Best Pillows For Camping!
Camping can be a wonderful and extremely rewarding adventurous experience, but a good night’s sleep can make or break your trip. Picking the right camping pillow can be a challenging task, with a wide variety of options available for sale.
This article will help you understand what to look for when buying a camping pillow, and inform you about the different types available on the market, such as inflatable, memory foam, stuff style, and compressible pillows, to help you make the best decision for your next camping trip.
When choosing the perfect camping pillow, it is important to consider the comfort, durability, cost, size and weight, and the type of material used. With the right camping pillow, you can make your trip more comfortable and enjoyable. The table below is a quick overview of our top choices for camping pillows.
Best Camping Pillows
| Rank | Brand | Pillow Type | Current Price | Rating | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | COOP HOME GOODS | COMPRESSIBLE | $40 USD | 4.6 | AMAZON |
| 2 | ALKAMTO | MEMORY FOAM | $29.90 USD | 4.5 | AMAZON |
| 3 | HIKENTURE | INFLATABLE | $18.99 USD | 4.5 | AMAZON |
| 4 | THERM-A-REST | COMPRESSIBLE | $55.99 – $76.89 USD | 4.5 | AMAZON |
| 5 | TREKOLOGY | INFLATABLE | $17.99 USD | 4.5 | AMAZON |
1. Coop Home Goods Adjustable Travel Pillow
BEST OVERALL CAMPING PILLOW
Brand: Coop Home Goods
Camping Pillow For Sleeping with Compressible Stuff
The Coop Home Goods compressible pillow is our top pick for camping pillows as it caters to a large variety of sleeping styles whilst still compact and portable.
One of the main benefits of this pillow is its versatility. It is compressible, which means it can be easily packed down to a small size, making it easy to bring along on camping and backpacking trips. Once you reach your destination, it can be fluffed up and provides ample support for a good night’s sleep.
In addition to its compressibility, the pillow also features a soft and cozy cover made of a blend of rayon derived from bamboo and polyester. This provides a comfortable sleeping surface that will keep you cool during those hot summer nights.
The pillow also has a removable and washable cover, which is a great feature for a camping pillow as it helps to keep it clean and fresh after multiple uses.
We found our favorite aspect is the fact the stuffing is adjustable, by removing some stuffing until it is the desired comfort/ firmness for you.
Benefits
- Compressible: Can be easily packed down to a small size, making it convenient for travel inside of its waterproof carry pack.
- Soft and cozy cover: Made of a blend of rayon derived from bamboo and polyester, providing a comfortable sleeping surface.
- Washable cover: Helps to keep the pillow clean and fresh after multiple uses.
- Ample support: Fluffs up to provide good support for a comfortable night’s sleep.
- Comes with Guarantee: The manufacturer is so confident that you’ll love it they offer a 100 night money back guarantee.
Disadvantages
- May not be suitable for all sleeping positions, although you can decrease the firmness you do not have access to extra stuffing.
- Not ideal for those with allergies to the materials (bamboo-derived viscose rayon & polyester)
- Cost is on the higher side compared to other options
- Size might be too big for some preferences: although we found this compacted significantly, it does not become as small as inflatable alternatives.
Price
At the time of our review the Coop Home Goods compressible pillow was available on Amazon for $40 USD including free delivery. For up to date pricing make sure to visit the Coop Home Goods compressible pillow listing.
2. Alkamto Travel & Camping Memory Foam Pillow
Brand: ALKAMTO
Camping Comfortable Memory Foam Pillow with Extra Cotton Cover
The ALKAMTO memory foam camping pillow is an outstanding option for those looking for a comfortable & supportive camping pillow.
One of its key benefits is that it is the memory foam material, which conforms to the shape of your head and neck, providing exceptional support. Furthermore, it promotes a neutral position for the spine, minimizing the chance of morning aches & pains.
Another advantage of this pillow is its lightweight design and compactness, making it an easy option for camping and backpacking trips. It even comes with a carrying case, with buckle style clip that’s great for clipping to the outside of your back pack, providing added ease of transport.
Overall, the ALKAMTO memory foam camping pillow is an exceptional option for those looking for a high-quality camping pillow that offers support, comfort and easy maintenance. Its memory foam material, portability, and comfort make it the top choice for anyone in search of a memory foam camping pillow option.
Benefits
- Customizable support: The memory foam material contours to the shape of your head and neck, providing personalized support and reducing tension in those areas.
- Lightweight and compact: The pillow is easy to pack and bring along on camping and backpacking trips, it comes with a carrying case that allows easy transportation.
- Machine-washable cover: It has a removable and machine-washable cotton cover that can be easily cleaned and freshened.
- Prevents sweating: With its heat regulating fibers and ventilation holes you are less likely to sweat during hot summer nights.
Disadvantages
- Weight: compared to inflatable pillows, the memory foam material can be heavier to transport adding additional weight if used when hiking.
- Not Adjustable: Although this is a great all round camping pillow, some users may find it is not firm enough for their liking.
- Tricky to Compress: similar to sleeping bags and tents, you may find the pillow challenging to fit back into the provided carry case.
Price
This memory foam camping pillow from Alkmato was available online for $29.90 USD with free shipping, making it great value as a middle of the range camping pillow. For up to date pricing make sure to view the alkamto Travel & Camping Lisitng.
3. Hikenture Inflatable Camping Pillow
BEST INFLATEABLE CAMPING PILLOW – PERFECT FOR HIKING & BACKPACKING
Brand: Hikenture
Camping Pillow with Removable Cover – Ultralight Inflatable Pillow for Neck Lumbar Support
When it comes to affordable inflatable camping pillows its hard to beat the value that the Hikenture Camping pillow has to offer. Available for under $20 USD this ultralight inflatable pillow is great for hikers and campers alike looking to reduce the carry weight of their setup.
Although most inflatable pillows are known to be compromising comfort in comparison to other styles of camping pillows, we’ve found the separation of the inflatable bladder to the exterior soft pillow cover offered by Hikenture isn’t too bad.
This is arguably the most compact camping pillow options on our list with the deflated pillow in its carry case similar to that of a can of soda coming in at just under 6oz.
As it is an inflatable style pillow you are also able to control how firm the pillow is by how much air you blow into it, we’ve found it has an increased pillow height making it great for all sleepers from back to side & stomach.
Overall the Hikenture inflatable camping pillow is our choice for those looking for a great value, compact camping pillow that doesn’t comprise too much on comfort.
Benefits
- Extremely Compact: This inflatable pillow takes up as much space as a soda can when packed for transport.
- Great Value: Available for under $20 this is ideal for most budget levels and great for entry level campers.
- Comes With Detachable Strap: The removable strap on the back makes this perfect for campers with sleeping pads to attach the pillow to the base to avoid slipping.
- Removeable Cover: The removeable soft cotton cover adds a soft touch to the experience and allows you to wash the pillow with ease.
Disadvantages
- Noisy: the air bladder, especially if it is not filled all the way can produce a noise when you move which can be slightly irritable.
- Comfort: In comparison to memory foam or traditional style pillows you will find this pillow lacks that added comfort.
- Prone to Punctures: as with all inflatable style pillows, they can be punctured, so make sure to be mindful of the surfaces you are using them on.
Price
During our review the Hikenture inflatable camping pillow with removable cover was available on Amazon for $18.99 USD with a 27% discount from their regular list price. For up to date pricing please see the Hikenture Camping Pillow with Removable Cover listing.
4. Therm-a-Rest Compressible Travel Pillow for Camping
BEST COMFORT CAMPING PILLOW
Brand: THERM-A-REST
Compressible Travel Pillow for Camping
The Therm-a-rest compressible travel pillow for camping has made our list as one of the most comfortable compressible camping pillows. With it’s wide variety of sizes ranging from small (12″ x 16″) to extra large (16.5″ x 27″) there is a pillow to suit almost every person & sleeping style.
The Large pillow measures 16 x 23 x 4 inches (16 x 7 x 7 inches compressed) which is a decent size for most people, and it weighs in at 12 ounces. Before use, you should shake and fluff the pillow to restore loft. It is also machine washable, an added bonus.
Being a compressible pillow it does take some time from being laid out to refill with air to get back its volume (usually about 20min), which isn’t too much of an inconvenience as we usually take it out as we are setting up camp and use it 1-2 hours later.
Overall, this pillow is a great option for anyone looking for a lightweight & compact camping pillow that provides excellent support for sleep. Designed and made in the USA, adds to the durability for what the great outdoors has to throw at you.
Benefits
- Various sizes available: With the extra large version of the Therm-a-rest being one of the biggest camp pillows available there’s a size for everyone.
- Fully Machine Washable: Not only is this pillow easy to wash and keep clean, it’s recommended to do so to fluff it to its full potential.
- Soft External Cover: With a soft brushed polyester cover it is soft against skin without the need of a pillow case.
- Environmentally conscious: The compressible foam filling is made from upcycled foam from mattress production.
Disadvantages
- Cost: Coming in at $76.89 for a large, this compressible camping pillow is one of the costliest on our list and may not be suitable for all budgets.
- Size: although we found this pillow can compress significantly, it does not become as small as inflatable alternatives.
- Time to use: it does take quite a while to decompress which can be inconvenient for some users.
Price
With prices for a small Therm-a-rest pillow coming in at $55.99 & large pillows at $76.89 at the time of our review these are the most expensive option on our list. However; we do find them to still offer great value with their long term durability, for up to date pricing make sure to see the Therm-a-rest compressible Pillow Lisitng.
5. Trekology Ultralight Inflatable Camping Pillow
BEST BUDGET FRIENDLY INFLATABLE CAMPING PILLOW
Brand: TREKOLOGY
Ultralight Inflatable Camping travel pillow – ALUFT 2.0 Compressible, Compact, Comfortab;e, Ergonomic Inflating Pillows
The Trekology Ultralight Inflatable Camping Travel Pillow is our choice for those looking for an ultra lightweight & compact camping pillow. Packing down into an extremely small 5″ x 2″ bag, making it perfect for a backpack without compromising on taking up space.
Made from durable elastic TPU fabric and water-resistant material, along with an easy to use valve that makes inflation a breeze. Inflating is a quick process, taking just a few breaths.
In terms of portability and versatility, the Trekology Ultralight pillow is a clear winner. The compact size and ultralight weight make it perfect for camping. We do find, as with most inflatable pillows, comfort seems to be it’s biggest challenge and doesn’t offer the same comfort as memory foam alternatives.
In conclusion, the Trekology Ultralight Inflatable Camping Pillow is a great option for space and weight conscious campers. It is made with high-quality materials, easy to inflate and deflate, and offers excellent support. Overall, it’s a great buy for any adventurer on a budget.
Benefits
- Lightweight: As with most inflatable pillows this is extremely compact and portable when deflated.
- Budget Friendly: coming in at $17.99 at the time of review this is the cheapest on our list.
- Anti-Slip Material: the base of this pillow has rubber anti-slipping dots which is great if used with a sleeping mat to reduce slipping.
Disadvantages
- Not machine washable: Unlike other options this pillow is not machine washable and is to be washed with a damp towel or cloth.
- Less support: in comparison to memory foam camping pillows this inflatable pillow doesn’t offer as much comfort & support.
- Doesn’t hold air: We’ve noticed with multiple day use it is common for the pillow to slightly deflate and require to be reinflated.
Price
With a 31% discount during our review the Trekology Ultralight Inflatable camping pillow was available online for $17.99 USD with free shipping. For up to date pricing make sure to see the Trekology Ultralight Inflatable camping pillow listing on Amazon.
What to look for when buying a camping pillow?
Finding the right camping pillow for yourself can be a difficult task with the wide variety of options available for sale. Below are a few key considerations to make when deciding to purchase a camping pillow to ensure it is best for you and the camping trips you plant to do.
Comfort
When shopping for a camping pillow, consider the level of support and comfort it offers. Memory foam and ‘stuff style’ pillows tend to be more comfortable, while inflatable pillows can be adjusted for firmness.
Consider whether you prefer a soft or firm pillow, and whether you need additional neck support. Comfort is subjective and dependent on your sleeping style, so make sure to choose one that’s relevant to you.
Durability
Look for a camping pillow that is made of high-quality materials and is built to last. Consider the type of fabric used, as well as the quality of the stitching and any buckles or valves.
The more rugged the environment you are looking to camp in the more durable your pillow will need to be.
Cost
Determine your budget for a camping pillow and look for options that offer good value for money. Consider the features and materials of each pillow, as well as any warranty or return policy.
On the same hand if you are looking to camp on a regular basis it is best to pay the premium for a pillow that will last you years to come.
Size/Weight
When camping, particularly hiking, size and weight are important considerations as you want a pillow that is easy to pack and doesn’t take up too much space. Inflatable pillows tend to be the most compact, while memory foam and ‘stuff style’ pillows may be bulkier.
If you are doing alternatives styles of camping, such as car camping, size and weight are less of an issue. This allows you to make your choice on other factors such as comfort.
Material
Consider the type of material used for the pillow cover, as well as the filling. Some materials, such as memory foam, may offer more support and comfort, while others, such as synthetic fibers, may be more lightweight and easy to clean.
Material can also make a significant impact on comfort in different weather conditions, with some brands of pillows made seasonal or temperature specific.
Different Types of Camping Pillows?
Inflatables Camping Pillows
Inflatable pillows are a popular choice for campers because they are lightweight, easy to pack, and can be adjusted to the desired level of firmness with ease. They are easy to inflate and deflate as needed, however may require you to bring along an air pump to help save tiring yourself by inflating by mouth.
We find that some cheaper brands of inflatable pillows are prone to punctures due to poor build quality. Make sure to look for a durable pillow that is suited to your usage needs and read customer reviews for similar experiences.
Memory Foam Camping Pillows
Memory foam camping pillows offer a higher level of support and comfort due to their dense, conforming foam material. They may be heavier and bulkier than other camping pillow options, however the added comfort is usually a good trade off.
With the additional comfort we highly suggest considering these types of pillows for longer trips, either hiking or car camping, to improve sleep quality and avoid neck pain.
‘Stuff Style’ Pillows
‘Stuff style’ pillows are similar to standard bed pillows in that they are filled with a soft, fluffy material and can be fluffed to the preferred level of firmness. These pillows may be more comfortable than inflatable options, but may take up more space in your pack.
A downside to stuff style pillows is that you are required to carry additional gear to fill the pillow. Some brands recommend items such as puffy jackets to use as a filler, but this isn’t always practical to carry along in some climates or seasons.
Compressible Pillows
Compressible pillows are made of a spongy, soft material that can be easily squeezed down for storage. They are a great choice for backpackers looking to save space in their packs, whilst still provide a reasonable level of comfort for sleeping.
You’ll find these pillows can sometimes take upwards of 10 minutes to become fully uncompressed as they fill with air again. Similar to sleeping bags and tents these can often be a pain to compress enough to fit in the allocated bag.
Hybrid Camping Pillows
Hybrid camping pillows offer the best of both worlds, combining an inflatable core with a removable cover made of memory foam or other materials. These pillows allow for customizable comfort and tend to be more durable than purely inflatable options.
DIY Pillows For Camping
If you find your self stranded without a pillow when camping or travelling, don’t worry there are a few DIY alternatives to help out in a pinch. You’ll find a majority of these will not be comparable in terms of comfort to that of a traditional pillow but are a great way to survive a night or two.
Roll up a Jacket
This is particularly helpful if you are camping or hiking in cold environments with most puffy style jackets able to be formed into a pillow. The best way is to roll from the base of the jacket up then tie the two sleeves together to help it maintain its shape.
Use a hammock
Similar to a stuff sack filled with clothes, hammocks can be used as a vessel to contain other soft goods, such as clothes, to tie up and use as a pillow. This is a very niche item to bring along on a camping or hiking trip, however if available is comparable to the comfort of a stuff style camping pillow.
Back Packs
Using a back pack as a pillow is convenient for most hikers or campers as they are regularly available and commonly used. This is especially good if you are hiking as most hiking packs have a soft external layer that comes in contact with your body. Depending on the brand, there may be clips and buckles that can prove extremely uncomfortable.
Difference between Camping pillows and regular pillows?
Camping pillows are specifically designed to be lightweight and compact, making them easy to pack and transport. They are often made of foam or inflatable materials, which can be compressed down to a small size when not in use.
Camping pillows differ significantly from regular pillows in terms of size, weight, and materials. Regular pillows are typically larger and heavier, making them unsuitable for carrying on camping trips or backpacking excursions. They are generally made of soft materials such as feather, down, or synthetic fibers which provides the user the comfort of a regular home pillow.
Another major difference between camping and regular pillows is the level of support they provide. Regular pillows are generally more plush and provide a higher level of cushioning, while camping pillows are designed to provide basic support and proper alignment to the user’s head and neck while sleeping on a camping bed.
Furthermore, regular pillows are more often covered with soft materials, such as cotton or microfiber, while camping pillows are usually covered with nylon or other synthetic materials which are more durable, water-resistant and easy to clean.
We hope you’ve found this review helpful for your journey for finding a camping pillow for your next camping trip. If you are looking for more information on bedding for your next car camping trip make sure to read our complete guide to car camping bedding.
