Ever wonder what the most important tool is for leaving no trace on the trail? It might not be your tent or your boots, but a simple trowel. When you’re out exploring the wilderness, it’s crucial to pack out everything you pack in, and that includes dealing with human waste responsibly. But choosing the right trowel can be surprisingly tricky. Should it be lightweight? Durable? What size is best? These questions can make picking one feel like a hike in itself.
Don’t worry, we’ve got your back! This post will help you understand what makes a great backpacking trowel. We’ll break down the key features to look for and highlight the common problems people run into. By the end, you’ll know exactly what to consider so you can choose a trowel that’s perfect for your adventures.
Our Top 5 Trowel For Backpacking Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Trowel For Backpacking Detailed Reviews
1. Ultralight Backpacking Trowel Aluminum Shovel Small Potty Multitool with Longer Handle Design Essential for Hiking
Rating: 9.0/10
The Ultralight Backpacking Trowel Aluminum Shovel Small Potty Multitool is a must-have for any outdoor adventure. This compact and lightweight tool is designed to make your camping, hiking, and survival experiences easier and more enjoyable. It’s built to last and perform in tough conditions.
What We Like:
- It’s made from high-quality aluminum, so it won’t rust or break easily, even when wet.
- The longer, ergonomic handle makes it comfortable to hold and easy to dig with.
- It digs holes quickly and effectively, even through hard or rocky ground, without leaving a mess.
- The sharp edges help cut through tough soil and roots, making your work faster.
- It’s the perfect size – big enough to scoop dirt but small enough to fit in your backpack.
- It’s ideal for burying waste, cleaning up campsites, and general survival needs.
- You can save 5% when you buy two or more.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s designed for ultralight backpacking, some users might prefer an even lighter option for extreme weight-conscious trips.
This trowel is a reliable and functional tool that campers and hikers will find incredibly useful. It handles tough jobs with ease, making it an essential addition to your outdoor gear.
2. TheTentLab(R Deuce(R) of Spades™Ultralight Backpack Trowel in Three Sizes (#2
Rating: 8.6/10
The TentLab Deuce of Spades™ Ultralight Backpack Trowel is a game-changer for any outdoor adventurer. This isn’t just any trowel; it’s a cleverly designed tool that makes digging a cathole easier and more efficient. It’s incredibly light and strong, built to last on all your trips. Plus, it comes in fun colors to add a bit of personality to your gear.
What We Like:
- It has a unique upside-down digging feature that helps you find the best spot by probing for rocks and roots first.
- The scoop is large enough for quick dirt removal, and you can use it upside-down again to break up hard ground and pull out rocks, making digging up to 4 times easier.
- It comes in three sizes, so you can pick the perfect one for your needs, from super ultralight to a more robust option for tough ground.
- The length helps you measure how deep your hole is, aiming for the recommended 6-8 inches.
- It’s made from strong, aerospace-grade aluminum in the US and South Korea, meaning it’s built to last, and it has a lifetime warranty.
- The edges are smooth and rounded, making it comfortable to hold and use, unlike sharp, rough trowels.
- Fun anodized colors prevent corrosion, stop your hands from getting smudged with aluminum, and make it easy to find in your pack.
- It’s a fantastic tool for practicing Leave No Trace principles.
What Could Be Improved:
- The smallest size (#1) might be too tiny for some users who need to dig in very difficult soil.
- While the colors are fun, some might prefer a more subdued, natural look.
This trowel is a must-have for anyone serious about responsible outdoor recreation. It’s a smart tool that makes a messy job much cleaner and easier.
3. NACETURE Ultralight Backpacking Trowel Aluminum Shovel Small Potty Multitool with Longer Handle Design Essential for Hiking
Rating: 9.0/10
The NACETURE Ultralight Backpacking Trowel is a must-have tool for anyone who loves to hike, camp, or spend time outdoors. This orange trowel is made from strong aluminum, so it won’t rust or break easily, even when it’s wet. It’s designed to help you dig holes quickly and effectively, whether you’re dealing with hard ground, roots, or rocks. This makes it a perfect survival shovel for getting the job done fast.
What We Like:
- It’s super lightweight, making it easy to carry on any adventure.
- The aluminum material is tough and resistant to rust and corrosion, so it will last a long time.
- It digs holes quickly and efficiently, even in tough soil.
- The longer, easy-grip handle is comfortable to hold and use.
- It’s perfectly sized – big enough to scoop dirt but small enough to fit in your backpack.
- It’s a great “potty trowel” for burying waste and keeping campsites clean.
- Buy two or more and save 5%!
What Could Be Improved:
- While durable, the ultralight design might not be ideal for extremely heavy-duty digging tasks.
- The bright orange color, while good for visibility, might not appeal to everyone’s aesthetic.
This trowel is an essential piece of gear for any outdoor enthusiast. It’s built to last and perform, making your trips more enjoyable and responsible.
4. BoglerCo Ultralight Backpacking Trowel
Rating: 8.6/10
When you’re out on the trail, every ounce counts. The BoglerCo Ultralight Backpacking Trowel, in a cool blue color, is designed to be incredibly light. It weighs less than three nickels, so you’ll barely notice it in your pack. This trowel is built to last, and the company even offers a lifetime warranty. Plus, it’s made right here in the USA. The special end cap makes digging easier and more comfortable, so you can use it with all your strength without hurting your hand.
What We Like:
- It’s super light, weighing only 0.48 oz (13.5g).
- It’s really strong and will last for a very long time.
- It comes with a lifetime warranty, so you don’t have to worry about it breaking.
- It is proudly made in the USA.
- The comfortable end cap means you can dig without pain.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s tough, its ultralight nature might mean it’s not ideal for very hard, rocky soil.
- Finding this specific blue color might be a bit tricky at times due to its popularity.
This trowel is an excellent choice for any backpacker who values lightweight gear. It’s a durable and comfortable tool that will serve you well on countless adventures.
5. Coghlan’s Trowel – Lightweight ABS Plastic Camping Shovel
Rating: 9.0/10
The Coghlan’s Trowel is a super light and tough tool for anyone who loves the outdoors. It’s made of strong ABS plastic, so it won’t break easily, even when you use it a lot. This trowel is perfect for all sorts of jobs when you’re camping, hiking, or even just gardening. It’s so small and light, you’ll barely notice it in your backpack.
What We Like:
- Super light at only 2 oz, making it easy to carry on long hikes.
- It’s built tough with durable ABS plastic that can handle rough use.
- Great for digging cat holes for waste or small trenches to keep water away from your tent.
- The comfy handle gives you good control, even when digging in tough ground.
- It’s a dependable tool for any outdoor adventure, from clearing trails to setting up camp.
What Could Be Improved:
- For very hard or rocky soil, it might not be the best for deep digging.
- The size is compact, which is great for packing, but it means you can’t dig huge holes quickly.
This Coghlan’s Trowel is a fantastic, no-fuss tool for any outdoor enthusiast. It makes campsite chores simple and won’t weigh you down.
Your Guide to the Best Backpacking Trowel
When you’re out in the wild, you need to leave no trace. A backpacking trowel is a small but mighty tool that helps you do just that. It’s essential for properly burying human waste, keeping campsites clean, and protecting the environment. Let’s find the perfect trowel for your adventures!
Key Features to Look For
Size and Weight
You’ll be carrying this in your backpack, so it needs to be light and compact. Look for trowels that fold or have a handle that detaches. A few ounces can make a big difference on a long hike.
Durability
Your trowel will face tough ground. It needs to be strong enough to dig into dirt and roots without bending or breaking. A sturdy trowel lasts longer and won’t let you down when you need it most.
Blade Shape and Size
A pointed tip helps you start digging easily. A wider blade digs more dirt at once, saving you time and effort. Some trowels have serrated edges, which can be helpful for cutting through small roots or tough soil.
Handle Comfort
You’ll be using your hands to dig. A comfortable handle makes the job easier. Look for handles that feel good to grip and don’t cause blisters. Some handles are designed to give you a better grip, even when wet.
Important Materials
Plastic
Plastic trowels are usually the lightest and cheapest. They work well for soft soil. However, they can break if you try to dig in hard or rocky ground. Some strong plastics are more durable than others.
Aluminum
Aluminum is a great choice. It’s lightweight, strong, and doesn’t rust. Many high-quality backpacking trowels are made from aircraft-grade aluminum. This material can handle a lot of digging.
Steel
Steel trowels are very strong and durable. They can dig through almost anything. However, steel is heavier than aluminum. It can also rust if you don’t dry it properly after use.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Design and Construction
A well-designed trowel is easy to use. A trowel with a secure locking mechanism for folding handles won’t collapse unexpectedly. Simple, robust construction often means better quality. Cheaply made trowels might have weak points that break easily.
Blade Thickness
A thicker blade is generally stronger. It’s less likely to bend or snap. Very thin blades might seem lighter, but they can be less effective and wear out faster.
Ergonomics
How the trowel feels in your hand matters. Good ergonomics mean it’s comfortable to hold and use for extended periods. A poorly designed handle can make digging a chore.
User Experience and Use Cases
Leave No Trace Principles
The main job of a backpacking trowel is to help you follow Leave No Trace principles. You dig a cat hole at least 6-8 inches deep and 4-6 inches wide. Then, you bury your waste and cover it with the original soil. This keeps the wilderness clean and safe for everyone.
Camping and Hiking
These trowels are perfect for all kinds of outdoor trips. Whether you’re camping for a weekend or on a multi-day backpacking expedition, a trowel is a must-have item. It’s useful for digging catholes, but can also help with small tasks like digging out a tent stake in hard ground.
Gardening and Other Uses
Some people even use small backpacking trowels for light gardening tasks or for digging small holes for planting seeds. Their compact size makes them handy for various outdoor activities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the main purpose of a backpacking trowel?
A: The main purpose is to dig catholes for burying human waste, following Leave No Trace principles.
Q: How deep should a cathole be?
A: A cathole should be at least 6 to 8 inches deep.
Q: What is the best material for a backpacking trowel?
A: Aluminum is often considered the best because it’s light, strong, and rust-resistant.
Q: Should I get a folding or a fixed trowel?
A: Folding trowels are usually more compact and easier to pack, making them ideal for backpacking.
Q: Can I use a regular garden trowel for backpacking?
A: Regular garden trowels are usually too heavy and bulky for backpacking.
Q: How do I clean my backpacking trowel?
A: Wipe it clean with a cloth or brush and make sure it’s dry before storing it.
Q: Are plastic trowels strong enough?
A: Plastic trowels work for soft soil, but they can break in hard or rocky ground.
Q: What does “Leave No Trace” mean?
A: It means to enjoy the outdoors responsibly and leave it as you found it, with no trace of your visit.
Q: How important is the handle for a backpacking trowel?
A: A comfortable handle makes digging easier and prevents blisters.
Q: Can a backpacking trowel help with anything else besides digging catholes?
A: Yes, it can help with tasks like digging out tent stakes or minor digging for planting.
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.