Imagine this: you’re miles from anywhere, deep in the wilderness, and you need to answer nature’s call. What’s one small, but mighty, tool that can make this experience much more pleasant and responsible? It’s the humble backpacking trowel!
But choosing the right one can feel like a quest in itself. Should it be lightweight? Strong? What about the size? It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by all the choices out there. Many hikers worry about picking a trowel that’s too heavy for their pack or one that won’t do the job properly, leaving them with an uncomfortable situation and a less-than-ideal impact on the environment.
Don’t worry! By the end of this post, you’ll know exactly what makes a great backpacking trowel. We’ll break down the features that matter most, help you understand different types, and guide you toward finding the perfect trowel for your adventures. Get ready to dig into all the details that will make your next backcountry trip smoother!
Our Top 5 Backpacking Trowel Recommendations at a Glance
| Image | Product | Rating | Links |
|---|---|---|---|
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TheTentLab(R Deuce(R) of Spades™Ultralight Backpack Trowel in Three Sizes (#2 | 8.6/10 | Check Price |
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Ryqoru Ultralight Backpacking Trowel | 9.3/10 | Check Price |
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Small Camping Shovel | 9.4/10 | Check Price |
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PLACHIDAY 3-in-1 Ultralight Backpacking Trowel | 9.5/10 | Check Price |
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BoglerCo Ultralight Backpacking Trowel | 8.9/10 | Check Price |
Top 5 Backpacking Trowel Detailed Reviews
1. TheTentLab(R Deuce(R) of Spades™Ultralight Backpack Trowel in Three Sizes (#2
Rating: 9.1/10
The TentLab Deuce of Spades™ Ultralight Backpack Trowel is a must-have for any outdoor enthusiast serious about Leave No Trace principles. This incredibly lightweight trowel comes in three sizes, with the #2 model weighing just .6 ounces. It’s designed to make digging a proper cathole quick and easy, helping you minimize your impact on the environment.
What We Like:
- Versatile Digging: You can use the Deuce upside-down to easily find and avoid rocks or roots in the top layer of soil. This unique feature saves you time and effort.
- Efficient Dirt Removal: When used right-side-up, the large scoop moves dirt quickly. It also works great for breaking up tough ground and prying out rocks when you need extra digging power.
- Multiple Size Options: Choose from three sizes – #1 for extreme ultralight hikers, #2 for the classic backpacker, and #3 for tackling really difficult ground.
- Durable Construction: Made from aerospace-grade aluminum in the US and South Korea, this trowel is built to last and comes with a lifetime warranty.
- Comfortable Design: The trowel is tumbled and smoothed, meaning no sharp edges. This makes it much more comfortable to hold and use.
- Fun Colors: Anodized in bright colors, it prevents your hands from getting smudged with aluminum and adds a bit of fun to your gear.
What Could Be Improved:
- Limited Availability: Due to its specialized construction and materials, this trowel might not be readily available everywhere.
This trowel is a smart investment for anyone who loves spending time outdoors. It’s a simple tool that makes a big difference in practicing responsible outdoor ethics.
2. Ryqoru Ultralight Backpacking Trowel
Rating: 8.8/10
The Ryqoru Ultralight Backpacking Trowel is a tiny but mighty tool for anyone who loves spending time outdoors. It’s super light, weighing less than an ounce, so you’ll barely notice it in your backpack. This little shovel is perfect for digging “cat holes” for human waste when you’re camping, which is a key part of leaving no trace behind. It can also help you clean up after your pets on the trail or at the park.
What We Like:
- It’s incredibly light and won’t weigh down your pack.
- The long handle makes digging easier and keeps your hands cleaner.
- It’s small enough to fit in a water bottle pocket or clip onto your backpack.
- It works well for digging in loose soil, sand, and garden dirt.
- It’s also handy for cleaning up pet waste.
- The end hole lets you easily attach it to your gear.
What Could Be Improved:
- It’s not meant for digging in very hard or rocky ground.
- For tough digging jobs, you might need a stronger shovel.
This trowel is an excellent choice for hikers and campers who want to be prepared and practice Leave-No-Trace principles. It’s a practical and lightweight addition to any outdoor adventure gear.
3. Small Camping Shovel
Rating: 8.9/10
This Small Camping Shovel, a 9-in-1 portable mini hand shovel, is a serious multitool for anyone who loves the outdoors. It’s a backpacking trowel designed for camping, gardening, and survival situations. Its sleek silver finish makes it look good too.
What We Like:
- It’s incredibly versatile, packing nine tools into one compact shovel: a shovel, saw, nail extractor, bottle opener, ruler, peeler, hex wrench, slotted screwdriver, and even paracord!
- The shovel is built tough from alloy special steel. This material is strong and resists wear, so it won’t rust easily thanks to its polished or painted surface.
- The handle is designed for comfort. It’s ergonomically shaped and wrapped with 9ft of paracord, giving you a great grip for tough digging.
- It’s super portable! It comes with a handy storage bag that has a belt loop, so you can easily carry it with you on any adventure.
- The sharp edges of the shovel can cut through hard ground and roots, making your work faster and easier.
- This trowel is perfect for all sorts of outdoor activities like camping, hiking, hunting, fishing, and bushcraft. It’s also a handy tool for gardening and homesteading.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s a great multitool, the “mini” size might be a little small for very large digging jobs.
- The straight handle, while comfortable for many tasks, might not be ideal for every single type of digging scenario compared to a curved handle.
This 9-in-1 camping shovel is an excellent companion for your next outdoor adventure or gardening project. It offers a lot of functionality in a small package.
4. PLACHIDAY 3-in-1 Ultralight Backpacking Trowel
Rating: 8.9/10
The PLACHIDAY 3-in-1 Ultralight Backpacking Trowel is a handy tool for anyone who loves the outdoors. It’s designed to be light and strong, making it great for hiking, camping, and even gardening. This trowel helps you dig small holes, manage waste, and do light digging. Its bright orange color makes it easy to spot.
What We Like:
- It’s super light, so it won’t weigh down your backpack.
- The aluminum alloy makes it strong and resistant to rust and breaking.
- The handle is designed to be comfortable and easy to grip, even when you’re digging.
- It works well for digging in different types of ground, helping you follow “leave no trace” rules.
- It’s a complete set for outdoor adventures, and you get 24/7 customer support.
- The bright orange color makes it easy to find if you set it down.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s great for light digging, it might not be the best for really tough or rocky soil.
- The “potty tool” aspect might be a bit basic; some might prefer a more specialized tool for that specific job.
Overall, the PLACHIDAY 3-in-1 trowel is a solid choice for backpackers and campers looking for a lightweight and versatile tool. It offers good value and reliability for your outdoor needs.
5. BoglerCo Ultralight Backpacking Trowel
Rating: 8.5/10
The BoglerCo Ultralight Backpacking Trowel in blue is a game-changer for anyone who loves to hike and camp. It’s so light, you’ll hardly notice it in your pack. This trowel is designed for outdoor adventures, making it easy to take care of your needs in the wilderness.
What We Like:
- It’s incredibly lightweight at just 0.48 ounces (13.5 grams). That’s lighter than three nickels!
- This trowel is built to last. It’s tough and reliable, and the company offers a lifetime warranty, meaning it should last forever.
- It’s proudly made right here in the USA.
- The end cap is a smart addition. It makes digging more comfortable by preventing the handle from digging into your hand, even when you use a lot of force.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the ultralight design is fantastic, it might feel a little less sturdy in very hard or rocky soil compared to heavier trowels.
- The bright blue color, while easy to spot, might not appeal to everyone’s aesthetic.
Overall, this BoglerCo trowel is an excellent piece of gear for any backpacker. Its minimal weight and durable construction make it a reliable companion for all your outdoor trips.
The Ultimate Backpacking Trowel Buying Guide
Planning a backpacking trip means packing smart. You need gear that’s light, strong, and does its job well. One often-overlooked but essential item is a backpacking trowel. This small tool helps you practice Leave No Trace principles by properly burying human waste. Let’s find the best trowel for your adventures!
1. Key Features to Look For
When choosing a backpacking trowel, a few things make a big difference.
Lightweight Design
You carry everything on your back, so every ounce counts. Look for a trowel that weighs next to nothing. Many are made from super light materials.
Durability
Your trowel needs to be tough. It will dig into dirt, roots, and maybe even small rocks. A strong trowel won’t bend or break when you need it most.
Ergonomic Handle
A good grip makes digging easier. A handle that fits comfortably in your hand helps you apply more force without hurting yourself.
Sharp Edge
A slightly sharp edge helps the trowel cut through soil and roots more easily. This makes digging a hole faster and less tiring.
Compact Size
It needs to fit easily into your backpack. Many trowels are designed to be small enough to slip into a side pocket or even your cooking pot.
2. Important Materials
The material of your trowel greatly affects its weight and strength.
Aluminum Alloy
This is a popular choice. Aluminum alloy is both lightweight and strong. It’s a good balance for most backpackers.
Titanium
Titanium is even lighter than aluminum and incredibly strong. It’s also very resistant to rust. Titanium trowels are often more expensive but can last a lifetime.
High-Strength Plastic
Some trowels are made from strong plastics. These can be very lightweight and affordable. However, they might not be as durable as metal options, especially in tough soil.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things can make a trowel great or not so great.
Improved Quality
- Reinforced Edges: Trowels with thicker or reinforced edges are less likely to bend or chip.
- Smooth Finish: A smooth finish means dirt won’t stick as much, making it easier to clean.
- Well-Attached Handle: If the handle is a separate piece, ensure it’s securely attached.
Reduced Quality
- Thin, Flimsy Metal: This can bend easily, making it hard to dig.
- Sharp Burrs: Rough edges can be uncomfortable to hold and might snag on your gear.
- Cracked Plastic: Plastic trowels can break if they are too thin or exposed to extreme cold.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
A good backpacking trowel makes a necessary task much easier.
Ease of Use
A well-designed trowel feels good in your hand. It digs efficiently without you needing to use a lot of force. Cleaning it should also be simple.
Use Cases
- Burying Waste: This is the primary use. Digging a cathole 6-8 inches deep is crucial for proper waste disposal.
- Digging for Water: In some dry areas, you might need to dig down to find water sources.
- Other Camp Tasks: You can use it to move coals, level a tent spot, or even dig for edible roots (if you know what you’re doing!).
Choosing the right backpacking trowel is an investment in your comfort and in protecting the natural places you love to explore.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the most important feature of a backpacking trowel?
A: The most important features are being lightweight and durable. You need it to be strong enough to dig but light enough to carry easily.
Q: Are plastic trowels good enough?
A: Some high-strength plastic trowels are decent for light use. However, metal trowels, especially aluminum or titanium, are generally more durable and reliable.
Q: How big should a backpacking trowel be?
A: It should be compact enough to fit in your backpack without taking up too much space. Most are around 8-10 inches long.
Q: Do I really need a trowel?
A: Yes, absolutely. A trowel helps you follow Leave No Trace principles by allowing you to properly bury human waste, which protects the environment and prevents the spread of germs.
Q: How do I choose the best material?
A: Aluminum alloy offers a great balance of weight and strength for most people. Titanium is lighter and stronger but costs more. Plastic is the cheapest but least durable.
Q: What does “ergonomic handle” mean?
A: It means the handle is shaped to fit comfortably in your hand, making it easier and less tiring to dig.
Q: Can I use a regular garden trowel?
A: No, a regular garden trowel is usually too heavy and bulky for backpacking. Backpacking trowels are specifically designed to be lightweight and compact.
Q: How do I clean my backpacking trowel?
A: You can usually just wipe it off with dirt or use a bit of water and a rag. Some people use antibacterial wipes.
Q: Should the edge be sharp?
A: A slightly sharpened edge helps cut through soil and roots more easily, making digging faster. However, it doesn’t need to be razor sharp.
Q: Where should I dig my cathole?
A: You should dig your cathole at least 200 feet (about 70 adult steps) away from water sources, trails, and campsites. Dig it 6-8 inches deep.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
I’m the recipe developer and food photographer behind Air Fryer at Tiffany’s. I’m also a wife, mom to two adventurous little boys, registered nurse, and live in the great Midwest. Join me as I show you new ways to use your air fryer that you never knew possible.