Camping is fun if you possess the right travel-friendly tools. A portable shovel is one of the essential tools you need to make your campsite habitable. Most camping shovels have multiple features that do not require you to spend a considerable amount on other camping gear. A shovel can serve as a saw, hammer, ax, compass, fire starter, and bottle opener. Therefore, it helps you bury waste, dig trenches, build fire pits, and much more. Here, we have compiled a list of the best camping shovels that make essential tasks effortless to both beginners and experienced campers alike.

Types Of Shovels

Portable shovels are available in multiple shapes and sizes. However, they are of two types based on their additional accessories and features.

17 Best Camping Shovels

1. Best Lightweight:SOG Folding Shovel

Constructed from tempered high carbon steel, this heavy-duty folding camping shovel ensures durability. It is compact and can handle tougher jobs effortlessly. It is a convenient, portable, and multipurpose tool that can be bent into three angles as per requirement. Have a look at this video to learn more about the folding shovel. Pros

Serrated edge for cutting off branches Comes with a carrying bag and belt loop Secure lock prevents the latch from opening Solid and lightweight build Can be used as a pick or hoe

Cons

Relatively smaller in size Non-adjustable handle

2. Best Portable Design:Rhino USA Folding Shovel

Weighing only two-pounds, the Rhino USA’s Folding Military Shovel is made of powder-coated carbon steel. Even with a length of 23inches, it can fit well into its carry pouch when folded. The sharp serrated edge on one end of the shovel increases the functionality of this tool. Check out this video that has useful information about the versatile shovel. Pros

Durable and portable design Heavy-duty build Multipurpose model Convertible into an ax by twisting the head

Cons

Locking mechanism may be complicated

3. Best Non-Slip:Bond Mini Shovel

Made for digging small trenches and pits, this mini camping shovel is lightweight and portable. The ergonomic handle offers a comfortable grip, and the shovel has anti-corrosive metal parts. Furthermore, these metal parts are heat-treated to increase their efficiency and durability. Pros

Steel handle offers firmness and durability Non-slip surface on the handle The coating on the metal parts prevents the formation of rust Includes a five-year warranty

Cons

Might not be suitable for plowing the hard soil Not foldable

4. Best Durable:Redcamp Camping Shovel

The military camping shovel by Redcamp has sharp serrated edges for digging and cutting the bushes. You can also cut roots, mulch, and plow sand or snow with this multipurpose tool made of aluminum. Its compact and lightweight design enables the shovel to fit well into your glove box and be carried around with ease. Learn more about the product in this review video. Pros

Durable design Suitable for camping, fishing, and hunting Angle of the shovelhead can be altered as per the requirement Strong and thick blade Includes a one-year warranty

Cons

Locking mechanism might be flimsy

5. Best Quality:Gerber Gorge Folding Shovel

The Gerber Camping Shovel’s serrated edge can be used for chopping roots or clearing bushes in the camping area. It features a glass-filled nylon handle and powder-coated steel shovelhead. Foldable and rigid, it can plow through the hardest of soils effortlessly. Pros

High-quality and durable construction Doesn’t have any fiddly parts Lightweight and portable design Handle can be used as a hammer Easy to operate

Cons

Bracket that attaches the blade to the handle is flimsy

6. Best Secured Locking Mechanism:Coleman Folding Shovel

The Coleman multipurpose tool is made of durable steel construction with a serrated edge for sawing. Its tempered steel shovelhead is intended to last long, while the rear end can be extended to be used as a pick. The shovel is lightweight and comes with a carry pouch for portability. Pros

Secured locking mechanism Ergonomic handle with ridges offers firm grip Can also be used to clear snow Compact and versatile

Cons

Relatively smaller in size

7. Best Versatile Tool:FiveJoy Military Folding Shovel

Designed for high outdoor functionality, Fivejoy’s Military Camping Shovel could be the best choice if you are a backpacker. It is a lightweight tool offering multiple features that a camper might need during their trips. You can use the shovel’s serrated edge for clearing bushes and adjust the handle’s length for additional convenience. Pros

Durable carbon steel construction Versatile tool including an ax, hammer, and an emergency whistle Lightweight and portable Shovelhead can be adjusted to multiple angles as per requirement

Cons

May not be durable

8. Best Adjustable:Antarctica Folding Camping Survival Shovel

If you search for a versatile yet lightweight tool, this military camping shovel could be the choice. With the inclusion of all the basic tools required for camping, you can trench or pick effortlessly. Easy to assemble and replaceable, it keeps you prepared for most outdoor tasks Pros

Carbon steel construction offers strength and durability Adjustable angle of the shovelhead for added convenience Handle length can be adjusted as per the requirement Compact and lightweight design Includes a fire starter and an emergency whistle

Cons

Knife handle is made of plastic

9. Best Sturdy Build:UST Light Duty Shovel

The UST Portable Shovel barely takes up any space in your backpack. It is a foldable camping shovel made of rust-free finish aluminum for durability. With its easy-to-attach carabiner, it is always within reach during emergencies. Its basic and simplistic design allows you to pitch a tent or dig out a campfire. Pros

Lightweight and portable design Durable and sturdy build Convenient and suitable for hiking, backpacking, and hunting Curved angle for easy digging

Cons

Handle may not have a comfortable grip Seems relatively small

10. Best Foldable:Iunio Folding Shovel

A well-built and versatile model with improved functionality, this multipurpose shovel is convenient to use. Construction from steel and aluminum alloy can handle the toughest outdoor terrains that need to be leveled for setting up camp. It works as a firestarter, screwdriver, and hammer, therefore meeting most of your backpacking needs. Pros

Compact, lightweight, and foldable shovel Includes a portable carry pouch Handle has extension bars for added convenience Includes a pickaxe and a bottle opener

Cons

Locking mechanism might not be firm

11. Best Multipurpose:Tyger Auto Shovel

The Tyger Auto Shovel is a high-quality, indestructible camping shovel. It has an instant switch system and a threaded ergonomic handle for smooth camping trips. Made of solid carbon steel and aerospace aluminum tubes, this foldable shovel offers durability, versatility, and effortless survival during camping. Pros

Includes a one-year warranty Adjustable shovelhead suits most requirements Compact and portable shovel Includes a firestarter, ice pick, screwdriver, hammer, and more

Cons

Too heavy for backpacking

12. Best Threaded Ergonomic Handle:Sunhoo Collapsible Shovel

With a heavy-duty powder-coated steel blade and an ergonomic handle, this folding military shovel is a multipurpose camping tool. Its simple folding mechanism converts the long shovel into a compact design for easy portability. It can be used as a saw, pickaxe, shovel, or crowbar based on your requirement. Pros

Shovelhead is an all-in-one spade Heat-treated and high-strength material offers durability Lightweight and compact; occupies little space in the backpack Triangular handle for easy hold

Cons

May be relatively small Locking mechanism might be fiddly

13. Best Mini Ice Scraper:Overmont Folding Snow Shovel

Featuring a collapsible aluminum head, the Overmont’s Compact Shovel is an ideal backpack gear or car safety accessory. This foldable shovel is made by an anodizing process for increased durability and strength. Its adjustable height of up to 32in makes it convenient to use for most outdoor requirements, including picking, trenching, or maneuvering snow. Pros

Includes a mini ice scraper Lightweight and compact Can be broken into three pieces for portability Holes in the shovelhead can be used for hanging

Cons

Handle grip is too small

14.  Best Diamond-Patterned Design:Zune Lotoo Survival Camping Shovel

With six adjustable angles by the simple touch of a button, the Zune’s best tactical shovel serves as a hand saw, bottle opener, saw, wire cutter, and more. Its stainless steel head paired with an aluminum handle offers high strength and durability to this product. This multipurpose camping tool weighs only four pounds, making it a compact and easy to carry gear. Pros

Comes with a lifetime warranty Diamond-patterned design offers efficiency Packs in a multipurpose, high-quality bag Easy to assemble

Cons

Mixed reviews on durability

15. Best For Gardening:Bleiou Multi-Function Camping Shovel

Suitable for gardening and picking, this compact folding military shovel by Bleiou is portable and lightweight. It has a rubber handle for comfort and a firm hold of the shovel. You can bend the shovelhead up to 90° for digging trenches, scooping out rocks, or flatten the ground to pitch a tent. Pros

Includes a compass at the bottom of the shovel Serrated edge on one side of the head can be used as a saw Made of tempered steel for strength Can be used as a pick

Cons

Plastic handle may not be durable

16. Cofit Retractable Snow Shovel

Constructed from aluminum alloy, this camping shovel is suitable for most campers, as its handle can be extended up to 43in. Its lightweight design reduces labor, and its detachable design makes it fit well into its compact carry pouch for portability. Pros

Can be used for snow removal Ergonomic design Can withstand heavyweight Advanced coating gives smoothness and strength to the shovel Triangular handle for a convenient and firm hold

Cons

Plastic handle can be fiddly

17. KingCamp Military Portable Folding Shovel

This folding military shovel features an ergonomic shovel blade and a handle made of high-strength carbon steel. Depending on the requirement, the shovelhead can be adjusted to a 90-degree angle. It is a lightweight shovel useful for sawing, cutting, hunting, or backpacking. Pros

Meets most camping needs Helps in effortless digging of trenches Portable and compact size Shovelhead has serrated edges and can be used to cut wood Anti-slip handle for a firm grip

Cons

May not be corrosion-resistant

How To Choose The Right Camping Shovel?

You need to decide on the type of shovel to buy based on your camping needs. Here are some features for you to consider while buying a camping shovel.

Material: Shovels are usually made of stainless steel, carbon steel, and aluminum materials. Steel is heavier but durable. Aluminum is a lightweight material but may not be as strong as steel. The higher the price of a shovel, the more durable the material is.

Handle: The strength of a shovel lies in its handle. An anti-slip handle with grooves offers a firm grip. Handles with adjustable and foldable lengths are convenient to use. Metal handles are durable and stronger compared to plastic ones.

Size: It depends on the usage. Digging or trenching requires larger shovels.

Portability: You require a lightweight, compact, and foldable shovel if you are going backpacking. A slightly heavier shovel may be suitable for vehicle campers.

Additional features: Some shovels come with additional tools, and they are versatile and highly functional. If you are a new camper and are in search of multiple camping tools, you can consider buying these models, and they are pocket-friendly too.

Protection: Carrying cases prevent popping of the shovel handles during travel. They also help in the easy portability of the shovels.

Why Trust MomJunction?

Our team of writers and product reviewers bring you this list of the best backpacking shovels for camping after taking into account factors such as outdoor requirements, portability, material, and grip. We have compared several products from various websites and even considered user reviews before compiling this list. We present you with a detailed description of products, their pros and cons, and a buying guide to help you get your hands on the best one.

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