Should I Bring a Shovel Backpacking?

By Robert Palmer

When you are backpacking, the key is to be prepared and pack light. One of the items that you may want to consider bringing is a shovel. A shovel can come in handy for a variety of tasks, ranging from digging out a fire pit to burying your food waste.

If you are planning on spending any time in the wilderness, it’s important to be prepared for any situation that may arise. A shovel is one of those items that can make all the difference in an emergency. Whether you need to dig out a fire pit, bury your food waste or even build a shelter, having a shovel on hand can be invaluable.

Shovels aren’t just useful for emergency situations; they can also be used for creating comfortable campsites. If you’re planning on spending multiple nights camping in one spot, then having a shovel on hand can make it easier to dig out a fire pit and create level ground for your tent or sleeping bag.

When it comes to choosing the right shovel for backpacking, there are several different types available. The most popular type of backpacking shovel is the folding shovel which has been designed with portability and convenience in mind. This type of shovel folds up into a compact size and is lightweight so it won’t take up too much space in your pack.

If you are looking for something more robust then there are also full-sized shovels available which feature steel blades and wooden or fiberglass handles which can be used for tougher tasks such as chopping wood or digging into hard soil. However, these types of shovels are heavier so they may not be ideal if you are travelling long distances on foot.

Conclusion:

Overall, bringing a shovel backpacking can be very beneficial depending on your needs and the type of terrain you will be travelling through. Folding shovels are great if you need something light and portable while full-sized shovels offer more strength and durability for tougher tasks. So if you plan on spending any time outdoors it’s worth considering packing a good quality backpacking shovel.