Perfect for a vehicle emergency kit, backcountry camping, or even basic yard work, folding shovels are a surprisingly versatile tool. Designed to fold in on themselves for compact storage, foldable shovels are often all-in-one tools that are as handy as they are lightweight. Not surprisingly, there are a number of foldable shovels on the market and not all are created equal. We've done some digging, and found the best of the best. SOG Specialty Knives Folding Survival Shovel Rugged multi-purpose toolMade with a rugged handle and sharp tip, SOG has created an excellent multi-purpose foldable shovel.Best OverallFind on Amazon When it comes to the big names in survival gear, SOG remains near the top across the board. So when it came to finding a reliable foldable shovel, we knew we wouldn’t have to dig too deep. Although it might not look like much when it’s folded, it opens to become a really handy survival shovel that’ll see a surprising amount of use. Ultra-lightweight and just bigger than the size of an adult’s hand, we love that as a folded shovel it can fit right underneath the driver’s seat of a vehicle. Made of high-carbon steel, this little shovel will see you out of virtually any bind. Pros: Durable, tactical shovel that’ll last a lifetime Rust-resistant, high-carbon steel construction Includes a handy carrying case Cons: Really only meant for emergency or adventure needs, not as an everyday shovel For comfort, use gloves Redcamp Military Folding Shovel Durable and compactThis compact folding shovel is made of high carbon steel for unparalleled durability.Most DurableFind on Amazon The trifold design of this military-style folding shovel means it’s sturdy and compact when folded for a simple storage solution. With a serrated edge on one side, a sharp tip, and a kick plate for tougher ground, this cleverly designed tool is a must-have in the backcountry. Ideal for backpacking, camping, and garden work, this shovel has other uses, too: the serrated side acts as a saw, and there’s a hoe and pick attachment as well. Made of premium, high-carbon steel, this is a tough little shovel that’ll see you through equally tough work. Pros: Lightweight, at just 2.5 pounds The total length is just under two feet Multi-purpose handling Cons: Make sure to clean thoroughly after each use, as folding it back up can be a hassle On the heavy side for backpacking CO-Z Mini Folding Shovel Efficiency on a budgetThis efficient little survivalist tool will keep you safe on a budget.Best ValueFind on Amazon A folding shovel isn’t necessarily designed for use as an everyday shovel, so the price and quality are important. When it comes to a fair value item, both durability and price matter. That’s why this mini folding shovel is such a hit. At just under 30 ounces total, this lightweight, compact tool is also versatile. It features a serrated side, a pick, and a durable triangular handle. Ideal for taking on trips to the beach, hiking, camping, and vehicle safety kits, this is a valuable tool at a fair price point. Pros: Reinforced, foldable blade Made with rust-resistant materials Handy storage pouch Cons: The blade is not sharp upon arrival, so you may want to sharpen it before using Heavy for long-distance hikes Pathway North Survival Shovel and Camping Axe A survivalist's must-haveFor every precarious situation known, this survivalist kit will keep you safe and sound.Most AccessoriesFind on Amazon This wilderness survival kit ensures your safety in whatever predicament you find yourself in; it’s got a little bit of everything. Not just for use as survivalist tools, these are extremely useful when it comes to camping, backpacking, doing yard work, and anything in between. That’s because there are nine tools included in this pack, including a whistle-and-fire-starter combo tool, a screwdriver set, a window breaker, and a shovel combo set. In all, this is an essential kit designed to keep you safe and built to last. Pros: Made with high quality, durable materials Designed as survivalist-style tools The shovel has two extension bars Cons: There are a few parts that are made of plastic, which isn’t the best material when it comes to tactical tools Not the most compact set Coleman Folding Shovel and Pick Easy diggingWe appreciate the comfortable grips on this basic foldable shovel.Best GripFind on Amazon Coleman is a well-known brand that creates mid-range equipment at a fair price. They value comfort and ease of use, and this tool demonstrates exactly that. Made with a pick that extends off the backside of the shovel, this shovel features comfortable ergonomic grips on the handle. If you’re looking for a basic, lightweight tool that folds up into a compact size and can be tossed in with the camping gear, this is an appropriate piece that’ll last you season after season. There isn’t much to it but, at this price, it’s exactly what we’d hope for in a simple folding shovel. Pros: Comfortable grips on the handle Lightweight, compact fold Includes durable storage bag Cons: This is definitely a small shovel, so it’s best for camping Very basic design Frequently Asked Questions What’s the point of a foldable shovel? Foldable shovels are ideal for a variety of situations, and they have helped us out of a pinch many times. That’s because they’re designed to be lightweight, foldable, and extremely handy. The perfect accessory for vehicle safety, camping, hiking, or backyard care, they’re especially useful in backcountry situations. We keep one in our vehicle at all times, as well as with our camping gear. They’re also great for gardening as a quick and accessible tool for digging, weeding, or cutting. How do I properly clean a foldable shovel? Because foldable shovels are designed to fold, it’s important to keep them clean. Before storing, wipe down completely and let the shovel dry. This will keep rust at bay, as well as keep the folding mechanisms in working order. Related posts: The Best Snow Shovels The Best Utility Knives The Best Collapsible Wagons