Like pretty much every kind of camping equipment, there are a lot of different camping shovels to choose from. While having a lot of choices is certainly a good thing, it can make selecting the best shovel to suit your needs a challenge.
To help make the process a bit easier, we’ve put together a list of the best camping shovels currently on the market. After conducting hours of research and testing we’ve narrowed down the options to the top camping shovels available.
Below, you’ll find reviews that highlight the key features of models we’ve select, as well as lists of pros and cons for each one. We’ve also included a buyer’s guide that reviews that key features that are important to consider when you’re shopping for a camping shovel. Lastly, we’ve included a FAQ section, which includes questions to some of the most common questions shoppers have about camping shovels.
Our Top Picks
Contents
If you’re in a rush, this section is for you. Here, you’ll find brief reviews of our picks for the best overall, premium, and budget camping shovels.
- Best Overall: Camping Shovel Set
The Camping Shovel set offers everything you could possibly need in a camping shovel: durability, portability, and versatility. That’s why we chose it as our pick for the best overall camping shovel. Made of high alloy steel, this shovel is virtually indestructible and can take on almost anything you throw its way, yet it’s also lightweight and foldable so it’s easy to transport. - Premium Pick: Pathway North Camping Axe and Survival Shovel
If you’re a serious camper who likes to go out into the deep backwoods and you’re looking for a premium camping shovel, the Pathway North Camping Axe and Survival Shovel is an excellent pick. Ruggedly designed, foldable, and featuring a wide array of accessories, it’s so much more than a shovel; it’s the ultimate survival tool. - Budget Pick: Yeacool Portable Folding Shovel
If you don’t want to spend a lot but you also don’t want to sacrifice quality, consider the Yeacool Portable Folding Shovel. It’s durably made, portable, comes with a few key accessories, and it’s budget-friendly. The shovel head and handle are made of high-carbon steel and features a serrated edge that will cut through all types of dense vegetation.
Camping Shovels Reviews
Now that you’ve had a brief look at our top picks for the best overall, premium, and budget camping shovel, let’s take a more in-depth look at each one, as well as six additional shovels. Below, you’ll find detailed reviews of nine of the best camping shovels that are currently on the market, including a list of pros and cons for each model.
Camping Shovels Set
The Camping Shovels is our pick for the best overall camping shovel, and for good reason: it boasts all of the features that you would want to have in a camping shovel. It’s made of high alloy steel metal, so it’s highly durable and rust-resistant.
- Unbreakable Survival Shovel - This survival tool set constructed with military-grade solid carbon steel with aerospace-grade anodized aluminum tubes that make it sturdy enough deal with survival activities or car/truck emergency
- Multi-functional - This 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
- Collapsible and Portable - This 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
- Not just camping - This tactical shovel is perfect for camping, hiking, gardening, backpacking, hunting, traveling, expedition, car emergency, and outdoor survival
- Satisfaction Guarantee - Lifetime warranty with 100% satisfaction and zero hassle returns guaranteed. With this military-level survival shovel, you have the last piece of camping and survival tool you will ever need
The blade features a double row wood saw, a cutting edge, and a sharp tip that can cut through just about any type of vegetation you will come across in the Great Outdoors. Within the 3.5 inch handle sits an assortment of tools, including a double-head screwdriver, a bottle opener, a magnesium rod flintstone, a knife, and there’s even a compass attached to top.
The handle is ergonomically designed handle can be adjusted to three different lengths and the foldable design makes for easy storage. When you’re finished using it, take the shovel apart and store it and the accessories it comes with in the included canvas storage bag. With this multi-purpose tool, you’ll be able to do just about anything on your camping trip.
- Made of durable aluminum alloy steel
- Features a variety of accessories, incuding a knife, compass, bottle opener, screwdriver, rescue whistle, hammer, wrengh, ruler, and hammer.
- Lightweight and foldable design makes for easy transport
- Ergonomic and adjustable handle is comfortable and easy to use
- Comes with a convenient storage case
- Might need the extras which come with this shovel
Pathway North Camping Axe and Survival Shovel
For serious outdoor adventurers, the Pathway North Camping Axe and Survival Shovel is a must-have piece of equipment. Ruggedly constructed of high-grade metal and featuring a stainless steel blade with a sharp serated edge, cutting edge, and point, you’ll have no trouble getting through roots, grade, branches, and anything else that might come up while you’re shoveling.
- 🪓 𝗨𝗟𝗧𝗜𝗠𝗔𝗧𝗘 𝗦𝗨𝗥𝗩𝗜𝗩𝗔𝗟𝗜𝗦𝗧 𝗧𝗢𝗢𝗟𝗦 - Not just for the outdoorsman or woman, this survival set makes a solid addition to off-roader vehicles, RV, UTV, ATV, truckers, or the trunk of your car. Whether you call yourself a prepper or explorer - this fast-hacking log splitter and compact foldable shovel are two of the most useful tools needed for survival.
- 🪓 𝗧𝗢𝗨𝗚𝗛 𝗧𝗔𝗖𝗧𝗜𝗖𝗔𝗟 𝗖𝗛𝗢𝗣𝗣𝗘𝗥 – 3CR13 stainless steel survival axe is a mix of chromium and carbon, making it ultra-strong and rust resistant. The sharp edge makes mincemeat of both hard and softwood chopping projects. Split firewood, hack off branches, or break out of a vehicle. No job is too tough for this tactical axe.
- 🪓 𝗥𝗘𝗟𝗜𝗔𝗕𝗟𝗘 𝗘𝗡𝗧𝗥𝗘𝗡𝗖𝗛𝗜𝗡𝗚 𝗧𝗢𝗢𝗟 – Ideal camping shovel, for clearing the ground from rocks, burying your camp fire, digging sanitation holes and more! The Pathway North off-road shovel handle is based on non-slip ergonomics, while 2 extension bars make this e-tool easy to work with when digging deep holes. Use the serrated side of the portable shovel for sawing through tough terrain like roots, vines, or branches.
- 🪓 𝗠𝗨𝗟𝗧𝗜-𝗧𝗢𝗢𝗟 𝗪𝗜𝗧𝗛 𝗧𝗨𝗕𝗨𝗟𝗔𝗥 𝗘𝗡𝗚𝗜𝗡𝗘𝗘𝗥𝗜𝗡𝗚 - The Ultimate Bushcraft Axe / Shovel Combo Set includes: 1 1 x Fire Starter with Whistle | Hex Spanners | 2 x Extension Bars | 1 x Screwdriver Set (Philips and Flat Head) | 1 x Window Breaker | 1 x Carrying Tactical Canvas Waist Bag. Use the tube to store other essential survival or first aid items inside.
- 🪓 Does off roading, hiking, camping, fishing, and rescue missions fill you with exhilaration? Then you’d better take the Pathway North Shovel and Axe Set along for the ride. Be prepared and ready for any situation. If you have any questions, please reach out to our customer service team. 🔴 𝗖𝗹𝗶𝗰𝗸 𝗔𝗱𝗱 𝘁𝗼 𝗖𝗮𝗿𝘁 𝗡𝗼𝘄 🔴
The axe head is made of 3CR13 stailness steel with a mixture of carbon and chromium and the super-sharp blade can cut through all types of flora that may be in its path. The foladable handle allows for easy transport and the soft rubber grips make for comfortable use. With a variety of accessories, such as a screwdriver set, a knife, a window breaker, a fire starter, an emergency whistle, and more.
It also comes with a durable canvas carry bag for a simple storage solution. While the Pathway North camping shovel is certainly premium-quality and offers pretty much everything you could possibly need, be advised that the price is a bit on the high side, so keep that in mind when you’re shopping.
- All in One Shovel
- Includes Axe Head
- Carry Case
- Tactical Waist Bag with MOLLE system
- Multifunctional Knife Blade
- Includes a Philips Screwdriver
- Plastic Threads, Might strip over time
Yeacool Portable Folding Shovel
You don’t have to spend a lot to get a well-made, durable, and reliable camping shovel, and the Yeacool Portable Folding Shovel perfectly illustrates just that. The 180 degree rotating handle allows you to get the ideal angle while you’re shoveling and the rubber gripped handles prevent your hands from slipping and improve your comfort while you work.
The high-carbon stainless steel features a high-end blade with a sharp tip and edge, as well as a serrated edge, so it will be able to cut through pretty much whatever you come across while you’re shoveling.
- Mini Folding Shovel with Multifunction: It Can be Pressed into Service as a Shovel, Saw, Bottle Opener, Nail Puller, Hoe, Pickaxe and more!
- High Quality and Value Multitool for Outdoor and Indoor activities: Great choice for Backpackers,Campers, Hikers, Gardeners, Scouts, Archaeologist, Gold Prospector, etc. A Superb Gift Idea!
- Small and Portable: The folding design allows easy carry, transport and storage. Simply loop to your belt or keep handy in your car or backpack! One multitool does it all!
- Compact but Intelligent and Solid Design: It features a non-slip soft rubber grip handle resulting in a comfortable grip while performing your gardening, shoveling or digging tasks. High-carbon steel manufactured shovel head and handle, durable, sturdy and tough as nails! Very practical tool covers all your different outdoor needs.
- Order with Confidence. Yeacool customer satisfaction means all! We fix any problem quickly and offer the best solution to our valued customers in a polite way!! Simply contact us via Amazon message when necessary, enjoy hassle free shopping experience with us!!!
Like the two previous models, the Yeacool Camping Shovel also comes with additional tools, such as a nail puller, a pickaxe, saw and a canvase carrying case for convenient storage. All of these features and this camping tool is very affordably priced, to boot.
- Made of high-carbon steel
- Comfort grip handle for easier use
- Blade serves as a multip-purpose tool and can cut through almost anything
- Can be taken apart for easy transport and storage
- Affordably priced
- Some user reports it wasn’t as durable as advertised
Military Portable Shovel and Pickaxe
Another reliable camping shovel that serves as a multi-purpose tool is the Military Portable Shovel and Pickaxe. Comprised of durable and rust-free stainless steel, it can handle pretty much anything that comes its way, yet it’s lightweight. The swivel design allows you to get the perfect angle and the sharp edge and serated edge on the blade can tackle all types of vegetation.
- Survival Camping Shovel designed and produced for outdoor enthusiasts such as Off-roading, 4-Wheeling, Expeditions, Tent Camping, RV Camping, Boy Scouts, Firemen, Hunters, Fishermen, Gardeners, Prospectors and Motorcyclists. This folding shovel is the ideal equipment for camping and rescue activities and is the best choice for your outdoor sporting activities.
- Portable Folding Shovel with Extension Bars: This portable folding shovel can quick and easy to assemble and stores compactly, so you can fold the shovel and put it in the included waist pack to carry with you. In addition to this, there are extension bars included. You can adjust the length by adding or subtracting extender pieces, and fit more survival items into the segments of the handle. Your camping trip will be more convenient with this portable shovel.
- Military Multifunctional E-Tool: 180° rotating lock control for use as a shovel, hoe or pickaxe. Shovel board with cutting edge. It should be a very useful camp tool, from digging a quick cat hole, to trenching a shallow ditch when expecting rain. Convenient folding shovel includes: Saw, Bottle Opener, Nail Extractor, Emergency Whistle for someone who may be lost, Compass, Fire Starter, etc. With this Multi-functional shovel, you will make your camping trip be more flexible and enjoyable.
- Durable Survival Shovel: This tactical shovel is made of high-carbon steel. The grip on the handle is made of rubber, which is high-strength and wear-resistant - durable enough to withstand heavy-duty entrenching and digging. It is a great gift idea, especially for outdoor enthusiasts, because it is tactical and practical.
- Satisfaction Guarantee: Lifetime warranty with 100% satisfaction and zero hassle returns guaranteed. As a senior manufacturer and operated company, your 100% satisfaction is our first priority.
With three assembly methods, you can adjust the size to suit your needs, too. It can be used for much more than digging; it can also be used for sawing, driving screws, starting fires, hammering, and so much more. When you’re finished working, just take it apart and tuck the components away in the included storage bag for easy transport. With a 100 percent money-back guarantee, you can purchase the Harvest Military Portable Shovel and Pickaxe with confidence.
- Made of durable and rust-resistant stainless steel
- Portable design
- Sharpe blade with serated edge can cut through almost anything
- Multi-functional; can be used as a shovel, a saw, a screwdriver, a knife, and more
- Rotating handle allows you to get the perfect angle
- Comes with a convenient storage bag
- 100 percent money back guarantee
- A few buyers said that it was not as well-made as they expected it to be
Coleman Folding Shovel
If you’re looking for a basic camping shovel that is sturdy, reliable, and affordable, the Coleman Folding Shovel is a good option. Made of high-grade steel and featuring a rugged construction, this camping shovel will always have your back.
- SHOVEL FOLDING W/PICK C004
- SHOVEL FOLDING W/PICK C004
- SHOVEL FOLDING W/PICK C004
- SHOVEL FOLDING W/PICK C004
- SHOVEL FOLDING W/PICK C004
The blade features a sharp point and a serrated edge that can be used to saw through firewood, roots, and more. The foldable design measures 23 inches when opened and 10 inches when folded down so you can easily tuck it into a backpack for storage and transport.
The opened handle construction makes for simple use, as you can guide and leverage the blade with ease. While it doesn’t offer all the bells and whistles that other camping shovels we have featured on our list so far, the basic design is dependable and will certainly come in handy on your camping excursions.
- Positive fit locking collar
- Tempered forged steel blade
- Serrated edge for sawing
- Low Price
- No Additional Fittings or tools
Zune Lotoo Annihilate Tactical Shovel
For the most intense outdoor adventurists, the Zune Lotoo Annihilate Tactical Shovel is an outstanding option. This state-of-the-art shovel is made of 100 percent molded and casted martensitic stainless steel, so you know that it can handle serious conditions and will last for years to come.
The head of the shovel is designed from thin to think so there’s no weak part or weld part, which increases the strength and hardness. The patented fast lock adjustment design allows you to position the quick lock with a one-button-touch and adjust the angle from 0 to 150 with the single push of a button with one hand. A 23-in-1 multi-tool, you can use it for all of your survival needs.
- 7 Key Angles Lock Patent: One-handed operation, one key to quickly adjust 7 angles. The compact survival shovel kit provide the fastest rescue in an emergency, make your camping trip, off-roading adventure, backpacking, hiking, and get outdoors more safer. Patent No.-ZL201410131679.8
- Sturdy survival tool: The durable tactical shovel head is made of martensitic steel and cast in one piece. The thickest part is as high as 1.3cm, HRC 60 and it can bear 1984lb. It will not rust in salt water for 25 days, and will not break in cold weather of minus 60 degrees.
- All-in-one multitools: The camping shovel folding multitool has shovel blade and axe blade in the shovel surface, great for shovelling, chopping, cutting, sawing, digging, hammering. also includes bottle opener, survival whistle, camera support, fire starter, wire saw and rope.
- Upgrade handle: The handle is made of aircraft grade aluminum military grade, with a thickness of 5.01mm, sturdy and reliable. And the removable black non-slip silicone pad can be adjusted to the most suitable position according to your needs.
- Solid little shovel: Our foldable shovel is about 24.2 in (3 handles), with 2 extension rods, and the total length of the assembled 5-section handle is 35.4 in. All can be disassembled and packed in a green carrying pouch, which is lightweight and portable, great for toolbox of truck, car/RV camping.
The blade has a serated edge that can be used as a saw, a screwdriver, a saw, and so much more. Backed by a lifetime warranty, you’ll have confidence knowing that you’re purchasing a high-end product.
- Made of molded and casted martenstic stainless steel
- Exceptionall durable
- Uniquely designed shovel head for increased strength
- The patented fast lock adjustment allows you to quickly adjust the angle with a single push of a button
- Folding design allows makes storage a breeze
- Can be used as 23 different tools
- Backed by a lifetime warranty
- The price is pretty high and may be cost-prohibitive for some buyers
Redcamp Camping Shovel
The Redcamp Military Shovel is another simple, yet reliable camping shovel. Made of high-end, lightweight high-carbon stainless steel and featuring rugged design and a serated edge on the blade, it can easily handle multiple functions, including digging, sawing, cutting, and hammering.
- Multifunctional Use: This backpacking trowel has more functions than a regular trowel. It can be used as ruler, saw, shovel, hex wrench, nail puller, or a spare tent stake on a windy day.
- Easy to Carry: The size of camping shovel is 11.1x3.1''/28.2x8cm, weighing only 7.55oz/214g. It is convenient to store in the bag. The carrying pouch with a loop can be attached to belts or backpacks.
- Durable & High Quality: This hiking trowel is made of steel, which is durable and bend resistant. With the handle warped with paracord, this trowel is very comfortable to hold.
- Perfect Outdoor Tool: Ideal for sawing, cutting, shoveling, digging cathole, spearing fish, etc. Great for hunting, camping, hiking, backpacking. Gardeners can also use it to dig holes and plant flowers.
- GANURANTEEDG: REDCAMP offers a 365-day limited manufacturer warranty. If you're not satisfied for any reason, please contact us immediately and we will give you a reply within 24 hours.
The head can be adjusted and used straight or at a 90 degree angle and the entire tool can be folded down and placed in the included carrying bag for easy storage and transport. With the Redcamp Military Shovel, you’ll have a multi-functional tool that you can rely on for all of your outdoor adventure needs.
And since it’s backed by a one year full money-back guarantee, so if it breaks within 365 days after purchasing, the manufacturer will provide a replacement or a complete refund.
- Made of high-carbon stainless steel
- Comfort-grip handle
- Sharp edge and serated edge
- Foldable design for easy storage and transport
- Can be used straight or at a 90 degree angle
- Functions as a shovel, a saw, a pick, or a hoe
- Backed by a full 1-year money back warranty
- Affordably priced
- No extra tools included
Coleman Folding Shovel with Pick
If you’re looking for a really simple camping shovel that you can count on to get the job done, the Coleman Folding Shovel with Pick is a good option. Comprised of tempered forged steel components, you can count on it to get the job done and last a long time.
The blade has a sharp serated edge, so it can be used for shoveling and sawing, and the picket on the end can be used drill holes, break through ice, etc. The positive locking collar ensures that it remains in in the locked position and won’t collapse on you while you’re using it.
- SHOVEL FOLDING W/PICK C004
- SHOVEL FOLDING W/PICK C004
- SHOVEL FOLDING W/PICK C004
- SHOVEL FOLDING W/PICK C004
- SHOVEL FOLDING W/PICK C004
When you’re finished working, foled it down and tuck it into the included carry pouch. Measuring 6.9 inches by 3.8 inches by 2.2 inches, the Coleman Folding Shovel is small enough to slip into your backpack and won’t take up a lot of space. Durable, reliable, and easy to use, this camping shovel is simple, but it will certainly get the job done.
- Made of tempered forged steel components
- Sharp blade with a serated edge
- Can be used as a shovel, a saw, or a pick
- Locking collar for stable use
- Folds down to a compact size for easy storage and transport
- Comes with a carry pouch
- Very affordably priced
- Blade might not be large enough for some
Other Best Selling Options
- 🌴3-Way Folding Shovel – The new Extremus Trench Camping Shovel folds in three directions so that it will store in a case that is only 8” long x 5” wide and 2 ½” thick. It can be used straight for digging or at 90 degrees for trenching.
- Solid Steel Construction – The Extremus Trenching Tool/Shovel has a handle and blade made of solid, high-carbon steel for dependable use under extreme conditions. Lightweight and easy to pack, this shovel should be a part of every camper’s or hikers equipment. Weighs only about 1.5 lbs.
- 🏕️Multiple Uses – Designed to be the perfect camping shovel to dig fire pits or trench drainage lines around tents. A great tool to add dirt to extinguish a fire and make sure it is dead out to avoid wildfires when breaking camp. It’s a great addition to the trunk of any vehicle so that you can dig out if your vehicle becomes stuck in mud or snow. Can also be used in the garden at home for planting, cultivating and much more.
- ⛏Serrated Cutting Edge – The serrated cutting edge can be used to cut or chop small branches for kindling or fire building. Great for chopping ice, cutting through packed soil and more. The triangle shaped handle provides a positive grip on this hardworking tool.
- 📦STORAGE BAG – The Extremus Trench Camping Shovel comes packed in a durable cordura travel case for easy storage and to protect the sharp edges from being damaged. It also protects the user from sharp edges. The shovel can be stored in vehicles, camp boxes, backpacks and also includes a belt loop so it can be worn as you work.
- Folding survival shovel w/ pick - heavy duty carbon steel military style entrenching tool for off road, camping, gardening, beach, digging dirt, sand, mud & snow.
- Military style e-tool - 2lbs of powder coated carbon steel, tough pickaxe & sharp rugged saw teeth.
- Compact & portable - full 23" long extended but only 9" x 6" when folded into included carry case.
- Multi-functional - shovels = great garden tools, backpacking gear and metal detector accessories.
- The Last Shovel You Will Ever Need: At Rhino USA, We Stand Behind Our Products. If You Ever Experience Any Defects or Damage, Contact Our Customer Service Team and Receive A Replacement On Us.
- Unbreakable Survival Shovel - This survival tool set constructed with military-grade solid carbon steel with aerospace-grade anodized aluminum tubes that make it sturdy enough deal with survival activities or car/truck emergency
- Multi-functional - This 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
- Collapsible and Portable - This 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
- Not just camping - This tactical shovel is perfect for camping, hiking, gardening, backpacking, hunting, traveling, expedition, car emergency, and outdoor survival
- Satisfaction Guarantee - Lifetime warranty with 100% satisfaction and zero hassle returns guaranteed. With this military-level survival shovel, you have the last piece of camping and survival tool you will ever need
- 【PERFECT AFTER-SALES SERVICE】If for any reason you are not completely satisfied with your purchase, or encounter any problems during use,you can click the "contact seller" button to send an email to us, and We will solve your problem within 24 hours and make you 100% satisfied
- 【PREMIUM MATERIALS】Carefully constructed with high-carbon steel, this heat-treated mini folding camp shovel is built to last with rust-resistance.
- 【EASY TO USE】Can be used as a hoe, pick, or saw; great multi-purpose tool for outdoor use.The strong blade helps the shovel dig into gravel with ease.
- 【PORTABLE COME WITH YOU】The length of the folding shovel will be shorter than an adult’s arm, and fully folded only 7.37 inchs, like your palm, so you can fit it in your pocket or a corner of a backpack.
- 【VERSATILE APPLICATIONS】Perfect shovel for digging, sawing, chopping; great tool for your backyard, private garden, farm or any outdoor space.
- 【Multifunctional Backpacking Trowel】- FLYEGO trowel backpacking has more functions than a regular trowel, it can be used as Shovel, Saw, Ruler, Nail Extractor, Hex Wrench, Rope Cutter, Survival Paracord. The portable backpacking trowel fits in a convenient carrying sheath with a belt loop, it's easy for you to hang it on your belt. You can be sure to be prepared for anything!
- 【Durable Backpacking Shovel】 -The camping shovel is built with rugged stainless steel that is high-strength, very durable, resistant to bending and has great leverage.The trowel is rust and scratch resistant, keeping the razor sharp and easy to clean. The handle is wrapped around with 9ft paracord, making it easy to maneuver and comfortable to hold and use.
- 【Versatile Gardening Trowel】- This poop shovel backpacking serrated edge can be use to cut small roots and such while digging. Its one-piece construction ensures that the handle does not bend or break off. With paracord-wrapped handle is comfortable to provides good grip. It is easy on the hand and makes gardening much easier. You'll love this tool!
- 【Lightweight Hiking Shovel】- This compact and lightweight trowel is specially made for ultralight backpackers, it's strong enough dig a hole through rocky or compacted ground. It is very suitable for camping, hunting, fishing, hiking, backpacking, gardening and outdoor activities.
- 【Lifetime Warranty】- All FLYEGO hiking trowel are made of the highest quality components . If our backpacking trowel doesn't meet your expectations or if you encounter any issues, please contact us promptly, and we will spare no effort to ensure your satisfaction.
Camping Shovels Buyer’s Guide
In order for a camping trip to be successful, having the right gear is key. A tent, sleeping bag, and flashlights are some of the most obvious essentials, but there’s another vital tool that you might be overlooking: a shovel.
Whether you’re camping in the backwoods or on a beach, a shovel can come in really handy. From digging a spot for a fire to turning over the embers when you want to put out the blaze, to burying biodegradble waste and digging a latrine, a shovel is an extremely useful tool; however, standard models – like the kind you’d use for landscaping projects – are often to big and bulky to transport to and from a campsite or they can’t be used for camping-related purposes. That’s why you should invest in a camping shovel.
Camping shovels are specifically designed for, well, camping. They’re usually more compact and lighter than standard shovels, and many models can even be folded down for easier storage. They can also boast features that make them useful for a variety of camping-related scenarios.
As you can see from our list of the best camping shovels, there are a variety of different styles and features to choose from. In order to ensure that you choose the right shovel for your specific needs, it’s important to take a few factors into consideration before you make a final decision. In this section, we’ve highlighted some of the key factors that you should consider when you’re shopping for a camping shovel.
The Type
There are several different types of camping shovels, including multi-purpose tools, standard shovels, and basic trowels. To determine which type will work best for your particular needs, you have to consider what you intend on doing with it.
For example, if you plan on using it as more than just a shovel, a multi-purpose tool would come in handy, as these camping shovels can be used for more than just digging; they can also be used as axes, picks, saws, screwdrivers, and much more.
If you only need it to clear the ground before you pitch a tent and to bury organic materials, for instance, a smaller trowel design may be all that you need.
The Material
You’ll also need to consider the materials that the shovel is made out of. The best camping shovels are made of stainless steel, carbon steel, or aluminum, as these materials are extremely durable, and whether you’re using it just to dig or you’re using it for several different purposes, durability is exactly what you need.
Stainless steel, while tough, tends to be heavy, while aluminum is lighter in weight but it tends to be a little less robust, and carbon steel falls somewhere in between the two.
Avoid purchasing a camping shovel that’s made of plastic because, as you can imagine, plastic shovels aren’t very rugged and are almost guaranteed to break at some point.
The Size
It’s also important to consider the size of the camping shovel. Their heads come in a variety of dimensions, as do their handles. Like the material the shovel is made out of, the size that will work best for your needs also depends on how you intend on using it.
For instance, if you plan on digging ditches, doing so with a small trowel will not only take a lot of time, but it will also be extremely frustrating. Keep in mind that the size of the shovel will affect it’s portability.
Larger shovels take up more space and tend to be heavier, which can make them a bit harder to transport.
Portability
While the size of the shovel certainly affects the portability, so does the overall design. One of the reasons why you’re purchasing a specially made shovel for camping is because standard shovels are too big and bulky to tote pack and tote along on a camping trip; especially if your excursions will include hiking.
Most camping shovels can be folded down or taken apart to make them more compact for easier packing and transport. Additionally, the weight of the shovel will affect its portability. As mentioned, stainless steel, though super durable, tends to be a bit on the heavy side, while aluminium is lighter weight, but it isn’t as rugged as stainless steel, and carbon steel is can be considered a mid-weight material.
Additional Features
Consider if you’d like a camping shovel to offer additional features, and if so, what kinds. They can come with a variety of tools, such as knives, emergency whistles, compasses, bottle openers, work gloves, and more. Think about the activites you’ll be doing and which features would best suit your needs.
For example, if you’re going to be hiking, a compass could come in really handy, and if you’re going to be catching your own dinner, something that comes with a knife that can be used to scale fish would certainly be useful.
Do note, however, that while added features are nice and can come in handy, they up the price of the camping shovel; therefore, if you want to keep the price low and you don’t need any additional features or you only need a few, you should try to avoid buying a shovel that is outfitted with a variety of add-ons.
The Cost
Lastly, it’s important to consider how much you want to spend before you start shopping. As can be seen from our list alone, camping shovels cost anywhere from $10 to upwards of $100 or more.
As mentioned, the more bells and whistles a camping shovel offers and features it’s equipped with, the more expensive it’s going to be. Set a budget before you start shopping so that you can avoid choosing a shovel that costs more than you’re comfortable spending.
Camping Shovel FAQs
If you have never purchased a camping shovel before or you have but you’re on the market for a new one, you probably have a few questions. In this section, you’ll find answers to some of the most common questions that consumers have about camping shovels, and hopefully the information presented here will answer any questions that you may have, too.
Why should you purchase a camping shovel?
A shovel is a very useful tool for camping; however, standard shovels are usually too big and bulky to pack and tote around. Camping shovels are more compact, lighter weight, and can even be folded down for easy storage.
Are there benefits of an adjustable handle?
Yes, an adjustable handle can give you better leverage, which will make digging easier and will allow you to expand the length when you need to while still making the tool easy to pack and transport.
Is a multi-tool shovel a good investment?
It really depends on your specific needs. If you plan on using it for a variety of functions, then use, shovel that offers multiple features would be a wise investment, as instead of packing up several tools, you’ll only need to take along your shovel.
How do you care for a camping shovel?
It’s best to keep your camping shovel dry, as moisture can rust even rust-proof materials. Make sure that you wipe down the shovel after use and stow it in a dry area.
Conclusion
With the information presented in this handy guide, you should be able to find a camping shovel that will meet all of your needs and will simplify a lot of your tasks while you’re spending time in the Great Outdoors. Whether you purchase one of nine shovels on our list or you decide to buy something else, make sure that you consider the factors that we mentioned in our buyer’s guide before you make a final decision so that you can choose the best camping shovel for your specific needs.
Happy camping!
