Comparison: Best Snow Shovel Backpacking (Updated | Jan 2nd)
When winter calls, a reliable snow shovel can make or break your backpacking trip. Whether you’re digging a snow kitchen, setting up camp, or staying safe in avalanche terrain, the right tool matters. But with so many options out there, how do you choose? We’ve tested and compared the best snow shovels for backpacking to help you find the perfect balance of weight, durability, and packability. Let’s dig into the details and get you ready for your next snowy adventure.
Editor’s Choice
Crescent Moon Collapsible Snow Shovel for Car & Adventures – Portable Avalanche Shovel
High-Visibility Avalanche Safety
Best for a specific purpose
- Best for ultralight emergency pick: Yukon Charlie’s Collapsible Snow Shovel
- Best for compact aluminum alloy: G2 Backcountry Lightweight Telescopic Avalanche Snow Shovel
- Best for adjustable car companion: CARTMAN 32.5 Inch Folding Emergency Snow Shovel 3 Piece Aluminum Lightweight Portable Sport Utility Shovel for Car Trunk Camping Garden Beach
- Best for all-season survival tool: BIRDROCK HOME Folding Emergency Snow Shovel – Compact Tool for Winter Survival
- Best for high-visibility avalanche safety: Crescent Moon Collapsible Snow Shovel for Car & Adventures – Portable Avalanche Shovel
- Best for telescoping heavy duty: SnowPro Snow Shovel for Car
- Best for extendable reach design: SubZero 17222 Collapsible Snow Shovel
- Best for ice scraper combo: OneTigris Snow Shovel
- Best for backcountry digging essential: G2 Backcountry Lightweight Telescopic Avalanche Snow Shovel
- Best for ergonomic bi-folding scoop: 27″ Bi-Folding Snow Shovel for Car
Product Comparison: Best Snow Shovel Backpacking
Ultralight Emergency Pick
Yukon Charlie’s Collapsible Snow Shovel, Lightweight Snow Shovel for Camping, Car, Emergency Kit
Yukon Charlie’s
The Yukon Charlie’s Collapsible Snow Shovel is a must-have for outdoor enthusiasts and motorists preparing for winter conditions. Its lightweight, adjustable design ensures easy transport during hikes or convenient storage in your vehicle. The shovel features adjustable length and blade angles, offering versatility for digging or clearing snow in various situations. Packing down to just 13 inches and weighing over a pound, it expands from 24 to 30 inches when in use. The slip-proof ABS handle provides a secure grip, making it a reliable tool for emergency kits or backcountry adventures.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Lightweight and portable
- Adjustable length and angle
- Compact when folded
- Slip-proof handle
- Affordable price
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Plastic blade durability
- Shorter collapsed length
Compact Aluminum Alloy
G2 Backcountry Lightweight Telescopic Avalanche Snow Shovel, Storage Down to 13 inch, Durable Aluminum Alloy Material, ABS Anti-Slip Proof Handle, Compact Storage Size (Grey)
G2 GO2GETHER
The G2 Backcountry Lightweight Telescopic Avalanche Snow Shovel is built for durability and performance in harsh conditions. Crafted from high-quality aluminum alloy, this shovel is designed to last for years without replacement. Its pop-up button allows quick length adjustments and easy assembly in minutes. The compact design packs down to 17 inches and weighs just 1.1 lbs, expanding from 24 to 30 inches when needed. With adjustable blade angles, it offers multiple options for field digging or snow removal, making it an essential tool for backcountry safety and emergency preparedness.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Durable aluminum construction
- Quick assembly mechanism
- Compact and lightweight
- Adjustable blade angles
- Long-lasting performance
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Slightly heavier than plastic
- Longer collapsed size
Adjustable Car Companion
CARTMAN 32.5 Inch Folding Emergency Snow Shovel 3 Piece Aluminum Lightweight Portable Sport Utility Shovel for Car Trunk Camping Garden Beach, Black
CARTMAN
The CARTMAN 32.5 Inch Folding Emergency Snow Shovel is a versatile and lightweight tool designed for outdoor enthusiasts. Made from durable aluminum alloy, it weighs only 1.3 pounds, making it easy to carry on backpacking or camping trips. The adjustable length (23”, 26”, or 32.5”) ensures optimal leverage for various tasks. Its innovative folding design allows quick collapse for storage in cars or attachment to backpacks. The shovel’s smooth, eco-friendly coating adds to its durability. Perfect for snow removal, camping, or emergencies, this shovel combines portability with performance, ensuring you’re prepared for winter adventures.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Lightweight and portable
- Adjustable length options
- Durable aluminum construction
- Easy to fold and carry
- Eco-friendly coating
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- May feel flimsy
- Short handle for tall users
- Not ideal for heavy snow
All-Season Survival Tool
BIRDROCK HOME Folding Emergency Snow Shovel – Compact Tool for Winter Survival, Car, Snowmobiles, ATV – Lightweight Collapsible Gear for Skiing, Camping, Mud, Avalanche, Sand, Adventure – 34”, 2 Pack
BIRDROCK HOME
The BIRDROCK HOME Folding Emergency Snow Shovel is a compact, all-season tool designed for winter survival and outdoor adventures. Crafted from high-quality aluminum, it’s lightweight yet tough, capable of handling snow, mud, sand, or dirt. The foldable design makes it easy to store in cars, ATVs, or backpacks, perfect for skiers, campers, and travelers. With extended dimensions of 34.25 inches and a compact size of 22 inches, it’s versatile and space-saving. Weighing just 2 pounds, it’s a must-have for winter emergencies, camping, or hiking, ensuring you’re prepared for any outdoor challenge.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Compact and foldable
- Durable aluminum build
- Versatile for all seasons
- Easy to store
- Lightweight at 2 lbs
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Slightly heavier than competitors
- Limited color options
- Not ideal for deep snow
High-Visibility Avalanche Safety
Crescent Moon Collapsible Snow Shovel for Car & Adventures – Portable Avalanche Shovel, Multi-Use Design for Camping, Emergencies, Backcountry Backpack Adventures, ATVs, Snowmobiles & Ice Fishing
CRESCENT MOON
The Crescent Moon Collapsible Snow Shovel is a versatile tool designed for outdoor enthusiasts and motorists alike. It serves as an avalanche shovel, camping shovel, or emergency car shovel. Its compact collapsible design makes it easy to store in your car or backpack. With three length options, it extends from 20 to 33 inches, catering to various needs. The ergonomic finger-guard handle ensures a comfortable grip, allowing you to adjust the pushing angle effortlessly. Weighing just 1 lb, this durable yet lightweight shovel is perfect for hiking, snowboarding, skiing, or any adventure where preparedness is key.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Lightweight and portable
- Adjustable length options
- Ergonomic D grip handle
- Multi-functional use
- Durable construction
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Fixed length adjustments
- May not handle heavy snow
Telescoping Heavy Duty
SnowPro Snow Shovel for Car, Fast Folding and Telescoping Design for Emergency Snow Removal – Compact Snow Shovel Kit – Collapsible and Portable Utility Shovel for Camping Hiking
BREWIN TOOLS
The SnowPro Snow Shovel by Brewin Tools is a heavy-duty, versatile tool perfect for emergency snow removal. Crafted from lightweight aluminum alloy and stainless steel, it ensures durability and corrosion resistance. The fast telescoping and folding design makes it compact, easily fitting in your trunk or backpack. It extends to 34 inches for efficient shoveling. The large ergonomic D handle provides a firm grip, while the teardrop-shaped shaft adds strength. Ideal for snow, dirt, mud, or sand, it’s suitable for driving, camping, or snowmobiling. Backed by a 1-year warranty, this shovel is reliable for all outdoor activities.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Fast folding mechanism
- Durable aluminum alloy
- Corrosion-resistant finish
- Ergonomic D handle
- Versatile for multiple terrains
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Slightly heavier at 1.6 lbs
- Bulkier when folded
Extendable Reach Design
SubZero 17222 Collapsible Snow Shovel, Light Weight Aluminum Snow Shovel for Car, Emergency Shovel for Driveway and Car (pack of 1)
Subzero
The SubZero 17222 Collapsible Snow Shovel is a must-have for winter emergencies and backpacking adventures. Crafted from heavy-duty aluminum, it offers exceptional durability for demanding jobs. The handle extends up to 30 inches, providing excellent reach and leverage. Its collapsible design ensures easy storage in your car or backpack, making it perfect for on-the-go use. With a dual-function design, this shovel enhances safety in harsh winter conditions. Available in assorted colors, it combines practicality with style. Whether you’re digging out your car or clearing a campsite, this lightweight yet sturdy shovel is a reliable companion.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Heavy-duty aluminum construction
- Extends to 30 inches
- Collapsible for storage
- Lightweight for backpacking
- Dual-function design
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Limited color options
- May feel short for some
Ice Scraper Combo
OneTigris Snow Shovel, Collapsible Aluminum Alloy with Ice Scraper Brush – Portable Folding Shovel for Camping, Car Emergency, Winter Outdoor – 25.98″ Lightweight Durable Design (Coyote Brown)
ONETIGRIS
The OneTigris Snow Shovel is a versatile, collapsible tool designed for outdoor enthusiasts. Made from high-quality aluminum alloy, it resists wear, heat, and corrosion, ensuring long-lasting performance. The shovel features a 180-degree adjustable head and a 90-degree hoe mode, making it ideal for snow, sand, or mud. Its compact design folds to 12.6 inches, perfect for backpacking or car storage. Included is a 2-in-1 ice scraper brush with soft bristles to protect car paint. Whether camping, hiking, or tackling winter roads, this lightweight shovel adapts to various conditions, offering convenience and reliability wherever your adventures take you.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Lightweight aluminum alloy
- Multi-functional design
- Includes ice scraper
- Compact and portable
- Durable and corrosion-resistant
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Slightly heavier than competitors
- Brush may detach
Backcountry Digging Essential
G2 Backcountry Lightweight Telescopic Avalanche Snow Shovel, Storage Down to 13 inch, Durable Aluminum Alloy Material, ABS Anti-Slip Proof Handle, Compact Storage Size (Orange)
G2 GO2GETHER
The G2 Backcountry Lightweight Telescopic Avalanche Snow Shovel is a must-have for backpackers and outdoor enthusiasts. Crafted from durable aluminum alloy, it ensures long-lasting performance in harsh conditions. Its telescopic design allows you to adjust the length from 24 to 30 inches, while the compact storage size of just 13 inches makes it easy to pack. The shovel features adjustable blade angles for versatile use, whether you’re digging a snow kitchen or clearing a path. Lightweight at 1.1 lbs, it’s easy to carry without adding bulk. Perfect for backcountry adventures, this shovel combines functionality with portability.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Durable aluminum construction
- Compact and lightweight
- Adjustable length and angles
- Easy to assemble
- Multi-functional design
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Higher price point
- Slightly heavy for ultralighters
Ergonomic Bi-Folding Scoop
27″ Bi-Folding Snow Shovel for Car, Lightweight Snow Shovel with Ergonomic Handle and Aluminum Edge, Portable and Multifunctional for Cars, Snowmobiles, Camping and Mud, Black
FGstyle
The 27-inch Bi-Folding Snow Shovel by FGstyle is a versatile and compact tool ideal for car emergencies and backpacking. Its foldable design collapses to just 12 inches, fitting neatly into the included carry pouch. The 9-inch blade, made from heavy-duty plastic with an aluminum edge, efficiently clears snow, ice, and even mud. The ergonomic D-shaped handle ensures a comfortable grip, reducing hand fatigue during use. Lightweight yet durable, it resists rust and deformation, making it a reliable companion for winter trips. Whether for your vehicle or outdoor adventures, this shovel delivers convenience and performance in one package.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Compact foldable design
- Lightweight and portable
- Ergonomic handle
- Durable blade edge
- Multi-purpose use
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Plastic blade limits durability
- Shorter handle length
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Buying Guide
FAQs
What factors should I consider when choosing a snow shovel for backpacking?
Look for a balance between weight and durability, as lighter materials may not handle heavy snow well. Consider the shovel’s packability, ensuring it fits easily into your backpack without taking up too much space.
How do aluminum and plastic snow shovels compare?
Aluminum shovels are generally stronger and more durable, making them ideal for harsh conditions or rescue situations. Plastic shovels are lighter and often cheaper, but they may break under heavy use or in icy conditions.
Are collapsible or telescoping shovels better for backpacking?
Telescoping shovels are more versatile, allowing you to adjust the length for different tasks, but they can be slightly heavier. Collapsible shovels are compact and easy to pack, but they may offer less leverage when digging.
What features add the most value to a snow shovel?
A serrated blade edge can help cut through ice and hard-packed snow, improving efficiency. An extendable handle or ergonomic grip can reduce fatigue during prolonged use, making it worth the extra cost.
How much should I expect to spend on a quality backpacking snow shovel?
Expect to pay between $30 and $60 for a reliable, lightweight snow shovel. Higher-end models with advanced features like titanium construction or integrated saws can cost up to $100 but may not be necessary for casual use.
Are there any specific safety features to look for in a snow shovel?
Some shovels come with built-in avalanche probes or ice picks, which can be lifesaving in emergencies. Ensure the shovel has a sturdy locking mechanism to prevent it from collapsing under pressure during use.