Camping pillows are an often overlooked but essential piece of gear, especially if you value a good night’s sleep. A comfortable pillow can help you get the rest you need to enjoy your time outdoors, while a cheap or poorly designed one can leave you with a sore neck and a headache. To save you the trouble of researching pillows yourself, we’ve done the work for you and created and reviewed the best camping pillows on the market. We considered factors such as weight, size, durability, materials, and ease of use to make our selections. In addition to this list, we’ve also created a buying guide to assist you in making your own decision.
There’s something here for everyone, from RV camping pillows to ultralight inflatable trekking cushions. Camping pillows are a simple, lightweight addition to your bag that can dramatically improve the quality of your sleep. For most hikers, a backpacking pillow is an essential but sometimes ignored item of equipment. But, after a long day of hiking, there’s nothing you want or need more than a restful night’s sleep. In this round-up of the 9 best camping pillows, we’ll help you find the best pillow for pleasant outdoor sleeping.
Quick Recommendations
- Best Overall Backpacking Pillow: Sea to Summit Aeros Pillow
- Best For the Side Sleepers: Trekology Aluft 2.0 Pillow
- Best Overall Camping Pillow: Therm-a-Rest Compressible
- Best Small Pillow Option: NEMO Fillo Elite
- Best Ultralight Option: Klymit Luxe Pillow
Let’s start with the reviews:
Best Overall Backpacking Pillow
1. Sea to Summit Aeros Pillow
The Sea to Summit Aeros is a compact, inflatable, ultralight backpacking pillow on the market. It packs small enough to fit in your jacket pocket. Moreover, you can store it in your backpack without adding any weight. This is ideal for gram-counters who want to sleep comfortably without sacrificing backpack space. It works nicely because the interwoven contours nurture your head when you sleep. This inflated cushion should provide you with a lovely night’s sleep, whether you sleep on your back or side.
Furthermore, this pillow is one of the lightest and most compact pillows on the market, weighing just 2.1 ounces. It comes with a stuff sack for easy storage. It is easy to inflate, making it an ideal option for backpacking and ultralight camping. The pillow is made from durable, high-quality materials and offers a comfortable sleeping surface. However, don’t over-inflate the pillow, as this can make it too firm to sleep on. It is also advisable to store the pillow unrolled with the valve open to prevent moisture damage. Overall, the Sea to Summit Aeros camping pillow is an excellent option for anyone looking for a light and compact pillow that doesn’t sacrifice comfort or quality.
Pros
- Colors and sizes are available in a variety of combinations.
- Extremely Comfortable.
- Ultralight.
- Inflatable and takes less space
- Easy to store
- Good for backpacking
Cons
- Price is a bit high.
Best For the Side Sleepers
2. Trekology Aluft 2.0 Pillow
The ALUFT 2.0 from Trekology is one of the smallest and lightest camping and backpacking pillows for the side sleepers on the market. It folds down to 5*2 inches, which is a very small size. It’s composed of a tough, elastic TPU fabric that will withstand even the worst conditions. It’s not only more comfortable, but it’s also water-resistant, so you can sleep under the stars with absolute assurance. The rubber anti-slip gripping spots on the back of this ingenious pillow prevent friction with your sleeping mat, ensuring that it stays there all night.
The weight of this pillow is just 3.9oz. It’s also compact and small, making it easy to pack into even the most space-saving backpack. In addition, this pillow is wide enough to provide excellent comfort, thanks to its contoured shape. And unlike other pillows, it won’t move out of place during the night, no matter how much you toss and turn. Best of all, it can be easily inflated with just a few breaths of air, making it a great choice for those who want to travel light. So if you’re looking for a budget-friendly option that doesn’t sacrifice comfort, the Trekology Aluft 2.0 Pillow is worth considering. This is one of the finest affordable backpacking pillows on the market, offering plenty of convenience at a reasonable cost.
Pros
- Made from long-lasting fabric
- Best for side sleepers
- Design with dots and latches
- Not pricy
- Comfortable and compact
- Don’t slip while sleeping
Cons
- Air pump is not included
Best Overall Camping Pillow
3. Therm-a-Rest Compressible
Try this Therma Rest Compressible Pillow if you prioritize your leisure. Therm-a-Rest does precisely what you’d expect from a collapsible cushion. It’s more resilient, warmer, and gives more comfortable contact to your skin. The silky brushed polyester exterior is created with 60% recycled materials. This will be a great option if you’re seeking a long-lasting, comfortable camping pillow for stomach sleepers.
Furthermore, It has a glossy polyester exterior. It is a roomy 18 x 14 x 4 inches, with a soft foam filling that feels quite homey. When not in use, the convenient built-in drawstring and cord clasp maintain the cushion neat and compacted. This camping cushion is the finest on our list because of its excellent adaptability and softness.
Atherm-a-Rest Compressible pillow is an excellent option for those looking for a bit more luxury while camping or hiking. This pillow is available in different sizes, so you can choose the one that best suits your needs. In addition, it packs down very small, making it easy to carry with you on your journey. However, it is a bit pricy compared to other pillows on our list. But it is well-made, and of high quality, so you can be sure it will last you for many years. However, it can be lumpy when first expanded. But after a few minutes of fluffing, it will be as good as new.
Pros
- Durable
- Available in different sizes
- Used Recycled material
- Lightweight
- Pack small
Cons
- Bit pricy
4. Nemo Fillo Pillow
Best Inflatable Option
4. Nemo Fillo Pillow
Do you need a versatile pillow? There’s no better companion than the Nemo Fillo Pillow, the best inflatable camping pillow that is lightweight and compact. It’s perfect for backpacking or any other outdoor adventure and has a built-in valve for quick inflation and deflation. It also has a soft micro-polyester fabric and a patented design for ergonomic head support. In addition, the Fillo blends a durable air bladder foundation with a substantially thick foam covering to provide four inches of strong but pleasant loft. Among all the expandable, hybrid pillows for hammock or foam pillows, Fillo is, without a doubt, the most comfortable.
The Nemo Fillo Pillow is designed for comfort and convenience. It is lightweight and easy to inflate, and the stuff sack seems durable. Additionally, the lock is suitable for controlling the air in the pillow, and the cushion is soft. However, this pillow might not provide enough height if you like to sleep on lofty pillows. Otherwise, putting your hand under your head to get some height becomes uncomfortable. Nevertheless, the design is well thought out and comfortable to sleep on.
Pros
- Adjustable thickness
- Supportive
- Very Comfortable
- Good quality
- Good for packing
Cons
- Not too much lofty
Best Small Pillow Option
5. NEMO Fillo Elite
Nemo Fillo Elite is another comfortable and inflatable pillow available. You can adjust the firmness of this pillow using an easily adjusted simple twist valve. It’s designed with a powerful combination of I-beam obstructed air cells and a light coating of Primaloft padding that provides plenty of warmth and comfort. A soft fabric cover conceals the material, which is machine washable, warms the skin, and feels wonderful. This collapsible pillow is about the size of a tangerine when packed.
Furthermore, the NEMO Fillo Elite is a great pillow for backpacking and camping trips. It’s inflatable and compact, so it’s easy to carry, and the integrated stuff sack ensures you won’t lose it. The design of the NEMO Fillo Elite is good for a comfortable head shape, and you can inflate it in a moment. You can use it in your tent, hammock or while sitting outside your tent. However, the integrated stuff sack is a bit too close to the pillow and putting it back might be a little tricky. Overall, the NEMO Fillo Elite is a great camping or backpacking pillow option. It’s affordable, comfortable, and easy to use.
Pros
- Primaloft synthetic-fill coating keeps you warm.
- Elegant Design.
- Durable.
- Good for backcountry and backpacking
- Soft and comfortable
Cons
- Some consumers may not enjoy the combination of air and foam.
- Little small for big guys
Best For the Budget
6. Wise Owl Outfitters Pillow
The Camping Pillow from Wise Owl Outfitters is a good option if you’re seeking a budget-friendly pillow. This extra comfort backpacking pillow has a silky, breathable mesh cover. It stretches to 5 inches in thickness to keep your head comfortable. Your head will feel comfortable and warm thanks to foamy support, silky segments, and subcover. At five inches thick, it offers outstanding convenience for a fraction of the expense of other camping pillows. This camping pillow is ideal for car campsites and travel. However, it does not fold down as compact as the other hiking pillows.
Furthermore, this pillow is larger than most on our list, making it a good choice for taller people or broader shoulders. Additionally, the Wise Owl Outfitters Pillow is made from high-quality materials that will keep its shape despite heavy usage. However, this pillow is also a bit bulkier than some on our list and may take up more space when packed. Indeed, This is the best pillow for maximum comfort because it is pretty large.
Pros
- Abrasion and Stain Resistant Fabric
- Comes in elegant three colors
- Comfortable
- Good size and shape
- Good value for the money
Cons
- Big Packed Size
- Not suitable for ultralight backpacking
Best For The Comfort
7. Coop Home Adjustable Pillow
You deserve a better night’s sleep on the go. Coop Home Goods’ adjustable pillow is made from premium memory foam. Not only – but also The Coop Home Goods travel and camping pillow are fully adjustable for a variety of sleep styles. In addition to this, the memory foam allows you to sleep in any position with your head and neck feeling supported.
Lulltra fabric, 40% bamboo-derived viscose rayon and 60% polyester provide super softness and breathability. Whether you’re in the back of a car, at a campsite, or traveling abroad, the pillow’s stretchy fabric provides support in any position.
Pros
- Adjustable to any size
- In a small packaging, you’ll get a full-size feel
- Machine washable
Cons
- A bit Pricey
Best For Car Camping
8. TETON Sports Camp Pillow
TETON Sports Camp Pillow is a budget-friendly option for the backcountry to car camping. It’s small enough to be convenient but big on comfort. Extra-soft, it’s designed to be taken anywhere. And when you get there, this little guy will ensure you get the sleep you need. Additionally, The pillow is self-inflating and lofts dynamically to provide you with the stability and warmth you require. The pillow and the pillowcase for the Teton Sports Camp Pillow are machines washable. If you need to pack it in your bag into a tight space, the pillow also collapses by itself.
This pillow can be rolled up into a much smaller and compact shape, making it easy to pack into a backpack. However, the stuff sack is slightly larger than other top pillows on our list, and the pillow is also a bit heavier. So if you’re looking for a pillow for ultralight backpacking, this may not be the best option. But if comfort is your priority, the TETON Sports Camp Pillow is worth considering.
Pros
- Easily Washable.
- Compact size
- Comfortable for neck issues.
- Affordable
- Good built quality
Cons
- Size is a bit small
- Little heavier for backpacking
Best Ultralight Option
9. Klymit Luxe Pillow
Klymit’s Luxe Pillow is a lightweight, compact, inflatable pillow that is perfect for camping and the outdoors. The pillow compresses to 3 by 7 inches and weighs just 6.2 ounces, making it easy to pack and carry. The pillow is made of a soft, comfortable, machine washable fabric. In addition, the hybrid inflatable design allows you to adjust the pillow’s firmness to your preference.
Additionally, the pillow is sleeping bag compatible, so you can use it even if you have a neck problem. The pillow is easy to pack and store in the included stuff pack. We like the quilted material of this pillow and its ability to support both side and back sleepers. You can adjust the air in the pillow using the value, which makes it perfect for those who like to adjust their pillows to their desired firmness. Overall, we think the Klymit Luxe Pillow is an excellent option for those looking for a supportive and comfortable pillow.
Pros
- Very comfortable
- Good for camping
- Easy to adjust height
- Easy to inflate
- Light and compact
Cons
- Nothing to be mentioned
Camping And Backpacking Pillows Types
This section will talk about the different types of camping pillows available for use. There are a variety of different types of camping pillows available for use. These include:
- Inflatable Pillows
- Foam Pillows
- Hybrid Camping Pillows
- Stuff Sack Pillows
Inflatable
Inflatable camping pillows are a great option for camping, backpacking, or any other outdoor activity. These pillows are inflated with air and can be deflated when not in use. Additionally, they can be easily inflated with your breath. They are a great option for backpackers as they take up less space, lightweight and are easy to carry.
Foam Pillows
Foam pillows are an excellent option for those who want a comfortable night’s sleep while camping. They are typically filled with foam, which makes them softer and more supportive than air pillows. However, they are bulkier and take more storage space than air pillows, so they are not as suitable for backpacking. Foam pillows are mainly ideal for car camping or any situation where weight is not a concern. Some people find the firmness of a foam pillow to be more comfortable.
In contrast, others prefer the softer feel of an inflatable pillow. If you are looking for extra cushioning on your next camping trip, consider bringing a foam or filled pillow. Ultralight backpackers usually avoid foam pillows due to their size and weight.
Hybrid
They combine the comfort of a down pillow with the easy foldability of an inflatable pillow. While most camping pillows are designed to be inflatables, there is a new breed on the market that is more like a down pillow in composition and design. These pillows use a double layer design where one side contains memory foam and the other side uses down feathers for your head and neck support.
Stuff Sack Pillows
Campers and hikers usually use stuff sack pillows to save space and weight. These pillows are a good alternative to traditional pillows. Simply fill the sack with clothes or other soft materials, and adjust it to create a comfortable pillow. In addition, stuff sack pillows are incredibly lightweight and easy to pack. However, some campers and backpackers don’t feel comfortable using this option due to the uneven surface of the pillow. So it makes uncomfortable night’s sleep. However, many good and ultralight pillows are available which don’t take up space.
How To Choose a Camping And Backpacking Pillow?
A camping and backpacking pillow will give you a good night’s sleep whether you are camping, backpacking or on the road.
Picking the good pillow is essential for successful and comfortable camping and backpacking experience. Picking the wrong type of pillow can leave you in the middle of the wild with a stiff neck because your pillow was not supportive enough.
Do you know? Choosing the right pillow for your needs is not easy. And it’s all because you can find countless options to choose from today. You need to consider the size of your camping equipment, material, and shape. Etc. In this section, we will discuss some important points that will help you to choose the camping pillow for you.
Weight
The weight and portability of your new pillow are the first things to think about. In fact, The finest pillows are those that are as tiny and lightweight- ideally somewhat below 200g, and compressing approximately the size of a football or smaller. Without a doubt, Considering weight and portability is highly important for you If you’re a wild camper, mountaineer, or bike packer who has limited room and prefers to carry their stuff across long ranges. Certainly, some of the pillows in our round-up are small and weigh under 100 g.
Furthermore, If you’re more of a vehicle traveler or a group camper loading up the luggage for a vacation to your favorite campsite, you can opt for something much larger and more powerful that looks and feels like your regular pillows – designs with foam padding and textile covers will make sleeping under tents quite snug and comfy enough.
Comfort
If your pillow isn’t comfortable, it doesn’t matter how light it is. You should consider the exterior casing as well as the internal components when evaluating comfort.
There are several different varieties of backpacking pillows, each with its own degree of comfort. For example, a brushed polyester covering will feel exceptionally smooth on your head. Moreover, The advantage of inflatable pillows is that based on how much air is inside, the head can descend into the pillow. On the other hand, Foam pillows are often fixed and cannot be adjusted, which is beneficial for a comfy pillow. When the jacket inside is full of zips, sleeping on a fill sack pillow can be a pain.
Convenience
No one chose to waste ten minutes fumbling about trying to put together a pillow before they can sleep. in the same vein, Backpackers avoid goods that require them to use all of the air in their lungs. To sum up, Picking up a self-inflating pillow should be your top priority in most of the cases.
Durable
People often debate about the importance of the durability of pillows. It is important to note that the durability of a camping and backpacking pillow is one of the most important features. One of the main benefits of a durable backpacking pillow is that it will last longer than other types. Furthermore, It will save your money in the long run.
In short, It’s important to find out the type of materials that are used in the construction of the pillow. For example, some best backpacking pillows for side sleepers are made with memory foam which is more durable than other types of materials like down or synthetic material
It all depends on your personal preferences but generally, people who backpack long distances tend to prefer firm pillows with little to no filling because they are compressible.
Size
As you know, if you are backpacking, look for a small and compact pillow. However, you won’t be able to move freely on such pillows due to the size as you do in your bedroom. On the other hand, if you are car camping or somewhere where you can carry the extra weight, look for a bigger size for extra comfort.
Material
Camping pillows come in various sizes and shapes. One of the most important things to do is to identify the material of the camping pillow. Some pillows are made up of foam and polyester while some are made up of foam and cotton. Cotton is an expensive material. It is also quite durable while polyester is cheaper but not as durable.
Subsequently, If you are going on a long hike, you should carry a semi-inflatable camping pillow. Indeed, This will make sure that your neck does not bend too much which can cause neck pain. Moreover, The best thing about semi-inflatable pillows is that they are compact and lightweight which makes it easier to carry them with you on your hike, no matter how long it may be.
Machine Washable
Machine washable camping pillows are made with high-quality materials. Usually, They come in a variety of shapes and sizes so you will surely find one that suits your needs. Furthermore, You can inflate these pillows in seconds while others have more traditional filling inside them which you can adjust to suit your liking. They are also easier to pack in compressed form which makes them perfect for you when you’re on the go.
Do You Need a Camping Pillow?
A camping pillow is not an essential gear, but it can make your camping trip more comfortable. Sleeping on the ground is hard enough, and getting a good night’s sleep without a pillow can be even more challenging. A camping pillow gives you a soft and comfortable place to rest your head. It also helps to keep your sleeping bag clean and dry, as you won’t have to put your head directly on the ground. In addition, a camping pillow can help block light and noise, giving you better sleep.
The benefits of these pillows are:
- They help to prevent neck pain and muscle soreness
- Offer a cushion that is softer than a sleeping pad or ground
- Provides a barrier between the ground and the sleeper’s face
- Allow for better ventilation around the head which is important in warmer climates
- They protect against mosquitos bites.
Summary
Backpacking and camping are two activities that often go hand in hand. Both involve time in nature and can be pretty strenuous on the body. Therefore, a good pillow is one of the most important things to pack for either activity. A pillow can support your head and neck, helping prevent pain and stiffness. It can also provide a comfortable surface to rest on, allowing you to get a good night’s sleep. We reviewed the best camping pillows including the backpacking pillows to help you choose the right one.
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