Camping is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you’re backpacking through the wilderness or setting up camp with your family in a national park, having the right gear is crucial. One piece of equipment that is often overlooked but can be incredibly useful is a camping shovel.
A camping shovel is a versatile tool that can be used for a variety of tasks, such as digging a fire pit, clearing a campsite, or even digging a latrine. When it comes to choosing the best shovel for camping, there are a few critical factors to consider. The first is the material of the shovel. A durable and lightweight material, such as aluminum or titanium, is ideal for camping as it can withstand the elements and is easy to carry.
Another important consideration is the size and weight of the shovel. A compact and lightweight shovel is ideal for backpacking trips, while a larger and heavier shovel may be more suitable for car camping. The shape of the shovel head is also important, as a wider blade can be more effective for digging and moving soil.
After researching and testing various camping shovels, I have identified the top picks for the best shovel for camping. By considering factors such as material, size, weight, and shape, these shovels offer the durability and functionality needed for any camping trip. In the following sections, I will provide a detailed review of each shovel and highlight their unique features and benefits.
Best Camping Shovels
As an avid camper, I know the importance of having the right gear for any outdoor adventure. One essential tool that should never be overlooked is a good camping shovel. Whether you need to dig a fire pit, clear a campsite, or even use it as a makeshift weapon in an emergency, a sturdy and reliable shovel is a must-have.
After researching and testing various options, I have compiled a list of the best camping shovels on the market. These shovels are durable, lightweight, and versatile, making them perfect for any camping trip. So, without further ado, here are my top picks for the best camping shovels.
RHINO USA Folding Survival Shovel w/Pick
If you’re looking for a reliable and durable camping shovel, the RHINO USA Folding Survival Shovel w/Pick is a solid choice.
Pros
- The heavy-duty carbon steel construction makes this shovel sturdy and long-lasting.
- The compact and portable design, including the included carry case, makes it easy to pack and transport.
- The multi-functional design allows it to be used for various tasks, including gardening, backpacking, and metal detecting.
Cons
- The small size of the shovel may not be suitable for heavy-duty digging tasks.
- The sharp teeth on the saw blade may pose a safety hazard if not handled properly.
- The ergonomic grip may not be comfortable for extended use.
I recently took the RHINO USA Folding Survival Shovel w/Pick on a camping trip and was impressed with its performance. The carbon steel construction made it durable and sturdy, and the compact design made it easy to pack with my other gear. I used it for various tasks, including digging a fire pit and clearing debris from our campsite, and it held up well.
One thing to note is that the small size of the shovel may not be suitable for heavy-duty digging tasks, but it worked well for our camping needs. The saw blade was a nice addition and came in handy for cutting small branches and twigs. However, the sharp teeth on the blade could be dangerous if not handled with care.
Overall, I would recommend the RHINO USA Folding Survival Shovel w/Pick for anyone in need of a reliable and multi-functional camping shovel. It’s a great value for the price and comes with the added peace of mind of Rhino USA’s customer service guarantee.
Sahara Sailor Unbreakable Tactical Shovel
If you’re looking for a sturdy and versatile shovel to take on your camping trips, the Sahara Sailor Unbreakable Tactical Shovel is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- This survival tool set is constructed with military-grade solid carbon steel, making it sturdy enough to deal with survival activities or car/truck emergencies.
- The ultimate survival shovel incorporates 12 other functions and tools, including a shovel, hoe, saws, bottle opener, cleaver, whistle, knife, fish scaler, emergency hammer, flat-blade screwdriver, and 4 size wrench. These functions will ensure you survive camping with your kids.
- The camping shovel can be folded and expanded by twisting lock for secure storage and carrying. A durable carry storage bag is coming with the package as camping gifts.
Cons
- The very end of the handle is an aggressive pointy metal edge, which can be uncomfortable to grip when shoveling hard.
- The carrying case is not as high quality as the shovel itself, made of a material similar to a diaper bag.
- This shovel is heavier than normal mini folding shovels, but it’s also much more sturdy.
I recently took this shovel on a camping trip and was impressed with its durability and versatility. The solid carbon steel construction made it easy to dig through tough soil and the various tools came in handy for a variety of tasks. The folding mechanism was easy to use and the included storage bag made it easy to pack and transport.
The only downside I found was the aggressive pointy metal edge at the end of the handle, which can be uncomfortable to grip when shoveling hard. Additionally, while the carrying case is functional, it’s not as high quality as the shovel itself.
Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable and versatile camping shovel, the Sahara Sailor Unbreakable Tactical Shovel is definitely worth considering.
Extremus Folding Camping Shovel
If you’re looking for a compact and versatile camping shovel, the Extremus Folding Camping Shovel is a great option.
Pros
- The three-way folding design makes it easy to store in a small space, while the solid steel construction ensures it’s durable and reliable.
- The serrated cutting edge is a useful feature for cutting small branches and digging through tough soil.
- The included storage bag is a nice touch, providing protection for the shovel and making it easy to transport.
Cons
- The shovel head isn’t the thickest, so it may not be suitable for heavy-duty digging tasks.
- The retaining nut can loosen with use, which may require occasional tightening.
- The stitching on the storage bag could be better, but this is a minor issue.
I recently took the Extremus Folding Camping Shovel on a camping trip, and I was impressed with its performance. The three-way folding design made it easy to pack in my backpack, and the solid steel construction gave me confidence that it would hold up to heavy use. I appreciated the serrated cutting edge, which came in handy for cutting small branches and digging through tough soil.
One thing to note is that the shovel head isn’t the thickest, so it may not be suitable for heavy-duty digging tasks. However, for most camping and backpacking needs, it should be more than sufficient. I did notice that the retaining nut can loosen with use, but this is a minor issue that can be easily remedied with occasional tightening.
Overall, I would recommend the Extremus Folding Camping Shovel to anyone in need of a compact and versatile camping shovel. The included storage bag is a nice touch, providing protection for the shovel and making it easy to transport.
REDCAMP Military Folding Camping Shovel
If you’re looking for a compact and sturdy camping shovel, the REDCAMP Military Folding Camping Shovel is a great option.
Pros
- The tri-fold design makes it easy to pack and carry.
- The high carbon steel material makes it durable and strong.
- The included cover helps protect the shovel and other items in your pack.
Cons
- The handle may be too small for those with larger hands.
- The pick may not be as effective as a standalone tool.
- The shovel may not be suitable for heavy-duty digging.
I recently took this shovel on a camping trip and was impressed with its performance. The tri-fold design made it easy to pack in my backpack without taking up too much space. The high carbon steel material made it sturdy and strong, allowing me to dig through tough soil and rocks with ease.
The included cover was a nice touch, helping to protect the shovel and other items in my pack. However, I did find that the handle was a bit small for my hands, which made it slightly uncomfortable to use for extended periods.
While the pick on the shovel was a nice addition, I found that it wasn’t as effective as a standalone tool. Additionally, the shovel may not be suitable for heavy-duty digging, so keep that in mind if you plan on using it for more intense outdoor activities.
Overall, I would recommend the REDCAMP Military Folding Camping Shovel for those looking for a compact and sturdy option for their camping trips.
iunio 30.7in Camping Shovel
If you’re looking for a versatile and durable camping shovel, the iunio 30.7in Camping Shovel is a great option.
Pros
- The extension bars allow for comfortable standing up digging and provide extra features like a saw, bottle opener, and emergency whistle.
- The high-carbon steel blade and handle are sturdy and wear-resistant.
- The shovel folds up compactly and comes with a tactical waist pack for easy carrying.
Cons
- The shovel head is smaller than some other camping shovels, which may make it less efficient for larger digging tasks.
- The rubber grip on the handle may not be as comfortable as some other materials.
- The price point may be higher than some other camping shovels on the market.
I recently took the iunio 30.7in Camping Shovel on a backpacking trip and found it to be a reliable and versatile tool. The extension bars were especially useful for digging in a variety of positions, and the extra features like the saw and bottle opener came in handy around the campsite.
One downside to the shovel is that the smaller shovel head may not be as efficient for larger digging tasks, but for most camping needs it worked well. The rubber grip on the handle was comfortable enough for short periods of use, but may not be as comfortable as other materials for extended use.
Overall, the iunio 30.7in Camping Shovel is a great option for anyone looking for a versatile and durable camping shovel. Its compact size and included tactical waist pack make it easy to carry on any outdoor adventure.
Buying Guide
When looking for the best shovel for camping, there are a few key features to consider. Here are some important factors to keep in mind:
Material
One of the most important aspects to consider is the material of the shovel. Look for a shovel that is made from durable materials such as high-quality steel or aluminum. These materials are strong and can withstand heavy use, making them ideal for camping trips.
Size and Weight
Another important factor to consider is the size and weight of the shovel. A lightweight and compact shovel is ideal for camping trips, as it can be easily carried in a backpack or camping gear. Look for a shovel that is small enough to fit in your backpack but large enough to handle the job.
Blade Shape
The shape of the shovel blade is also an important consideration. A flat blade is ideal for digging and moving loose soil, while a curved blade is better suited for digging in harder soil. Look for a shovel with a blade shape that suits your specific needs.
Handle Design
The handle design is also an important factor to consider. Look for a shovel with a comfortable grip that is easy to hold and maneuver. Some shovels come with ergonomic handles that reduce hand fatigue, making them ideal for extended use.
Additional Features
Finally, consider any additional features that may be useful for your camping needs. Some shovels come with built-in saws or axes, while others have telescoping handles for easy storage. Look for a shovel with features that will make your camping trip easier and more enjoyable.
By keeping these factors in mind, you can choose the best shovel for your camping needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What features should I look for in a high-quality camping shovel?
A high-quality camping shovel should be durable, lightweight, and easy to pack. It should have a sturdy handle and a strong blade that can handle tough digging and chopping tasks. Look for a shovel with a non-slip grip and a comfortable handle that won’t cause blisters or soreness during extended use.
How do I choose a shovel that’s suitable for both backpacking and survival situations?
When choosing a shovel for backpacking and survival situations, look for one that is lightweight and compact enough to fit in your backpack. It should also be sturdy enough to handle tough digging and chopping tasks. Consider a shovel with a folding or collapsible design, as it can save space and make packing easier.
Can you recommend a durable shovel for camping that fits a modest budget?
There are many durable camping shovels available that won’t break the bank. Look for shovels made from high-quality materials like tempered steel or aluminum, which can withstand heavy use and rough terrain. Consider a shovel with a simple design, as it may be more affordable than one with extra features.
What are the advantages of a folding shovel for camping use?
Folding shovels are a popular choice for camping because they are lightweight, compact, and easy to pack. They can be folded down to a small size, making them ideal for backpacking and other outdoor activities. Additionally, many folding shovels come with extra features like saw blades or bottle openers, making them versatile tools for camping.
Is it necessary to bring a shovel for managing waste while camping?
While it is not always necessary to bring a shovel for managing waste while camping, it can be a helpful tool to have on hand. A shovel can be used to dig a cathole for waste disposal, which can help prevent the spread of disease and protect the environment. Additionally, a shovel can be used to bury food scraps and other waste to reduce the risk of attracting wildlife.
What’s the lightest shovel option that doesn’t compromise on strength for hiking?
There are many lightweight shovel options available for hiking that don’t compromise on strength. Look for shovels made from materials like carbon fiber or titanium, which are strong and lightweight. Additionally, consider a shovel with a minimalist design, as it may be lighter and easier to pack than one with extra features.
