If you like camping, you know the experience of trying to minimize the materials in your field but still creating a comfortable experience. This is very much true if you are walking and carrying your equipment.
What you put under your head every night can make you understand the difference between the rest you ought to get after a long day of fresh air or drag yourself through fatigue the next day.
Regrettably, most of the pillows we use to are bigger and heavier and do not favor camping or backpacking.
Investing a good camping pillow is worth spending as it will probably last the rest of camping life due to its more occasional use.
The best camping pillow is the one that helps you keep your sleeping position, yet it is small enough to be light and take up little space, leaving more room for other needs.
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What Is A Camping Pillow?
A camping pillow is a pillow that is small in size and made specifically for camping/travel situations. It's usually much smaller than the regular bed pillows you're used to. It is often compressible by nature and fits in smaller spaces or is easily attached to backpacks.
In general, it is also very light to avoid adding unnecessary weight to the package.
It's usually big enough to hold your head in one position, and it's not designed for side-to-side movement, but it's much more comfortable than running out.
Types of Camping Pillows
There are some different types of camping pillows among which you can choose to find the most comfortable one for your resting position.
Camping pillows can also be adapted to your camping style as you can have more space when traveling by car than your backpack and you have all the necessary equipment.
1. Inflatable
Inflatable pillows can be inflatable or need a pump (or your energy) to inflate. Those applying for inflation are effectively adjustable to meet their personal preferences best.
Both styles are very light and have different covers for protection from sharp objects.
2. Compressible Foam
Foams are generally compressed or rolled up in small packs and then inflated quickly when you are ready to sleep in them.
They take small spaces when they are compressed, but they can weigh a little more due to the density of the material.
3. Folding
Folding pillows are often excellent options for tent and RV camper when you do not have to walk from place to place.
They bend to a more compact size but are still very voluminous if you think about adapting to the backpack.
4. Down or Polyfiber Filled
The soft poly fibers are easily compacted and can return to their shape. It is also considered very light and is a popular choice for campsites of all types.
5. Travel Pillowcase
A travel pillowcase is probably the lightest and most compact option you can make. These cases are designed to be filled with your clothes or jackets to create a soft place to rest your head and are also fully adjustable.
Top 3 Camping Pillow: A Comparison Chart
Why You Need a Camping Pillow?
Although many people use their packages like pillows or folded clothes, the use of a pillow offers a much more comfortable sleep.
It is also much more convenient to have camping pillows available instead of full-sized pillows since they can be stored easily with other camping gear.
Also, you are not likely to forget them when you travel if you already have the materials in the field or a trailer.
The Best Camping Pillows Available: My Top 5 Pick
The following options are taken from the best ratings of camping pillows provided by consumers who regularly use their products.
Although there are many different pillows that you can choose for camping, these are considered some of the most comfortable and quality choices available on the market today.
And they provide various options to find what works best for you.
The Wellax Ultralight Camping Pillow is the perfect backpacker option as it weighs only 2.8 ounces, but expands from a compact 5x2 inch to about 14 x 12 inches travel size.
Completely adjustable as it requires 3 to 5 breaths to inflate, it has an easy decompression spot to find the perfect comfort for you.
With a slight U-shape, the pillow helps keep the head in place and can also act as lumbar support when seated.
It has a non-slip surface behind, and the upper part is soft and velvety against the skin. The pillow also comes along with a sleeping mask to help you rest.
People who sleep on their backs and the side take full advantage of this pillow, especially when they travel with a backpack for its incredibly compact dimensions.
Wellax Ultralight pillows inflate in seconds to its full width, and it fits perfectly for a good pillow for sleeping or used as a source of back support.
It can comfortably be worn in your backpack or pocket for easy access. The back is made of a non-slip material that prevents the inflatable travel pillow from slipping.
However, weak leaks may occur at the edges of the pillow with constant use of overtime.
Specifications
- Easily adjustable
- Very light and easy to pack.
- Lasting construction
- The chemical smell when opened due to storage.
- Weak leaks may occur at the joints, covered by the warranty.
This pillow is 100% adjustable, which makes it an excellent choice for all beds. The memory foam outline can be removed or added to best fit your needs, and 19x 14 inches is about the size of a standard-sized pillow but is compressed to 10 x 6 inches to fit in a bag of material.
The 32 grams that this pillow weighs make it a possible option for packaging, especially if comfort is a priority and there is space.
Also, the bamboo cover is highly breathable and naturally antimicrobial and the entire pillow can be washed. When comfort is a necessity, it is worth considering this smaller version of a bestseller for any position to sleep on any camping trip.
It can be compressed easily to save space for travel or camping. Ideal for campers, business travelers, caravans, backpackers, it works perfectly with the sleeping bag and heat block.
This small pillow fills all the comfort and durability of any standard size pillow, in a compact size, so that you can always be at rest and ready for the next adventure.
Coop pillows are manufactured without ozone depletion, PBDE, TDCPP, TCEP flame retardant, mercury, lead, heavy metals, formaldehyde, CCPS or CFC regulated phthalates. However, the adjustment can take a lot of time.
Specifications
- Fully adjustable
- Machine washable
- Total sensitivity in a compact package
- Light degassing
- The adjustment may take some time
This outdoor camping pillow is created explicitly for any camping activity of your choice.
This pillow can be expanded to 20x12 inches, one of the largest available with this weight. It is also compressed in its case for easy transport. Put it in your purse or throw it on your computer.
The softer feeling is made for people who sleep on their stomachs and the side and can be used to support the neck when needed. The soft cotton flannel lining is removable and machine washable, making it an even cheaper option.
Any camper will find this convenient option as it is easy to travel, regardless of camping preferences. It can be a little soft for those who sleep on your side, but it is conducive for people who sleep on their stomachs and backs.
This type of backpack pillow includes a pillowcase and a pillow so that the pillow can be removed, cleaned and then placed in the sun. Cleaning the pillow from the sleeping bag is easy.
The outdoor camping sofa weighs only 0.70 lbs / 320 g, you can put it in your backpack with a carry bag, and won’t feel the weight on your back.
One major disadvantage of this product is it is very light/thin for some people.
Specifications
- Small compression, but larger pillow size
- Very light
- The washable lid is soft and convenient
- Very thin and soft for some people.
Another popular inflatable option, this also needs to be inflated with 3-5 breaths and expands to just 5 x 2 inches at 19 x 12 inches for a more relaxing sleep when out of doors.
The substantial U-shape is perfect for holding your head, and also works as a support when you sit down for certain types of body.
The soft fabric with which it is coated is also water-resistant, which makes it an excellent choice for the boat and remains dry.
It also has a quick emptying function so you can move after packing in a short period or adjust the feeling it offers for various resting positions.
Those who sleep on the back and the side will get the most out of it since it is 5 inches tall when it is completely swollen. The small size and lightweight design are also ideal for hikers or any travel that requires less equipment.
The improved design and support of the added headrest are made from a tough TPU elastic fabric that offers water resistance. At the trigger of a button, you can inflate your pillow with about three to five breaths.
Once finished, you can quickly deflate the pillow with Quick Deflate, which releases air immediately after use in seconds. But, it comes without a pillowcase.
Specifications
- Fast and easy to inflate, empty and pack
- Soft dream surface
- The wipes are easy to clean
- Without pillowcase
The Cozy Hut Camp pillow, made from a soft, memory foam that fits the shape, expands to 16.5 x 8 inches, but only compresses 5 x 8 inches to fit your stuff.
This is an incredibly light discovery for traveling and camping easily. It is also contoured to provide variable lofts to meet the needs of sleeping comfort best.
The soft velvet cover is covered with a thinner interior lining, both machines washable. This helps increase airflow and protects the foam from moisture.
Thanks to its properties of shape and fit, it also works as lumbar support and is ideal for neck support for people who sleep on their backs and their side.
This is a comforting camping pillow that can be used in a variety of situations.
Although not as light and compact as other options, it works well when walking and packing are not the primary goal and is perfect for other travel situations.
The Cozy Hut pillow comes with an ergonomic design with raised sides which helps support the neck and relieve pain and tension.
It is a high-quality memory foam that supports your neck without an uncomfortable position and embarrassment.
With a soft plush and zipper cover that is washable and easy to clean. Removable and washable lining that facilitates lightening and eliminates germs.
But, it can be very light for some people.
Specifications
- Very complacent
- Washable cover is an advantage
- Easy to roll, but not flat when in use
- It can be very light for some people
- Light degassing
How to Choose the Best Camping Pillow
1. Comfort
If it is not comfortable and won’t help provide a good rest, there is no point buying it.
2. Self-Inflating Pillowcases
Self-inflating pillows are cheaper, but the foam used to expand the pillow adds extra weight. Furthermore, when compressed, the pillow naturally weighs more and takes up more space than a pillow without internal foam.
Pillows that should inflate with the breath can be lighter and more compressible, but they are not so convenient. Inflating with your breath also introduces moisture and bacteria into the pillow. Eventually, the interior can get dirty and rusty.
Pillow covers tend to be cheaper and have no chance of loss. However, the comfort and support of the pillow depends on its cover.
3. Weight
When we go camping, it is essential to consider the weight of all our equipment options. The weight increases over time, and if you plan to transport your inflatable pillow in your field of backpacks, you want to lose weight.
However, some reasonable weight additions are guaranteed when these additions help us to function better within the country.
When camping in a car, camping in a recreational vehicle or camping at home, the weight may not be such an important factor. If you do not have the duty to carry the pillow in your backpack, but the luxury of moving the pillow in your car or caravan, a more substantial and more luxurious pillow may be the best choice for you.
4. Compressibility
This is an essential factor when walking or carrying much equipment. Again, if you carry the pillow in a car or a recreational vehicle, this may not be as important.
Compressibility is essential to be able to assemble and transport all the equipment needed for a field or to walk in a bag.
Choosing a high compressibility pillow means that the pillow is packaged in a relatively small package when not in use. Choose a highly compressible pillow if you carry the pillow in a backpack or suitcase to save space for other essential items.
Conclusion
The choice of the pillow has more to do with the style and comfort of the campsite than with anything else.
I have offered different types of pillows, and if they are not present in our best choices, not because they are not an excellent option for some people, but they are just not the most popular choices.
The first choice was difficult to choose, but considering the material, price, comfort, and weight for a variety of different situations, and most importantly having a good sleep, we felt our top pick was a good choice.
All the pillows as mentioned above are fantastic – that is why they are on the list.
Whichever one you pick is perfect. Nonetheless, I am sure you want to know the best camping pillow in the market, and as far as this review goes, that would be WELLAX Ultralight Camping Pillow.
- ERGONOMIC DESIGN: The WellaX inflatable camping pillow ensures you get the best lumbar support during sleep. Made from 80% polyester and 20% TPU coating, this portable neck pillow is perfect for camping so you can rest wherever you go.
- COMPACT & LIGHTWEIGHT: At 16 x 12 x 4 inch this travel pillow provides ample support your neck needs. It folds down to 5 x 2 inches and weighs only 2.75oz and fits right inside your backpack.
- EASY TO USE: Twist open the cap, and blow! The valve is specially designed so your pillow inflates in 2-3 breaths. The valve also seals tight so no air leaks out while you're resting your head on the pillow.
- PERFECT CHRISTMAS GIFT : What better way to celebrate Christmas than by giving the gift of an amazing adventure to your friends and family? Give one to each member of your family and enjoy a luxurious camping trip together.
- NO RISK PURCHASE: Your satisfaction is our guarantee. If you feel this pillow is not for you, you are covered with a lifetime warranty and our team will help you refund or replace your purchase.