Top 5 Reasons Why You Need a Backpacking Trowel for Your Next Outdoor Adventure
As you plan your next outdoor adventure, you might be thinking about all the gear you need to bring along – a tent, sleeping bag, water filter, stove, and more. But have you considered adding a backpacking trowel to your list? It may not be the first item that comes to mind, but a trowel is an essential tool for any backpacker who wants to minimize their impact on the environment and follow Leave No Trace principles. Here are the top 5 reasons why you need a backpacking trowel for your next outdoor adventure.
1. Digging a Hole for Waste Disposal
Let’s face it – nature calls, even when you’re in the backcountry. But you can’t just go anywhere you please – human waste needs to be buried at least 200 feet away from water sources and campsites, and in a hole that’s at least 6-8 inches deep. That’s where a backpacking trowel comes in. It allows you to quickly and easily dig a hole that’s the right size and depth, without damaging roots or disturbing the soil. Plus, many trowels are lightweight and collapsible, so they won’t take up much space in your pack.
2. Cutting Through Tough Soil and Roots
Sometimes, the ground in the backcountry is harder than you expect. You may need to dig through tough soil or roots to create a hole for waste disposal, or to stake out your tent. A backpacking trowel with a serrated edge or pointed tip can make the job easier. These features give you more leverage and precision when cutting through tough materials, and can save you time and effort.
3. Maintaining Campsites and Trail Markers
Backpacking trowels aren’t just for waste disposal. They can also be used to maintain campsites and trail markers. For example, you might use a trowel to clear rocks or debris from a tent site, or to remove excess dirt from a trail marker so it’s easier to see. These small tasks can help keep campsites and trails in good condition for future visitors.
4. Building Campfires and Cooking
If you plan to build a campfire or do some cooking on your trip, a backpacking trowel can come in handy. You can use it to clear a space for your fire, to dig a fire pit that’s the right size and depth, or to move hot coals around. Some trowels even come with a built-in firestarter, making it even easier to get your fire going.
5. Emergency Situations
Finally, it’s worth noting that a backpacking trowel can be a helpful tool in emergency situations. For example, you might need to dig a snow shelter if you’re stranded in the backcountry overnight, or to clear debris from a trail if you’re lost and trying to find your way back. A trowel is a versatile tool that can help you improvise and adapt in unexpected situations.
In conclusion, a backpacking trowel may not be the most glamorous piece of gear you bring on your next outdoor adventure, but it’s an important one. From waste disposal to trail maintenance to emergency situations, a trowel can be a versatile tool that helps you minimize your impact on the environment and maximize your enjoyment of the backcountry. So be sure to add one to your packing list – your fellow hikers and the wilderness will thank you for it.
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