Camping is a cherished pastime for many outdoor enthusiasts, and a good night’s sleep is essential for making the most of your outdoor adventures.
While a quality sleeping bag and pad are crucial components for comfortable rest, a supportive, comfortable camping pillow can make all the difference in ensuring a restful night under the stars.
In this article, we will cover the best camping pillows to help you find the perfect fit for your camping needs.
Camping pillows come in a wide range of shapes, materials, and sizes to cater to every camper’s preferences and sleep styles.
Traditional inflatable pillows offer compactness and customizable firmness, while innovative designs featuring memory foam or down filling bring the comfort of your bed to the campsite.
A good camping pillow not only provides head and neck support but also packs down small and is durable enough to withstand the rigors of camping trips.
When choosing the best camping pillow, it’s essential to consider factors like materials, size, weight, and compressibility to find a balance between comfort and portability. The type of fill used in the pillow will determine how supportive and comfortable it is, as well as how easy it will be to pack and carry.
Additionally, the pillow’s shape and design play a role in its comfort and usability, ensuring that it stays in place and adapts to the contours of your head and neck.
Armed with the knowledge of what to look for in a camping pillow, we have dedicated countless hours to researching, comparing, and testing various pillows on the market.
Our goal is to help you find the perfect companion for your camping adventures, ensuring a restful night and a refreshed, rejuvenated start to your day in the great outdoors.
Best Camping Pillows
We have compiled a list of the best camping pillows available in the market to ensure you get a comfortable and restful sleep during your outdoor adventures.
1. Vaverto Small Memory Foam Pillow for Travel and Camping
We think the Vaverto Small Memory Foam Pillow is a great investment for those who prioritize comfort while traveling or camping.
Pros
- Versatile and lightweight for various activities
- Durable, machine washable cover
- Hypoallergenic and breathable material
Cons
- Compressing it back into the travel bag can be difficult
- Not ideal for quick airplane trips
- Lacks a custom pillow cover for its size
We recently used the Vaverto Small Memory Foam Pillow on both a camping trip and a long-haul flight. We appreciate its versatile and lightweight design, making it perfect for different scenarios like camping, hiking, beach outings, or even car travel. The pillow is compressible and self-inflatable, which is a bonus for reducing bulk when packing.
The materials used are of great quality; the pillow consists of hypoallergenic memory foam and a removable bamboo-derived viscose rayon and polyester cover. This combination results in a breathable camping pillow, effectively preventing overheating and allergy issues. Another advantage is the ease of cleaning the cover, as it is machine washable and the pillow itself is also sweat-resistant.
However, despite the many pros of the Vaverto camping pillow, we did encounter a few drawbacks. One downside we noticed was the difficulty of compressing it back into its travel bag after use. It would’ve been better if the process was more user-friendly. Additionally, it might not be ideal for quick airplane trips since it doesn’t provide significant head support in an upright position.
Lastly, while a standard pillow cover may still work, it’s unfortunate that there isn’t a custom-sized pillow cover available for this product. A custom cover would have fit more snugly and added convenience for users.
In conclusion, the Vaverto Small Memory Foam Pillow for Travel and Camping is a solid investment for those who value comfort during various outdoor and travel activities. Its few cons can be manageable, while its versatility, durability, and hypoallergenic properties make it a fantastic addition to your travel essentials.
- VERSATILE: Lightweight, compressible and self-inflatable pillow perfect for camping, hiking, beach, airplane, car travel
- DURABLE & WASHABLE: Removable bamboo-derived viscose rayon and polyester cover is machine washable
- BREATHABLE: Hypoallergenic memory foam and ventilated cover prevent overheating and allergens
- EASY TO CARRY: Comes with snap loop to attach to luggage and compact travel bag
- SWEAT-RESISTANT: Heat-regulating fibers maintain ideal temperature; ventilation holes improve airflow
2. Wise Owl Outfitters Camping Pillow
This travel-friendly camping pillow offers great comfort and support for various situations, making it a solid choice for outdoor enthusiasts.
Pros
- Extremely versatile for different sleeping situations
- Comfortable memory foam with a soft cover
- Easily packable with a waterproof stuff sack
Cons
- Some users find it difficult to fit the pillow back into its case
- May be too small for larger individuals
- Lumpy after extended use
Our experience with the Wise Owl Outfitters Camping Pillow has been largely positive. Its memory foam filling and soft, micro-suede cover provide a comfortable sleeping experience, hugging our head and neck perfectly. Although small, it’s extremely versatile, making it ideal for camping, hammocks, airplanes, or even as a seat cushion.
When it comes to portability, this pillow is a winner. Its lightweight design and compressible nature allow it to fit within a waterproof stuff sack with ease, ensuring minimal space is used in our backpack. The two available size options provide flexibility based on personal preferences and intended usage.
One drawback we encountered is the difficulty in fitting the pillow back into its case after use. It requires a bit of effort and patience, but this is a minor inconvenience considering the overall quality and convenience of the product. Another potential downside is the size, as it might be a bit too small for larger individuals. It might also become lumpy after extended use.
With that said, we think the pros of this camping pillow outweigh the cons, making the Wise Owl Outfitters Camping Pillow a worthy addition to your camping essentials. Its lightweight, portable design, comfort, and versatility make it ideal for various sleeping situations and a great gift for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Versatile: Whether you're sleeping on a hammock, a plane, a beach, in a car, RV, or under a tent, our travel pillow will give you a great night's sleep wherever you lay your head. Also a great alternative as an airplane pillow for sleeping and traveling.
- Comfortable: Made with cushioned memory foam wrapped in a soft, micro-suede cover, our backpacking pillow gives you a truly supportive rest that your head and neck will thank you for! Need a bit of a boost? Our compressible pillow can double as a seat cushion, too
- Packable: Lightweight and portable, our camping pillow easily compresses down into its waterproof stuff sack. The small size expands to 12 x 16 (9 oz in weight) & the medium 14 x 18 (11 oz in weight) for ultimate support and comfort. Throw it in your backpack for your travel must haves!
- Easy Clean: Designed for hassle-free cleaning, our camp pillow is machine washable and dryer friendly thanks to its removable pillow cover. You can even throw the whole pillow in the washer with the pillow case cover on cool temp gentle cycle and low temp dryer for about 5 to 10 minutes.
- Camping Gifts: Our camping pillow is a camping gear must have for the adventurer in your life and for your next camping trip, the perfect camping gift for your fall camping adventures!
3. HEST Camping Pillow
Upgrade your outdoor sleep experience with the HEST camping pillow – a versatile, memory foam pillow perfect for all types of travelers.
Pros
- Travel-friendly design
- Blended comfort with memory foam and polyester
- Adjustable support suited for various sleepers
Cons
- Not high enough for some side sleepers
- Zipper position might be uncomfortable for some
- May not be suitable for extended backpacking trips
As avid campers and travelers, we were thrilled to try the HEST camping pillow on our recent excursions. The moment we set out on our trip, it became apparent that this pillow was designed with practicality in mind. Its travel-ready feature allowed us to enjoy worry-free sleep in tents, motels, and even during a long road trip. The lightweight design made it a breeze to pack, and the self-contained travel cover ensured that the sleeping surface remained clean throughout our journeys.
One of the standout features of the HEST camping pillow is its blended comfort. The combination of shredded memory foam and polyester gave us the support and cloud-like softness we needed after long days of exploration. The temperature-resilient memory foam maintained its shape in various temperatures, providing a consistently comfortable sleeping experience.
Of course, a pillow is only as useful as its ability to suit a variety of sleepers, and the HEST camping pillow excelled in this regard as well. The stretch woven nylon sleep surface conformed to our heads and adjusted to different sleeping positions seamlessly. Additionally, the zippered access to the fill allowed us to personalize the pillow’s firmness for maximum comfort.
That being said, the HEST camping pillow was not optimal for everyone. Some of our group felt that the height of the pillow was insufficient for side sleepers with broad shoulders. Turning the pillow sideways helped, but the zipper position became an issue for some. Additionally, while it was ideal for our group’s car camping and traditional travel, backpackers looking to minimize weight and space might find this pillow less suitable for extended treks.
Overall, the HEST camping pillow is a fantastic addition to any traveler’s arsenal, offering customizable comfort, practical adaptability, and a thoughtful design. While it might not be ideal for all types of travel or sleep preferences, its versatility and ease of use make it a worthy investment for most adventurers.
- TRAVEL READY: Let's be honest, traveling with your home pillow is not ideal. Traveling with the HEST Pillow is a whole new, worry-free, and comfortable experience. Perfect for sleeping on airplanes, road trips, AirBnB's, motels, tent camping, van life, or for nightly use
- BLENDED COMFORT: Our blend of shredded enhanced memory foam and polyester offers the support of your favorite home pillow. The temperature resilient memory foam will keep your head in the clouds while the durable and pack-into-itself feature will keep it clean
- MADE FOR ALL SLEEPERS: The stretch woven nylon sleep surface conforms to all head sizes and sleeping positions
- THOUGHTFUL DESIGN: The travel cover allows the pillow to be stuffed into a smaller size within the protected cover to keep the sleeping surface clean during travel. Zippered access to the pillow allows you to adjust the medium plush fill to your comfort.
- SUPPORTIVE CURVED SHAPE: Contoured profiles rests in the neck and keeps pillow in place when sleeping
4. Klymit Drift Camping Pillow
The Klymit Drift Camping Pillow provides a perfect balance of comfort and practicality for any outdoor adventure.
Pros
- Versatile and travel-friendly design
- Supportive and comfortable shredded memory foam
- Easy-to-clean and water-resistant outer shell
Cons
- Slightly bulky size for backpacking
- Some users may find it a bit expensive
- Not the thickest or most firm pillow
We recently took the Klymit Drift Camping Pillow on a weekend camping trip and were impressed by its versatility and comfort. The design allows it to easily transform from a travel-friendly cover to a soft, clean sleeping surface, making it perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
The outer shell of the pillow is water-resistant and easy to clean, a necessary feature for camping pillows. Its soft Jersey cotton inner pillowcase combined with the shredded memory foam fill provided us a comfortable and supportive sleeping experience similar to our pillows at home.
While using the pillow, we appreciated the reversible cover design: one side is perfect for travel with a more durable, water-resistant shell, while the other offers a softer, cozier Jersey cotton sleeping surface. This adaptability makes it perfect for various outdoor settings and conditions.
However, it’s essential to note that the Klymit Drift Camping Pillow is not the most compact or lightweight option out there. Its size may make it slightly less suitable for long-distance backpacking trips where weight and space are crucial. Nonetheless, for shorter trips or car camping, its comfort and features outweigh the minor inconvenience of the slightly chunky size.
In summary, the Klymit Drift Camping Pillow is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a versatile, comfortable, and supportive outdoor pillow. While not the most lightweight or compact option, it offers a superb balance of adaptability and comfort that will undoubtedly enhance your camping experiences.
- Versatile Outdoor Pillows: These shredded memory foam pillows have a durable reversible shell that easily morphs from a travel-friendly cover to a soft, clean sleep surface
- Camping Pillows for Sleeping Comfortably: The water-resistant outer shell is easy-to-clean and designed to stand up to the great outdoors, while the soft Jersey cotton inner pillow case promotes sound sleep
- Customized Comfort: This shredded foam pillow provides the perfect balance of support and comfort for a sleeping experience that matches your pillow at home
- Travel-Ready Outdoor Pillow: This backpacking pillow packs down small for your next adventure but expands to nearly full size when you're ready for bed
- Sleep Outside with Klymit: Our award-winning products are designed to help you sleep outside as comfortably as you do in your own bed
5. Gehannah Travel Pillow
The Gehannah Travel Pillow is an excellent choice for campers seeking a comfortable and supportive sleep experience.
Pros
- Cooling-warm cover for a comfortable sleep
- High-quality memory foam provides perfect support
- Highly versatile for various outdoor activities
Cons
- Slightly heavier than some other camping pillows
- May not compress as small as inflatable pillows
- Might be a bit small for those who prefer larger pillows
We recently had the pleasure of using the Gehannah Travel Pillow during our camping trip, and we were quite impressed with its performance. The cooling-warm pillow cover proved to be an excellent feature, as it allowed us to stay comfortable throughout the night regardless of the temperature.
The memory foam filling provided perfect support for our heads and necks, ensuring a restful sleep experience. Additionally, the pillow’s CertiPUR-US certification assures us that it’s free from harmful substances.
This camping pillow is quite versatile, and we believe it would make a great addition to any outdoor adventure – be it camping, fishing, backpacking, or hiking. It’s also a wonderful gift idea for friends or family members who enjoy the great outdoors.
Although the Gehannah Travel Pillow is slightly heavier and may not compress as small as some other camping pillows, its comfort and support more than make up for it. Besides, the pillow is compact enough to fit into most camping backpacks without an issue.
In summary, we wholeheartedly recommend the Gehannah Travel Pillow for those who value a comfortable and supportive sleep experience while adventuring outdoors. With its cooling-warm cover and high-quality memory foam, this camping pillow is sure to enhance your outdoor trips and is well worth the investment.
- Cooling-Warm Pillow Cover: Gehannah travel pillows are encased in a luxury fabrics cover to enhance their luxurious look and feel. You can sleep on cool-feeling fabrics or temperature regulating materials that can help you feel cooler.
- Provide Perfect Support: Certified with CertiPUR-US, this means all our camping essentials pillows are free from harmful substances. Premium quality memory foam filling with good resilience allows air to circulate smoothly within the sleeping pillow.
- Versatility: Our premium travel camping pillows are perfectly suited for a variety of trips such as camping, fishing, backpacking, hiking, beaches, festivals or other outdoor activities. Our travel pillows will give you a great night's sleep no matter where you lie.
- Machine Washable Cover: Our compact travel pillows are easy to care for and the pillow covers are machine washable in cold water. Do not bleach or use fabric softener - dry on low temperature and make sure the entire pillow and filling are dry before use.
- Buy With Confidence: Finding a great cool travel pillow that helps reduce sleep problems is an effective way to improve your sleep every time you travel outdoors. We are so confident in the quality of our camping accessories that if you have any questions, please feel free to contact our service support team.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best camping pillow for our needs, there are several factors we should consider.
These include comfort, size, weight, and additional features that can enhance our experience.
In this buying guide, we’ll highlight the key aspects to help us make an informed decision.
Comfort
The primary function of a camping pillow is to provide comfort, so it’s essential to pick one with sufficient cushioning and support.
Factors affecting comfort include:
- Filling: Common fillings are memory foam, inflatable air, and synthetic fibers. Memory foam is known for its contouring properties, while inflatable and synthetic filled pillows can be adjusted to suit our preferences.
- Cover: The cover material should be comfortable against our skin. Fabrics like polyester, cotton, and brushed microfiber can offer varying levels of softness and breathability.
Size and Weight
Since space and weight are critical considerations in camping, it is essential to look for a pillow that balances comfort with compactness. Consider the following:
- Inflatable pillows are the lightest and most compact option. They can be deflated and packed in our backpacks without consuming much space.
- Compressible pillows filled with foam or synthetic fibers have more bulk and weight but often provide better support and comfort than inflatable ones.
Additional Features
Additional features can set certain camping pillows apart from others, making them more suited for specific needs:
- Adjustable Firmness: Inflatable and certain compressible pillows allow us to adjust the firmness to our liking.
- Attachment Points: Some camping pillows have attachment points or straps to keep them in place on our sleeping mats or bags.
- Washable Cover: A removable, machine-washable cover makes it easy to maintain hygiene during our camping trips.
In summary, selecting the best camping pillow comes down to balancing comfort with weight and size constraints.
By considering the factors discussed above, we can better tailor our choice to our personal preferences and needs, ensuring a good night’s sleep under the stars.
