Wherever you go, whether the trip is short or long, the Camping shovel is always a good assistant for us. Because what this convenient tool can do is not limited to tasks like digging toilet holes or burying tent stakes.
Today most camping shovel models are integrated with many functions that allow us to freely use them, such as saws, pickaxes, hammers, or other tools.
Many products even include handy features needed for outdoor use. That is why the importance of Camping Shovel is increasing day by day.
Table of Contents
Quick Recommendation
| RANK | PICTURE | NAME | RATING | SHOPS |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best Overall |  |
EST Gear Survival Shovel
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| Best Budget |  |
Gerber Gorge Folding Shovel
|
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| Most Versatile |  |
Sunkoon Camping Kit
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| Editor Choice |  |
FiveJoy Military Kit
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SOG Entrenching Tool F08-N
Price: $29.99
Length: 18′
Multi-tool: Yes
Material: Carbon Steel
Weight: 1.5 Pounds
What we Like: Competitive price, Multi-use, Trifold design, Light, Durable, Durable handle
What We Don’t Like: Short
Review: The SOG Entrenching Tool F08-N is a great option for those looking for an affordable camping shovel. It’s made from carbon steel, so it’s durable and can withstand heavy use. The trifold design makes it easy to pack and store, and it can be used as a shovel, pickaxe, hoe or saw. It also comes with its own sheath for storage and protection.
At 18 inches long, this is one of the shorter options on our list – however, you could always buy an extension if needed. The SOG Entrenching Tool F08-N also weighs in at only one and a half pounds, making it easy to transport with you on your camping trip.
Rhino USA Folding Survival Shove
Price: $24.97
Max Length: 31″
Multi-tool: Yes
Material: Carbon Steel
Weight: 2 Pounds
What we Like: Multi-use, Easy to convert, Easy to collapse, Comes with a carrying bag, Durable.
What we Don’t: Difficult to use as a shovel in some situations.
Review: The Rhino USA Folding Survival Shovel is a great option for those looking for an affordable and multi-use camping shovel. This model can easily be converted into a hoe, pickaxe, or saw, making it perfect for a variety of tasks while out in the wilderness. It’s also easy to collapse and comes with its own carrying bag, so you don’t have to worry about losing or misplacing it.
The main drawback of this model is that it is a little difficult to use as a shovel in some situations.
Sunkoon Camping Kit
Price: $49.96
Max Length: 31″
Multi-tool: Yes
Material: High-Mn steel
Weight: 5.9 pounds
What we Like: Unique design, Flexible conversion, Multi-use, Quality Shovel Part, High mobility
What We Don’t Like: Heavier than some other models
Review: If you want a versatile camping shovel that can be used to dig, chop wood, saw logs, and more without having to buy extra tools for each task then the Sunkoon is just what you’ve been looking for. This model offers an all-inclusive design with multiple different features in one tool so it’s likely going to have something that appeals to everyone. It also comes with a quality shovel part that can withstand a lot of wear and tear, making it perfect for regular use.
The only downside is that this model is a bit heavier than some of the others on our list, but the extra weight does come with added benefits like a longer max length and higher-quality construction materials.
REDCAMP Military Folding Camping Shovel
Price: $19.99
Max Length: 22.8″
Multi-tool: Yes
Material: Carbon Steel
Weight: 2.46 pounds
What we Like: Low Price, Multi-use, Trifold, Comes with a bag, Lightweight, Durable
What We Don’t Like: Paint is easy to peel
Review: The REDCAMP Military Folding Camping Shovel is a great value option for those looking for an affordable and multi-purpose shovel. This model can be used as both a digging tool and a saw, making it ideal for a variety of tasks while camping or hiking. It also folds up into a small, compact size that can easily be stored in a backpack, and the included carrying case makes transport a breeze. The only downside to this shovel is that the paint tends to peel easily, but overall it’s a solid choice for the price.
Gerber E-Tool Folding Spade
Price: $69.90
Max Length: 23”
Multi-tool: Yes
Material: Forged steel
Weight: 2.25 pounds
What we Like: LighLight, Impressive collapsing mechanism, High-quality materials
What We Don’t Like: No bag included, Can be a bit pricey
Review: Gerber is a trusted name in outdoor gear, and this collapsible spade from their e-tool line lives up to the hype. The super sharp blade cuts through roots and small branches with ease, while the aluminum handle provides an exceptional strength-to-weight ratio that makes it feel sturdy even when you’re using it for demanding tasks like chopping through thick ice. It also features a smart collapsing mechanism that quickly and easily folds the shovel down to a fraction of its size, making it easy to store in your pack or even on your belt.
We do wish that Gerber had included some sort of carrying case with this model, but it’s not a deal-breaker. Plus, the fact that this shovel is so compact and easy to use means you can always keep it in your pocket when moving through tight spaces.
EST Gear Survival Shovel
Price: $139.99
Max Length: 23”
Multi-tool: Yes
Material: Aluminum, Carbon Steel
Weight: 3 Pounds
What we Like: 18 different tools, Easy To assemble, lightweight, High-Quality construction, Durable, Comfortable grip
What We Don’t Like: Can be a bit pricey
Review: The EST Gear Survival Shovel is a high-quality option that’s perfect for camping, hiking, or any other outdoor activity. It features an easy-to-assemble design, 18 different tools, and durable construction that will stand up to wear and tear. It also has a comfortable grip that makes it easy to use for extended periods of time.
The only downside is that it can be a bit pricey, but the quality and features make it worth the investment.
Gerber Gorge Folding Shovel
Price: $27.00
Max Length: 13.5”
Multi-tool: No
Material: Stainless Steel
Weight: 1.6 Pounds
What we Like: Impressive folding mechanism, Light, Comes with a carrying bag, Solid construction
What we Don’t: No multi-purpose tool, Not ideal for tougher jobs
Review: The Gerber Gorge Folding Shovel is a great option for anyone looking for a lightweight and compact shovel that can easily be transported in a backpack or camping kit. The steel construction is very durable and the foldable design makes it easy to store when not in use, but we found that this shovel isn’t as great for tougher jobs like moving dirt or rocks. It does come with a handy carrying bag, though, which is a nice touch.
Cold Steel Spetsnaz Tactical Camp
Price: $23.88
Max Length: 19.68″
Multi-tool: No
Material: Medium carbon steel
Weight: 1.38 Pounds
What we Like: Wooden handle, Traditional design, Easy to operate, Lightweight
What We Don’t Like: Not as durable as some other models, No multi-tool features
Review: The Cold Steel Spetsnaz Tactical Camp is a great option for those looking for a traditional camping shovel design. It has a wooden handle and is made from medium carbon steel, which is an alloy of iron and other metals.
The Cold Steel Spetsnaz Tactical Camp has a traditional design and is easy to operate. It’s also lightweight at only one and a half pounds, making it ideal for those who want a shovel that won’t weigh them down too much on their next camping or hiking trip.
However, we should mention that the Cold Steel Spetsnaz Tactical Camp is not as durable as some of the other models we’ve reviewed. However, it is effective and at a price point of around $24, it’s a great purchase.
YOUNGDO Camping Shovel
Price: $25
Max Length: 19.68″
Multi-tool: Yes
Material: Alloy Steel
Weight: 1.1 Pounds
What we Like: Easy to use, 10 included tools, The handle has an anti-slip design, Great price
What we Don’t: Can rust if not well-maintained, Not as durable as other models here
Review: The YOUNGDO Camping Shovel is one of the most affordable items on our list, and it’s perfect for casual campers who are looking for a little extra help in the wilderness. It has an anti-slip handle design that’s much easier to grip when you’re digging into soil or chopping up firewood, and the handle itself is made of durable aluminum alloy metal. It’s also great for backpacking since it has a compact design and only weighs a little over one pound.
The YOUNGDO Camping Shovel can be used as both a shovel and an ax, and it has a total of ten different tools including a saw, hammer, knife, and more. It’s also relatively short for easy transport in your camping gear, and it comes with a pouch for storage. However, keep in mind that this shovel can rust if not properly taken care of, so make sure to coat it with a layer of oil after each use.
FiveJoy Military Folding Shovel Multitool (C1)
Price: $37.99
Max Length: 19.68″
Multi-tool: Yes
Material: Medium carbon steel
Weight: 1.2 Pounds
What we Like: Heat-Treating High Carbon Steel, Can be adjusted in many directions, Comfortable grip, Anti-slip/
What We Don’t Like: Easy to unscrew fixed screws, but the blade is not as durable
Review: The FiveJoy Military Folding Shovel Multitool (C-I) has a lot of great features for such an affordable price. This shovel can be adjusted in many different directions, has a comfortable grip, and comes with an anti-slip coating to help keep it in your hands. The only downside is that the screws are easy to unscrew, and the blade isn’t as durable as some of the more expensive models.
Still, for under $40 this shovel is a great option for anyone who wants an all-in-one tool that can do multiple tasks. It also makes a great backup shovel to keep in your car or camping gear for emergencies.
Why Choose a Folding Shovel?
A folding shovel is an excellent choice for any outdoor enthusiast who wants a quality tool but doesn’t want to break the bank. They are generally much more affordable than their fixed blade counterparts, while also being lightweight and easy to carry. Many of them also come with multiple features such as a saw, hammer, and knife that can be very useful when you’re out in the wilderness.
Consideration
Currently, there are quite a few camping shovel products with different characteristics in terms of design, material, and mobility. But we cannot consider all of them. So to be able to choose a shovel that suits your needs, it’s best to ask yourself some of the following questions. This will help us narrow down the search scope to locate the product we are looking for easily.
What do you want to use it for?
First, you need to determine the purpose for which you need to buy the shovel. In other words, we will have to make it clear we need this shovel to work with which surfaces and at what time of year. If your need is simply to dig a few simple holes, almost any shovel model will easily meet. However, if we need a product with high versatility, survival models will be more suitable than ordinary shovels. As for shovels used to dig snow, we cannot choose a type with a too-small head.
What sort of access to the shovel do you prefer?
Although removable shovel models often have greater mobility, not everyone is suitable for this type of product. For some people, assembling a shovel with tons of screws is a nightmare, and they are ready to use larger but easier products. So you will need to refer to the operating methods of the shovel you need to buy through the manufacturer’s description. But it is best to go to the stores to try the product in person.
How do you plan on carrying it?
Convenience is an element that almost every camping shovel possesses, but that does not mean that we neglect to plan to carry them. If you are constantly on the move, lighter shovel models will be the best choice. In case there are measures to store your products, you can freely choose any shovel.
How To Choose A Camping Shovel
When it comes to choosing the right camping shovel for your needs, there are a few things you’ll want to consider. Here are some of the most important factors:
- Type of Shovel – The first thing you’ll need to decide is what type of shovel you need. Most camping shovels are multi-purpose and can be used for a variety of purposes. However, there are some that specialize in certain tasks such as chopping wood or digging trenches.
- Material – Another important factor is the type of material it’s made from, as this will play a role in durability and weight. Most outdoor shovels have steel blades and handle, though some may be made from titanium or aluminum to make them lighter and easier for traveling.
- Size of the Shovel – Depending on where you’ll be using it and how big the job is, you’ll need to find a shovel that’s large enough for your needs. A camping shovel with a longer handle will be better for digging trenches while one with a shorter handle may work best for chopping wood or creating fire pits.
- Price Point – When deciding on an overall budget, remember that you get what you pay for. While it’s always nice to save a few bucks, don’t forget about quality and how long the shovel will last you before needing to be replaced. If money isn’t an issue, we recommend going with one of the higher-end models that offer more features and durability than cheaper options.
- Packability – How easy is it to transport the shovel? Many camping shovels come with a carrying case or strap that makes them easy to take on the go. Others may be more cumbersome and difficult to pack away. If you’ll be doing a lot of hiking, make sure to choose a lightweight option that won’t add too much extra weight to your load.
- Multi-Use – Some shovels are designed with multiple uses in mind, which means they may not be the most effective for digging or chopping. If you need a camping shovel that can help you build shelters and start fires, make sure to choose one that has more of an emphasis on these features rather than other tasks like digging trenches.
- Ease of Use – How easy is it to use the shovel? Some models have a complicated design that can be difficult to operate, while others are very straightforward. Consider how easy it is to switch between tasks and whether or not you’ll need to read the instruction manual in order to figure out how to use it.
- Weight – How heavy is the shovel? This is an important factor to consider if you’ll be doing a lot of hiking or backpacking. A heavier shovel can quickly wear you down, so look for one that’s lightweight and easy to carry.
Aditional Futures
Some Shovels have additional futures built-in, like:
- Chainsaw: A chainsaw is a great tool to have when camping, as it can be used for cutting down trees and branches, clearing pathways, and more. If you’re looking for a shovel that has this feature, make sure to read the reviews carefully to ensure that it’s able to handle these tasks effectively.
- Fire Starter: A fire starter is a great feature to have on any camping shovel, as it can help you get your campfire going in no time. If this is an important factor for you, look for a model that has a built-in striker or comes with a set of strikers so you can always have one handy when needed.
- Ax: An ax can come in handy when camping, as it can be used for chopping wood, clearing brush, and more. If you’re looking for a shovel that has this feature, make sure to read the reviews carefully to ensure that it’s able to handle these tasks effectively.
- Carrying Case: A carrying case or strap is a great feature to look for when shopping around as it makes transporting the shovel much easier. Some models may come with a case or you can purchase one separately if needed.
- Hook: A hook is another great feature, as it allows you to hang the shovel on your belt loop so that it’s always easy and accessible whenever you need it. This also prevents the shovel from taking up too much space in your pack.
- Compass: A compass can come in handy when camping, as it can help you navigate your way through the wilderness. If this is an important factor for you, look for a model that has a built-in compass or comes with a set of compasses so you can always have one handy when needed.
- Light: A light is another great feature to have on a camping shovel, as it can help you see what you’re doing in the dark. If this is an important factor for you, look for a model that has a built-in light or comes with a set of lights so you can always have one handy when needed.
How to Maintain and Store Your Camping Shovel
One of the most important things to remember when owning a camping shovel is how to properly maintain and store it. As with any other tool, failing to take care of your shovel can result in it breaking or becoming damaged over time.
Here are a few tips on how to keep your shovel in good condition:
- Always clean off any dirt or mud after use. This will help to prevent rusting and keep the metal in good condition.
- If your shovel is made of plastic, make sure to avoid leaving it in direct sunlight or in high temperatures for extended periods of time. This can cause the plastic to warp or melt.
- Store your shovel in a dry place when not in use. Camping shovels are often made of metal, so humid or moist conditions can cause some serious rust issues.
With these tips in mind, you’ll be able to keep your camping shovel in good condition for years of outdoor adventures.
How to Use a Camping Shovel Safely and Effectively
When you’re first starting out with your camping shovel, it’s important to take some time to learn how to use it safely and effectively. Here are a few tips to get you started:
- Wear proper safety equipment. This includes impact-resistant gloves and a hard hat if you’ll be digging in an area with lots of rocks or debris on the ground.
- Be sure your shovel is designed for its intended use. A camping shovel will typically have a flat edge that can help cut through roots, whereas something like a military-style trenching shovel is more for digging through harder surfaces.
- Make sure you have plenty of space around you before using your shovel. You don’t want to hit any rocks or tree roots that will make it difficult to hold the tool steady while digging.
- Take small bites when starting out with something like a trenching shovel, and then widen them as needed. This will help you avoid accidentally digging into a rock or root that can dull your blade.
FAQ
Q.What is a tactical shovel?
A. A tactical shovel is a type of shovel that typically has a serrated edge on one side for cutting, as well as a pointed end on the other for digging. They are often made out of metal and can be used as both a defensive and offensive weapon in an emergency situation.
Q. What are some good uses for a shovel when camping?
A. Some good use for a shovel when camping includes digging out fire pits, clearing away roots and rocks in the path of where you’ll be setting up your tent, and using it to collect water from nearby bodies or rivers/lakes.
Q.Can a Folding Shovel Fit in a Backpack?
A. Yes, a folding shovel can fit in most backpacks with ease! You may have to take out your other camping supplies or adjust the straps on your bag so it doesn’t topple over while you’re trying to walk through.
Q.What is a trenching shovel good for?
A. A trenching shovel typically has a pointed end and a flat edge, making it perfect for digging trenches or holes in hard soil. It can also be used to pry up rocks or logs that are in your way.
Q.What is the best way to store my camping shovel?
A. The best way to store your camping shovel is by cleaning it off and wiping it down with a rag. Make sure to keep your shovel in a dry place where rusting or other damage won’t be an issue if the metal comes into contact with any moisture.
Q: How can I sharpen my camp shovel?
A: Sharpen the back edge of your camping shovel by using either a grinding wheel, a honing stone, or a file. This will help keep the blade sharp and in good condition while you’re out in the wilderness.
Q.Can a Camping Shovel Be Used as an Ax?
A. While it is not recommended to use a camping shovel as an ax, there have been some cases where people have successfully done so in a pinch. If you are planning on using your shovel as an ax, be sure to test the strength and durability of the tool first by striking something like a tree stump or large rock. This will help lessen the chance of snapping your shovel in half.
Q.Are tactical shoes worth it?
A. Tactical shoes are typically designed to be lightweight and provide good traction in slippery or wet conditions. They can also offer ankle support, something that is beneficial when you’re carrying a heavy pack on your back for an extended period of time. If you’re frequently hiking or camping in rocky or uneven terrain, then tactical shoes may be worth the investment.
Q: What is the difference between a camping shovel and a snow shovel?
A. A camping shovel typically has a wider blade than a snow shovel, making it better suited for clearing debris on the ground or digging in hard soil. A snow shovel, on the other hand, is narrower and has a curved blade that is perfect for scooping snow off the ground.
Q.Do I need a shovel for hiking?
A. A shovel is not necessary for hiking, but it can come in handy in a number of different ways. For example, if you’re caught in an unexpected storm while out on the trail, a shovel can be used to create a makeshift shelter until the weather clears up. It can also be used to dig a hole and bury your waste as a way to prevent animals from digging up your ‘business.’
