Imagine this: you’re deep in the backcountry, miles from anywhere. You’ve enjoyed a delicious meal, but now it’s time to take care of nature’s call. What’s the most important tool you’ll need to leave no trace and keep the wilderness beautiful? It’s not your fancy water filter or your high-tech tent, but something much simpler: a trowel.
Choosing the right trowel for backpacking can be surprisingly tricky. You want something lightweight for your pack, but also strong enough to dig a proper cathole. Too small, and it’s useless. Too big, and it adds unnecessary weight. Plus, you’ve got to think about materials, grip, and how it will hold up on tough trails. It’s enough to make your head spin!
But don’t worry! By the end of this post, you’ll have a clear picture of what makes a great backpacking trowel. We’ll break down the options, share tips for choosing the best one for *your* adventures, and help you feel confident about packing the right tool for responsible outdoor living. Get ready to dig into the details!
Our Top 5 Trowel For Backpacking Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Trowel For Backpacking Detailed Reviews
1. Coghlan’s Trowel – Lightweight ABS Plastic Camping Shovel
Rating: 9.4/10
The Coghlan’s Trowel is a super light and handy tool for anyone who loves the outdoors. It’s a small camping shovel made from strong plastic. It weighs almost nothing, so you can easily take it on hikes or camping trips without it weighing down your backpack. This trowel is designed to make digging simple and comfortable, even when the ground is tough.
What We Like:
- It’s incredibly light, weighing only 2 ounces, which is perfect for backpackers.
- The durable ABS plastic means it can handle tough jobs outdoors.
- It’s great for digging cat holes for waste or small trenches for water.
- The comfy handle gives you good control when you’re digging.
- It’s a reliable tool for many campsite jobs.
What Could Be Improved:
- For very hard or rocky soil, it might not be as effective as a metal trowel.
- The plastic construction, while durable, might eventually wear down with extremely heavy use over many years.
This trowel is a smart choice for outdoor adventures. It’s a simple tool that does its job well.
2. NACETURE Ultralight Backpacking Trowel Aluminum Shovel Small Potty Multitool with Longer Handle Design Essential for Hiking
Rating: 8.6/10
The NACETURE Ultralight Backpacking Trowel is a small but mighty tool for any outdoor adventurer. Made from tough aluminum, this orange trowel is designed to handle everything from digging catholes to clearing camp debris. Its lightweight design makes it easy to carry on long hikes, and the longer handle offers a comfortable grip for efficient digging.
What We Like:
- It’s super light, so it won’t weigh down your backpack.
- The aluminum is strong and won’t rust, even in wet weather.
- It digs holes really well, even in hard or rocky ground.
- The sharp edges help cut through tough stuff like roots.
- The longer handle feels good in your hand and makes digging easier.
- It’s the perfect size – big enough to scoop dirt but small enough to pack away.
- It’s a must-have for leaving no trace when you’re out in nature.
- You can even get a discount when you buy more than one!
What Could Be Improved:
- While durable, it’s still a trowel, so extremely rough use might cause damage.
- The bright orange color is easy to spot, but some might prefer a more natural look.
This trowel is a fantastic addition to any hiking or camping kit. It’s a practical and reliable tool that helps you enjoy the outdoors responsibly.
3. XINCAMPING Ultralight Backpacking Trowel Aluminum Portable Camping Shovel Poop Shovel with Longer Handle for Hiking
Rating: 8.7/10
The XINCAMPING Ultralight Backpacking Trowel is your ultimate companion for all outdoor adventures. Whether you’re hiking, camping, or just exploring, this portable shovel makes digging and tidying up a breeze. It’s built to be super light but still tough enough for any job.
What We Like:
- It’s incredibly lightweight, so it won’t weigh down your backpack.
- The aluminum construction makes it strong and resistant to rust, even in wet weather.
- It’s more than just a digging tool; one side has a serrated edge that can cut small branches or roots.
- Its compact size and three hanging holes let you easily attach it to your pack for quick access.
- The handle is designed to fit your fingers comfortably, preventing blisters and making digging easier.
- It’s perfect for digging cat holes for waste, burying scraps, or cleaning up after pets, helping you keep nature clean.
What Could Be Improved:
- While durable, for very heavy-duty digging in hard-packed soil, a sturdier, heavier shovel might be preferred.
- The serrated edge is good for small tasks, but it won’t replace a saw for larger branches.
This trowel is a smart and handy tool for anyone who loves spending time outdoors. It’s a small item that makes a big difference in keeping your campsite clean and your outdoor tasks manageable.
4. Ultralight Backpacking Trowel Aluminum Shovel Small Potty Multitool with Longer Handle Design Essential for Hiking
Rating: 9.0/10
Conquer the backcountry with this essential Ultralight Backpacking Trowel. This aluminum shovel is more than just a digging tool; it’s a compact multitool designed for hikers, campers, and survivalists. Its lightweight design and longer handle make it easy to use in any situation.
What We Like:
- It’s super light, making it perfect for backpacking where every ounce counts.
- Made from strong aluminum, it won’t rust or break easily, even when wet.
- You can dig holes quickly and cleanly, even in tough ground or with roots.
- The sharp edges help you get the job done fast.
- The longer handle is comfortable to grip and makes digging easier.
- It’s the perfect size to carry without taking up much space.
- You can use it for burying waste at campsites or for other cleanup tasks.
- Buy two or more and save 5%!
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s great for most soil, extremely rocky ground might still be challenging.
- The “multitool” aspect is primarily its digging function, so don’t expect it to replace a full survival kit.
This trowel is a must-have for anyone heading outdoors. It’s a simple, effective tool that makes a big difference on your adventures.
5. BoglerCo Ultralight Backpacking Trowel
Rating: 8.7/10
The BoglerCo Ultralight Backpacking Trowel is a tiny tool that makes a big difference on the trail. It’s so light, you’ll hardly notice it in your pack. This trowel is designed for backpackers who want to go light and leave no trace.
What We Like:
- Incredibly lightweight – it weighs less than three nickels!
- Built tough to last forever, backed by a lifetime warranty.
- Proudly made in the USA.
- The comfortable end cap means you can dig hard without hurting your hand.
- It’s super easy to use for all your trailside needs.
What Could Be Improved:
- It’s so popular, it can be hard to find in stock.
- Being so small, it might not be the best for digging in super rocky or hard ground.
For anyone looking to lighten their load and practice Leave No Trace principles, this BoglerCo trowel is an excellent, reliable choice. Its durability and thoughtful design make it a worthwhile investment for years of adventures.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Your Backpacking Trowel Companion
Heading out on a backpacking trip? A good trowel is a small but mighty tool you’ll definitely want to pack. It helps you follow Leave No Trace principles, keeping wild places clean for everyone. This guide will help you choose the best trowel for your adventures.
Key Features to Look For
- Size and Weight: Backpacking means carrying everything. Look for a trowel that’s small and light. It shouldn’t add much extra bulk to your pack.
- Durability: You need a trowel that can handle digging in different kinds of soil. It shouldn’t bend or break easily.
- Ergonomics: A comfortable handle makes digging much easier. Think about how it feels in your hand.
- Sharpness (or Edge): A slightly sharp edge helps cut through roots and tougher ground.
- Portability: Some trowels fold or come with a small pouch. This makes them easy to store in your pack.
Important Materials
The material of your trowel makes a big difference in how well it works and how long it lasts.
Common Materials:
- Aluminum: This is a very popular choice. Aluminum is lightweight and strong. It’s also rust-resistant, which is great for camping.
- Titanium: Titanium is even lighter than aluminum and incredibly strong. It’s a premium material, so trowels made from it might cost a bit more.
- Plastic: Some very basic trowels are made of strong plastic. They are usually the cheapest option but might not be as durable as metal ones, especially in hard ground.
- Stainless Steel: This is another strong option. Stainless steel resists rust well and is quite durable, but it can be a little heavier than aluminum or titanium.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things can make a trowel great or not so great.
What Makes a Trowel Better:
- Thicker Material: A trowel made from thicker aluminum or steel will be stronger.
- Reinforced Handle: A handle that’s well-attached and sturdy won’t break under pressure.
- Shape of the Blade: A slightly curved or pointed blade shape can help scoop dirt more effectively.
- Good Grip: A handle with some texture or a comfortable shape stops your hand from slipping.
What Can Make a Trowel Less Good:
- Thin Metal: This can bend or break easily when you hit a rock or tough root.
- Weak Handle Connection: If the handle is just glued or weakly attached, it might snap off.
- Dull Edge: A completely blunt edge makes digging much harder.
- Poorly Designed Shape: A trowel that’s too flat or has awkward angles won’t scoop dirt well.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you use your trowel matters. It’s mostly for digging catholes.
Primary Use:
- Digging Catholes: The main job of a backpacking trowel is to dig a small hole (about 6-8 inches deep) for human waste. This is a core Leave No Trace practice. You then bury your waste and disguise the spot.
Other Potential Uses:
- Leveling a Tent Spot: You might use it to smooth out a small area for your tent.
- Scooping Out Water: In a pinch, you could use it to scoop water from a shallow source.
- Digging for Firewood: You might use it to uncover dry kindling under damp leaves.
A good trowel feels balanced in your hand. It makes digging quick and easy, so you can get back to enjoying your hike. A poorly made one can be frustrating and might not even do the job it’s meant for.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the main job of a backpacking trowel?
A: The main job is to dig a cathole for human waste so you can bury it properly, following Leave No Trace rules.
Q: Are plastic trowels good for backpacking?
A: Some strong plastic trowels can work for light use. However, metal trowels are generally more durable for digging in tougher ground.
Q: Should I get a folding or a solid trowel?
A: Folding trowels save space in your pack. Solid trowels might be a bit stronger but can be longer.
Q: How deep should a cathole be?
A: Aim for about 6 to 8 inches deep. This helps waste break down faster and keeps it away from water sources.
Q: What does “Leave No Trace” mean for using a trowel?
A: It means you dig a hole, bury your waste, and then cover the hole to make it look like it was never there. This protects nature.
Q: Can I use my backpacking trowel for anything else?
A: Yes, you can use it to level a tent spot or even dig for small amounts of firewood.
Q: Is a sharp edge really important?
A: A slightly sharp edge helps a lot when you need to cut through roots or harder soil. It makes digging much easier.
Q: How much should I expect to spend on a backpacking trowel?
A: You can find basic plastic ones for a few dollars. Good aluminum or titanium trowels usually cost between $10 and $30.
Q: How do I clean my trowel after using it?
A: Brush off any dirt. If it’s really dirty, you can rinse it with water and dry it before storing it.
Q: What if I hit a rock while digging?
A: If you hit a rock, try to dig around it. If the ground is too rocky, you might need to find a different spot or use a different method if absolutely necessary, but always try to dig first.
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.
My name is Gareth Lewis, and I’m the voice behind CampingGuider.com.. I created this space to share my passion for camping and the great outdoors. With years of experience and countless adventures under my belt, I aim to inspire and guide fellow enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or a curious beginner, my goal is to provide you with practical tips, honest reviews, and insights to help you make the most out of your outdoor escapades. Join me on this journey, and let’s explore the beauty of nature together!