5 Best Backpacking Pillows for a Comfortable Night's Sleep on the Trail
Are you ready to take on the adventure of a lifetime?
A backpacking pillow is essential for any outdoor enthusiast. It’s lightweight and packs into small spaces, so it won't weigh down your bag as you explore. But more importantly, it gives you comfortable support when you're resting after a long day of traveling and seeing new places. You'll love how quiet and peaceful sleeping outside can be—and how special those moments feel!
So don't settle for just any pillow on your next camping trip. Get the best backpacker's pillows that will give you the comfort and relaxation you need during your adventures without sacrificing space or weight in your bag. Our top picks offer different levels of comfort, so whatever type of camping experience you want to have, there’s sure to be one perfect for you.
Check out our reviews now to find out which backpacking pillows are right for you—then start planning your next getaway!
The Benefits of Using a Backpacking Pillow on Your Next Outdoor Adventure
As an outdoor enthusiast, you know the importance of getting a good night's sleep while camping or hiking. Even though a sleeping bag and camping pad can give you some cushioning, they may not always be enough to support your neck and head. This can make you uncomfortable and make it hard to get a good night's sleep. This is where a backpacking pillow can make all the difference. In this post, we'll explore the 6 benefits of using a backpacking pillow on your next outdoor adventure.
- Better Sleep Quality: One of the main benefits of a backpacking pillow is that it can improve the quality of your sleep. Unlike a rolled-up jacket or other makeshift pillows, a backpacking pillow is specifically designed to provide the support your neck and head need for a restful night's sleep. By reducing pressure on your neck, a backpacking pillow can help prevent neck pain and stiffness, allowing you to wake up feeling refreshed and ready for another day on the trail.
- Lightweight and Portable: When you're backpacking or camping, every ounce counts. Fortunately, most backpacking pillows are designed to be lightweight and compact, making them easy to pack in your backpack or camping gear. Some backpacking pillows even come with a stuff sack or compression strap, so you can compress them down to a small size to save space.
- Versatile and Adaptable: Whether you're car camping, backpacking, or traveling, a backpacking pillow can be a versatile and adaptable piece of gear. Many backpacking pillows are adjustable, allowing you to customize the level of firmness to your liking. Additionally, some backpacking pillows have a contoured shape that can provide additional support for your neck and head, making them ideal for side sleepers.
- Durable and Long-Lasting: Most backpacking pillows are made from high-quality materials that are designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor adventures. From waterproof and abrasion-resistant fabrics to inflatable bladders that can withstand punctures, backpacking pillows are built to last. This means that even if you're rough on your gear, your backpacking pillow should continue to provide comfort and support for years to come.
- Hygienic and Easy to Clean: When you're camping or backpacking, staying clean and hygienic can be a challenge. Fortunately, many backpacking pillows are designed to be easy to clean and maintain. Some models are machine-washable, while others feature moisture-wicking properties that keep them clean and dry. This means that even if you're sleeping in dirty or damp conditions, your backpacking pillow can stay fresh and hygienic.
- Affordable and Accessible: Finally, one of the best things about backpacking pillows is that they are affordable and accessible. You don't need to break the bank to invest in a high-quality backpacking pillow, and they are widely available online and in outdoor gear stores. This means that whether you're a seasoned backpacker or a casual camper, you can enjoy the benefits of a backpacking pillow without spending a fortune.
In conclusion, a backpacking pillow can make a world of difference when it comes to getting a good night's sleep on your next outdoor adventure. From better sleep quality and portability to durability and affordability, there are plenty of reasons to invest in a high-quality backpacking pillow. So why not add one to your camping or hiking gear today? Your neck (and your sleep) will thank you.
How We Chose the Best Backpacking Pillow
With so many options on the market, it can be hard to choose the best pillow for backpacking.
It can be hard to know which features to look for when choosing a backpacking pillow, and even harder to determine which one is best for your needs.
We have done all of the hard work for you and compiled this list of the best backpacking pillows based on customer reviews and our own research. Whether you are looking for a lightweight option or something that will keep your head and neck supported, we have you covered.
TREKOLOGY ALUFT 2.0 Inflatable Camping Pillow - Ultimate Support and Comfort for Backpacking, Hiking, Air Travel, and the Beach
TREKOLOGY Ultralight Inflatable Camping Travel Pillow - ALUFT 2.0 Compressible, Compact, Comfortable, Ergonomic Inflating Pillows for Neck & Lumbar Support While Camp, Hiking, Backpacking
What We Love
The TREKOLOGY Ultralight Inflatable Camping Pillow is a must-have for outdoor adventurers everywhere. Designed with only the highest quality materials, this pillow is ultralightweight, compact, and comfortable, making it the ideal piece of equipment for any outdoor exploration.
At just 3.9 oz (110 g), the TREKOLOGY Ultralight Inflatable Camping Pillow is one of the lightest camping pillows on the market. Perfect for backpackers or anyone looking to keep their load as light as possible, you can be sure that this lightweight pillow won't weigh you down on your next outdoor adventure!
It is also incredibly compact when deflated, which makes it an excellent travel companion that won't take up much space in your luggage or backpack. Thanks to its ergonomic design, this pillow also provides unbeatable neck and lumbar support, so you can rest easy wherever your journey takes you. The TREKOLOGY Ultralight Inflatable Camping Pillow is the best camping pillow you can get.
What You Should Know
The TREKOLOGY Aluft 2.0 Comfort Air Pillow is perfect for long-term comfort because it has a better design. Its state-of-the-art elastic TPU fabric has been specially designed for maximum durability, and its water resistance means you won’t have to deal with dampness or smell when using it outdoors, giving you peace of mind even on more extreme camping trips. The rubber anti-slipping dots add extra traction between your pillow and sleeping mat, while the easy inflation levels allow you to inflate the pillow in just a few breaths and deflate it rapidly at the touch of a button once you're done. You can rest assured that this pillow will provide superior support, whatever your sleeping preference, although some people who prefer a softer surface may find the firmness level slightly too high.
PROs
- Lightweight
- Compact
- Ergonomically designed for optimal support
- Easy to inflate
- The soft fabric feels comfortable against the skin
CONs
- The foam may be too firm for some people
Wise Owl Outfitters Camping Pillow - Backpacking and Travel Pillow for Sleeping and Traveling - Compressible Memory Foam Travel Pillow - Small/Medium
Wise Owl Outfitters Camping Pillow - Backpacking and Travel Pillow for Sleeping and Traveling - Compressible Memory Foam Travel Pillow - Small/Medium
What We Love
With the Wise Owl Outfitters backpacking and camping pillows, you no longer have to sacrifice comfort for convenience. This uniquely designed pillow packs all the features of a regular pillow—comfort, support, and long-lasting quality—into a package that can easily be compressed into a small size for travel.
The pillow is made of soft memory foam with a soft microsuede cover that molds to the shape of your head and neck. On top of that, the removable pillow cover makes the pillow machine-washable and dryer-friendly. No washer or dryer? Never fear! This camping must-have is made of high-quality materials, so it will last for many trips with just spot cleaning.
Make your next trip more comfortable and stress-free by investing in this must-have Wise Owl Outfitters camping pillow!
What You Should Know
The Wise Owl Outfitters Camping Pillow is an excellent choice, no matter the need. Its small size makes it perfect for backpacking, camping, and other outdoor activities, while the medium size ensures that it can go wherever you go, whether traveling in comfort or heading out for an adventure. Inflation and deflation are a breeze, plus the storage bag allows for easy packing and unpacking when needed. Additionally, this luxuriously soft pillow is made from 100% polyester with a microfiber cover so that it is both breathable and durable. It will provide comfort to all sleepers regardless of their preferred position, and is even machine wash friendly! With Wise Owl Outfitters Camping Pillow, you'll find yourself ready for any journey.
PROs
- Made from high-quality materials, including memory foam
- Comes with a soft and removable cover that is easy to wash and maintain
- Lightweight and compact, making it perfect for travel
- Available in two sizes: small and medium
- Easy to inflate and deflate
CONs
- May not be suitable for people who prefer large pillows
Hikenture Camping Pillow with Removable Cover - Ultralight Inflatable Pillow for Neck Lumbar Support - Upgrade Backpacking Pillow - Washable Travel Air Pillows for Camping, Hiking, Backpacking
Hikenture Camping Pillow with Removable Cover - Ultralight Inflatable Pillow for Neck Lumbar Support - Upgrade Backpacking Pillow - Washable Travel Air Pillows for Camping, Hiking, Backpacking
What We Love
The Hikenture Camping Pillow is perfect for both regular and adventurous campers. Made of premium-quality materials like thickened TPU, this air pillow is designed to provide users with an ultimate comfort experience through its lightweight and ultra-compact construction. That makes carrying it on long hikes or backpacking trips much easier. Additionally, the removable cover makes it even more convenient, as it's easy to wash and maintain.
The soft fabric blends with the pillow's inner technology, maintaining air circulation and preventing any leaks. Furthermore, for those of you who are looking for extra neck and lower back support during your camping trips, this is the perfect option! Your camping trip will no longer be a struggle because of how comfortable it is. Instead, it will be pure bliss that you'll remember for the rest of your life. Choose us and equip yourself with the perfect camping companion today—the Hikenture Camping Pillow!
What You Should Know
The Hikenture Camping Pillow is ideal for any campers or travelers who are looking for total comfort while they rest. Inflating and deflating the pillow takes less than a minute, so you can set it up quickly without any hassle. Its contoured design provides excellent support for your neck and head, so your dreams will be as sweet as ever with this expertly designed pillow. A skin-friendly cotton outer surface promises an incredibly soft sensation, while a woven polyester inner layer smooths out any noise that might otherwise disturb your sleep. Also, the level of cushiony softness can be adjusted to your liking because the firmness can be changed. With such amazing features, one can’t help but love the Hikenture Camping Pillow!
PROs
- Lightweight and ultra-compact, which makes it easy to carry
- Easy to inflate and deflate, taking less than a minute to set up
- Comes with a removable cover that is easy to wash and maintain
- Contoured design that provides excellent support to your neck and head, especially useful for side sleepers
- Adjustable firmness that allows you to customize the pillow to your comfort level
CONs
- Some users may find the pillow too small for their liking
REDCAMP Outdoor Camping Pillow Lightweight, Flannel Travel Pillow Cases, Removable Pillow Cover
REDCAMP Outdoor Camping Pillow Lightweight, Flannel Travel Pillow Cases, Removable Pillow Cover
What We Love
With the REDCAMP Outdoor Camping Pillow, you can have a comfortable night's sleep no matter where your outdoor expedition takes you. Our lightweight and compact design is super easy to pack and won't take up too much space in your backpack. Weighing only 0.70 lbs (320 g), it won't add any unnecessary bulk to your adventure. Plus, with the extra-soft removable flannel pillowcase, you can enjoy superior comfort against your skin while you sleep under the stars. The pillowcase is also machine-washable, so cleaning and maintaining it are hassle-free. Get ready to feel more relaxed and refreshed after a good night's sleep with the REDCAMP Outdoor Camping Pillow!
What You Should Know
The REDCAMP Outdoor Camping Pillow is backpacking heaven. It's light, easy to inflate and deflate, and comes with a convenient storage bag. The pillow is also made in a unique way that gives great support to the neck. This is especially helpful for people who sleep on their sides. Plus, it's durable and long-lasting thanks to the high-quality materials it's made from. So next time you're heading out on a backpacking adventure, make sure to bring along the REDCAMP pillow for a good night's sleep.
PROs
- Lightweight and compact design, making it easy to pack and carry
- Removable pillowcase that's easy to wash and maintain
- Easy to inflate and deflate
- Comes with a convenient storage bag for easy carrying
- Unique design that provides excellent neck support, especially useful for side sleepers
CONs
- Some users may find the pillow too thin for their liking
- The pillow may lose air over time, requiring frequent reinflation
TETON Sports Camp Pillow; Great for Travel, Camping and Backpacking; Washable
TETON Sports Camp Pillow; Great for Travel, Camping and Backpacking; Washable
What We Love
The TETON Sports Camp Pillow is perfect for any camping adventure. This lightweight and comfortable pillow packs down tight, making it perfect to fit in your pack with ease. And, if that wasn't small enough, the design of the pillow was made specifically to match the interior liner of the TETON Sports sleeping bag!
When it comes to camping comfort, you won't regret adding this little but mighty pillow to your must-haves for any adventure. Not only does the soft pillow offer a comfortable resting spot after a long day of outdoor exploration, but it is also designed with an inner layer that helps keep shifting to a minimum. After a few really rough trips, the outer cover can be washed in the washing machine, so cleaning is easy.
Have an extra special night under the stars with this sophisticatedly designed pillow: Enjoy a plush place to rest your head while on your next camping journey. Enjoy the luxury of having softness wherever you go with the TETON Sports Camp Pillow!
PROs
- Lightweight
- Compact
- Easy to transport
- Comfortable
- Machine washable
CONs
- Some users have reported that the pillow takes a while to dry after washing
Best Backpacking Pillow FAQs
Choosing the best backpacking pillow can be difficult because of all the options available on the market.
Not all backpacking pillows are created equal. Some are bulky and take up a lot of space in your pack, while others are thin and offer little support. And then there are the expensive ones.
We've put together a list of the most common questions people have about backpacking pillows and answered them below. This will help you make an informed decision on which pillow is best for you.
Are backpacking pillows worth it?
Absolutely! Backpacking pillows are a must-have for anyone who wants to have a comfortable night of sleep on the trail. Not only do they provide much-needed support for your head and neck, but they also serve as a great insulation barrier to keep you warm in cold weather. They can also make all the difference if you spend prolonged periods of time sitting around camp or lounging at rest stops during your travels.
In terms of cushioning, backpacking pillows come in several forms from simple foam options to inflatable versions that offer more comfort and portability. Foam models are lightweight and easy to compress in order to save space, while air-filled varieties take up almost no room when deflated and inflated quickly when needed. Additionally, many styles feature machine-washable materials so they're easy enough to clean after long trips filled with dirt or moisture exposure.
When it comes down to it, backpacking pillows are an invaluable investment for hikers looking for comfort without sacrificing weight or bulkiness during their treks. Investing in one can help ensure you get that quality eight hours each night!
What is the lightest backpacking pillow?
Premium. This inflatable pillow weighs just 3.2 ounces, making it ideal for hikers who want a comfortable sleep without lugging around a lot of extra weight. It's filled with 80% AirSprung Cells, which help provide support and comfort while sleeping outdoors. Plus, it has an adjustable drawstring closure to adjust the firmness of the pillow to your liking. So if you're looking for something lightweight and comfortable, this is definitely an option worth considering!
How heavy should a sleeping pad be for backpacking?
When it comes to backpacking, comfort and weight are two integral considerations when choosing the right sleeping pad. Generally speaking, sleeping pads should be lightweight and easy to carry, yet still provide enough cushioning, insulation, and support for a good night's sleep.
The lightest option is an air pad or self-inflating mattress. These typically weigh 1-2 pounds and offer great warmth without adding too much bulk to your backpack. While they won’t last as long as other more durable options, you can get away with using them for up to 5 years before needing a replacement. The most popular sizes are either 20" or 25” wide – just make sure the length is at least 6 inches longer than your body height so you have plenty of space to move around comfortably while camping!
A foam pad is often heavier but also less expensive than an air pad. They weigh between 2 and 4 pounds depending on the type of foam used (generally EVA or closed cell foam) and don't require any inflation time as air mats do; however they're not always as warm in cooler temperatures due to their lack of insulation properties, unlike insulated air mattresses. Closed cell foam offers better durability than EVA but doesn't conform quite as well to uneven surfaces or rocks - making them ideal choices for campers who plan on camping in mostly flat areas such as beaches or grassy meadows!
Overall, the best way to find out which type of sleeping pad will work best for your backpacking needs is by trying different types out in person if possible - this way you can see how comfortable each one feels against your body before committing to buying one!
How do I choose a memory foam pillow?
Choosing a memory foam pillow can be a daunting task. Fortunately, there are some key factors that you should consider when selecting the right product for your sleeping habits and needs.
First, it’s important to determine how much loft or thickness you need in order to achieve optimal comfort while sleeping. Generally speaking, side sleepers will benefit from thicker memory foam pillows than those who primarily sleep on their back or stomach. If you're unsure of what is best for your particular situation, consider consulting with a doctor or physical therapist that specializes in proper rest posture and body alignment.
Second, you'll want to make sure that the memory foam used is of high quality and meets industry standards for durability and supportiveness.
Finally, look for memory foam pillows that come with hypoallergenic covers made from breathable materials such as cotton or bamboo blends which allow airflow through the pillow providing both temperature control and moisture-wicking capabilities—key components which play an essential role in overall comfort throughout one's sleep cycle.
What do backpackers use for pillows?
Backpackers have a variety of options when it comes to finding comfortable pillows for their travels. Depending on the preferences, budget, and level of comfort desired, there are several choices available.
Inflatable Pillows: Inflatable pillows are becoming increasingly popular among backpackers as they provide comfort and support in a lightweight, compact package. Many inflatable pillows come with built-in air valves that make inflating or deflating them easy. They can also be used as camping mattresses or lumbar supports as well!
Packing Cubes: Rather than hauling around an entire pillow, packing cubes can be filled with clothes to provide head support while sleeping on the plane or train ride. Packing cubes are also invaluable for organizing your bag!
Compression Sacks: Compression sacks work much like packing cubes in that you fill them up with clothes and use them to rest your head against while sleeping on the move. These often come pre-stuffed with clothes so you don’t have to worry about filling them yourself – bonus!
Neck Pillow/U-Shaped Pillow: If a little more luxury is desired then neck pillows (also known as U-Shaped pillows) may just do the trick. Neck pillows contour around your neck and shoulders providing maximum comfort throughout extended periods of travel time and can even help reduce fatigue from long day trips or journeys across time zones!
Stuff sack pillow: it is essentially an empty stuff sack filled with clothing or other soft items and rolled up tightly to provide cushioning. stuff sack pillows can be quite comfortable when stuffed with the right material (think: socks) and provide plenty of padding regardless of size or shape. Additionally, it has the added benefit of being incredibly lightweight and easy to carry around with you in your bag during hikes and camping trips!
Best Backpacking Pillow For You
Now you have all the information necessary to find the best backpacking pillow for you. We hope that our carefully picked list of top-quality pillows can help guide your purchase decision. As you look through the models and compare them, remember to think about the type of material, its durability; comfort, and how lightweight it is. That way, you won’t only get a pillow that works great but also one that is versatile and easy when dealing with packing and storing it. Don’t forget as well to take into account any special needs or requirements such as allergies as some pillows are made out of materials that can cause irritation. As soon as you pinpoint the right pillow for your multiple adventures, Click the Buy Now button. Let it be a wonderful companion on long days outing in nature's beauty!