A shovel seems like overkill until you're digging a cat hole in rocky soil or trying to level a tent site on a slope. A good compact shovel weighs around two pounds, folds small enough to strap to a pack, and handles more than just dirt.
Carbon steel holds up better than aluminum but rusts if you don't dry it. Folding mechanisms need to lock securely or they'll fold on you mid-dig. A pick or saw edge adds versatility without much extra weight.
1. Rhino Usa Folding Survival Shovel
The RHINO USA uses heavy-duty carbon steel for the blade and includes a pick attachment. Folds into three positions for different digging angles.
At 2 pounds, it's manageable for most packs. The pick works well for breaking through hard or rocky soil. Military-style design means it's built to take abuse.
Pros:
- Carbon steel blade is very durable
- Pick attachment for hard soil
- Folds compact for storage
- Multiple angle positions
Cons:
- Folding mechanism needs occasional maintenance
- 23 inches unfolded may be short for some users
2. Military Folding Camping Shovel
The AugTouf shovel features high carbon steel construction and folds to 7.87 inches. Olive color blends into outdoor environments.
Multi-functional design works for digging, chopping, and survival tasks. At 1.5625 pounds, it's lighter than the RHINO but still strong enough for regular use.
Pros:
- High carbon steel for strength
- Compact folded size
- Lightweight for backpacking
- Olive color for camouflage
Cons:
- Folding mechanism requires rust prevention
- Smaller blade width limits heavy digging
3. Sunkoon Survival Shovel Survival Axe
The Sunkoon combines a shovel with a hatchet blade. The handle extends from 19.2 to 37.8 inches, giving you leverage when you need it.
Enlarged shovel head moves more dirt per scoop. High carbon steel construction. Comes with a storage pouch. At 5.78 pounds, it's heavier but more capable than compact options.
Pros:
- Extending handle for adjustable reach
- Hatchet and shovel in one tool
- Enlarged shovel head for efficiency
- Storage pouch included
Cons:
- 5.78 pounds too heavy for ultralight backpacking
- Folding mechanism needs regular maintenance
4. Redcamp 23" Military Folding Camping Shovel
REDCAMP uses high manganese steel for the blade. Tri-fold handle makes it compact when stored.
Protective cover keeps it safe in your pack. At 2.5 pounds, it's in the middle weight range. Works well in sand, mud, snow, and dirt.
Pros:
- High manganese steel is very strong
- Tri-fold handle saves space
- Protective cover included
- Versatile for different terrain types
Cons:
- May be heavy for ultralight backpackers
- Handle length might be short for taller users
5. Camping Shovel Axe Outdoor Survival Shovel Set
HUZSV combines shovel and axe functions in a compact package. High carbon steel construction.
At 0.0397 pounds (this seems like an error in the listing, likely closer to 0.4 pounds), it's very light. Matte black finish resists corrosion.
Pros:
- High carbon steel durability
- Dual shovel and axe design
- Compact and lightweight
- Corrosion-resistant finish
Cons:
- May be too light for heavy-duty tasks
- Limited size for extended survival use
6. Iunio Folding Survival Shovel
The iunio is military-grade with pickaxe, spade, and trenching capabilities. Collapsible design fits in car trunks or backpacks.
At 1.39 pounds, it's light for a multi-tool shovel. Gold color adds visibility. Compact at 18.3 inches extended.
Pros:
- Military-grade construction
- Pickaxe function for hard terrain
- Very lightweight and portable
- Gold finish for visibility
Cons:
- Assembly and disassembly takes time
- Smaller than full-size shovels
- Gold finish may show wear
7. Sog Entrenching Tool
SOG adds a wood saw edge to the shovel blade. Folding design with tactical carry case.
At 1.53 pounds, it's light enough for backpacking. The saw edge handles small branches or roots. Black corrosion-resistant finish. While you're at it, take a look at our compact axe. While you're at it, take a look at our folding saw. While you're at it, take a look at our heavy-duty tent stakes.
Pros:
- Wood saw edge for cutting roots
- Folding design is compact
- Tactical carry case included
- Lightweight at 1.53 pounds
Cons:
- Folding mechanism requires maintenance
- 18.25 inches may be short for heavy digging
- Saw edge effective but not a replacement for dedicated saw
How to Pick the Right One
- Car camping and heavy use: Sunkoon Survival Axe or RHINO USA
- Backpacking weight priority: iunio or SOG
- Maximum durability: REDCAMP or RHINO USA
- Axe and shovel combo: Sunkoon or HUZSV
- Saw edge for roots: SOG Entrenching Tool
Bottom Line
I keep a RHINO USA in the truck for car camping. For backpacking, the SOG comes with me because the saw edge has saved me time clearing tent sites more than once.
