The backpacking shovel should be something that is small, light and definitely strong. You do not use it to dig a big hole, it is just something you can use to dig a small trench around the tent when it rains or a pit latrine for one person or two or something that can cover the fireplace in the morning.
It should be small enough to fit under a car seat or strapped to your belt or just clipped to your camping bag. An aluminum one is best since it will not rust; it is also strong enough to cut through small roots.
SOG Entrenching Tool F08-N – Folding Shovel Review
For the light camp chores, it works perfectly well. The SOG folds and unfolds to fit in your backpack making carrying it around very easy. A problem I noticed with the product though is it has no edge at all so if you are digging hard compacted dirt you might want to get something sharper.
It is a decent tool that can handle light camping activities but not anything too deep or hard.
AAA 4004 Red Aluminum Sport Utility Shovel Review
One thing I noted about the shovel though is you cannot rely on it to scoop and lift anything heavy; just light fluffy stuff. Where the handle joins the shovel, the tool feels weak like it can break when scooping something heavy. In case you need to scoop heavy sand, I would not advise this shovel; something much stronger would serve you better. However, for light cutting of snow or light sand this shovel works like a machine.
If you use it for the right intended reasons that is snow and not ice it will serve you season after season.
Military Folding Shovel and Pick Review
I like its size, not too short and not too long. It is just the perfect size for backwoods camping chores. It even bends at a 90-degree angle and has saw teeth to cut through light wood. It is also very easy to clean since you can disassemble the parts clean them and fit them back together easily.
Pagreberya Compact Outdoor Folding Shovel with Knife Review
It also has some accessories that come with it. These come in handy when you are in a survival situation. The compass for instance and the fire starter are just amazing accessories that make the tool worthwhile.
The pouch is decently made and makes carrying the shovel very convenient.
Buying Guide – How to find the best backpack shovel for your needs.
When buying any of these products please bear in mind these three things;
· How many miles will you be carrying it? If for a long time then look for a light shovel with a pouch or perhaps a carrying case.
· What is the purpose? Digging deep trenches or deep holes? If yes look for a military form of a shovel because it is strong.
· Is it for camping, scouting or just for cleaning? Then a light one would serve you best.