Best Camping Pillows of 2024: Top Picks for Camper Comfort
Looking for a camping pillow? Whether you backpack, car camp or need something super light, this guide has you covered for a good night’s sleep in the wild. From my own experiences I’ve found that the right pillow can make all the difference between a night of rolling around and waking up ready to hit the trails.
Top Best Camping Pillow for Every Need
Years of camping have taught me that a good pillow is everything! I remember one trip where I didn’t think a pillow was that big of a deal and used a makeshift one made out of clothes. Not a good idea right? Needless to say I was sore the next day and hiking was not as fun. Since then I’ve made sure to invest in a real camping pillow and it has made a big difference.
Here are the top 10 camping pillows for 2024. I’ve used these myself, they’re top quality, user feedback and unique features so you can sleep well on your next adventure.
Best Overall: NEMO Fillo Pillow
The Nemo Fillo camping pillow truly shines as one of the best camping pillows available today. Side sleepers, back sleepers, and even stomach sleepers will love it. It’s for every sleeping style. But comfort isn’t the only trick up the Fillo’s sleeve; the removable and machine washable cover makes it a cinch to keep clean. Not the lightest pillow on the planet (9.0 oz) but worth it. Even with the slightly larger pack size, the Nemo Fillo is a great car camping and short trips companion. And if you ever need to adjust the firmness, just breathe into it a few times and it will do the trick. It’s not just a pillow; it’s a nightly promise of a good sleep.
- Super compact so great for travelers who want to save space.
- Designed for comfort 3″ I-Beam baffled air cell and feels like your pillow at home.
- Inflates fast with ergonomic valve so you can get your sleeping arrangements set up in no time.
- Some might find it a bit small so if you like bigger pillows it might affect sleep quality.
- Price is on the higher end so not for casual campers.
- While it’s well received overall the lack of strap to secure to sleeping pad is a drawback for some.
Best for Car Camping: Therm-a-Rest Compressible Travel Pillow
Unrolling my sleeping bag and stuffing the Therma-a-Rest Compressible Pillow into its little home feels like I’m bringing a piece of home into the wild. The foam pieces inside expand to make a pillow that’s just right – not too firm, not too fluffy. It’s like my head is resting on a cloud that knows exactly where I need the most support. Whether I’m on my side or back, this pillow doesn’t hold back on the support all night.
Yes, it’s a little heavier than I’d like for backpacking, but for car camping it’s a no-brainer. The built-in stuff sack turns it into a travel-friendly companion and the brushed polyester cover is soft against my cheek, whispering sweet dreams as I fall asleep. And when it comes to cleaning, just throw it in the washer and it’s ready for the next trip. The only catch? It’s not a fan of dampness so keep it dry to keep it puffy.
- The pillow packs down small, making it ideal for travel and outdoor adventures.
- Made from upcycled byproduct of Thermarest mattresses, offering both comfort and sustainability.
- Machine washable for easy cleaning, ensuring hygiene and convenience on the go.
- Takes a long time to dry fully after washing, due to the foam retaining moisture.
- May feel lumpy due to the large pieces of foam fill, affecting comfort for some users.
- While packable, it’s still a bit bulky even when compressed, which might not suit minimalist backpackers.
Most Luxurious: HEST Camping Pillow
When luxury calls under the stars the Hest Camp Pillow answers with the kind of indulgence that makes you wonder if you’re really camping. Features of the Hest Camp Pillow include cradling my head in its memory foam and polyester blend, every night feels like a 5 star wilderness hotel. The stretch woven nylon pillowcase is a lifesaver on warm nights, it stays cool against my skin. If I’m picky about my pillow’s loft the zippered access lets me dial it in just right.
Luxury has its price and at 2 pounds 3.2 ounces the Hest is a beast of comfort not for the trails. It’s the kind of pillow that requires a car camping trip where space is a luxury not a limitation. And while the price tag might make some wallets cringe, those who value their sleep won’t hesitate. It’s almost too comfortable if such a thing exists. The only catch? Keep it for car side nights; this pillow isn’t backcountry material.
- Pack and travel-friendly.
- Adjustable fill and support for all sleeping positions and preferences.
- Dirt and water resistant cover.
- Zipper can hit your face or get tangled in your hair.
- Not high enough for some users.
- More expensive than other travel pillows.
Best for Backpacking: NEMO Fillo Elite
The Nemo Fillo Elite Luxury is the backpacker’s pillow, turning rocky ground into a plush bed without weighing down the pack. 2.9 oz and packs down to the size of a lemon, it has added PrimaLoft insulation for warmth and a bigger surface area for more headroom. It’s a featherweight champion that gives you a warm hug and comfort in 3 breaths. Inflating it takes a bit of finesse, the twist lock valve likes to play hard to get and lets air slip away if I’m not quick. And it’s a bit too big to fit in my mummy bag’s hood, but it’s a small price to pay for the comfort it gives. This is the pillow that whispers sweet dreams into the ear of every tired backpacker and then delivers.
- Super light and compact, perfect for backpacking, camping and travel. Packs down to the size of a lime so won’t weigh you down or take up much space.
- Natural support with 3” I-beam baffled air cell that follows the shape of your head, unlike the balloon feel of a traditional camping pillow.
- Versatile and convenient with ergonomic valve for quick inflation and soft cover is machine washable so you can be clean and comfortable anywhere.
- Expensive for budget travelers at $69.95.
- Some users find the pillow not thick enough for all sleeping positions without adjusting it, like partially deflating it for side sleeping.
- Integrated stuff sack is convenient but may be a minus for those who prefer a removable option for easier drying or cleaning.
Best Budget Option: ALUFT 2.0
The Trekology Inflatable Pillow is the camper’s best friend, no money required. At 3.8 ounces and a pack size of a granola bar, it’s as travel friendly as it gets. The proprietary air valve is a game changer, so I can go from deflated to dreaming in no time.
The design is simple, but that’s a double edged sword. The single layer fabric won’t withstand the same abuse as thicker materials and stomach sleepers might find the shape a bit unforgiving. But for the price, it’s hard to beat the portability and comfort. This is the pillow that proves you don’t have to break the bank to sleep like a star.
- Super light and compact, so you can toss it in your backpack or pocket and travel hassle free.
- Quick to inflate and deflate so you can adjust firmness to your liking.
- Anti slip and ergonomic support for neck and back so you can sleep in any position.
- Some people may not like the feeling of sleeping on air compared to a traditional pillow.
- May not be high enough for side sleepers with broad shoulders, so you may not sleep as well.
- While very durable, it’s not puncture proof so it can deflate overnight.
Best for Minimalists: Sea to Summit Aeros Pillow
The Sea to Summit Aeros Ultralight Pillow is the minimalist’s pillow, and I mean that literally. Weighing in at 2.1 ounces it’s a whisper in my backpack and the packed size is so small I’ve lost it in my pocket more than once. The dual function valve is a game changer, a few puffs and it’s firm, the scalloped design cradles my head. As with all things ultralight there’s a price to pay, both literally and figuratively. The Aeros Ultralight isn’t the cheapest pillow on the block and without attachment loops it can be a slippery little thing at night. But for those who count every ounce and want simplicity this is the pillow for you. It’s the pillow that lets me carry less and experience more.
- Ultra light and portable for campers and backpackers who want to go minimal.
- Inflates and deflates easily and allows for firmness adjustment for maximum comfort.
- Durable and compatible with Sea to Summit sleeping mats for a stable sleep setup.
- Outer material on the bottom feels icky to the touch and can catch on dry skin.
- No built in grip pads so it can slip on smooth surfaces without modification.
- Some users find it noisy and the texture not ideal for light sleepers.
Best for Mummy Bags: Hikenture Camping Pillow
The Hikenture Camping Pillow fits snugly into the mummy bag and is a perfect little nest for my head. It’s a great example of sustainability in action, made from recycled materials that feel good in more ways than one. The fleece is soft against my cheek and I’m lulled into a deep sleep as I’m wrapped up in my sleeping bag. It’s a bit small and does clump over time but that’s minor in the grand scheme of comfort. It’s the pillow that reminds me that doing good for the planet can also mean doing good for my sleep. And machine washable? That’s the icing on the cake. This is the pillow for those who sleep soundly knowing they’re making an environmentally sound choice.
- Super light and compact, so you can always have a pillow with you without sacrificing space or weight.
- Removable and washable cover for extra convenience and hygiene after all your outdoor adventures.
- One click valve for easy inflation and deflation and adjustable firmness for your personal comfort and support.
- Some may find it smaller than expected so not as comfortable for those who like bigger pillows.
- Inflation can be a bit of a pain as you have to blow it up without a pump which can be a hassle in some situations.
- Durability concerns over time especially with frequent use in rough outdoor conditions even with the thickened TPU material to prevent air leaks.
Best Lightweight Option: Air Head Lite Pillow
The Therm-a-Rest Air Head Pillow is a backpacker and camper favorite, it’s a clever combination of air and foam that supports my head without adding weight to my pack. At 5.2 oz it’s a lightweight luxury I don’t even notice until it’s time to sleep. The brushed polyester cover feels nice to the touch and the synthetic fill gives that extra cushiness my head needs after a day of adventuring.
It’s comfortable but a few of the camping community have murmured about durability issues, a trade off for the slim profile. And while the materials sing a crinkly lullaby as I adjust in the night it’s a small price to pay for the comfort to weight ratio of this pillow. This pillow is for those who know that a light pack makes for a happy back and a supportive pillow makes for a good night. But if you like a softer pillow this might not be for you.
- Super light and packable for camping, backpacking or travel.
- Adjustable firmness for customized comfort.
- Made in USA with soft stretch knit fabric.
- Doesn’t hold air well for some users.
- Too pricey for a travel pillow for some.
- Too low for some as a main pillow.
Best Customizable: Coop Home Goods Travel Pillow
The Coop Home Goods is a camping chameleon, it adapts to my comfort needs in a split second. Dual purpose design means it’s a plush place to lay my head and a dry bag to store my gear. I can customize the stuffing to get the perfect firmness whether I’m in a hammock or on the ground.
But there’s a fine line to walk; overstuff it and it might make a break for it in the middle of the night. Securing it well is key to keeping it from getting away. Despite that the Coop is small and versatile it’s a great choice for campers who like their gear to be a multi-tasker. It’s the pillow that bends to my will and asks, “How would you like your comfort today?”
- Adjustable fill so you can customize to your back and side sleeping.
- Water resistant stuff sack for easy portability, perfect for travel and camping.
- CertiPUR-US & GREENGUARD Gold certified.
- Chemical smell when you unbox it, some users may not like that.
- Outer zipper case is hard to close once opened, may be durability issue.
- Compressible but still a bit bulky and heavy for backpacking or long distance travel.
Best Comfort: Wise Owl Camping Pillow
The Portable Camping Pillow by Wise Owl Outfitters is the best camping pillow if you want the best. Small but comfy it’s a great companion for any adventure. Portable so you can pack it for any trip and sleep soundly anywhere. A must have for adventurers and travelers who value convenience and comfort. Compact and comfy for camping and traveling. Portable so you can pack it and durable so you can use it for a long time. Whether you’re in the wilderness or traveling to new places this pillow is a convenient and comfy sleep solution for you.
- Lightweight and portable, take it anywhere from flights to camping trips.
- Designed for comfort, cushioned memory foam and soft micro-suede cover for a good nights sleep.
- Machine washable and dryer friendly removable cover, for hygiene and convenience.
- Some people find the stuff sack too tight to get the pillow back in after use.
- It compresses down for portability but not small enough for those with very little space or who like to ultra light pack.
- May be smaller than expected for some people, especially compared to home pillows.
FAQs
What’s the most important thing to consider when choosing a camping pillow?
Your personal needs, where you’ll be camping and how you sleep, will dictate whether you prioritize lightweight and packable for backpacking or comfort and support for car camping.
Can I wash my camping pillow?
Yes, you can wash your camping pillow if it has a removable and washable cover, but check the manufacturer’s instructions first. Follow their guidelines to keep the pillow in top shape.
Are inflatable pillows comfortable?
Yes, inflatable pillows can be comfortable if they have features like contoured designs for head support or a layer of foam for extra cushioning. It all depends on the design and your personal taste.
How do I keep my camping pillow from slipping during the night?
You can prevent your camping pillow from slipping by looking for one with attachment loops or a non-slip coating. If your pillow doesn’t have those, try putting it in your sleeping bag’s hood or using a piece of clothing for friction.
Are there eco-friendly camping pillows?
Yes, there are eco-friendly camping pillows like the Bear Pillow, made from recycled materials and a Climate Neutral Certified brand. Look for ones that are sustainable.
