20 Best Camping Pillows (2022): Buyer’s Guide and Unbiased Reviews

Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Are you on a quest to find the best camping pillows?

Then you’re in the right place. Because I have done the hard work for you and have reviewed dozens of products to bring you the best camping pillows.

In addition, I will introduce the following related topics.

  • Product Details (Including advantages and disadvantages) 
  • Camping Pillows Buyer’s Guide
  • Benefits of Camping Pillows
  • Types of Camping Pillows

I will also answer some common questions.

  • How Should I Store My Camping Pillow when I am Not Using It?
  • How to Wash a Camping Pillow?
  • Are Camping Pillows and Travel Pillows the Same?

Without further ado, let’s begin!

Top 3 Picks

In a hurry? Here are the winners.

Product
Editor’s Choice & Best Seller
Thermarest Compressible Pillow, Denim, Small#ad
Professional's Choice
Sea to Summit Aeros Pillow Premium - Green Large#ad
Best Value
TETON Sports Camp Pillow; Great for Travel, Camping and Backpacking; Washable#ad
Image
Thermarest Compressible Pillow, Denim, Small#ad
Sea to Summit Aeros Pillow Premium - Green Large#ad
TETON Sports Camp Pillow; Great for Travel, Camping and Backpacking; Washable#ad
Price
$48.16
Price not available
Price not available
Prime
-
-
Our Rating
Editor’s Choice & Best Seller
Product
Thermarest Compressible Pillow, Denim, Small#ad
Image
Thermarest Compressible Pillow, Denim, Small#ad
Price
$48.16
Prime
Our Rating
Read Full Review
View on Amazon
Professional's Choice
Product
Sea to Summit Aeros Pillow Premium - Green Large#ad
Image
Sea to Summit Aeros Pillow Premium - Green Large#ad
Price
Price not available
Prime
-
Our Rating
Read Full Review
View on Amazon
Best Value
Product
TETON Sports Camp Pillow; Great for Travel, Camping and Backpacking; Washable#ad
Image
TETON Sports Camp Pillow; Great for Travel, Camping and Backpacking; Washable#ad
Price
Price not available
Prime
-
Our Rating
Read Full Review
View on Amazon

Chief Editor

Brian

34
Hours Researching

60
Products Evaluated

1200
Reviews Considered

19
Researched Sources

Best Camping Pillows

Proper preparation of a camping trip requires that you think about making your sleep as comfortable as possible. However, it’s very easy to focus on other things and overlook the need for a good pillow. In fact, if you add a comfortable pillow to your camping gear, you’ll have a more enjoyable experience. The ideal pillow should support your head and neck, so that you can maintain a healthy posture during sleep. This will enable you to wake up well rested and refreshed, without any pain that may prevent you from doing what you want. You’ll be ready to start your camping adventures and do everything you have in mind for the day.

Camping pillows gave a different design than your ordinary ones – they are meant to suit specific camping conditions. This means that they are compact, lightweight and very easy to carry around, particularly when packed. There are several designs you can choose from. Finding the ideal one depends on your sleeping habits and personal preferences, but also on the quality of the pillow. Here are a few options we’ve chosen for you.

1. Thermarest Compressible Pillow – Editor’s Choice & Best Seller

Thermarest Compressible Pillow, Denim, Small#ad
  • Ultralight (7 ounce) compressible travel pillow with soft...
  • Foam filling expands into a 4-inch thick pillow for head,...
  • Compact design packs into a backpack, duffle, suitcase, or...
  • Brushed polyester cover is soft against skin for comfort;...
  • Pillow measures 12 x 16 x 4 inches (13 x 4 x 4 inches...

A good night sleep is something everybody wants, regardless of their camping preferences. The Therm-a-Rest Compressible Travel Pillow is one of the top choices of camping fans thanks to its excellent versatility.

This pillow can secure your comfort and support in a wide range of circumstances such as backpacking, traveling by air, taking road trips, and car camping.

Environmentally friendly, the filling of this pillow is made from reusable waste materials resulting from the Thermarest mattresses manufacturing process.

The shredded urethane foam makes this pillow very elastic and easy to compress. It weighs very little and it takes up very little space, thus being one of the best solutions for a camping adventure.

The four inches loft of this pillow provides effective head, neck and shoulders support. The cover is made from brushed polyester that makes it even more comfortable. Comfort is one of the key things to look for in a camping pillow. Being able to maintain a healthy posture while you sleep is mandatory if you want to make the most out of your camping trips. Waking up with neck and back pains isn’t the best way to start your day in the wilderness. This is the main reason why you need to choose your camping pillow with care.

This pillow is available in multiple sizes (S, M, L, and XL), so you can choose the one that best suits your body and your sleeping preferences. It is also very easy to maintain and to clean. It is suitable for machine washing, so you don’t have to worry that you won’t be able to remove dirt and grime accumulations.

Pros
  • Very compact
  • Lightweight
  • Excellent head, neck and shoulders support
  • Machine washable
  • Can also work as a travel pillow
Cons
  • Some users found it tricky to compress
  • Some found it rather uncomfortable
  • Some users reported that repeated washing and compressing damaged the fabric

2. Trekology Ultralight Inflating Travel/Camping Pillows

Trekology Ultralight Inflating Travel / Camping Pillows - Compressible, Compact, Inflatable, Comfortable, Ergonomic...#ad
  • SMALL in SIZE - BIG on COMFORT! Folds down to 5x2 inches,...
  • NEWLY DESIGNED with YOUR ULTIMATE COMFORT IN MIND! Improved...
  • NOW MORE DURABLE THAN EVER! Enhanced design with added...
  • EASE OF USE! With the simple click of a button, Inflate...
  • SLEEP WITHOUT THE WORRY with SLIP-RESISTANT DESIGN- No more...

A good camping pillow should provide excellent support for your head and neck. This is a mandatory feature that most buyers seek for. The Trekology Ultra-light Inflating Pillow offers just that, this being the main reason why we’ve decided to include it in our shopping guide.

Thanks to its ergonomic design, this pillow provides effective head and neck support. By using it, you can enjoy a restful sleep even in camping conditions. you’ll wake us free from any pains, so you’ll be ready to start your day in force.

Inflatable pillows offer you the chance to choose the air pressure that feels the most comfortable. Despite the need for inflating the pillow every time you want to use it, the process only takes a few minutes. You won’t need more than three to five breaths to prepare the pillow for use. When morning comes and you’re ready to start your adventures, you’ll only need a few moments to deflate and pack up the pillow.

This pillow is durable and elastic, thanks to the TPU fabric it is made of. You can safely use it as a backrest or traveling pillow, as it resists very well to normal wear and tear. This fabric has excellent slip-resistant properties, being therefore a great option even for those who move a lot in their sleep. It comes in several color choices, so you’ll surely find at least one that you’ll like. You may even want to buy a few of them to match your different moods.

Pros
  • Ergonomic design that secures excellent neck, back and head support
  • Very compact when deflated
  • Lightweight
  • It doubles as a travel pillow and backrest support
  • Adjustable height and firmness
Cons
  • Some users reported difficulties in opening the air release valve, particularly in cold weather conditions
  • Some users experienced minor air leaks after using it for several times
  • Some users considered that the pillow heated up too much during hot weather trips and become too cold during cold weather nights.

3. TETON Sports Camp Pillow Perfect for Anytime You Travel; Camping, Backpacking, Airplanes, and Road Trips – Best Value

TETON Sports Camp Pillow; Great for Travel, Camping and Backpacking; Washable#ad
  • SMALL PILLOW THAT’S BIG ON COMFORT: Extra soft travel...
  • WASHABLE: Designed to be taken anywhere; This travel pillow...
  • NO INFLATING NECESSARY: Pillow lofts up on its own; Whether...
  • MATCHING CAMPING GEAR: Each pillow matches the lining of one...
  • TETON SPORTS PROMISE: Reach out to our AMAZING product...

Although this camping pillow comes in only one size, it allows for excellent compression when not in use. When you want to use it, unpack it and wait. It will take about 20 minutes for the pillow to decompress. When packed, the pillow is only 4x7x9 inches, being therefore very easy to transport. Its full size is 12×18 inch, so you’ll benefit from a good night rest and adequate head and neck support. The pillow comes with its packing bag included with the purchase. This will help you compress it to the smallest possible size.

The manufacturer of this pillow offers lifetime warranty for both material and workmanship.

The stuffing of the pillow is SuperLoft Elite hollow fiber. It has the capability to retain its loft even after sleeping on it for a full night. You’ll enjoy the same level of comfort and head support throughout the entire night.

The cover is made from 100% brushed flannel, which is a breeze to clean.

Pros
  • Wide array of bright colors to choose from. The packing bag comes in matching colors.
  • Convenient size – the pillow is large enough to be comfortable, without being too big for a standard sleeping bag. The packing helps you to compress the pillow for storage and transportation purposes.
  • Lightweight – The pillow weighs only 8 ounces, thus being one of the best choices of backpackers and heavy campers who don’t want to carry a lot of heavy stuff around.
Cons
  • Only one size available
  • Too soft for those who prefer to sleep on a very firm pillow.

4. WELLAX Ultralight Camping Pillow

WellaX Ultralight Camping Pillows for Sleeping, Inflatable Travel Pillow - Compact, Inflatable, and Comfortable Sleeping...#ad
  • ERGONOMIC DESIGN: The WellaX inflatable pillow for camping...
  • COMPACT & LIGHTWEIGHT: At 16x12x4 inches this inflatable...
  • EASY TO USE: Twist open the cap, and blow! The valve is...
  • PERFECT GIFT CHOICE: What better than giving the gift of an...
  • NO RISK PURCHASE: Our guarantee is that you'll be fully...

The Chillax UltraLight Camping Pillow weighs less than 3 ounces and measures 5×2 inches travel size, thus being ideal for backpacking trips. When fully inflated, it measures 14 x 12 inches. The decompression button makes it very easy to adjust the firmness as needed for the most comfortable night rest. You’ll be ready to go to sleep within minutes.

The pillow provides very good head support, thanks to its slight U-shape. You can also use it as lumbar support when seated. The soft top and the non-slip surface make this pillow very pleasurable. This camping pillow comes with a sleep mask as a bonus, to help you create the perfect sleeping conditions even in rough environments.

Backpackers who prefer to sleep on their back or on a side will find this pillow very comfortable and easy to carry around. As the pillow comes with a No questions asked purchase guarantee, you can simply return it and ask for a refund, should you find it uncomfortable.

Pros
  • Very easy to adjust
  • Lightweight and compact
  • Solid construction
Cons
  • It has a peculiar smell upon opening
  • Some users reported minor seam leaks – covered by warranty, though.

5. Sea to Summit Aeros Pillow Premium – Professional’s Choice

Sea to Summit Aeros Pillow Premium - Green Large#ad
  • Brushed 50D polyester knit is very soft and durable
  • Synthetic fill between pillow case and TPU bladder increases...
  • Curved internal baffles create contours that cradle your...
  • Scalloped bottom edge centres pillow over your shoulders...
  • Inflate pillow in a couple of breaths with the...

This inflatable pillow is made from soft brushed 50D polyester. This makes it very comfortable. The curved baffles offer excellent head support. The synthetic fill helps increase the comfort and prevents excessive sweating.

The deflated size is one of the features that make this pillow one of the best in its class. It is very lightweight and it takes very little room in your backpack. Nonetheless, once you inflate it, it becomes a perfect camping pillow, especially if you choose the L size.

The best thing about this pillow is the smoothness of the cover fabric. You’ll love to sleep on it as it is, without the need to wrap it in a t-shirt or towel. Unlike many other inflatable pillows, it is also very silent.

However, there are some minor drawbacks to this camping pillow. The biggest one is that you won’t be able to easily repair it if it gets a puncture. Furthermore, the materials don’t seem too durable, so punctures are quite likely. It is also rather expensive. If you are a frequent camper, you may need to replace this pillow way too soon to be worth the price.

I would say this pillow works best for those who want a small and portable pillow that provides maximum of comfort. It may not be the best choice for someone who seeks for a durable pillow or for someone on a shoestring budget.

Pros
  • Extremely comfortable
  • Lightweight and very compact when deflated
  • Comfortable size when inflated
  • Silent
Cons
  • Very difficult if not impossible to repair once punctured
  • Materials susceptible to punctures, resulting in shorter life span.

6. Camping and Travel Pillow with Bamboo Derived Viscose Rayon Cover

Coop Home Goods Adjustable Travel Pillow -Small Camping Pillow For Sleeping with Compressible Stuff Sack- Medium-Firm...#ad
  • FEEL AT HOME – Take the comfort and luxury of our...
  • ADJUST IT AND ENJOY RESTFUL SLEEP – Our backpacking pillow...
  • YOU WILL LIKE IT, WE GUARANTEE IT – If you don’t fall in...
  • MATERIALS USED TO PROVIDE YOU WITH LUXURY - CertiPUR-US and...
  • MINI PILLOW FOR MAX COMFORT - The water-resistant stuff sack...

This product is the travel version to a standard pillow, which contains a shredded memory-foam for additional support and comfort. It also features a covering made out of polyester and bamboo-derived Viscose Rayon which works on naturally regulating heat. This product is made right here in the USA and is machine-washable.

This is the type of pillow that is ideal for those that suffer from either back or neck pain, linked to sleep. The shredded memory-foam in these pillows are designed to support the neck and the head in natural sleeping positions. It is, on the other hand, more comfortable and softer than the regular memory foam pillows.

This option is far more luxurious when compared to the inflatable options. It also provides an added layer of comfort. I really enjoyed the fact that this company is so confident about their products, they allow their customers to return the product within 30 days if you are not completely satisfied. These pillows also come with an impressive 5-year warranty.

My only drawback about this product is the fact that it is very difficult to store this pillow in the provided stuff sack. It is also bulkier and heavier when compared to inflatable pillows and is definitely not a good choice for the minimalists. It is also important to know that every memory foam pillow will have a distinct odor when you open the packaging, so you will want to air it before you use it.

These are the perfect pillows for individuals in search of maximum comfort while camping, and especially for the people that have neck or back issues. This pillow is also okay for those who do not mind traveling with a bit more weight. This is not a good choice for hikers or backpackers who are trying to decrease weight.

Pros
  • Extremely comfortable pillow
  • 30-day return policy
  • Support that is firm for the neck and the head
  • The bamboo cover helps to reduce odor and regulates heat
Cons
  • Hard to store
  • Extra weight and size

7. TETON Sports ComfortLite Self-Inflating Pillow

TETON Sports ComfortLite Self-Inflating Pillow; Support Your Neck and Travel Comfortably; Take it on the Airplane, in...#ad
  • SELF-INFLATING TRAVEL PILLOW: Wake up comfortably even in...
  • DURABLE BUT SOFT: Microfiber top feels soft against your...
  • NO PUMP REQUIRED: Don’t wear yourself out blowing up your...
  • THE COMFORTLITE SERIES: Companion camping gear to the whole...
  • TETON SPORTS PROMISE: Reach out to our AMAZING product...

This is a camping pillow that has a self-inflating feature from TETON. When deflated it measures 13” x 3.5” X 3.5”, and when inflated measures 18” X 10” X 4. This product is constructed out of a soft yet durable material which come in either a microfiber or organic cotton version. It also comes with a non-slip bottom which helps to keep the pillow in place.

The simplicity of these pillows is great. The self-inflating features mean all you are required to do is remove it from the supplied stuff sack. You are also able to adjust how much air goes into the pillow, to ensure it feels comfortable for you.

Once inflated, the pillow is a good size for camping and the non-slip bottom ensure you can sleep in peace without sliding around the whole night.

The one drawback about these pillows is the size once deflated and stored away. If you prefer something more compact that can fit inside your backpack, this is not the product for you. It can also be slightly noisy when sleeping on it, this becomes more apparent when there is less air inside the pillow.

I believe this is a great pillow for people that are not too concerned about weight and size, that want a larger camping pillow which inflates on its own. This pillow is too large for backpackers, who place value in a lightweight and small camping pillow.

Pros
  • Easy-to-use and self-inflating
  • Non-slip bottom
  • Great size
  • Durable materials
Cons
  • Noisy
  • Large even when deflated

8. Cocoon Air45;Core Pillow Ultralight

No products found.

Cocoon is an Austrian company that is well-known for selling the most comfortable and lightest hybrid pillows on the market. This Ultralight Air-Core Pillow weighs a mere 190 grams, and measures 18 X 14 inches. This version comes with very soft polyester fill and inflatable air-core.

I really enjoyed the removable cover that features a different fabric on each side. This makes it easier to wash and allows you to choose between the cooler or warmer side, which will depend on the outside temperature.

The one side features a smooth micro-ripstop nylon, while the other is a softer microfiber material. The pillow is a bit slippery on the side that features the microfiber fabric.

The main reason this product did not receive a 5 star is that it is slightly lacking when it comes to durability. This product is about 25% cheaper when compared to the premium models, yet this not apparent when considering the stitching quality and how durable its air bladder is. I did experience a leak after a few uses on camping trips, yet I was able to easily patch it thanks to the removable cover.

You can pack the Ultralight Air-Core into a baseball size and the stuff sack offers an easy way to transport your pillow. This version comes in two different sizes and colors. The larger one weighs about 4 oz more when compared to the standard version, and is 4 X 2 inches larger.

Pros
  • The cover is easy to remove and machine washable
  • The hybrid design is ultra comfortable with a soft polyester-fill and inflatable air-core
  • Two choices in materials when you want to sleep on it
  • Lightweight
Cons
  • Not durable when compared to other models

9. Nemo Fillo Inflatable Travel Pillow with Fabric Cover

Nemo Fillo Inflatable Travel Pillow, Nimbus Grey#ad
  • ADJUSTABLE COMFORT - The Fillo combines luxury foam with air...
  • LIGHT & COMPACT - Weighing in at a mere 9 oz and packing...
  • MACHINE WASHABLE - The ultrasoft pillowcase is easily...
  • INTEGRATED STUFF SACK - The Fillo's integrated stuff sack...
  • MULTIPURPOSE DESIGN - Designed for camping, the Fillo is...

This is a luxurious camping-pillow made by the company known as Nemo that combines a memory-foam layer of 1-inch thick and an inflatable-chamber. When this pillow is inflated the measurements are 10.5” X 17” with a weight of 9.2oz. When you deflate it and store it inside its stuff sack, it can be compared to a potato in size.

This is an extremely comfortable camping-pillow and if you are the type of person that needs extra comfort while camping, this may be your perfect match. The removable case makes this product easy to clean and care for.

One of the other stand out features about this pillow includes its integrated stuff-sack, which means you don’t have to worry about leaving it behind when you go on camping trips. These pillows also come in a range of colors.

The only problem I have with this model would have to be the price. Certain buyers have also mentioned it’s a bit small, and for light sleepers, the pillow is slightly noisy, which is the main complaint about most of the camping pillows.

This is the type of pillow that comes highly appreciated by the campers that prefer to travel light and it stores away well. It is also the ideal match for those who do not mind spending more to achieve this additional comfort level. This is not a good choice for people who prefer larger pillows.

Pros
  • The stuff sack is integrated
  • Comfortable and luxurious
  • Comes in various colors
  • Memory foam and hybrid inflatable design
Cons
  • A bit small
  • Pricey

10. REDCAMP Outdoor Camping Pillow Lightweight, Flannel Travel Pillow Cases, Removable Pillow Cover

REDCAMP Outdoor Camping Pillow Lightweight, Flannel Travel Pillow Cases, Removable Pillow Cover#ad
  • ▲SOFT:this redcamp travel pillow camping...
  • ▲ULTRALIGHT:the outdoor camping pillow just weight...
  • ▲EASY TO CLEAN:the backpacking pillow has a pillow+ a...
  • ▲MATCH:this travel lightweight pillow cases match all...
  • ▲100%MONEY BACK GUARANTEE:REDCAMP off 1 year warranty.if...

This outdoor camping-pillow from REDCAMP is specifically designed for all types of camping adventures that you enjoy. It weighs only 0.70 lbs and expands to 20 X 12 inches which are the biggest available when it comes to this weight. It also easy to compress and store in a stuff-sack for an easy mode of transportation. You can easily store your pillow with your gear or attach to your backpack.

This pillow has a softer feel which is best for side and stomach sleepers, yet it can be used to add more support to the neck when required. The cotton, soft flannel casing can be removed and is machine washable, which makes this product one of the more convenient choices.

Any type of camper will find these pillows a very comfortable choice which is easy to travel with regardless of your specific camping preferences. Some side sleepers find this pillow too soft but are the ideal choice for most stomach and back sleepers.

Pros
  • Very lightweight
  • The compression may be small, yet the pillow is large in size
  • The cover is washable, convenient and soft
Cons
  • Too soft and thin for certain people

More Products (Our Rating: 4 Stars)

11. Therm-a-Rest Compressible Pillow Poppy Medium
Therm-a-Rest Compressible Pillow Poppy Medium#ad
  • Perfect for travelers or campers
  • Foam expands big and packs small
  • Comfortable brushed polyester on the outside with soft...
  • New XL size measures a generous 16.5 x 27 in
  • Made in the USA with US and global materials
13. Gear Doctors Sleeping Pillow
Product unavailable#ad
  • not sold anymore
14. Portable Memory Foam Camping Pillow Travel Pillow Ergonomic Sleeping Bed Pillow for Good Night Sleep
Portable Memory Foam Camping Pillow Travel Pillow Ergonomic Sleeping Bed Pillow for Good Night Sleep Cervical Curved...#ad
  • Premium Memory Foam- Inner material is grade memory foam...
  • Super Soft Velour Cover- The cover is so soft that easily...
  • VERSATILE FOR ANY SITUATION- Backpacking, camping and...
  • CONVENIENCE- The camping pillow dimension is 16.5L*7.8W*5.1H...
  • Bring You To Sweet Dreams- Improved ergonomic design makes...
15. Nemo Fillo Luxury Inflatable Travel Pillow
Nemo Fillo Luxury Inflatable Travel Pillow, Moss Green#ad
  • ADJUSTABLE COMFORT - Thick luxury foam provides soft and...
  • LIGHTWEIGHT & COMPACT - Weighing in at a mere 12 oz and...
  • MACHINE WASHABLE - The Fillo's ultrasoft microsuede...
  • INTEGRATED STUFF SACK - The Fillo's integrated stuff sack...
  • MULTIPURPOSE DESIGN - Though designed for camping, the...
17. Nemo Fillo Inflatable Travel Pillow
NEMO Fillo Inflatable Travel Pillow, Stalker Stripe#ad
  • ADJUSTABLE COMFORT - The Fillo combines luxury foam with air...
  • LIGHT & COMPACT - Weighing in at a mere 9 oz and packing...
  • MACHINE WASHABLE - The ultrasoft pillowcase is easily...
  • INTEGRATED STUFF SACK - The Fillo's integrated stuff sack...
  • MULTIPURPOSE DESIGN - Designed for camping, the Fillo is...
18. Exped Down Pillow
Down Pillow Red Medium#ad
  • Material: tricot polyester
  • Dimensions: [M] 15.7 x 11.4 x 5.5 in, [L] 18.8 x 12.5 x 6.2...
  • Recommended Use: camping
  • Manufacturer Warranty: 5 years
19. Therm-a-Rest Lumbar Travel Pillow
Therm-a-Rest Lumbar Travel Pillow#ad
  • Self Inflating
  • Comfy Die-Cut Foam
  • Pressure Mapping Technology
  • One-handed valve adjustment
  • Dense lateral support
20. Ohuhu Double Sleeping Bag with 2 Camping Pillows
Sale
Sleeping Bags for Adults, Ohuhu Sleeping Bag Double Sleeping bag Sleeping Bag for Kids with 2 Pillows Waterproof 2...#ad
  • Super Warm & Cozy: No more chattering under the cold, harsh...
  • Stands Against The Elemnts: Ohuhu double sleeping bags for...
  • Dual Usage: Acts as a giant double sleeping bag that fits...
  • With Pillows: Comes with a convenient carrying bag, and two...
  • Portable & Lightweight: Set up your sleeping spot in a wink...

Benefits of Camping Pillows

A camping pillow has the potential to bring comforts from home while you are camping in the outdoors. They offer enough comfort to make sure you can sleep comfortably throughout the night. This will stop you from waking up all the time to try and find a sleeping position that is comfortable.

These pillows also take up minimal space, as most campers are very conscious when it comes to how much storage space they have available. The best situations for most campers is when they achieve minimal packing while still making sure all the essentials have been thought of. Camping pillows in general, regardless of whether they are compressible, hybrids, or inflatable, do not take up a lot of space, which makes them easy to transport when it comes to camping trips.

These products are also lightweight. One of the main concerns for backpackers and campers is how much their luggage weighs. If a camping trip includes hiking or trekking, you want to ensure you travel light. Camping pillows are very lightweight and allow the campers to easily pack them into their luggage without adding to the load.

These pillows are also great for traveling and are handy due to their size. Rather than trying to take a standard pillow along on your next traveling adventure, which is typically cumbersome, the comfortable camping pillows offer a great alternative.

Good quality camping pillows can also help to ensure you get a good nights rest. They can help to keep the spine in alignment while you sleep. Some also come with an anti-slip feature which stops the pillow from sliding around while you are trying to sleep.

Types of Camping Pillows

There are 3 main pillow types used for camping which include the hybrids, inflatable and compressible. Depending on your preferences when it comes to a firmer or softer pillow, and the space that you have available, one version may be a better option over another.

The compressible pillows are similar to regular pillows and usually contain synthetic materials or down. These are usually very comfortable for sleeping on. However, these versions are not known for giving you superior support and these pillows are not adjustable. While you can fold and compress these pillows down, they are larger when compared to the inflatable pillows. This means they are not always the best choice when you are geared towards saving space.

The inflatable pillows contain a TPU which stands for thermoplastic polyurethane bladder, that inflates with air. There is a number of upsides to these pillows. You can easily adjust the height and firmness of the pillow by either releasing or adding more air. When they are flat, they are easier to pack away and over and above the air-bladder, these pillows also feature a top layer. They are usually made from nylon, polyester and other materials which add comfort and durability to these pillows.

The hybrid camping pillows combine features from the compression and inflatable pillows. These pillows come with inflatable bladders, which means they take up minimal space and you can adjust the firmness and height. They also come with an added soft layer which gives you increased comfort while you sleep. This is noted as an improvement when compared to the rough feeling of some of the inflatables. The added layer is typically made from a foam, which means the pillow is still easy to compress.

Buying Guide

A comfortable camping pillow that suits the needs of the individual is imperative for a fun excursion. Using the wrong pillow can deliver a nasty neck strain or rob your sleep, leaving you sore and tired in the morning. Nevertheless, there are a number of important considerations to keep in mind when making this important selection.

Comfort

The primary function of a pillow is to be a comfortable support for the tired head and relax the neck and shoulders. If you have found an especially comfortable options for your bedroom, use this as a reference for your camping pillow. Be sure to check how firm or soft the pillow is and what materials are used for stuffing. Choosing a pillow that is as similar to your everyday option will provide you with good rest on your trip. Compressible pillows have received the highest marks for comfort from consumers, the next most comfortable options are hybrid pillows and lastly inflatable pillows.

Your Preferred Sleeping Position

Whether you are in a 5-star hotel or sleeping under the stars, you tend to practice the same sleep patterns. Considering your sleeping patterns is therefore the best way to begin your search for a good camping pillow. The hybrid and inflatable pillow options have been found quite comfortable by the side sleeper community. These can be as firm as needed and are no problem to carry. Stomach sleepers shouldn’t use extra thick pillows and all three options can be found in dimensions suitable for comfortable repose. Back sleepers will be quite comfortable on any option as long as it closely resembles their usual pillow.

The Material Used

When looking at materials, you will need to consider durability as well as comfort. There are a variety of materials used in pillow production from nylon to cotton. Because you will be taking your pillow into the rough of the wild, you will want something that will accompany you on many adventures. Cotton and polyester are the most likely to provide this enduring comfort.

Shape and Size of the Pillow

While this aspect of pillow selection is largely disregarded the dimensions of your pillow are vital to the way it fits your head and neck, and how it will be packed and carried. It will also determine how much space is left in your hammock, tent or cot. While smaller sleeping quarters may call for compact pillow options, getting the size closest to the options you use regularly use will invariably result in more comfortable sleep.

User-Friendly

The best sort of pillow will be very comfortable and also easy to use. This is one reason compressible pillows are a leading option; there is not a lot of preparation – just unpack and relax. While they can also be very comfortable, your average hybrid and inflatable pillow options will take some time to get in a useable condition.

Price

Of course, this should not be the primary deciding factor, nevertheless you should look for the best quality and most comfortable option possible within your set price range.

Quality

While the best proof of quality will be the materials used in production, you should take careful note of the warranty labels attached to any prospective pillows. Choosing those options that have sturdy stitching and even washable covering will improve the longevity and value of the investment.

FAQs

Q: How Should I Store My Camping Pillow when I am Not Using It?

When you return from your camping trip, your camping pillow should be washed thoroughly and dried completely before it is stowed. This will avoid bacteria’s and molds from building up and causing a foul smell. Just like packing your sleeping bag, you don’t want to compress your packing too tightly as this may affect the structural integrity of your pillow and shorten its functional lifespan. If you have an inflatable go ahead and release the air and leave the valves open. Always refer to the instruction manual for details on washing and storing your camping pillow.

Q: How to Wash a Camping Pillow?

Keeping your pillow clean is essential to getting the best experience from your purchase. It must be cleaned regularly to maintain hygiene, avoid bad smells and keep its materials in good conditions. Compressed foam pillows are often made machine-washable and dryer-safe so you can just throw it in with the rest of the wash, this will even improve it fluffiness. But, first read the care labels and make sure they can survive the machine and dryer.

Inflatable pillows are a different story and don’t often work well in a washing machine or dryer. Perhaps, it came in a case that can be removed and thrown in the dryer, but it is usually a bad idea to place the actual air bladder in the machine as it can become filled with water and this is difficult to remove entirely. Hand washing is usually the best option. Use a mild detergent to wash it out before rinsing it well and leaving it in the warm sunshine and fresh air to dry completely. Return the pillow to its case before storing.

Q: Are Camping Pillows and Travel Pillows the Same?

While there are some similarities between the two, and some people will use these products interchangeably, there are some important differences too. Travel pillows are typically more compact than a camping pillow and will have a different ergonomic shape, because they are designed to be used in the fully seated position. Nevertheless, these differences are minimal and your pillows should be used however you like.

Overview

The camping pillow you choose to accompany you on all kinds of adventures will make a big difference to your sleeping and entire day. While it may not be as essential as a few other aspects of outdoor gear, it can certainly improve the sleeping conditions and this can be a big deal on extended trips.

We have discussed a few different options available as well as some important pointers on making a good selection for your specific needs. Keep these pointers in mind and you are certain to find a suitable option for your needs. Camping pillows are also great gifts for camping enthusiasts, as the little extra comfort is something these strapping outdoors-people rarely consider, but hugely appreciate.

Finally, a top-quality camping pillow is not a huge investment or budget-breaker and pays for itself in sweet sleep and comfort.

References

Best Camping Pillows ( Top 3 Picks )

Product
Editor’s Choice & Best Seller
Thermarest Compressible Pillow, Denim, Small#ad
Professional's Choice
Sea to Summit Aeros Pillow Premium - Green Large#ad
Best Value
TETON Sports Camp Pillow; Great for Travel, Camping and Backpacking; Washable#ad
Image
Thermarest Compressible Pillow, Denim, Small#ad
Sea to Summit Aeros Pillow Premium - Green Large#ad
TETON Sports Camp Pillow; Great for Travel, Camping and Backpacking; Washable#ad
Price
$48.16
Price not available
Price not available
Prime
-
-
Our Rating
Editor’s Choice & Best Seller
Product
Thermarest Compressible Pillow, Denim, Small#ad
Image
Thermarest Compressible Pillow, Denim, Small#ad
Price
$48.16
Prime
Our Rating
Read Full Review
View on Amazon
Professional's Choice
Product
Sea to Summit Aeros Pillow Premium - Green Large#ad
Image
Sea to Summit Aeros Pillow Premium - Green Large#ad
Price
Price not available
Prime
-
Our Rating
Read Full Review
View on Amazon
Best Value
Product
TETON Sports Camp Pillow; Great for Travel, Camping and Backpacking; Washable#ad
Image
TETON Sports Camp Pillow; Great for Travel, Camping and Backpacking; Washable#ad
Price
Price not available
Prime
-
Our Rating
Read Full Review
View on Amazon

Last update on 2022-05-30 / Rating by Author / Affiliate links, Images, Descriptions & Price from Amazon Product Advertising API

Leave a Comment

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.