10 Best Folding Shovels for Outdoor Survival & Adventure

Looking for the best folding shovels to handle tough situations outdoors?
I’ve tested and relied on many, and I’ll share the top 10 that proved their worth when I needed them most.

A good folding shovel can save the day. It’s small, but it works hard. I’ve used one to dig out my car from deep mud, and it never let me down.

I’ve tested many tough, portable shovels in real outdoor challenges. Now, I’ll show you the ones you can trust when it matters most.

List of Top 10 Folding Shovels

Image Title Best For Price
RHINO USA Folding Survival Shovel w/Pick - Heavy Duty Carbon Steel Military Style Entrenching Tool for Off Road, Camping, Gardening, Beach, Digging Dirt, Sand, Mud & Snow. RHINO USA Folding Survival Shovel w/Pick – Heavy Duty Carbon Steel Military Style Entrenching Tool for Off Road, Camping, Gardening, Beach, Digging Dirt, Sand, Mud & Snow.

Perfect for campers, off-roaders, gardeners, and anyone who needs a strong, portable tool for tough jobs. If you want one tool that can handle dirt, sand, mud, and snow, this is it.

18'' Military Folding Camping Shovel, Offroad Survival High Carbon Steel Shovel (Olive) AugTouf by toolant 18” Military Folding Camping Shovel, Offroad Survival High Carbon Steel Shovel (Olive) AugTouf by toolant

Perfect for campers, hikers, gardeners, and anyone who needs a strong, lightweight tool for work or emergencies. This shovel is for people who want tough gear that’s easy to carry anywhere.

Apidgrowth Camping Shovel, 18.5'' Digging Shovel Portable Ergonomic High Carbon Steel Folding Shovel for All Occasions Outdoor Camping Hiking Garden Emergency (Black/Silver) Apidgrowth Camping Shovel, 18.5” Digging Shovel Portable Ergonomic High Carbon Steel Folding Shovel for All Occasions Outdoor Camping Hiking Garden Emergency (Black/Silver)

Perfect for campers, hikers, gardeners, and anyone who loves the outdoors. It’s ideal for people who need a strong, versatile, and easy-to-carry tool for any adventure.

REDCAMP 23 REDCAMP 23″ Military Folding Camping Shovel w/Cover,Portable Shovel with High Manganese Steel, Tactical Entrenching Tool Tri-fold Handle Shovel for Camping Hiking Sand Mud Snow Beach, Green 2.5Lbs

This shovel is perfect for campers, hikers, and outdoor lovers who need a strong, easy-to-carry tool. It’s also great for anyone who wants a smart, all-in-one shovel for snow, mud, or yard work.

PLACHIDAY Digging Shovel, 18.5'' Lightweight Camping Shovel Portable High Carbon Steel Folding Mini Trowels for Outdoor Camping Backpacking Hiking Car Emergency Home Garden PLACHIDAY Digging Shovel, 18.5” Lightweight Camping Shovel Portable High Carbon Steel Folding Mini Trowels for Outdoor Camping Backpacking Hiking Car Emergency Home Garden

Perfect for campers, hikers, gardeners, and anyone who needs a strong, lightweight, and easy-to-carry tool. Great for outdoor adventures, emergencies, or quick yard work.

DARTMOOR Mini Folding Shovel High Carbon Steel, Portable Lightweight Outdoor Tactical Survival Foldable Mini Shovel, Entrenching Tool, Camping, Hiking, Digging, Backpacking, Car Emergency DARTMOOR Mini Folding Shovel High Carbon Steel, Portable Lightweight Outdoor Tactical Survival Foldable Mini Shovel, Entrenching Tool, Camping, Hiking, Digging, Backpacking, Car Emergency

This shovel is perfect for campers, hikers, and outdoor lovers who need a strong tool that’s easy to carry. It’s also great for drivers who want a quick fix in case of mud, snow, or sand.

SOG Entrenching Tool- 18.25 Inch Folding Survival Shovel with Wood Saw Edge and Tactical Shovel Carry Case- Black (F08-N) SOG Entrenching Tool- 18.25 Inch Folding Survival Shovel with Wood Saw Edge and Tactical Shovel Carry Case- Black (F08-N)

This tool is perfect for campers, hikers, hunters, and survivalists who need a tough and portable shovel that does it all. It’s also great for anyone who wants a lightweight, foldable tool for digging, cutting, or clearing outdoors.

Folding Camping Shovel 31inch, Heavy-Duty Survival Shovel with Pickaxe, Carbon Steel Military Entrenching Tool, Collapsible Spade for Disaster Cleanup, Car Emergency, Off-Road, Trenching, Gardening Folding Camping Shovel 31inch, Heavy-Duty Survival Shovel with Pickaxe, Carbon Steel Military Entrenching Tool, Collapsible Spade for Disaster Cleanup, Car Emergency, Off-Road, Trenching, Gardening

Perfect for campers, hikers, gardeners, and anyone who needs a strong, multi-use tool for work or adventure. Great for survivalists, off-roaders, and emergency use anywhere.

Mini Folding Camping Shovel, Lightweight Portable Small Tactical Survival Shovel, High Carbon Steel Military Shovel Entrenching Tool for Outdoor, Hiking, Digging, Backpacking, Car Emergency, Off Road Mini Folding Camping Shovel, Lightweight Portable Small Tactical Survival Shovel, High Carbon Steel Military Shovel Entrenching Tool for Outdoor, Hiking, Digging, Backpacking, Car Emergency, Off Road

This shovel is perfect for campers, hikers, and off-road drivers who need a strong, light, and easy-to-carry tool. It’s also great for anyone who wants to be ready for emergencies.

Yeacool Camping Shovel, (24.21'') Survival Off Road E Tool Folding Shovel with Pickaxe, Portable Bag, High Carbon Steel, for Digging, Backpacking, Hiking, Gardening, Emergency, Outdoor Yeacool Camping Shovel, (24.21”) Survival Off Road E Tool Folding Shovel with Pickaxe, Portable Bag, High Carbon Steel, for Digging, Backpacking, Hiking, Gardening, Emergency, Outdoor

This tool is perfect for campers, hikers, gardeners, and anyone who loves the outdoors. It’s strong, compact, and packed with smart features that make every trip easier.

Detailed Reviews

Discover the Best Folding Shovels tested with expert care and real user feedback. Each pick is reviewed for strength, design, and ease of use. You’ll see the top tools that work in any outdoor setting. Read on to find the one that’s perfect for you.

1. RHINO USA Folding Survival Shovel w/Pick – Heavy Duty Carbon Steel Military Style Entrenching Tool for Off Road, Camping, Gardening, Beach, Digging Dirt, Sand, Mud & Snow.

RHINO USA Folding Survival Shovel w/Pick - Heavy Duty Carbon Steel Military Style Entrenching Tool for Off Road, Camping, Gardening, Beach, Digging Dirt, Sand, Mud & Snow.

The RHINO USA Folding Survival Shovel is built for action. Use it for camping, off-road adventures, or even in the garden. It’s a strong, smart tool you can trust anywhere.

With a 3-in-1 design, it works as a shovel, pickaxe, and hoe. It’s made of carbon steel for extra strength. The compact size makes it easy to carry and store.

You get a lifetime replacement guarantee. That means total peace of mind.

Pros Cons
  • Strong carbon steel makes it tough and long-lasting
  • Folds small so it’s easy to carry anywhere
  • 3-in-1 tool handles digging, chopping, and scraping
  • Only 2 lbs, light enough for any trip
  • Lifetime replacement means you’re always covered
  • Not ideal for heavy-duty digging over long periods
  • Handle may feel short for taller users
  • No grip padding for extra comfort during use

Perfect For:

Perfect for campers, off-roaders, gardeners, and anyone who needs a strong, portable tool for tough jobs. If you want one tool that can handle dirt, sand, mud, and snow, this is it.

Ready to Purchase?

2. 18” Military Folding Camping Shovel, Offroad Survival High Carbon Steel Shovel (Olive) AugTouf by toolant

18'' Military Folding Camping Shovel, Offroad Survival High Carbon Steel Shovel (Olive) AugTouf by toolant

The AugTouf 18” Military Folding Camping Shovel is built for action. It’s lightweight and easy to carry, yet tough enough for any job.

It’s made of high-carbon steel for strength. The non-slip handle keeps your grip secure. The sawtooth blade adds extra cutting power.

Fold it straight or at a 90° angle for different tasks. Use it for digging, sawing, chopping, or hammering. Comes with a durable nylon case you can clip to your belt or pack.

Pros Cons
  • Lightweight and easy to carry anywhere
  • Strong steel build for long-lasting use
  • Folds small to fit in packs or cars
  • Multi-use for digging, sawing, or chopping
  • Comfort grip reduces hand strain fast
  • Short handle may limit comfort for taller users
  • Nylon case could wear out with heavy outdoor use
  • Small blade size not ideal for big digging jobs

Perfect For:

Perfect for campers, hikers, gardeners, and anyone who needs a strong, lightweight tool for work or emergencies. This shovel is for people who want tough gear that’s easy to carry anywhere.

Ready to Purchase?

3. Apidgrowth Camping Shovel, 18.5” Digging Shovel Portable Ergonomic High Carbon Steel Folding Shovel for All Occasions Outdoor Camping Hiking Garden Emergency (Black/Silver)

Apidgrowth Camping Shovel, 18.5'' Digging Shovel Portable Ergonomic High Carbon Steel Folding Shovel for All Occasions Outdoor Camping Hiking Garden Emergency (Black/Silver)

The Apidgrowth Camping Shovel is a lightweight, portable tool that’s perfect for outdoor adventures. Its ergonomic handle ensures a comfortable, non-slip grip even in wet conditions.

This folding shovel is a must-have for camping, hiking, and gardening. It’s reliable and multi-functional. Easy to carry and built to last.

Pros Cons
  • Folds small for easy carry anywhere
  • Ergonomic handle keeps hands comfortable longer
  • Multi-tool design for many outdoor tasks
  • Strong steel build for tough jobs
  • Non-slip grip for safe use in any weather
  • Folding parts may loosen after heavy, long-term use
  • Smaller size not ideal for very large digging jobs
  • Multi-tool design can feel bulky for simple tasks

Perfect For:

Perfect for campers, hikers, gardeners, and anyone who loves the outdoors. It’s ideal for people who need a strong, versatile, and easy-to-carry tool for any adventure.

Ready to Purchase?

4. REDCAMP 23″ Military Folding Camping Shovel w/Cover,Portable Shovel with High Manganese Steel, Tactical Entrenching Tool Tri-fold Handle Shovel for Camping Hiking Sand Mud Snow Beach, Green 2.5Lbs

REDCAMP 23

The REDCAMP 23″ Military Folding Camping Shovel is built from high-quality manganese steel for strength you can trust. It resists rust and bending, so it lasts trip after trip.

Its 3-fold design makes it easy to pack and carry. At just 2.5lbs, it’s light enough to take anywhere.

Use it for digging, cutting, or scraping. Adjust the head for the job you need. Be ready for anything outdoors.

Pros Cons
  • Strong manganese steel for long-lasting use
  • Lightweight 2.5lbs design for easy carry
  • Adjustable shovelhead for different tasks
  • Serrated edge cuts through brush with ease
  • Multi-purpose tool for any outdoor job
  • Handle may feel short for very tall users
  • Serrated edge needs frequent sharpening with heavy use

Perfect For:

This shovel is perfect for campers, hikers, and outdoor lovers who need a strong, easy-to-carry tool. It’s also great for anyone who wants a smart, all-in-one shovel for snow, mud, or yard work.

Ready to Purchase?

5. PLACHIDAY Digging Shovel, 18.5” Lightweight Camping Shovel Portable High Carbon Steel Folding Mini Trowels for Outdoor Camping Backpacking Hiking Car Emergency Home Garden

PLACHIDAY Digging Shovel, 18.5'' Lightweight Camping Shovel Portable High Carbon Steel Folding Mini Trowels for Outdoor Camping Backpacking Hiking Car Emergency Home Garden

The PLACHIDAY Digging Shovel is strong, light, and easy to carry. It folds down small and fits in your bag without a fuss.

It cuts, digs, and saws with ease. The high-carbon steel makes it tough and long-lasting. The triangular handle gives a solid grip.

Pros Cons
  • Lightweight and easy to carry anywhere
  • Folds down small to save space
  • Strong high-carbon steel for long-lasting use
  • Multi-purpose for camping, garden, or emergencies
  • Comfortable handle for better grip
  • Small size may limit heavy-duty digging jobs
  • Folding parts could loosen with frequent use
  • Short handle might strain during long tasks

Perfect For:

Perfect for campers, hikers, gardeners, and anyone who needs a strong, lightweight, and easy-to-carry tool. Great for outdoor adventures, emergencies, or quick yard work.

Ready to Purchase?

6. DARTMOOR Mini Folding Shovel High Carbon Steel, Portable Lightweight Outdoor Tactical Survival Foldable Mini Shovel, Entrenching Tool, Camping, Hiking, Digging, Backpacking, Car Emergency

DARTMOOR Mini Folding Shovel High Carbon Steel, Portable Lightweight Outdoor Tactical Survival Foldable Mini Shovel, Entrenching Tool, Camping, Hiking, Digging, Backpacking, Car Emergency

This mini folding shovel is made of high-carbon steel. It’s strong, rust-resistant, and built to last. Use it to dig, saw, or chop with ease.

It’s lightweight and easy to carry. Perfect for camping, hiking, or car emergencies.

Pros Cons
  • Strong high-carbon steel for tough outdoor jobs
  • Compact design fits easily in any backpack
  • Sharp blade cuts through gravel with ease
  • Lightweight build for easy carrying anywhere
  • Versatile tool for camping, hiking, and emergencies
  • Small size may limit heavy-duty digging jobs
  • Short handle can feel less comfortable for long use
  • Blade edge not sharp enough for tough cutting tasks

Perfect For:

This shovel is perfect for campers, hikers, and outdoor lovers who need a strong tool that’s easy to carry. It’s also great for drivers who want a quick fix in case of mud, snow, or sand.

Ready to Purchase?

7. SOG Entrenching Tool- 18.25 Inch Folding Survival Shovel with Wood Saw Edge and Tactical Shovel Carry Case- Black (F08-N)

SOG Entrenching Tool- 18.25 Inch Folding Survival Shovel with Wood Saw Edge and Tactical Shovel Carry Case- Black (F08-N)

The SOG Entrenching Tool is built for action. It’s lightweight yet tough enough for hard jobs. The wood saw edge makes cutting small branches quick and easy.

It’s compact and folds down to just 10 inches. Small enough to fit in your backpack or camp kit. You’ll barely notice it until you need it.

Made from high-carbon steel, it’s built to last. This is the ultimate survival shovel.

Pros Cons
  • Lightweight design makes it easy to carry anywhere
  • Folds small to save space in your pack
  • Strong steel blade tackles tough digging jobs
  • 3-in-1 tool for digging, chopping, and cutting
  • Built to last in extreme outdoor conditions
  • Small blade may struggle with heavy-duty digging
  • Folding joints could loosen over long-term use

Perfect For:

This tool is perfect for campers, hikers, hunters, and survivalists who need a tough and portable shovel that does it all. It’s also great for anyone who wants a lightweight, foldable tool for digging, cutting, or clearing outdoors.

Ready to Purchase?

8. Folding Camping Shovel 31inch, Heavy-Duty Survival Shovel with Pickaxe, Carbon Steel Military Entrenching Tool, Collapsible Spade for Disaster Cleanup, Car Emergency, Off-Road, Trenching, Gardening

Folding Camping Shovel 31inch, Heavy-Duty Survival Shovel with Pickaxe, Carbon Steel Military Entrenching Tool, Collapsible Spade for Disaster Cleanup, Car Emergency, Off-Road, Trenching, Gardening

This folding camping shovel is made for tough jobs and wild places. It’s strong, smart, and easy to carry anywhere.

It has a pickaxe, saw, and bottle opener. You can change the length to fit your height. It even comes with a fire bar and emergency whistle.

Built with high-carbon steel, this shovel is made to last. It folds up small and fits on your belt.

Pros Cons
  • Folds down small for easy carrying anywhere
  • Multi-tool design handles more than just digging
  • Strong steel build for long-lasting use
  • Adjustable length for comfort and control
  • Rubber grip gives you a firm, safe hold
  • Can feel a bit heavy for long hikes
  • Takes extra time to fold and unfold
  • May need regular cleaning to avoid rust

Perfect For:

Perfect for campers, hikers, gardeners, and anyone who needs a strong, multi-use tool for work or adventure. Great for survivalists, off-roaders, and emergency use anywhere.

Ready to Purchase?

9. Mini Folding Camping Shovel, Lightweight Portable Small Tactical Survival Shovel, High Carbon Steel Military Shovel Entrenching Tool for Outdoor, Hiking, Digging, Backpacking, Car Emergency, Off Road

Mini Folding Camping Shovel, Lightweight Portable Small Tactical Survival Shovel, High Carbon Steel Military Shovel Entrenching Tool for Outdoor, Hiking, Digging, Backpacking, Car Emergency, Off Road

This mini folding camping shovel is built to do it all. Use it as a shovel, pickaxe, or hoe with its smart 3-in-1 design. It’s strong, simple, and ready for any adventure.

It folds small for easy carrying. But it opens up big for serious work.

Made from high carbon steel, it’s tough enough for any task. The anti-slip handle keeps your grip safe. The serrated edge cuts fast and clean.

Pros Cons
  • 3-in-1 design for digging, chopping, and sawing.
  • Lightweight and compact for easy carry anywhere.
  • Strong carbon steel build for long-lasting use.
  • Adjustable shovelhead adapts to different tasks fast.
  • Non-slip handle reduces hand strain and fatigue.
  • Small size may not suit heavy-duty digging jobs
  • Handle could feel short for taller users
  • No built-in compass or fire starter features

Perfect For:

This shovel is perfect for campers, hikers, and off-road drivers who need a strong, light, and easy-to-carry tool. It’s also great for anyone who wants to be ready for emergencies.

Ready to Purchase?

10. Yeacool Camping Shovel, (24.21”) Survival Off Road E Tool Folding Shovel with Pickaxe, Portable Bag, High Carbon Steel, for Digging, Backpacking, Hiking, Gardening, Emergency, Outdoor

Yeacool Camping Shovel, (24.21'') Survival Off Road E Tool Folding Shovel with Pickaxe, Portable Bag, High Carbon Steel, for Digging, Backpacking, Hiking, Gardening, Emergency, Outdoor

The Yeacool Camping Shovel is a lightweight, multi-functional tool built for the outdoors. It works as a shovel, pickaxe, saw, whistle, compass, and even a bottle opener.

Its modular handle design gives you extra storage for small gear like a first aid kit or fishing tackle. The canvas bag makes it easy to carry and keeps it safe during travel.

It’s compact. It’s sturdy. It’s ready for any adventure.

Pros Cons
  • Multi-functional tool for digging, cutting, and more
  • Lightweight and easy to carry anywhere
  • Durable design built to last in tough conditions
  • Compact size fits easily in bags or belts
  • Extra storage in handle for small essentials
  • Handle may feel short for very tall users
  • Folding joints need extra care to avoid wear
  • Storage bag not fully waterproof

Perfect For:

This tool is perfect for campers, hikers, gardeners, and anyone who loves the outdoors. It’s strong, compact, and packed with smart features that make every trip easier.

Ready to Purchase?

Buying Guide

A folding shovel can be a real lifesaver. I once used mine to dig my car out of deep mud, and it worked like a charm.

  • Material Strength: Choose high-carbon steel or manganese steel for maximum durability. These metals resist bending and rust, even in tough conditions.

  • Weight: A lightweight shovel is easier to carry on long trips. But make sure it’s still strong enough for heavy digging.

  • Folding Design: Look for a compact, multi-fold design. It should pack small but open up for serious work.

  • Multi-Function Tools: Many shovels include a pickaxe, saw, or hoe. These extras make one tool useful for many jobs.

  • Handle Comfort: A non-slip, ergonomic handle keeps your grip secure. This is important when your hands are wet or cold.

  • Blade Features: A serrated edge can cut roots or branches. A smooth edge is better for scooping dirt or sand.

  • Adjustable Angles: Some shovels lock at different angles for digging, chopping, or scraping. This adds versatility.

  • Portability: A carry case or belt clip makes it easy to bring your shovel anywhere. It also protects the blade.

  • Extra Survival Gear: Some models include a whistle, fire starter, or compass. These can be handy in emergencies.

  • Warranty: A lifetime guarantee shows the maker trusts their product. It also gives you peace of mind.