If you’re in a rush, the Sea to Summit Aeros Down Pillow is the very best pillow for backpacking.
The important thing to a enjoyable and profitable backpacking journey is an efficient night time’s relaxation.
How will you be capable of stroll miles a day with out recharging your batteries correctly at night time?
Each sleeping pads and luggage are a should, however backpacking pillows aren’t on everybody’s guidelines.
And I don’t perceive why.
Does your neck hurts after falling asleep on the couch? Nicely why would sleeping in your jacket be any totally different?
However there’s no purpose to tough it up once you go backpacking. Particularly when there are pillows specifically designed for such a journey.
Sounds good?
At this time, I’ll share with you every little thing you should know to search out the very best backpacking pillow available on the market.
Let’s bounce straight in!
Greatest Backpacking Pillow: Our High 10 Picks
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Sea to Summit Aeros Down Pillow
Sort: Inflatable | Fill: Down | Weight (oz): 2.5 oz | Packed Dimension: 3 x 2.5 in
This pillow by Sea to Summit would possibly simply be the very best tenting pillow ever, when you ask me.
First, it’s very light-weight and packs down compactly right into a bag that’s no larger than your palm. This implies you’ll be able to virtually retailer it in any pocket in your backpack.
And with 2.5 ounces of weight, you gained’t even discover it there.
Due to the multifunction mini-valve positioned on the again, the pillow inflates in simply three breaths. Totally inflated, it supplies agency assist that doesn’t budge via the night time.
However when you choose one thing softer, you’ll be able to simply regulate it by releasing some air from the valve.
With the size of 13.4 x 9.4 x 4.7 inches, this isn’t the most important tenting pillow on the market.
However its dimension makes it nice for becoming inside a mummy bag hoodie, so it gained’t transfer round whereas sleeping.
Differentially reduce baffles actually made a distinction, as they hold the loft in place for a cushty good night time’s sleep.
To be trustworthy, if I didn’t know this was an inflatable pillow, I may have by no means guessed it from simply laying on it. Sure, it’s that cozy.
Professionals
- It’s light-weight and compact, which makes it appropriate for backpacking
- The Pilowlock system permits you to connect the pillow to a Sea by Summit sleeping mat to stop sliding
- Horizontally-positioned baffles hold the fill in place, stopping chilly spots
- Matches inside most mummy sleeping luggage’ hoodies
Cons
- Not essentially the most coziest face material on the checklist
Greatest for: Quick inflation
Purchase Direct from Sea to Summit
Trekology ALUFT 2.0 Ultralight Tenting Pillow
Sort: Inflatable | Fill: Air | Weight (oz): 3.9 oz | Packed Dimension: 5 x 2 in
tenting pillow doesn’t need to price an arm and a leg. And this mannequin by Trekology is sweet proof of that.
Now, the very first thing that you just discover about this mannequin is the ergonomic design.
Barely curved upwards, this pillow is appropriate for any sleeping place, be it in your again, abdomen or aspect.
So even when you’re not a relaxed sleeper, you’ll discover this pillow very comfy.
This pillow doesn’t transfer round whilst you’re sleeping due to anti-slipping rubber dots on the underside.
However to stop it from budging, it additionally includes a latch strap in an effort to connect it to the sleeping mat.
This pillow is manufactured from thermoplastic polyurethane, which is a sturdy and waterproof material. This makes it appropriate not only for sleeping in a tent, but additionally on a ship or seashore.
What makes this pillow appropriate for backpacking is its small dimension and weight. It packs right down to the dimensions of a can, so it may possibly simply match wherever.
It inflates in not more than 8 breaths, and deflates inside seconds.
Professionals
- Anti-slip rubber dots and latch strap hold the pillow from shifting
- Product of waterproof and durable materials
- The ergonomic design makes it appropriate for various sleeping positions
- Very inexpensive in comparison with most fashions on the checklist
Cons
- TPU material will not be essentially the most mild in your face
Greatest for: First-time campers and occasional backpackers.
Purchase Direct from Trekology
Sea to Summit Aeros Premium
Sort: Inflatable | Fill: Down | Weight (oz): 2.8 oz | Packed Dimension: 2.8 x 3.3 in
If including a number of extra ounces to your gear will not be a problem, then the Aeros Premium is unquestionably a mannequin value contemplating.
With a barely added weight, you’ll be able to benefit from the luxurious consolation just like the one you will have at dwelling.
When packed, this pillow takes much less area than a can of soda. As soon as inflated, it’s nonetheless on the smaller aspect.
However its comfiness makes up for that. Artificial fill makes it smooth in your head, whereas on the similar time wicks any moisture away.
The brushed polyester exterior guarantee a smooth really feel in your face.
The underside fringe of the pillow is barely curved on the middle, making it appropriate for each sleeping on the again and on the perimeters.
What’s extra, you too can use it whereas sitting upright in a chair.
What’s nice about this mannequin is that it is available in three sizes: common, giant and deluxe.
The bigger you go, the heavier and costlier a pillow will get. But when that’s not the difficulty, you will discover the dimensions most just like the one you utilize at dwelling.
Professionals
- Artificial fill and brushed polyester make the pillow smooth and comfortable in your head
- A barely curved backside edge makes the pillow appropriate for sleeping in several positions
- A Multifunction mini-valve permits you to regulate how supportive your pillow is
- There are three sizes to select from
Cons
- Generally is a bit heavy in comparison with different fashions
Greatest for: Aspect sleepers.
Hyperlite Mountain Gear Stuff Sack Pillow
Sort: Stuff Sack | Fill: You stuff it | Weight (oz): 1.7 oz | Packed Dimension: n/a
In case you’re going further mild on a tenting journey, then you’ll be able to’t go unsuitable with this mannequin by Hyperlite Mountain Gear.
With simply 1.7 ounces of weight, it’s unlikely you will discover something remotely as mild as this.
Product of Dyneema composite material, this pillow will wick away any water it is available in contact with.
That is additional secured by the taped seams throughout.
Through the day, you should use the sack as a storage sack for the gear you need to stop from getting moist from the rain.
At night time, the stuff sack turns right into a pillow that provides you head assist whereas sleeping.
This mannequin is without doubt one of the bigger ones on the checklist, and it provides you ample area to relaxation your head on.
However don’t fear, you don’t really set your face in opposition to the composite material.
This pillow has a reversible aspect which is roofed with smooth Polartec fleece, that’s extraordinarily cozy and heat.
Professionals
- With 1.7 ounces of weight, this is without doubt one of the lightest pillows you will discover available on the market
- Dyneema composite material and taped seams guarantee 100% waterproofness
- May also be used as a stash sack
- Incorporates a reversible aspect with a cushty face material
Cons
- Comparatively costly for a stash sack pillow
Greatest for: Extremely lightpackers.
Purchase Direct from Hyperlite
Massive Agnes Q Core Deluxe Inflatable Journey Pillow
Sort: Inflatable | Fill: Air | Weight (oz): 3.1 oz | Packed Dimension: 4 x 3 x 2 in
Seeing a Massive Agnes product on this checklist is nothing shocking, because the model makes a speciality of light-weight but comfy and high-quality tenting gear. And this pillow isn’t any totally different.
Now, it’s true that inflatable pillows aren’t recognized for being insanely heat when it’s chilly, however that’s probably not the case right here.
This nylon pillow options a sophisticated warmth reflective expertise that displays your personal physique heat again to you.
With the size of 20 x 14 x 4.75 inches, this pillow is barely bigger than most fashions on the checklist.
However the dimensions are rigorously thought out in order that the pillow matches into any Massive Agnes sleeping bag.
The pillow is coated with an aviation-grade TPU, making it extraordinarily rugged and sturdy.
The fabric can be straightforward to scrub. Simply remember that it ought to solely be hand-washed, because the machine can injury it.
We will additionally respect the tiny particulars Massive Agnes implements to make their product stand out.
On this case, that’s the antimicrobial remedy contained in the pillow that stops microorganism progress.
Professionals
- Reflective expertise makes use of your personal physique warmth to maintain you heat whereas sleeping
- Aviation-grade TPU coating makes the pillow very sturdy
- Antimicrobial remedy prevents microorganisms from rising contained in the pillow
- The micro launch button permits you to regulate how smooth the pillow is
Cons
- Could be giant for sleeping luggage from different producers
Greatest for: Campers on the lookout for essentially the most sturdy choice.
Therm-a-Relaxation Air Head™ Down Pillow
Sort: Inflatable | Fill: 650 Fill Duck Nikwax Hydrophobic Down RDS | Weight (oz): 4.9 oz | Packed Dimension: 5 x 4 in
In case you put consolation above all else, then you definitely’ll certainly be glad with what the Air Head mannequin by Therma-a-Relaxation has to supply.
Stuffed with down of 650 fill energy, this pillow will hold you heat even at excessive winter temperatures.
Not simply because the down fill is cozy, however as a result of it’s hydrophobic as effectively.
Because it stays dry, it retains its insulating talents even when it’s freezing chilly outdoors.
Whereas it won’t be apparent at first look, that is really a hybrid pillow, that means the center half is inflated with air.
However the air bladder of this pillow isn’t as agency as it’s on different fashions. For that purpose, it’s extra just like your pillow at dwelling.
This pillow has a spherical form, in order that it matches completely inside your sleeping bag’s hood.
That means, it assures it doesn’t budge all through the night time.
The underside edge is barely curved inwards, in order that if sits effectively round your neck, whatever the place you’re sleeping in.
Professionals
- Hydrophobic fill assures the pillow stays dry and heat in all climate circumstances
- The pillow is tough sufficient to offer assist but smooth sufficient for a cushty sleep
- The twist valve makes it straightforward so that you can make changes whereas laying on the pillow
- Quilted polyester makes the face material smooth and comfortable
Cons
- Barely heavier than another picks
Greatest for: Mountaineering and winter tenting.
Purchase Direct from Therm-a-Relaxation
Therm-a-Relaxation Trekker™ Pillow Case
Sort: Stuff Sack | Fill: You stuff it | Weight (oz): 2.3 oz | Packed Dimension: n/a
Want a pillow that’s extraordinarily mild and inexpensive? This mannequin by Therma-a-Relaxation is each.
It weighs barely over 2 ounces and prices lower than your tent stakes. In case you ask me, that’s a steal.
This pillow is a stuff sack, so it’s as smooth as what you place inside.
However due to the brushed polyester face material, it’s additionally very comfy to relaxation your head upon.
Moreover, the fabric is abrasion-resistant, and it doesn’t slide round at night time.
With the size of 17 x 14 inches, it is a fairly giant pillow.
It’s nice for many who transfer so much whereas sleeping and will use extra head resting area.
If you wish to make it smaller, you’ll be able to all the time squeeze it inside your sleeping bag’s hood.
However despite the fact that it’s so large, the pillow folds down fairly compactly.
In truth, it may be packed in order that it matches inside a shirt pocket, if you’ll.
Professionals
- It’s light-weight and compact, making it appropriate for trekking and backpacking
- Mushy polyester material wicks away moisture and makes a cushty floor
- Bought at a really inexpensive worth
- Could be washed in a washer at a delicate cycle
Cons
- Not as supportive as another fashions
Greatest for: Campers in want of a fast however non permanent resolution.
Test Value at Therm-a-Relaxation
REI Co-op Trailbreak Foam Pillow
Sort: Foam | Fill: Foam | Weight (oz): 10 oz | Packed Dimension: 18 x 4 in
A few of us merely choose a standard pillow, and that’s okay.
If weight and space for storing aren’t a problem, this Trailbreak pillow by REI seems to be an irreplaceable companion on a tenting journey.
There’s no inflation concerned right here. As quickly as you unpack the pillow, it expands to its full dimension virtually immediately.
This pillow has simply the precise foam filling – not too smooth, not too agency. It’s smooth, heat, and nothing much less vital, it’s actually quiet.
This pillow options two sides, cooler and hotter. That means, you’ll be able to flip your pillow each time temperatures go up or down.
And don’t fear, whichever aspect is down, the pillow will keep in place throughout sleep.
I used to be fairly shocked at how inexpensive this pillow is. Its consolation is at par with among the extra high-end fashions available on the market.
A part of the explanation for the pillow’s low price ticket lies in the truth that it’s made with foam recycled from outdated REI sleeping pads.
Professionals
- As soon as unpacked, the pillow expands immediately
- You may change between cooler and hotter material relying on the temperature
- One of the crucial inexpensive choices on the checklist
- It’s protected for machine washing on a delicate cycle
Cons
- Bulkier and heavier than most different fashions
Greatest for: RV and automobile tenting.
Nemo Fillo
Sort: Inflatable | Fill: Air/Artificial (Air with Luxurious Foam) | Weight (oz): 9 oz | Packed Dimension: 6 x 4 in
A few years of being one of many bestselling pillows available on the market communicate volumes concerning the high quality of this product.
This hybrid pillow goes means and past to offer final consolation inside a tent.
Baffled air cell creates the pure form of a pillow, so that you don’t really feel such as you’re resting your head on a ball.
Thick reminiscence foam, alternatively, supplies assist whereas nonetheless remaining smooth and versatile.
The quilt is manufactured from microsuede, which leaves cooling really feel in your face.
And whereas smooth and plush, the fabric supplies sufficient friction in order that the pillow doesn’t slide off whilst you’re sleeping.
As soon as it will get soiled, merely take it off and throw it within the washer at a delicate cycle.
Personally, I like the truth that the storage bag is built-in into the design.
That means, you by no means have to fret about shedding it someplace across the campsite.
With that being mentioned, the bag does really feel a bit small, because it’s fairly laborious to place the pillow again in.
Professionals
- A mix of air and reminiscence foam makes the pillow smooth however supportive
- Mushy microsuede cowl for a clear and cooling really feel
- Takes not more than three breaths to inflate
- The quilt is mechanically cleanable
Cons
- It’s robust to pack it again right into a storage bag it comes with
Greatest for: Campers who put consolation above all else.
HEST Pillow
Sort: Foam | Fill: Enhanced reminiscence foam/polyester | Weight (oz): 2 lbs. 3.2 oz. | Packed Dimension: 14 x 9 x 7 in
Not everybody has the identical sleeping preferences.
Whereas some individuals appear to have the ability to sleep resting on no matter they discover close by, others can’t sleep with no excellent steadiness of consolation and softness.
In case you belong to the second group, you’ll love this pillow by Hest.
Now I do know, this pillow has the very best price ticket of all of the picks on this checklist.
However let me guarantee you, each penny is effectively justified.
What makes this pillow stand out from the group is the truth that it’s crammed with reminiscence foam.
It doesn’t flatten or lose form no matter what number of hours you’ve slept in the identical place.
In fact, you’ll be able to all the time additional regulate the fill via the zippered entry.
The pillow includes a PU-coated nylon cowl which retains it protected against grime and moisture.
Now, as soon as the quilt will get soiled, you’ll be able to simply take it off and wash it within the machine.
There’s additionally an built-in sack you can retailer it in when not in use, which compresses the pillow and protects it from grime.
When packed, you’ll be able to connect it to your backpack for hands-free motion.
Professionals
- The reminiscence foam fill affords assist with out sacrificing consolation
- Its curved form sits round your neck, permitting you to sleep even in additional upright positions
- The quilt is detachable and mechanically cleanable
- Eacy carry loop permits you to connect it to your backpack, leaving extra room inside for different tools
Cons
- Fairly costly
- The heaviest mannequin on this checklist
Greatest for: Campers who want a smooth pillow with good head assist.
Evaluate Backpacking Pillows
Components to Take into account
Undecided which one to decide on? Let’s speak about various factors that may have an effect on your choice.
Weight & Packed Dimension
These two components are particularly vital when you plan on carrying your entire gear in your again.
With so many items of apparatus packed, corresponding to a tent and sleeping bag, the very last thing you need to drag you down extra is a pillow, proper?
The extra materials is concerned, the heavier the pillow can be. That is very true for filling.
For that purpose, don’t be shocked {that a} compressible or hybrid pillow weighs greater than an inflatable one which’s crammed solely with air.
In case you’re on the lookout for the lightest weight pillow, then you definitely’ll need to go together with the stuff sack choices just like the Hyperlite Mountain Gear Stuff Sack Pillow or the Therma-a-Relaxation Trekker™ Pillow Case.
However In case you aren’t a fan of utilizing your down jacket as a pillow and need to go for extra consolation, then the Sea to Summit Aeros Down Pillow is an efficient compromise at solely 2.5 oz.
Past the load, you additionally need to try the packed dimension, as you’ll be able to see within the image above some are MUCH larger than others.
Slipperiness
A pillow that slides round your sleeping pad doesn’t contribute a lot to a very good night time’s sleep.
Sadly, that’s not an unusual case with backpacking pillows, primarily as a result of they’re made with such supplies.
Some fashions repair the difficulty by having connected velcro tapes or cords with permitting you to connect the pillow to the pad.
Frequency of Use & Sturdiness
Because you’ll be utilizing a pillow inside a tent and/or a sleeping bag, there’s little or no likelihood you’ll be able to injury it with one thing sharp.
And even when that occurs, it gained’t be an excessive amount of of a problem with a pillow full of foam, as an example.
However with inflatable pillows, even the tiniest prick can pierce them, thus rendering them ineffective.
In fact, that doesn’t imply it is best to avoid inflatable pillows normally.
However take note of the fabric they’re manufactured from. Ideally, search for polyurethane or related sturdy supplies that aren’t simply broken.
Consolation & Assist
What’s the purpose of a backpacking pillow if it’s no extra comfy than sleeping in your puffy jacket?
Other than the kind of backpacking pillow (which we’ll get into within the subsequent part), there are different components that affect its comfortability and assist.
Specifically, the form and materials that’s masking the highest half additionally have an effect on how effectively you’ll sleep at night time.
We discovered that essentially the most comfy choices have been the Sea to Summit Aeros Down Pillow, Sea to Summit Aeros Premium, the Therma-a-Relaxation Air Head™ Down Pillow and the HEST Pillow.
Inflatable vs. Stuff Sack
By inflatable, right here I imply all kinds of pillows that increase when used and compress down for packing.
Selecting between an inflatable or stuffed pillow primarily comes right down to space for storing and weight.
Pillow-case backpacking pillows are the lightest choice however are as comfy because the stuff you place inside.
Inflatable, alternatively, use air, down, foam, or different artificial fillings.
Learn: Down vs. Artificial Sleeping Bag (Which is Higher?)
Whereas which means they’re barely heavier and bulkier, they’re additionally extra comfy.
Sort Of Backpacking Pillows
There are a number of totally different pillow choices on the market, they usually all work a bit in another way. Right here’s a fast recap of every sort so that you just get an concept.
Inflatable Pillows
Like your pool float, such a pillow can be crammed with air. This implies it’s light-weight and packs down small when not inflated.
You may simply regulate how stiff or smooth it’s by including or releasing some air via the valve.
Besides, the air will not be essentially the most comfy choice on the market. What’s extra, it may be noisy once you’re shifting round.
The very best of the purely inflatable pillows have been the Massive Agnes Q Core Deluxe Inflatable Journey Pillow and the Trekology Ultralight Inflatable Tenting Journey Pillow
Compressible Pillows
Any such pillow is normally crammed with down, foam or related artificial materials.
And so far as consolation goes, no different sort of backpacking pillow can come shut.
A compressible pillow is de facto just like what your pillow at dwelling looks like.
However in fact, consolation doesn’t come with out price. The principle draw back to a compressible pillow is the truth that it’s typically bulkier and heavier than different varieties.
This makes it barely extra appropriate for different kinds of tenting than backpacking.
The very best compressible pillows are the REI Co-op Trailbreak Foam Pillow and the HEST Pillow.
Hybrid Pillows
A hybrid pillow is a mixture of each compressible and inflatable varieties.
Principally, the underside half is crammed with air whereas the highest half is compressible and crammed with down or foam.
Hybrid pillows are good center floor. They’re not heavy, however not as light-weight as another varieties.
They’re additionally fairly comfy, however nonetheless not as comfortable as compressible pillows.
We’ve chosen the Sea to Summit Aeros Down Pillow as our greatest total backpacking pillow, and it’s straightforward to see why going with the hybrid choice is a superb alternative.
Stuff Sack Pillows
With such a pillow, you fill it with your personal stuff, be it a jacket or sweater.
So naturally, it’s as much as you the way comfy they prove. Though evaluating them to different kinds of pillows by way of consolation is futile.
However when you take away no matter you crammed it with, a stuff sack pillow turns into extraordinarily mild and simple to pack.
For that purpose, it’s a sensible choice for longer journeys.
The very best stuff sack pillows are the Hyperlite Mountain Gear Stuff Sack Pillow and the Therma-a-Relaxation Trekker™ Pillow Case.
Face Materials
Nothing much less vital is the material that you just’ll relaxation your face upon. Typically, two kinds of supplies are used for this.
Polyester
Polyester normally has a slight fuzzy really feel, which makes it smooth and heat on the face.
And whereas it does so much by way of consolation, the brushed polyester is way tougher to scrub.
Nylon
Resting your face on a pillow with nylon face materials is like resting it on a pool float mattress.
Not precisely the coziest feeling, however you’ll be able to all the time put a canopy over it for extra comfy sleep.
Nylon, in comparison with polyester, is way simpler to scrub.
FAQs
What Makes A Good Backpacking Pillow?
If you’re backpacking, each ounce issues.
That’s why a pillow, like some other piece of drugs, must be each light-weight and compact. However on the similar time, it additionally wants to offer consolation and head assist whereas sleeping.
Tips on how to deflate a backpacking pillow?
To deflate it, open the valve and push it downwards. You’ll hear and really feel the air popping out of the valve.
Begin folding the pillow in half and deflating as a lot air as you’ll be able to, then repeating the method.
What’s the lightest backpacking pillow?
Hyperlite Mountain Gear Stuff Sack Pillow is the lightest choice, weighing simply 1.7 ounces.
From inflatable pillows, Sea to Summit Aeros Down Pillow weighs comparably lower than different fashions.
Are inflatable pillows any good?
Inflatable pillows have their benefits, particularly their featherweight and compactness.
Whereas typically not thought of to be essentially the most comfy sort of pillow, sure fashions show that there’s an exception to every little thing.
Are you able to get by with no pillow when backpacking?
Technically, you may get by with out one, and many backpackers do that.
However there actually are not any causes for that, as sure pillows weigh not more than an oz..
Carrying that tiny quantity of added weight to enhance your consolation stage for a complete stage is unquestionably value it.
To Sum Issues Up
As you’ll be able to see, there are tons of backpacking pillows out there available on the market.
However on an extended checklist of outstanding fashions, one which stands out is the Aeros Down Pillow by Sea to Summit.
This mannequin has a little bit of every little thing – it’s light-weight, compact, heat and comfy.
Plus, it comes with a reasonably respectable price ticket.
What extra may you need in a backpacking pillow?