Top 7 Best Camping Shovels Reviewed for 2024

If you are going on a camping activity for the first time, you might think getting a camping shovel is easy, but you will be proved wrong after one or two events. As easy as it might sound, it is difficult to get the best camping shovel in 2024 because there are several options on the market.

Finding the ideal camping shovel for your camping expeditions will save you money and time. In addition, if you get a multi-functional camping shovel, there won’t be a need to get extra accessories.

In this review, we have outlined some of the best models to give you insights on what to check for when getting a camping shovel.

Best 7 Camping Shovels

1. Sahara Sailor Survival Shovel

If you need a camping tool that provides several features in one, the Sahara Sailor Survival Shovel is a good choice. This camping shovel is made from top-grade materials alongside being a 24-in-1 tool. The Sahara Sailor Survival Shovel is the ultimate tool that keeps you prepared for any occurrence during your camping expedition.

This camping backpack shovel is made from the toughest military-grade material on the market, making it tough to withstand any situation. In addition, this survival shovel has 24 tools in one, including a knife, hoe, hatchet, screwdriver, bottle opener, etc.

The hatchet is produced from a good combination of high-carbon steel and chromium. They are two materials that are resistant to any type of impact. When it comes to heavy-duty tasks like cutting down trees and wood, this shovel is up to the task.

When digging, you can extend the shovel to a convenient size. Similarly, you can decide to adjust the shovel’s length by either removing or adding extensions based on your height.

Some shovels are difficult to install, but the Sahara Survival Shovel is easy to assemble. Also, disassembling is a breeze as you can fold it and store it when it is out of use.

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Takeaway

The Sahara Sailor Survival Shovel comes with 24 tools in one, which makes it a versatile tool that can be used for almost every camping activity.

2. TABOR TOOLS Folding Shovel

Do you need a compact tool that will suffice for all activities like hiking, camping, and various outdoor activity? The Tabor J35A folding shovel is a great choice to select among the various options on the market. This best camping shovel in 2024 can be used as an extraction shovel, and it can either be used straight or at a 90-degrees angle.

Also, this is one of the best survival knife under 50 that comes with a serrated edge design. The sharpened edge is used for digging, while the serrated edge cuts through mud, compost, roots, etc. 

It would interest you to learn that this camping shovel can remove your tires from a quagmire if your car is stuck. When this camping shovel is unfolded, its overall length is 18 inches, giving sufficient leverage to dig effectively.

If you are concerned about portability, you have nothing to worry about with this folding camping shovel. It is portable and lightweight as it can be folded into a small package. If you totally collapse this shovel, it can fit into a carrying bag of 6 inches by 8 inches. You can also keep it in your vehicle or toolbox.

You are assured of its durability as this camping shovel is made from top-notch military-grade materials that are long-lasting and resistant to any environmental condition.

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Takeaway

Not all shovels can be used as an extraction shovel, but the Tabor J35A folding shovel serves this purpose well.

3. GERBER Gorge Folding Shovel

If you need a versatile camping shovel that comes at a great price, the Gerber Gorge Folding Shovel is an ideal choice. It comes with an easy-to-use push-button slide system that makes usage easy. Asides from camping, you can use this folding shovel for other home activities.

With this lightweight camping shovel, you can perform a range of tasks like removing snow muds from your vehicle’s tire, or you can use it to build trails when mountain biking. Asides from its digging capability, you can use the Gerber folding shovel as a hammer; this is good to pound in tent stakes.

You don’t have to worry about its portability and compactness, as you can easily fold this camping shovel. It would interest you to know that you can take off a whopping 7 inches when folding the camping shovel. It has a weight of 28 ounces that makes it small enough to be carried in a bag without constituting a burden.

This camping handle is ergonomic as it is made with fiberglass, and it allows for a comfortable and secure hold. The shovel’s blade is made from carbon steel, which impacts top-notch durability that is not common among other camping shovels. You can extend its usability and durability by sharpening the blade.

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Takeaway

There are not many camping shovels made with carbon steel like the Gerber Gorge Folding Shovel, which makes it durable.

4. SOG Folding Survival Shovel

Not all camping shovels offer convenience, but the SOG folding shovel survival shovel ensures you have a great time during use. When you fold this camping shovel, it becomes almost the size of your hand, which is a good testament to its portability.

This backpack shovel has a 3-way foldable design that provides several uses that show its versatility that cannot be ordinarily found in other shovels. In addition, it comes with a rotatable shovel blade and saw edge that allows you to use it as a hoe. This shovel does not come with the usual additional features like a fire starter, but all the vital features are present.

It is important to mention that the SOG folding shovel survival shovel is made from high-carbon steel construction, which shows its super-durability. It also comes with a case that allows you to carry about easily. Hence, if you are going camping, all you need do is fold it, put it into a case, and you are good to go.

Furthermore, the SOG folding shovel survival shovel has a durable locking mechanism that protects you, preventing it from coming apart when much pressure is mounted on the handle. Even though this camping shovel doesn’t have many accessories, it makes up for it by coming at a low price.

To wrap up, this survival shovel’s blade is made from a black powder-glazed high carbon steel which shows it is structured to last.

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Takeaway

The SOG folding shovel survival shovel comes with a locking mechanism that validates your safety.

5. COTTEOX Folding Camping Shovel

The COTTEXOX survival shovel is a multi-functional tool that is 8.23 inches when you fold it. It is a portable and lightweight folding shovel that becomes 36.2 inches when extended. With this length, it is easy to carry out any task. 

It comes with a portable and compact storage bag that makes it easy to carry. You can use this camping shovel for camping, hunting, fishing, emergency occurrences, gardening, etc.

The shovel’s extension handle is made from high-carbon steel, and it has a thickness of 6.5mm. Following anodizing, its strength and wear resistance increase, preventing the surface from rusting and oxidizing, which is resistant to any harsh condition.

Also, it has a thickened and bigger shovelhead. Its thickness is stronger than most camping shovels on the market.

In addition, this multi-functional tool contains tools like a stick, hoe, wrench, shovel, saw, whistle, compass, etc. This folding camping shovel is ideal for sawing, cutting, chopping, shoveling, digging, hammering, etc.

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Takeaway

The COTTEXOX survival shovel is a versatile tool that makes shoveling and other camping activities easier.

6. iunio Folding Shovel

The Iunio Folding shovel was manufactured with campers and camping enthusiasts in mind. It is a compact folding shovel with a length of 38 inches. Hence, for people like expeditionists, camper, fisherman, survivalist, hiker, cadets, hunter, truck drivers, motorcyclists, etc.

Asides from being a conventional folding shovel, this shovel can be extended to a normal size to leverage comfort. All you have to do is choose the shovel’s length by adding the extension bars that align with your height.

This camping shovel is not just a normal shovel; it is a versatile and multi-functional shovel with various features like a nail extractor, shovel board, bottle opener, and hoe. Also, there are other features like a compass, screwdriver, fish scaler tool, flashlight, and hexagonal wrench.

It is crucial to note that the shovel board of this shovel is bolstered with an additional thickness that can withstand any tough condition. The shovel’s extension bars and head are made from high-carbon steel, which is resistant to wear and tear. You will appreciate the handle’s grip because it is made with rubber, and it is great for maximizing control.

Also, you can fold this lightweight camping shovel into a top-quality and portable waist pack. This shovel is a good mix of security, functionality, and practicability. If you are a vehicle owner, this camping shovel is a must-have emergency tool.

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Takeaway

The shovel board of the Iunio Folding shovel comes with an improved thickness that many camping shovels don’t have.

7. M48 Kommando Survival Shovel

When you see the M48 Kommando Survival Shovel for the first time, you will be forced to think that it could function as a weapon. In reality, you are not far from the truth. The head of this camping shovel makes it look like a weapon and a good shovel that can dig into almost anything. This shovelhead comprises a black oxide glazing and tempered stainless steel.

The Kommando survival shovel comes with a serrated blade that can function as a saw when needed. Also, the handle is made of nylon reinforcement and 30% fiberglass. This camping shovel is great for camping and outdoor use. It can also work as a defensive weapon when you are faced with emergencies.

It came with a black nylon sheath lined with plastic and fortified with five rivets on the outer edge that make the shovel more durable. Because this shovel cannot be assembled, it is easy to use, and it will function for a long time while even though it is exposed to tough conditions.

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Takeaway

The head of this camping shovel is one of its prominent features, which suggests that it aids effective digging.

Buying Guide for the best camping shovel

You will be using your camping shovel in harsh environments, and you need a good one that would serve you well.

Here are some factors to look into when getting the best camping shovel:

Material

When you want to get a camping shovel, avoid plastic ones. Even though they are light and inexpensive, they are not ideal for some activities as they could break because they are not rigid. It is best to go for metal shovels. Not all shovels are equal, as some are better than others.

Stainless steel is a profound option because it is resistant to corrosion. However, it is quite heavy. If you don’t mind something that is moderately heavy, a stainless steel camping shovel would be great. Another good option is high carbon steel which is glazed with oxide paint to avert corrosion.

Aluminum is a good camping shovel material because it is lightweight, but it doesn’t have great strength like steel. Military-grade alloy is a good camping shovel material because it is robust and provides good value for money.

Generally, shovels made from metals are more expensive than others, but they are worth it.

Size and Portability

Camping shovels need to be portable to ensure convenience. Hence, it is better to opt for folding shovels. With a folding shovel, you can extend your shovel to the needed length and depress it back to the store.

As regards weight, get a shovel that weighs between 3-3.5 pounds. You will be able to carry it without much effort.

Build and Function

One of the crucial features to consider when getting a camping shovel is its handle. It is best for a camping shovel to be ergonomic, which allows convenient shoveling without inducing tiredness. An ergonomic handle allows you to hold the shovel without inconveniencing yourself comfortably.

In addition, the handle must provide an anti-grip. This means it should not slip from your hand accidentally. This allows you to maximize the shovel for optimum performance.

Also, the type of handle is a good factor to consider. A wood handle is durable and looks good. In comparison, a steel handle adds more weight, but it is durable. Plastic handles cannot be trusted even though they are lightweight. In addition, rubber handles give maximum grip and comfort, which is probably the ideal handle material to select.

Another vital design feature is the blade type. Getting a blade with serrated edges performs better than smooth blades. Serrated blades are more functional and can perform various tasks.

Adjustability

It is essential that a camping shovel can be adjusted to give a customized fit. You should be able to extend the frame to match your height. With this, it would be easy to use the shovel without inconveniencing yourself.

Price

The price of a camping shovel matters when you are making your choice. If a camping shovel is too affordable, ensure you confirm if the features would help you achieve any intended activity. Some cheap camping shovels have bad construction, which means they can get damaged within a short time.

If you want to buy a product that would last you for a long time, be ready to spend more.

Ease of use

Most of the camping shovels available on the market are easy to use, but you might have to assemble some of them. The essence of getting any camping tool, camping shovels inclusive, is ensuring you don’t face many challenges when camping. In addition, a camping shovel saves you the stress of carrying extra tools.

Hence, get a shovel that is convenient and easy to use. You can purchase a portable and lightweight camping shovel that you can easily assemble, disassemble or carry about.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do I need a camping shovel?

A camping shovel is a tool that comes with lots of functions when you have a camping expedition. One of the common functions of a camping shovel is digging. If you need to dig a hole to poop, you need a good camping shovel.

Another reason why you need a camping shovel is to protect yourself when you are out in the wild. Also, if your vehicle gets stuck in quicksand, you can use a camping shovel to rescue yourself.

What material should I check for when buying a camping shovel?

When getting a camping shovel, it is important to get a shovel that is built with durable materials. Starting from the build to the blade and the handle, ensure the materials are poised to last for a long time before paying for it.

You should also ensure you get water-resistant materials because they will be used outdoors every time. Also, if you get a camping shovel made with plastic, it would be hard to use when dealing with materials like rocks.

Can a portable camping shovel accommodate much weight?

It depends on the build and material of the camping shovel. Some camping shovels can handle over 200 pounds, so you can use them to lift large rocks. If you will be using your camping shovel for heavy-duty tasks, it is important to check for the shovel’s specifications before you get it.

Summary

When you are embarking on a camping expedition, you need all the tools that would help you perform various tasks. If you are in a difficult spot or are literally trying to save your life when you are camping, you need a camping shovel.

To get the best camping shovel in 2024, it is important to consider all the factors mentioned above to make the right choice.