Preparing for a camping trip involves many decisions, but one often overlooked aspect is the choice of a suitable camping pillow. This guide is dedicated to helping you find the best camping pillows, ensuring your nights in the great outdoors are as comfortable as possible. The right camping pillow can significantly enhance your sleep quality, a crucial factor for any outdoor adventure.
In this article, we will discuss the unique features of camping pillows and how they differ from your regular pillows at home. We will guide you through the process of choosing the right pillow for your needs, considering factors like materials, size, and shape. Additionally, we will review some of the best camping pillows currently available on the market, catered to a variety of preferences and budgets.
Whether you’re an experienced camper or planning your first outdoor excursion, understanding the importance of a good camping pillow is vital. Our goal is to provide you with all the necessary information to make an informed decision, ensuring your camping experience is both enjoyable and restful.
Table of Contents
What Are Camping Pillows?
Why Do You Need a Special Pillow for Camping?
When heading out into the wilderness, your regular bedroom pillow might not be the best companion. Camping pillows are specifically designed for outdoor use, offering unique features that cater to the needs of campers. Their compactness, lightweight design, and durability make them ideal for outdoor environments. Unlike regular pillows, which are bulky and not designed to withstand varying weather conditions, camping pillows are constructed to endure the rigors of outdoor use while providing the necessary neck and head support after a day of adventure.
How Do Camping Pillows Differ From Regular Pillows?
The primary differences between camping pillows and regular pillows lie in their design and material. Camping pillows are typically made from materials that resist moisture and are easy to clean, such as synthetic fills or foam. They are often compressible or inflatable, allowing them to be packed down into a small size that fits easily into a backpack. Furthermore, many camping pillows are designed with features such as adjustable firmness and ergonomic shapes to support different sleeping positions, something that regular pillows don’t typically offer.
How to Choose the Best Camping Pillow
What Materials Are Best for Camping Pillows?
The material of a camping pillow plays a crucial role in comfort and durability. Options range from memory foam, which offers excellent support and comfort but is heavier, to synthetic fibers that are lightweight and dry quickly. Another popular choice is inflatable pillows that are extremely compact and light, ideal for those looking for the best backpacking pillow.
The right material choice depends on your specific needs, such as the type of camping you’ll be doing, the space available, and your comfort preferences.
Inflatable vs. Compressible Camping Pillows: Which is Better?
Choosing between inflatable and compressible camping pillows is a matter of personal preference.
Inflatable pillows are highly packable and lightweight, making them the best backpacking pillow for backpackers. However, they can sometimes lack in comfort and require effort to inflate.
Compressible pillows, on the other hand, offer more comfort resembling that of a traditional pillow, with various fillings like foam or synthetic fibers, but are bulkier and take up more space.
Your choice should align with your camping style and space constraints.
What Size and Shape Should Your Camping Pillow Be?
Size and shape are critical factors in selecting a camping pillow.
Smaller, more compact pillows are ideal for backpackers, while larger pillows might be suitable for car camping where space isn’t as much of an issue.
The shape of the pillow can vary from traditional rectangle to contoured designs that offer more neck support. Consider your sleeping habits — if you’re a side sleeper, you might prefer a thicker pillow, while stomach sleepers might opt for a flatter design.
Top Features to Look for in a Camping Pillow
Why is Packability Important for Camping Pillows?
- Packability is a key feature for camping pillows, especially for backpackers or those with limited space.
A good camping pillow should be able to compress down into a small, manageable size that can easily fit in a backpack or camping bag without taking up much space. This feature is particularly important for those traveling to remote locations where every ounce and inch of space counts.
How Does Pillow Weight Impact Your Camping Experience?
- The weight of a camping pillow is another crucial consideration.
For backpackers and hikers, a lighter pillow means less strain during long treks. Lightweight pillows are easier to carry and don’t add significant weight to your pack. However, for those who prioritize comfort and are not as concerned about weight, such as car campers, a slightly heavier pillow might offer more cushioning and support.
The Importance of Pillow Firmness and Support
- Firmness and support are essential for a good night’s sleep, particularly in outdoor settings.
The right level of firmness in a camping pillow can prevent neck and back discomfort. Some pillows offer adjustable firmness, allowing you to tailor the support to your personal preference. A supportive pillow is especially important for side sleepers who need more neck and shoulder support to maintain proper alignment.
Best Camping Pillows
Overall Best Camping Pillow: Klymit - Drift Camping Pillow
Specs & Features
- Material: 100% Memory Foam
- Cover Material: Cotton (reversible to water-resistant side)
- Special Feature: Water-Resistant
- Care Instructions: Machine Wash
- Firmness: Plush
- Closure Type: Zipper
- Style: Modern
- Includes 1 Pillow
The Klymit Drift Camping Pillow offers the ultimate in camping sleep comfort with its shredded memory foam construction, providing the perfect balance of support and plushness. Designed for the traveler who misses their memory foam pillow at home, the Drift features a reversible cover that is water-resistant for outdoor use, and soft jersey cotton for a comfortable night’s sleep. Whether you’re camping, backpacking, or on a road trip, this pillow transitions seamlessly from a durable travel pillow to a cozy sleep accessory. Its easy-to-clean, machine washable cover and plush memory foam fill ensure you enjoy home-like sleep comfort no matter where your adventures take you.
Best Backpacking Pillow: Sea to Summit - Aeros
Specs & Features
- Material: 50d Polyester
- Type: Inflatable Furniture Cushion
- Color: Lime
- Size: Deluxe (22 x 14 inches)
- Shape: Rectangular
- Special Features: Inflatable, Washable
- Cover Material: Polyester
- Age Range: Adult
- Product Dimensions: 22″L x 14″W
- Care Instructions: Hand Wash Only, Air Dry
- Firmness: Plush
- Weight: 6.9 ounces
- Ideal for Camping
- Includes Stuff Sack
Designed for the avid camper and traveler, the Sea to Summit Aeros Premium Inflatable Travel Pillow (Deluxe) combines portability with unparalleled comfort. This lightweight pillow, crafted from durable 50d polyester, is an ideal choice for camping, backpacking, or even as a spare bedroom pillow. It features a soft brushed knit exterior, providing a comfortable surface to rest on. The multi-function mini valve allows for easy inflation, rapid deflation, and fine-tuning of pressure to cater to personal comfort preferences. Its compatibility with Sea to Summit camping sleeping mats that have PillowLock patches ensures it stays in place throughout the night. The deluxe size offers ample cushioning while still packing down to a compact and manageable size, making it a top pick for outdoor enthusiasts who don’t want to compromise on sleep quality.
Best Casual Camping Pillow: HEST - Camping Pillow
Specs & Features
- Material: Polyester, Memory Foam
- Type: Bed Pillow
- Color: Blue
- Size: 20″ L x 26″ W
- Shape: Rectangular
- Special Features: Portable, Zipper for adjustability
- Cover Material: Polyester
- Care Instructions: Machine Wash
- Firmness: Medium
- Weight: 3.2 Pounds
- Includes Dirt & Water Resistant Cover, Easy Carry Loop
The HEST Camping Pillow is an indispensable companion for anyone seeking comfort during their outdoor adventures or travels. With its blend of shredded memory foam and polyester, this pillow offers the support and comfort reminiscent of your favorite home pillow, while being perfectly adapted for on-the-go use. Its temperature resilient memory foam ensures your head remains supported in various climates, making it ideal for camping, backpacking, or even as a comfortable option for travel. The pillow’s thoughtful design includes a stretch woven nylon sleep surface that conforms to all head sizes and sleeping positions, coupled with a contoured shape that rests comfortably in the neck. Its travel cover not only makes it compact and easy to pack but also keeps the pillow clean, enhancing its portability and convenience.
Best Budget Camping Pillow: Hikenture - Camping Pillow
Specs & Features
- Material: Breathable Polyester Cover, Air-tight TPU Bladder
- Type: Furniture Cushion
- Color: Grey
- Shape: Ergonomic Curve
- Special Features: Inflatable, Water-resistant, Leakproof, Removable Cover
- Care Instructions: Hand Wash Only
- Firmness: Plush
- Weight: 5.64 Ounces
- Includes Carry Bag, Lifetime Customer Support
The Hikenture Camping Pillow is a testament to comfort and convenience for outdoor enthusiasts. Featuring an upgraded, leakproof TPU bladder, this pillow ensures that air remains sealed in for a consistent level of firmness throughout the night. Its ergonomic curve design not only supports the neck but also doubles as a lumbar pillow, offering versatile comfort. The removable soft polyester cover adds an extra layer of coziness and simplifies cleaning. With a one-click valve, inflation and deflation are quick and effortless, allowing for more time to enjoy the great outdoors. Packing down to the size of a soda can, this lightweight pillow is the perfect companion for any camping, backpacking, or travel adventure, providing plush support wherever you lay your head.
How to Pick the Best Backpacking Pillow
Assessing Your Needs: Comfort vs. Packability
The best backpacking pillow strikes a perfect balance between comfort and packability.
For the backpacker, this means choosing a pillow that is lightweight and compact enough to fit easily in a pack, without sacrificing the support and comfort needed for a good night’s sleep.
Consider the materials: memory foam offers plushness but may be heavier, while air-filled pillows are ultra-light but may lack in cushioning.
Inflatable, Compressible, or Hybrid: Which is the Best Backpacking Pillow Type?
- Inflatable pillows are a favorite among backpackers for their minimal packing space
- Compressible pillows, filled with foam or synthetic fibers, offer unmatched comfort akin to your pillow at home.
- Hybrid pillows, combining foam and air, offer a middle ground. The best backpacking pillow for you depends on your specific comfort needs and packing space.
Key Features to Look for in the Best Backpacking Pillow
When selecting the best backpacking pillow, key features to consider include the ease of inflation for inflatable pillows, the firmness and support level, and the durability of the materials. Look for water-resistant and easy-to-clean fabrics, as well as adjustable height features, which can be particularly beneficial for side and back sleepers.
Honorable mentions for the Best Backpacking Pillow:
EEZEE Ultralight Pillow
Pros:
- Combines gel memory foam for comfort with an inflatable design for easy portability.
- Durable TPU cover suitable for outdoor conditions.
- Compact and lightweight, making it ideal for travel and outdoor activities.
- Plush firmness provides comfortable head and neck support.
Cons:
- Absence of care instructions could lead to maintenance challenges.
- May not meet the needs of those preferring traditional or firmer pillows.
- Compact size might not offer sufficient support for users needing larger pillows.
VATTEA Camping Pillow
Pros
- Outer layer of nylon TPU fabric and inner TPU sealing coating make it wear-resistant and waterproof.
- Double-layer air valve for easy inflation and quick deflation, enhancing convenience.
- Wraparound U-shaped design provides stable support, relieving shoulder and neck pressure.
- Features an extension for a mobile phone bracket, offering entertainment alongside rest.
Cons:
- The weight of 4.41 pounds may be considered heavy for a camping pillow, affecting portability.
- The specialized design with mobile phone bracket might not appeal to those seeking a more traditional pillow for sleep only.
- May require more storage space compared to simpler, more compact pillow designs.
NEMO Fillo Elite
Pros
- Ergonomic valve and I-beam baffled air cell create a natural, comfortable head cradle without the “balloon” feel.
- Supple layer of recycled Primaloft insulation provides height and cushion, maintaining a lightweight profile.
- Packs down to the size of a lime, with integrated storage for convenience and portability.
- Versatile design suitable for backcountry adventures, travel, or as lumbar support, enhancing its utility.
Cons:
- The specific size and firmness may not suit all personal preferences for pillow height and support.
- While lightweight, the necessity to inflate it might be seen as a drawback for those preferring ready-to-use options.
- Machine washability is convenient, but the care and maintenance of the inflation mechanism and fabric over time could be a concern.
Expert Tips for a Better Night’s Sleep in the Great Outdoors
Pairing Your Camping Pillow with the Right Sleeping Bag
The combination of a good camping pillow and the right sleeping bag can significantly improve sleep quality. Choose a sleeping bag that complements the pillow in terms of warmth and comfort. For instance, if you have a thicker pillow, consider a sleeping bag with more headroom. The key is to create a sleep system that feels as close to your bed at home as possible, providing both comfort and warmth in various outdoor conditions.
Strategies for Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, and Stomach Sleepers
Your sleeping position greatly influences the type of camping pillow and sleeping arrangement you should opt for.
- Side sleepers typically need a thicker, firmer pillow to maintain neck alignment
- Back sleepers may prefer a flatter pillow to support the natural curve of the spine.
- Stomach sleepers generally benefit from a soft, thin pillow to avoid neck strain.
Understanding your sleeping style is crucial in selecting the best camping pillow to ensure maximum comfort throughout the night.
Frequently Asked Questions
A. Yes, a camping pillow can be used for everyday use, especially those designed with comfort and support in mind. Many camping pillows feature ergonomic designs, breathable materials, and adjustable firmness levels that make them suitable for daily use. Whether as a travel pillow, for lumbar support in an office chair, or an additional cushion on your couch, the lightweight and compact nature of camping pillows offer versatile functionality beyond the campsite.
A. Cleaning and maintaining a camping pillow involves several key steps to ensure its longevity and hygiene. First, consult the care instructions provided by the manufacturer, as materials can vary. For most pillows, remove any covers and wash them according to the label. For the pillow itself, spot clean with mild soap and water, avoiding harsh chemicals. Air dry completely before reuse or storage. For inflatable pillows, ensure the valve is closed during cleaning to prevent water from entering.
A. While camping and travel pillows share the goal of providing comfort on the go, camping pillows are specifically designed to meet the demands of outdoor environments. This includes materials that are often more durable and water-resistant, designs that cater to a range of sleeping positions without the need for a traditional bed, and features such as packability and lightweight construction. Travel pillows, on the other hand, are typically focused on providing neck support and comfort in seated positions, like in cars or planes, and may not offer the same level of versatility and ruggedness as camping pillows.
Beyond the Pillow: Essential Gear for Comfortable Camping
Must-Have Accessories for Your Camping Sleep System
While a good camping pillow is a key element for a restful night, other accessories can further enhance your sleep system. Consider adding a sleeping pad for insulation and cushioning, which makes a significant difference on uneven or hard ground. A quality sleeping bag liner can also add extra warmth and comfort, and is easy to clean. For those camping in colder environments, consider a sleeping bag with a suitable temperature rating to ensure warmth throughout the night.
Tips for Creating a Cozy Campsite Setup
Creating a comfortable sleeping area is crucial for a pleasant camping experience. Start by choosing a flat, sheltered spot to set up your tent. Use a groundsheet to protect against moisture and add an extra layer of insulation. Inside the tent, arrange your sleeping gear to maximize space and comfort. Soft lighting, like a lantern or string lights, can add a cozy ambiance. Lastly, consider the overall layout of your campsite for ease of movement and accessibility, especially at night.
In summary, choosing the best camping pillow and complementing it with the right gear can profoundly enhance your outdoor sleeping experience. From understanding the unique needs of camping pillows to selecting the perfect type based on your camping style, we’ve covered the essentials to help you make an informed decision. Remember, the right pillow, when paired with suitable sleeping accessories and a well-thought-out campsite setup, can transform your outdoor nights into a restful experience. Whether you’re a backpacker, a car camper, or somewhere in between, the right combination of comfort and practicality is key to ensuring you wake up refreshed and ready to embrace the day’s adventures.
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Happy camping,
Prepped Camper
Meet Our Team
Meet Kevin and Jagger, the team behind Prepped Camper. Together, they're the heart and soul of Prepped Camper, combining Kevin's expert camping know-how with Jagger's enthusiastic trail-sniffing to bring you the best content in camping based on their experience. They're more than just a team; they're companions in every campfire tale and trailblazing quest.
Kevin
Founder & Avid Camper
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Brains of the operation
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