Buying Guide for the Best Camping Pillows
Picking the right camping pillow can make a big difference in how well you sleep outdoors. Unlike the pillows you use at home, camping pillows are made to be compact, lightweight, and easy to pack in your backpack or travel bag. It's important to consider your own sleeping habits and comfort preferences, as well as the type of camping you will be doing — whether that's car camping, backpacking, or even just occasional travel. Understanding some of the key features will help you find the pillow that best supports a good night's sleep while you're out enjoying nature.Type (Inflatable, Compressible, Hybrid)This spec refers to how the pillow is constructed, which affects its comfort, weight, and packability. Inflatable pillows fill with air, making them very lightweight and compact when deflated, but they can feel less cushy. Compressible pillows are filled with foam or synthetic fibers and feel more like regular pillows, though they can be bulkier. Hybrids combine both: they have an air core with a soft outer layer for extra comfort. If you're backpacking and need to save space and weight, inflatable or hybrid pillows are best. If you're car camping, a compressible or hybrid pillow may be worth carrying for better comfort.
Size and ShapeThe size and shape of the pillow can impact how well it supports your head and neck. Smaller pillows are easier to pack and lighter to carry, but may not provide enough support if you like a standard pillow feel. Larger pillows offer more support and comfort but take up more space. Some pillows are contoured for specific sleeping positions (like back or side sleepers), while others are rectangular like traditional pillows. Choose a shape and size that matches your sleeping habits and the space you have in your backpack.
WeightA pillow’s weight is important for those who need to keep their gear light, like backpackers. Ultralight pillows can weigh just a couple of ounces, ideal for long hikes. Heavier pillows are often more comfortable and suitable for trips where you don’t have to carry everything on your back. Think about how much weight you’re willing to add for extra comfort, and balance that with your style of camping.
PackabilityPackability describes how small the pillow becomes when packed away. Highly packable pillows can be compressed into tiny stuff sacks, saving space in your backpack. Less packable options are bulkier, which can be fine for car camping but less ideal for backpacking. Decide how much space you can spare in your bag for a pillow when considering this feature.
Materials and FabricThis refers to what the pillow is made from, both outside and inside. Some have soft, jersey or microfiber covers for comfort, while others use ripstop nylon for durability and water resistance. The fill might be air, foam, or synthetic fibers. Choose materials based on your comfort preferences — if you tend to get sweaty, look for a breathable cover. If you expect damp conditions, consider water-resistant materials. Durability is also important if you’ll use the pillow often.
AdjustabilityAdjustability means you can change the height or firmness of the pillow, usually by adding or releasing air in inflatable models or removing some filling in compressible versions. This feature is great if you’re unsure about the pillow height you need, or if you want to adapt it for different sleeping positions. If you value flexibility in your pillow support, look for an adjustable option.
Ease of CleaningCamping gear gets dirty, so being able to easily clean your pillow is a plus. Some pillows have removable, washable covers, while others can be wiped clean. If you’re planning longer trips or expect dirty conditions, look for a pillow that’s easy to wash or keep fresh.