When you're out on a backpacking trip in the wilderness, having a dependable backpack trowel is invaluable. Whether you're digging cat holes, working with the digging edge, or clearing small roots, these lightweight tools are essential. Let's explore the best backpack trowels that will make your outdoor experience much easier.
Selecting the Right Backpack Trowel
For a safe and enjoyable backpacking trip, having the right gear is crucial. One often overlooked yet vital piece of equipment is the backpack trowel. This tool is essential for digging cat holes, an important part of Leave No Trace (LNT) practices. In this section, we'll cover what to consider when purchasing a backpack trowel and why following LNT principles matters.
Factors to Keep in Mind When Choosing a Backpack Trowel
Picking the right backpack trowel can greatly enhance your outdoor experience. Consider these important factors:
- Weight: A lightweight trowel is key for backpacking to save space and reduce pack weight. Opt for trowels made from materials like aluminum or titanium, which are both light and durable.
- Durability: Your trowel must endure the demands of outdoor use. Choose one with a sturdy handle and a robust serrated edge to handle tough ground and small roots without bending or breaking.
- Ergonomic Design: Comfort is important when using a trowel. Look for an ergonomic handle that fits well in your hand to minimize fatigue during prolonged use.
- Digging Edge: A sharp, serrated edge helps cut through tough soil and roots, making it easier to dig cat holes efficiently.
- Length: The length affects usability. Longer trowels can dig deeper cat holes but might be heavier and less convenient. Find a balance between depth capability and ease of use.
The Significance of Leave No Trace (LNT) Principles
Adhering to Leave No Trace principles is vital for backpackers to minimize environmental impact. Digging cat holes for human waste is one of the most important LNT practices. A backpack trowel is an essential tool for this task, so it’s important to select one designed for this purpose.
By properly digging cat holes, you ensure human waste is buried effectively, preventing contamination of water sources and minimizing disturbance to wildlife. A quality backpack trowel makes this easier and more efficient, helping you uphold LNT ethics and protect the natural environment.
Key Features to Look for in a Backpack Trowel
When selecting a backpack trowel, consider these features:
- Material: The trowel’s material influences its weight and durability. Aluminum and titanium are popular for their strength and lightness.
- Serrated Edges: Essential for cutting through roots and tough soil, serrated edges ensure your trowel can handle various ground conditions.
- Compactness: A compact or foldable design makes it easy to pack the trowel without taking up much space.
- Multi-functionality: Some trowels double as tent stakes or trekking poles, adding versatility to your gear.
- Visibility: Bright colors help you spot your trowel easily among your equipment, reducing the chance of losing it.
Considering these features will help you choose the best backpacking trowel to meet your needs and enhance your outdoor adventures. Whether digging cat holes, setting up camp, or clearing roots, the right trowel makes the job easier and more efficient.
BoglerCo UL Trowel
The BoglerCo UL Trowel is a standout in ultralight backpacking gear. Weighing only 0.48 ounces, it’s ideal for those wanting to keep their pack weight low without sacrificing function. This top-tier backpacking shovel balances weight, performance, and sturdy construction. Its sharp edges and durable build make it perfect for slicing through tough soil and small roots. To reduce environmental impact, always pack out used toilet paper in a ziplock bag, especially in ecologically sensitive areas.
Highlights:
- Weight: 0.48 ounces
- Material: Aerospace-grade aluminum
- Length: 6.5 inches
- Width: 2 inches
- Special Feature: Sharp edges for cutting roots
- Durability: Durability is crucial when selecting a backpack trowel. This ensures it can withstand tough ground, roots, and rocky soils without bending or breaking. Aerospace-grade aluminum offers strength without extra weight.
User Feedback:
"I never imagined a trowel could be this lightweight and effective! The BoglerCo UL Trowel slices through soil effortlessly and fits perfectly in my pack. A must-have for serious backpackers!" - David R.
Additionally, a sturdy trowel is useful for managing hot coals during campfires, promoting safe fire management.
The Deuce #2 Ultralight Trowel
The Deuce #2 Ultralight Trowel is another excellent ultralight option. Weighing just 0.6 ounces and crafted from aerospace-grade aluminum, its unique design supports both digging and scooping, making it versatile for outdoor enthusiasts.
Highlights:
- Weight: 0.6 ounces
- Material: Aerospace-grade aluminum
- Length: 6.8 inches
- Width: 2.5 inches
- Special Feature: Dual-use for digging and scooping
User Feedback:
"The Deuce #2 is a fantastic little metal trowel that packs a punch. Extremely lightweight and versatile, it’s perfect for all my backpacking trips. Highly recommended!" - Sarah M.
UST U-Dig-It Light Duty Shovel
The U-Dig-It Light Duty Shovel offers a robust and reliable choice for those needing extra digging power. At 3 ounces, this lightweight trowel features high-strength aluminum construction and a comfortable grip handle for powerful digging.
Highlights:
- Weight: 3 ounces
- Material: High-strength aluminum
- Length: 7 inches
- Width: 2.5 inches
- Special Feature: Comfortable grip handle for strong digging
User Feedback:
"The UST U-Dig-It Light Duty Shovel is a powerhouse! It easily digs through tough soil, and the grip handle is comfortable to use. Totally worth it! I also like using it with a trekking pole for extra leverage." - John L.
Vargo Dig Dig Tool
The Vargo Dig Dig Tool is a multifunctional ground trowel doubling as a tent stake. Weighing just 1 ounce and made of titanium, it’s incredibly strong and lightweight. Its serrated edges excel at cutting roots and tough soil.
Highlights:
- Weight: 1 ounce
- Material: Titanium
- Length: 8 inches
- Width: 1.5 inches
- Special Feature: Serrated edges for cutting roots
User Feedback:
"The Vargo Dig Dig Tool is a fantastic addition to my backpacking gear. Lightweight and strong, its serrated edges make cutting roots easy. Plus, it doubles as a tent stake!" - Emily T.
UST U-Dig-It Folding Shovel
The UST U-Dig-It Folding Shovel is a compact, versatile trowel that folds for easy storage. Weighing 6 ounces and made from stainless steel, it’s perfect for those needing a durable and dependable tool on outdoor trips.
Highlights:
- Weight: 6 ounces
- Material: Stainless steel
- Length: 9 inches (unfolded)
- Width: 2.5 inches
- Special Feature: Folding design for compact storage
User Feedback:
"The UST U-Dig-It Folding Shovel is a lifesaver! Sturdy, folds down compactly, and the best backpacking shovel for all my camping trips. Highly recommended!" - Mark S.
MSR Blizzard Stake
Out in the wild, the MSR Blizzard Stake is a versatile tool that doubles as a tent stake. Its lightweight design ensures it won’t weigh you down, while the wide blade is ideal for scooping holes or breaking through tough soil. Digging with ease, it’s perfect for creating sanitary toilet areas or fire pits.
Made from durable materials, the MSR Blizzard Stake withstands full-force digging without bending. Its bright red color makes it easy to spot among gear. The end cap offers a comfortable grip, even in cold weather. Compared to other trowels, it’s a best-seller among outdoor enthusiasts. Whether camping, hiking, or backpacking, this tool is a must-have.
Fiskars Garden Trowel
Though designed for gardens, the Fiskars Garden Trowel is excellent for outdoor use. Its ergonomic shape fits comfortably in your hand, reducing fatigue during long use. The sharp tip and sturdy blade cut through roots and rocky soil, enabling you to dig to the desired depth effortlessly. This trowel is ideal for those needing a reliable tool for various tasks.
Constructed from high-quality materials, the Fiskars Garden Trowel is built to last. Its lightweight build means it won’t add unnecessary weight to your pack. The handle provides a secure grip, even in wet conditions, making it dependable in any weather. Whether digging catholes, planting food bags, or setting up camp, this trowel performs efficiently.
Sea to Summit iPOOd! Pocket Trowel
The Sea to Summit iPOOd! Pocket Trowel is a compact, lightweight choice for those needing a dependable digging tool. Weighing 3.5 ounces, it’s made from high-strength aluminum and plastic, featuring a collapsible design for convenient storage.
Highlights:
- Weight: 3.5 ounces
- Material: High-strength aluminum
- Length: 8 inches (extended)
- Width: 2.5 inches
- Special Feature: Collapsible for easy storage
User Feedback:
"The Sea to Summit iPOOd! Pocket Trowel is fantastic for backpacking. Lightweight, collapsible, and strong enough to dig through tough soil. A must-have for outdoor enthusiasts!" - Tom H.
Coghlan's Backpackers Trowel
Coghlan's Backpackers Trowel is an affordable, lightweight option for reliable digging. Weighing 2 ounces, it’s made from high-impact polystyrene and has a comfortable grip handle for easy use.
Highlights:
- Weight: 2 ounces
- Material: High-impact polystyrene
- Length: 11 inches
- Width: 3 inches
- Special Feature: Comfortable grip handle
User Feedback:
"Coghlan's Backpackers Trowel is a great little trowel for the price. Lightweight, durable, and the grip handle makes it easy to use. Perfect for my backpacking trips!" - Jane P.
TheTentLab The Deuce #3 Heavy Duty Trowel
TheTentLab The Deuce #3 Heavy Duty Trowel is a sturdy choice for those needing more digging power while keeping weight low. Weighing 0.97 ounces, it’s made from high-strength aluminum and features a comfortable grip handle for full-force digging.
Highlights:
- Weight: 0.97 ounces
- Material: High-strength aluminum
- Length: 8 inches
- Width: 2.5 inches
- Special Feature: Comfortable grip handle for strong digging
User Feedback:
"TheTentLab The Deuce #3 Heavy Duty Trowel is a beast! It easily digs through tough soil and hard ground, and the grip handle is comfortable. Worth every penny!" - John L.
The Rhino USA Folding Survival Shovel
The Rhino USA Folding Survival Shovel is a versatile, durable tool for reliable digging. Weighing 2 pounds, it’s made from high-carbon steel and features a folding design for easy storage.
Highlights:
- Weight: 2 pounds
- Material: High-carbon steel
- Length: 23 inches (extended)
- Width: 6 inches
- Special Feature: Folding for compact storage
User Feedback:
"The Rhino USA Folding Survival Shovel is fantastic for backpacking. Durable, folds compactly, and perfect for all my camping trips. Highly recommend!" - Mark S.
Conclusion
Selecting the right backpack trowel can greatly enhance your outdoor adventures. Whether you prefer an ultralight model like the BoglerCo UL Trowel or a heavy-duty option like the Rhino USA Folding Survival Shovel, there’s a trowel suited for every need. So pack your gear, grab your trowel, and get ready to tackle tough ground on your next adventure!
Member discussion