Having the appropriate gear for the trip is essential when going backpacking or camping. One item that is often forgotten but is necessary is a good backpack folding shovel. This tool can be a game changer in the wilderness when you need to dig a fire pit, clear a path, or create a small hole.
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Our Top Picks In Backpack Folding Shovels
After researching and analyzing various options, our top four choices for backpack folding shovels are below. While each shovel has pros and cons, these five options stand out for their overall quality, versatility, and positive customer reviews.
1. Rhino USA Folding Survival Shovel
The Rhino USA Folding Survival Shovel is a top-of-the-line backpacking and camping shovel made from durable carbon steel. The powder-coated carbon steel design ensures this shovel is lightweight and robust, making it perfect for outdoor activities.
One of the standout features of the Rhino USA Folding Survival Shovel is its compact size. When folded, this shovel measures just 9 inches in length, making it easy to pack and carry with you on your outdoor adventures. Despite its small size, this shovel is incredibly durable and can easily handle heavy-duty tasks.
In addition to its durability and compact design, the Rhino USA Folding Survival Shovel has an emergency whistle built into the handle. This feature can be incredibly useful in emergencies, making it easier for rescuers to locate you.
Overall, the Rhino USA Folding Survival Shovel is an excellent choice for an ultralight, compact, durable backpack folding shovel. This shovel is affordable and accessible to a wide range of outdoor enthusiasts and is one of the best camping shovels.
Pros:
- Compact and lightweight
- Durable construction ensures long lasting use
- Versatile tool with multiple functions, including digging, chopping, sawing, and hammering
- Comfortable grip handle provides a secure and comfortable hold
- Comes with a carrying case for added convenience and protection
Cons:
- Folding mechanism can be stiff and difficult to operate at times
- Blade may not be as sharp as other survival shovels on the market
- May not be suitable for heavy-duty digging or chopping tasks
- Higher price point compared to other basic survival shovels
- Limited warranty period may not provide sufficient protection in case of defects or malfunctions.
2. Gerber E-Tool Folding Spade
The Gerber E-Tool Folding Spade is popular among backpackers and campers for its compact size and lightweight design. Made from high-quality steel, this folding shovel is built to last and withstand rugged outdoor conditions.
One of the standout features of the Gerber E-Tool Folding Spade is its portability. When folded, it measures 9.37 inches in length and weighs only 2.3 pounds, making it easy to pack and carry on any camping or backpacking trip.
Despite its compact size, the Gerber E-Tool Folding Spade is still a durable and reliable tool. The blade is made from high-carbon steel and features a serrated edge for cutting through tough materials.
In addition to its durability and portability, this backpack folding shovel is versatile for various tasks, including digging, chopping, and sawing. It also comes with a nylon carrying case for easy storage and transport.
Overall, the Gerber E-Tool Folding Spade is an excellent choice for anyone needing a compact and reliable camping or backpacking shovel.
Pros:
- Compact and lightweight
- Durable construction ensures long-lasting use
- Versatile tool with multiple functions, including digging, chopping, sawing, and hammering
- Blade is sharp and effective for digging in various soil types
- Comes with a carrying case for added convenience and protection
Cons:
- Folding mechanism can be stiff and difficult to operate at times
- Handle may not be as comfortable to grip as other survival shovels on the market
- May not be suitable for heavy-duty digging or chopping tasks
- Higher price point compared to other basic survival shovels
- Limited warranty period may not provide sufficient protection in case of defects or malfunctions.
3. OKOOLCAMP Survival Camping Shovel
The OKOOLCAMP Survival Camping Shovel is a versatile, compact folding shovel perfect for backpackers, campers, and outdoor enthusiasts. This shovel is durable and can withstand heavy use as it is made from high quality carbon steel.
One of the key features of this backpack folding shovel is its compact size. When folded, it measures only 6.3 inches long and weighs just 0.7 pounds, making it easy to pack in your backpack or car. It is also ultralight, ideal for backpackers who want to keep their load as light as possible.
In addition to its versatility, this shovel is affordable, making it an excellent option for backpackers on a budget. Despite its low price, it is still high quality and durable, making it an excellent investment for outdoor enthusiasts.
Overall, the OKOOLCAMP Survival Camping Shovel is a great option for anyone looking for a compact, multifunctional, and affordable folding shovel for their camping or backpacking trips.
Pros:
- Sturdy and durable construction with high-quality materials
- Multifunctional tool with multiple functions, including digging, chopping, sawing, and hammering
- Comfortable grip handle provides a secure and comfortable hold
- Lightweight and compact
- Comes with a carrying case for added convenience and protection
Cons:
- Folding mechanism can be stiff and difficult to operate at times
- May not be suitable for heavy-duty digging or chopping tasks
- Limited warranty period may not provide sufficient protection in case of defects or malfunctions.
- Mixed reviews regarding the durability of the mechanism that allows you to move the shovel and pickaxe into different positions
4. Sahara Sailor Folding Shovel
The Sahara Sailor Folding Shovel is a compact and lightweight backpacking and camping shovel perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who need a reliable digging, sawing, and chopping tool. The Sahara Sailor Folding Shovel is made from high quality carbon steel and has a powder coated finish for added durability. This backpack folding shovel has a trifold design that makes it easy to store, and its handle length is adjustable. Its blade design includes a saw, pickaxe, and serrated edge. It also has handy tools like a hammer, screwdriver, and bottle opener.
One of the key features of the Sahara Sailor Folding Shovel is its compact size and lightweight design, though it is made from high quality carbon steel. Weighing only 1.2 pounds, this shovel can easily fit into any backpack or camping gear without taking up too much space.
Pros:
- Sturdy and durable construction with high-quality materials
- Multifunctional tool with multiple functions, including digging, chopping, sawing, and hammering
- Comfortable grip handle provides a secure and comfortable hold
- Lightweight and compact
- Comes with a carrying case for added convenience and protection
- High customer satisfaction ratings and positive reviews
- Reasonable price point compared to other survival shovels
Pros:
- Sturdy and durable construction with high-quality materials
- Multifunctional tool with multiple functions, including digging, chopping, sawing, and hammering
- Comfortable grip handle provides a secure and comfortable hold
- Lightweight and compact
- Comes with a carrying case for added convenience and protection
- High customer satisfaction ratings and positive reviews
- Reasonable price point compared to other survival shovels
Final Thoughts
These folding backpack shovels suit any outdoor adventure, whether going on a day trip, hiking in the mountains, camping, or exploring new trails. With their smaller footprint and lightweight construction, these shovels are easy to carry and store, which is ideal for those who love spending time in the great outdoors.
