A small digging tool is one of those unglamorous items that can make a backcountry bathroom plan much more practical. The Coghlan's Trowel keeps that job simple with a lightweight plastic design.
Coghlan’s lists ABS construction and a weight of two ounces, or 55 grams. The appeal is having a dedicated tool without the weight or bulk of a full garden trowel. I would put it with the hygiene supplies so its purpose stays clear.
What the Simple Design Offers
- ABS plastic: A lightweight approach to a small digging task.
- Two-ounce listed weight: Modest addition to a backpack.
- Compact format: Easier to pack than a conventional shovel.
The Ground Gets a Vote
A plastic trowel makes the most sense in ground where a small hand tool can reasonably work. Hard, frozen, or heavily rocky soil can make that job much more difficult. I would not expect this lightweight design to pry rocks or cut substantial roots like a heavier digging tool.
It is also worth deciding on the waste approach before leaving. Some locations require waste to be packed out, and some campsites have specific facilities. Owning a trowel doesn't make digging the right choice everywhere.
Keep the Rest of the Kit Together
Toilet paper storage, hand-cleaning supplies, and a way to separate a used tool from food equipment all belong in the same plan. A dedicated pouch can prevent the trowel from becoming an item that wanders between unrelated parts of the pack.
I would choose this Coghlan’s model for someone who wants a basic, inexpensive-looking approach to a clearly defined job and is comfortable with the limits of plastic. For frequent use in tougher ground, a different material or tool design may be worth the extra space. The best reason to carry it is being prepared for the approved waste method at your destination.
