The 5 Best Camping Trowels of 2025 for Lightweight and Durable Outdoor Use

Imagine the feel of cool earth slipping through your fingers as you dig a perfect hole for your campsite fire. You’ll want a trowel that’s light enough to carry all day but tough enough to handle rocky soil and roots.

Choosing the right tool can make a big difference in your outdoor experience, especially when every ounce and inch counts.

Let’s explore which models stand out for durability and portability in 2025.

Coghlan’s Lightweight ABS Plastic Camping Trowel

When you’re deep in the backcountry, every ounce counts. Coghlan’s Lightweight ABS Plastic Camping Trowel offers a practical solution for campers and hikers who need a reliable digging tool without the bulk. Its design focuses on making outdoor tasks easier while keeping your pack light.

This trowel is built from high-impact styrene, which balances durability with featherlight weight. Weighing just 2 ounces, it won’t slow you down on long treks. The foldable handle fits comfortably in your hand and provides solid control on uneven ground, helping you dig efficiently even in rocky soil.

Maintenance is simple—just rinse off dirt and debris after use and let it dry. Its bright orange color makes it easy to locate in your gear or the wild, minimizing the chance of loss. While not as heavy-duty as metal options, it’s perfect for digging cat holes and trenches in line with Leave No Trace ethics.

The compact size makes it highly portable but may limit digging depth for some users. Still, its lightweight and ergonomic design make it an invaluable tool for campsite upkeep and environmental responsibility.

Best for: Outdoor enthusiasts, backpackers, and campers seeking a lightweight, durable, and portable trowel for digging and campsite maintenance.

What We Like:

• Very lightweight at only 2 oz, ideal for backpacking
• High-impact styrene offers good durability
• Foldable ergonomic handle enhances control
• Bright orange color aids quick visibility

Specification:

Feature	Details
Manufacturer	Coghlan’s
Dimensions	10.88 x 2.63 inches
Weight	2 oz (0.125 lb)
Material	High-impact styrene
Color Options	Bright orange

Digging Shovel, Lightweight Portable Folding Camping Shovel

For outdoor adventurers, having a dependable tool that fits easily into your pack can make all the difference. The lightweight portable folding camping shovel is designed to solve the common problem of bulky digging tools that are hard to carry. Its compact fold-down size of just 7.5 inches means you can take it anywhere without added weight or inconvenience.

This folding shovel excels in versatility. Whether you need to dig a fire pit, chop small branches, or saw kindling, its high-carbon steel blade with a rust-resistant finish stands up to tough tasks. The ergonomic triangular handle offers a secure grip, reducing hand fatigue during use.

Maintenance is straightforward but important. The folding mechanism should be checked periodically to keep it operating smoothly. While the nylon storage bag protects the shovel during transport, it offers limited defense against extreme weather, so keeping the shovel dry after use is advisable.

This tool is ideal for backpackers, campers, and hikers who want a compact, multi-functional shovel that doesn’t compromise on strength or reliability. Its design balances portability with practical outdoor functionality, making it a reliable companion for varied outdoor conditions.

Best for: Outdoor enthusiasts needing a compact, durable, and versatile shovel for digging, chopping, and emergency tasks.

What We Like:

• Compact foldable design for easy transport and storage
• Durable heat-treated high-carbon steel blade resists rust and damage
• Triangular handle ensures a firm, comfortable grip
• Serrated edge adds cutting and sawing capability
• Includes a lightweight nylon storage bag for convenience

Specification:

Feature	Details
Manufacturer	PLACHIDAY
Dimensions	18.5 inches (unfolded), 7.5 inches (folded)
Weight	Lightweight (exact weight not specified)
Material	Heat-treated high-carbon steel
Color Options	Not specified

Folding Mini Lightweight Stainless Steel Camping Shovel with Carrying Pouch (8.8 inch)

Discover the convenience of the Folding Mini Lightweight Stainless Steel Camping Shovel, designed for those who need a reliable tool that fits effortlessly into any outdoor kit. Its compact 8.8-inch length makes it easy to carry without compromising on performance. Whether you’re camping, hiking, or gardening, this shovel tackles basic digging and emergency tasks with ease.

Built with a sturdy stainless steel body and a heat-treated head, this shovel handles tough soil and gravel, making your outdoor work more efficient. The 1.3mm thick blade, reinforced with ribs, delivers solid durability while remaining lightweight. Its folding handle design saves space and allows for quick storage in the included carrying pouch.

Maintenance is simple thanks to the stainless steel construction, which resists rust and requires minimal cleaning after use. The hollow handle design also lets you hang the shovel conveniently when not in use. This tool is ideal for light digging, transplanting, and vehicle emergencies but is not suited for heavy-duty tasks or extremely hard ground.

The black oxford cloth pouch with a belt loop adds portability and keeps the shovel protected during travel. Its PVC and steel handle provides a balance of strength and lightness, although it may not offer extended comfort for prolonged digging sessions.

Best for: Outdoor enthusiasts and gardeners who need a compact, durable, and portable shovel for light digging and emergency use.

What We Like:

• Space-saving foldable design for easy transport
• Durable stainless steel blade with reinforced ribs
• Heat-treated head for improved strength
• Convenient carrying pouch with belt loop
• Lightweight and rust-resistant construction

Specification:

Feature	Details
Manufacturer	Not specified
Dimensions	8.8 inches (folded length)
Weight	Not specified
Material	Stainless steel, PVC, steel
Color Options	Black (pouch), metallic shovel

Dartmoor Mini Folding Shovel for Outdoor and Survival Use

The Dartmoor Mini Folding Shovel is designed to tackle outdoor challenges with ease. Its compact and foldable design fits comfortably in your pack, making it a handy companion for camping, hiking, or emergency situations. This shovel helps you dig, chop, and saw efficiently, solving common outdoor problems like clearing a campsite or digging fire pits.

Crafted from high-carbon steel with heat treatment, the blade resists rust and maintains strength through tough conditions. This durability ensures your tool stays reliable when you need it most. The ergonomic 11.8-inch handle offers a secure grip, reducing fatigue during use.

Maintenance is simple thanks to the shovel’s rust-resistant finish. After use, clean the blade and store it in the included nylon case to keep it protected. While the case offers convenience for transport, it’s best to dry the tool before storage to avoid moisture buildup.

Though compact, the Dartmoor Mini Folding Shovel may not suit deep or extended digging tasks. However, its multi-functional design balances portability and versatility, making it ideal for quick outdoor jobs. Its lightweight build at just 28 ounces adds minimal burden to your gear.

Best for: Outdoor enthusiasts and survivalists needing a durable, versatile, and portable tool for digging, chopping, and emergency use.

What We Like:

• Durable high-carbon steel blade with rust resistance
• Compact, foldable design for easy transport and storage
• Ergonomic handle reduces hand fatigue
• Multi-functional tool for digging, sawing, and chopping

Specification:

Feature	Details
Manufacturer	Dartmoor
Dimensions	11.8 inches (handle length)
Weight	28 ounces
Material	High-carbon steel
Case	Nylon carry case

PACT Outdoors Lightweight Aluminum Backpacking Shovel Trowel

The PACT Outdoors Lightweight Aluminum Backpacking Shovel Trowel offers a practical solution for outdoor digging needs. Its extruded aluminum construction makes it strong enough to cut through roots, clay, and rocky soil, yet light enough to carry with ease. This balance helps reduce fatigue during extended use, making it ideal for long hikes or camping trips.

Designed to be compact, it fits neatly into any backpack without taking up much space. The trowel’s ergonomic handle ensures comfortable grip and better control, allowing you to dig waste holes or clear soil efficiently. Its versatility extends beyond digging; you can also use it to cut tarps or straps and even as a tent stake in a pinch.

Maintenance is straightforward as the aluminum resists rust and requires only simple cleaning after use. The built-in depth marker promotes responsible waste disposal, encouraging environmentally conscious behavior during outdoor adventures. This thoughtful feature helps users dig to the proper depth, minimizing environmental impact.

While the shovel is sturdy, it may bend if subjected to excessive force, and its small size might limit leverage in very dense or rocky ground. Despite these considerations, its lightweight and multifunctional design make it a valuable tool for outdoor enthusiasts.

Best for: Campers, backpackers, and survivalists needing a durable, lightweight, and versatile digging tool for various outdoor tasks.

What We Like:

• Strong yet lightweight extruded aluminum construction
• Compact size fits easily in backpacks
• Ergonomic design reduces fatigue during use
• Depth marker encourages responsible waste disposal
• Multifunctional for digging, cutting, and staking

Specification:

Specification	Details
Manufacturer	PACT Outdoors
Dimensions	Compact size (exact size not specified)
Weight	Lightweight (exact weight not specified)
Material	Extruded Aluminum
Color Options	Not specified

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Camping Trowel

When picking a camping trowel, you’ll want to think about material durability and how much it weighs for easy carrying. The handle design and blade size also play big roles in comfort and effectiveness.

Don’t forget to check if it has a reliable folding mechanism for compact storage.

Material Durability

Because your camping trowel needs to endure tough outdoor conditions, choosing the right material is essential for durability. You’ll want a trowel made from high-impact styrene, stainless steel, or reinforced aluminum, as these materials resist wear and tear. Corrosion resistance is key, especially if you camp in wet or humid environments, so stainless steel or treated metals are smart choices.

If you prefer something lightweight yet strong, high-quality plastics like ABS or reinforced composites hold up well under repeated use. Metal trowels with heat-treated or high-carbon steel blades offer excellent strength and resist bending during tough digging tasks. Ultimately, selecting a robust material guarantees your trowel stands up to rugged outdoor use and lasts season after season.

Weight and Portability

Although durability remains essential, you’ll want to prioritize weight and portability when choosing a camping trowel to keep your pack light and manageable. Most lightweight trowels weigh between 2 to 8 ounces, which won’t add much bulk to your gear.

Look for compact or foldable designs—they fit easily into pockets or small camping kits, making them super convenient to carry. The material you pick plays a big role too; ABS plastic, aluminum, and high-carbon steel each offer different balances of weight and strength.

If you’re a minimalist hiker or backpacker, opting for a lighter trowel helps reduce overall pack weight on longer trips. Just make sure you find one that’s sturdy enough for digging without feeling too heavy to haul around.

Handle Design

Choosing a camping trowel with the right handle design can make your digging tasks easier and more comfortable. Look for an ergonomic handle that fits your hand well, as this reduces fatigue during long use. Handles with textured or non-slip surfaces give you better control and improve safety, especially on slippery or uneven ground.

If you’re backpacking, consider a foldable or collapsible handle to save space and pack lighter. Durable materials like reinforced plastic or metal ensure your trowel lasts through tough outdoor conditions. Also, pay attention to the handle’s length and shape, since these affect your leverage and digging efficiency, particularly in hard or rocky soil.

Choosing wisely here means less strain and more effective digging on your adventures.

Blade Size and Shape

When you pick the right blade size and shape for your camping trowel, digging becomes more efficient and suited to your needs. Larger blades let you move more soil quickly but can add weight, so consider your endurance and packing preferences. If you mainly create cat holes, a compact blade works best for minimal impact.

Blade shape matters too: pointed blades penetrate tough or rocky soil easily, while rounded ones excel at scooping or trenching. Don’t forget blade thickness and edge design—they affect durability and cutting power. Choosing a shape aligned with your typical outdoor tasks ensures better control and comfort, making your digging smoother.

Folding Mechanism

Selecting the right blade size and shape sets the foundation for effective digging, but how your trowel folds can make a big difference in convenience and safety. You want a folding mechanism that securely locks in both open and closed positions to prevent accidental collapse. Check the joint materials—stainless steel or reinforced aluminum offer better durability and longer-lasting performance.

Smooth folding and unfolding reduce strain, which is especially helpful in cold or wet conditions. Keep an eye on the number of folding joints; fewer joints usually mean greater strength and stability. In conclusion, a well-designed hinge system makes assembly, disassembly, and maintenance easier, extending your trowel’s lifespan.

Prioritizing these factors ensures you get a reliable, safe, and user-friendly camping trowel.

Multi-functionality

Although a camping trowel’s primary job is digging, having one that handles multiple tasks like trenching, cutting, and clearing debris can markedly enhance your outdoor experience. You’ll appreciate a versatile trowel that tackles hygiene tasks such as creating waste holes and campsite chores like planting or debris removal.

Look for features like serrated edges or foldable designs that let your trowel double as a saw or punch tool without adding extra weight. This multi-functionality means you carry fewer tools, saving space and lightening your load.

Whether you need to dig a latrine, clear a path, or handle emergencies, an adaptable trowel keeps you ready and efficient, making it an essential piece of gear for any camping trip.

Environmental Impact

Because your choice of camping trowel affects more than just functionality, you should also consider its environmental impact. Choosing lightweight, durable materials like ABS plastic or high-impact styrene reduces resource use and waste. You’ll want a trowel with eco-friendly, non-toxic coatings to avoid contaminating soil and water during your outdoor adventures.

Opting for a rechargeable or reusable model cuts down on plastic waste and helps you avoid frequent replacements. A compact, foldable design encourages careful use, minimizing damage to surrounding vegetation and supporting Leave No Trace principles.

Finally, look for tools made with environmentally responsible manufacturing processes that lower the ecological footprint. By prioritizing these factors, you ensure your camping gear respects nature while serving your needs efficiently.

Price and Value

How much should you spend on a camping trowel? Prices range from under $5 for basic plastic models to over $30 for high-end, multi-functional tools. When weighing price against value, consider durability, material quality, and extra features like folding mechanisms or serrated edges.

If you camp casually, a budget option might suffice, but investing in a more durable, ergonomic trowel often pays off with better performance and longevity. To get the best deal, compare prices across retailers and check customer reviews carefully.

A higher-priced trowel made from premium materials can prove more cost-effective over time, saving you the hassle of frequent replacements and ensuring your tool stands up to rugged outdoor use. Choose wisely based on your needs and budget.

Conclusion

When camping, having the right trowel can make all the difference. Did you know that over 60% of outdoor enthusiasts prefer lightweight, foldable tools for easier packing and quick use?

Choosing a durable, ergonomic camping trowel not only saves you effort but also supports Leave No Trace principles. With options like stainless steel blades and secure locks, you’ll enjoy both convenience and reliability on every adventure.

Pick wisely and dig in confidently!