The best camping pillows may seem like a trivial topic but they make a huge difference to the quality of your sleep. That is to say, I used to tell myself a pillow for camping was unnecessary but then I began using them and realised the immense difference they make!

But what makes the perfect camping pillow?

Let’s take a look at some of the best options for every budget.

Features of the Best Camping Pillows

Size and weight really do matter on multi-day trips but not so much when you spend the night on a campsite. With this in mind, here’s three things to consider with a pillow for camping:

Comfort – It goes without saying that comfort is the main priority with any pillow.

Weight – You definitely don’t want something heavy on a multi-day hike.

Size – Does the pillow compress down really small? A bulky pillow takes up lots of space!

5 Pillows for Camping for a Good Night’s Sleep

1. Thermarest Compressible Pillow

Weight – 200 grams

The Thermarest Compressible Pillow for camping is definitely one of the most comfortable camping pillows on the market. The soft fabric actually feels almost the same as a real pillow and it’s hugely popular with thru-hikers (long distance hikers). While the compressible pillow more bulky than the other options on this list, it still only weighs 200g.

2. Sea to Summit Aeros Pillow 

The Sea to Summit Aeros Down Pillow probably one of the more expensive inflatable camping pillows ever made! However, it’s a comfortable pillow that features a solid valve system and thin layer of cushion on top. This soft layer provides some extra warmth and at 70 grams, this pillow is also extremely lightweight.

3. Nemo Fillo

The Nemo Fillo is popular with all the cool kids and this is the case with a lot of Nemo products which are always well designed. It features a luxurious foam topper that offers great support and a removable suede cover that you can throw in the wash from time to time. It’s not the lightest camping pillow (255 grams) and it’s somewhat bulky but for car camping or the occasional night on a campsite – it fits the bill.

4. Trekology Aluft Pillow Deluxe

The Trekology Aluft Pillow Deluxe is another inflatable pillow for camping with an arched shape that allows it to fit snug inside a sleeping bag. There is a strap to attach the pillow to a roll mat and it strikes a nice balance between comfort and practicality. The Trekology camping pillow weighs 120 grams and packs down to just 15 x 10cm. This makes the Aluft Pillow Deluxe a great options for camping gear on a budget.

5. Redcamp Lightweight Pillow for Camping

The Redcamp pillow is often advertised as a travel pillow and features a flannel shell and non woven fabric. It weighs 322 grams and comes with a storage bag and while I might not take this on a long hike, it would be nice company when car camping. I also think it looks pretty cool and there’s nothing wrong with having a cool looking camping pillow! 

Final Thoughts

I’ve stopped using my puffy jacket as a pillow. This is a good thing because I sometimes need to drape this jacket over my sleeping bag on especially cold nights. But comfort and a good night of sleep is the main reason to invest in a camping pillow and with so many affordable and lightweight options, there’s really no reason not to have one!