:
- Small size may limit heavy-duty digging or large gardening jobs.
- Handle width of 0.5 inches might be less comfortable for prolonged use.
The AceCamp Lightweight Small Folding Shovel features a foldable design that enhances portability without sacrificing functionality. Its compact dimensions make it easy to store in backpacks or gardening kits, allowing users to carry it effortlessly during outdoor adventures or daily gardening activities. The included carrying case adds an extra layer of convenience, keeping the shovel protected and ready for use anytime.
Constructed with durable materials, this foldable garden trowel stands up well to various outdoor conditions. Whether you’re potting plants or clearing soil while camping, the sturdy build ensures reliable performance. Additionally, its lightweight nature helps reduce fatigue, making it an efficient tool for users needing a practical and portable solution for small-scale digging and gardening tasks.
Redcamp 23″ Military Folding Camping Shovel
The REDCAMP 23″ Military Folding Camping Shovel is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts who need a reliable, versatile tool for camping, hiking, or any rugged adventure. Whether you are a camper, hiker, or survivalist, this portable shovel is designed to handle various terrains such as sand, mud, snow, and beach environments. Its compact size and durable construction make it perfect for those who value convenience and durability in their gear.
Pros:
- Made from high manganese steel for exceptional strength and durability
- Tri-fold handle design for easy portability and compact storage
- Comes with a protective cover for safe transport
- Lightweight at 2.5 lbs, making it easy to carry
- Versatile use on various terrains including sand, mud, snow, and beach
- Military-grade design ensures robust performance in tough conditions
Cons:
- May be too small for heavy-duty digging tasks
- Green color may not appeal to all users
- Folding mechanism requires occasional maintenance to avoid rust
The REDCAMP folding shovel stands out with its high manganese steel blade, providing outstanding hardness and resistance to wear. This material choice means users can rely on the shovel for tough digging jobs without worrying about bending or breaking. The tri-fold handle enhances portability, allowing the tool to fit conveniently into backpacks or storage compartments, which is essential for hikers and campers who need to minimize load weight and bulk.
Additionally, the shovel’s design incorporates a protective cover that ensures safety when carrying the tool and prolongs its lifespan by protecting the blade from environmental damage. Weighing only 2.5 pounds, it balances strength and lightness, so users won’t feel burdened during long treks. Overall, the REDCAMP 23″ Military Folding Camping Shovel is a practical, durable, and versatile tool that enhances outdoor experiences by making challenging terrain more manageable.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Makes The Rhino Usa Folding Shovel Ideal For Backpacking?
The RHINO USA shovel features heavy-duty carbon steel and a military-style design. It is compact, durable, and perfect for tough outdoor tasks like digging in dirt, sand, or snow during backpacking trips.
How Does The Ultralight Backpacking Trowel Benefit Hikers?
This trowel is made from lightweight aluminum, making it easy to carry. Its longer handle design improves digging efficiency for camping and survival needs without adding extra weight.
Are High Carbon Steel Folding Shovels Better For Camping?
Yes, high carbon steel offers superior strength and durability. It resists bending and holds an edge, making it ideal for camping, hiking, and emergency use in rugged environments.
What Features Should I Look For In A Backpacking Folding Shovel?
Look for lightweight materials, compact foldability, strong steel construction, and multi-functionality. These features ensure easy transport, durability, and usefulness during camping and emergency situations.
Can Folding Shovels Be Used For Car Emergencies?
Absolutely. Many folding shovels, like the iunio Survival Shovel, include pickaxes and multi-tools. They help dig out vehicles stuck in mud, snow, or sand effectively.
How Does The Redecamp Military Folding Shovel Compare For Outdoor Use?
The REDECAMP shovel uses high manganese steel for toughness and features a tri-fold handle for compact storage. It’s excellent for diverse conditions like hiking, camping, and beach trips.
Conclusion
Choosing the best folding shovel for backpacking is crucial for a successful outdoor adventure. These tools are compact and versatile. They help with digging, clearing, and even emergency situations. High carbon steel options offer strength and durability. Aluminum models are lightweight and easy to carry.
Consider your specific needs before purchasing. Do you need a multi-tool for various tasks? Or a simple, lightweight option for quick use? The RHINO USA and iunio shovels are robust and suitable for tough tasks. The NACETURE and PACT Outdoors options are great for lightweight backpacking.
Each shovel has its own unique features. Think about weight, size, and material. These factors affect your comfort and ease of use. No matter which you choose, a reliable folding shovel is an essential part of your gear. It ensures you’re prepared for any challenge on the trail.
Safe travels and happy backpacking!
