Best camping pillows according to redditors
We found 104 Reddit comments discussing the best camping pillows. We ranked the 51 resulting products by number of redditors who mentioned them. Here are the top 20.
We found 104 Reddit comments discussing the best camping pillows. We ranked the 51 resulting products by number of redditors who mentioned them. Here are the top 20.
I use
Trekology DREAMER COMFORT Ultralight Inflating Travel / Camping Air Pillows (green) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071FQJV82/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_-rLVAbDJESMR5
It's pretty cheap $15 and only 2.75 ounces. I've only used it twice, but I really like it so far
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B072M4M4VT/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1
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THINGS TO BRING:
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Next thing on the survival menu: make sure you have enough cash and convert it to Canadian before you leave. I normally suggest you bring about $150 - $200 depending on how early you plan on getting in. The cash machine can run out and I don't know how well it works with American bank accounts. ( $50/day early iirc ) Food also can get expensive.. Be ready for that
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There are a few places you can get food along the way, Kelwona is good, Castlegar is great ( No frills sells cheap food.. vegis can be meh, but for dirt cheap thats where I hit up ) Nelson is out of the way but has a "membership free bulk store" called Wholesale club.. It works but might be too large for one person
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Canadian tire will sell cheap coolers ( styrofoam etc ) so you can pick that up drop some ice in and go. Personally i hate suggesting styrofoam but you do what you need to.
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To pack your bag to save the maximum space, ROLL your clothes then push them into ziplock freezer bags. you can easily fit 2 - 3x the amount into a bag, depending on the size of your backpack and how long you will be there it can make it much easier to fit everything. Also bring a bathing suit in a spare bag. Toss it into the bag before tossing it into your backpack as you leave so it won't stink up everything.
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For clothing, shorts and tshirts work great, Lots of people love to dress up with costumes.. Now, it does get a bit chilly at night if you are not at the stages. A pair of pants and a hoodie is a good idea, ALSO KNOW, there is always a chance it could rain. so be ready for that. Normally it doesn't last long but you could get wet.
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( I will link my basic hiking setup at the bottom, I've collected this stuff over years but I can make it about 5-7 days with this, obviously you don't need everything but thats what I take hiking )
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Make sure to bring a GOOD pair of shoes for walking. When it gets dark, the paths become.. Sketchy. during the day sandals works but I always perfered my walking shoes. Water shoes are also AMAZING. The river is rockey.. Well.. only rocks.. So having something you can walk though it is super nice. You can do it bare foot and I have many times but its not always the most comfortable of things.
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https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B06Y5M3D4P/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
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https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B00TZRPQFI/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
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https://www.amazon.ca/NiceC-Ultralight-Portable-Backpacking-Festival/dp/B07F1Z4W6T/ref=sr_1_5?keywords=camping+chair&qid=1562387249&s=sports&sr=1-5
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https://www.amazon.ca/Camelbak-1122001900-Hydration-Backpacks-HydroBak/dp/B01L8JENFO/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=camelback&qid=1562387280&s=sports&sr=1-3
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https://www.amazon.ca/TOMSHOO-Cookware-Piezoelectric-Ignition-Backpacking/dp/B01JLMM0YG/ref=sr_1_4?keywords=hiking+stove&qid=1562387297&s=sports&sr=1-4
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https://www.amazon.ca/Mountain-Warehouse-Roll-Mat-Lightweight/dp/B00FB6D06Y/ref=sr_1_9?keywords=camp+foam&qid=1562387485&s=sports&sr=1-9
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https://www.amazon.ca/Sports-ComfortLite-Self-Inflating-Comfortably-Backpacking/dp/B009L1MF7A/ref=sr_1_5?keywords=hiking+pillow&qid=1562387513&s=sports&sr=1-5
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https://www.amazon.ca/BOGI-Microfiber-Travel-Sports-Compact/dp/B077VK4TDW/ref=sr_1_2?keywords=camp+towels&qid=1562387529&s=sports&sr=1-2
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Here are a few suggestions to get lighter - I've tried to put them in order of how easy/cheap they are:
Don't Bring This Stuff
Replace This Stuff
Big 3 - Now things start getting more expensive
I don't think the last two are worth doing, especially given your current system.
Hey! So I found my scrappy little pack list I had before I left. Hope this helps at all :)
Sea To Summit Aeros Premium Pillow
One rule to remember with tents is that lighter tent means thinner fabric means less durable.
If you are just car camping and not hiking, then just get a coleman sundome. It's all taped, triple stitched, the floor is industrial strength tarp material, and it's really quick to put up, doesn't need a footprint. The desert floor won't damage it and the bathtub floor is extremely waterproof in the northern states. And its like 65 dollars. If anything starts wearing out, you can buy 5 sundomes for the price of one REI tent.
I recently upgraded to the ALPS Koda tent, I think they still have some at SteepandCheap for under 100 dollars and its a great inbetween car camping and backpacking tent. 75d taffeta is very durable but not as bombproof as the coleman. Very similar to the Half-dome 2 in specs. Can't go wrong with either of the alps or the rei.
Don't get the hut/cabin style tent. They just don't hold up as well in my experience. The wind catches the really tall tents and starts snapping poles. Tents are rounded and shorter for a good reason, tent material is basically a sail and the wind will catch it. Also its 12 lbs and the size of a small suitcase when folded. If you travel, you will have to check it as a separate bag. Being able to stand in your tent is neat, but it makes everything else about it less convenient.
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For sleeping pads, check out the Thermarest Venture. It's got the same tech as the high-end thermarest pads, but it's square and has no insulation built in which makes it much cheaper. It IS however a 2inch inflatable pad made of high quality very tough materials and unless you are pitching your tent directly over snow, it's plenty warm. It also folds down to the size of a nalgene bottle and weighs about a pound.
I would also seriously look into getting a good pillow. No camping gear is going to be as supportive as your bed at home, so you really want a good pillow. The Trekology is an amazing deal for 13.50 right now. I went with a Thermarest airhead becaus I like a little padding. But seriously, Nobody regrets having a good pillow.
Sleeping pads are just so personal and there are a million different kinds for everyone. Really it's just going to depend on how much you are willing to spend and what makes you feel comfortable.
For packs: 50l is a big pack. I carry everything I need to live for four days in a 48l pack. Depending on the design it may or may not be considered a carry-on.
Exped (although I have the red one)
In my carry on, I always carry my hammock, just in case.
But I also carry one of these inflatable pillows. Mine's a different brand, but I'm not home right now to check. They're great for on the plane too.
Never actually broken out the hammock in the airport yet though. I'm just always nervous about cancellations and whatnot since I fly out of DTW, and snow/ice is a problem for half the year.
Teton Sports has a range of sleeping bags that would fit your needs.
I have a Polara rectangular bag (I like the extra space for me feet) that has a fleece liner that I took on a scout camp that kept me warm down to 15°F. We picked up an Evergreen bag for less than $50 on Black Friday.
I like Teton sports because they have a lifetime warranty on their stuff, and they are a local company based out of Utah. They also make decent backpacks and pillows.
Where do you sit when there aren't stumps and rocks? How do you illuminate your campsite when you can't build a fire? If you're a side sleeper and a light packer, where do you put your head?
A shovel serves very little purpose when the same can be done with a stick. You're making a poop hole, not a fox hole. I've never seen someone bring a shovel hiking for that purpose.
This is my electric lantern. It's less than 4" tall and puts out a lot of light. With cordage, you can hang it over your campsite and have an overhead light. Especially useful when camping where there are fire bans (which is very common for me). I don't think another tool can recreate this, so it's a necessity imo.
An inflatable pillow like this weighs less than 3 oz and packs up to the size of a shot glass. Pretty much non-existent in a pack and is a must-have for me.
A camp chair is certainly a luxury item, but the one I use weighs about 1 lb. I am able to squeeze it where trekking poles would go if I packed them. You make a fair point about this one, but if there isn't anything to sit on where you camp, then it's a pretty necessary thing to have. It's a little redundant since I bring a hammock, but there's no guarantee I'll be able to find trees that I can hang a hammock on in camp. And you'd be very lucky to stumble across a few perfect sitting stumps or large rocks at a backwoods campsite.
Those items hardly even compare to a shovel in terms of bulk and usefulness.
http://www.amazon.com/FROGLUBE-Brand-PREMIUM-Lubricant-Liquid/dp/B003ZW0LXQ 4oz liquid and 4 oz paste for under $35
EDIT: cheaper
http://www.amazon.com/Frog-Lube-Liquid-Bottle-4-Ounce/dp/B00579HNK4
http://www.amazon.com/Froglube-Paste-Cleaner-Lubricant-Protectant/dp/B004FOV89E
I had a knockoff of this pillow recommended to me and I have liked it so far. I have not compared it to the Sea to Summit version, though.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01C6YXK5E/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_iJW-ybB31YFSW
I’m also a side sleeper and struggle to sleep well through the night. The issue for me has been that my head didn’t sit high enough, and was so tilted that whatever arm I was sleeping on would quickly fall asleep and I’d wake often through out the night. Trying to stay light, I tried a few pillow options (Cocoon, stuff sack of clothes.. hated that one!) I went cheap on several recommendations and bought the Trekology pillow on amazon and I love it! It’s under $15, super light, easy, and really comfortable! Can’t recommend it enough!
I went a step further and used kamsnaps to attach a freebie buff to my sleeping pad, which doubles as a pillowcase and keeps my pillow from shooting out from under me during the night. It works really well, although, occasionally a snap will pop during the night.. it’s an easy fix though if I wake up; just needs to be snapped back in place.
The other BIG suggestion I have is to place something under the head of your sleeping pad, whether it’s your shoes, some clothing, your sit pad. It can add a few inches of height to your head making it MUCH more comfortable. I’m pretty confident in saying, for me personally, this last hack serves as the greatest factor in my comfortable lightweight sleeping setup..
Many sleeping bags can pair together. You'll buy one with the zipper on the left side and one with the zipper on the right side.
That way they work separate, but also together.
In my experience - they'll quickly discover that sleeping together inside 1 sleeping bag is overrated. This type of solution will allow them to zip into their own cocoons after the realization that being jammed together all night in a mummy bag is not as sexy as it sounds.
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For example, The North Face Cat's Meow 20F
This is a popular bag in a versatile temp rating. Price is reasonable too.
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If you want to go higher quality, consider a quilt. They are light, packable, comfortable, and super high quality. My girlfriend and I each have one and love them.
They make a double:
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Any good sleeping bag / quilt needs a good sleeping pad. If you are getting them a full sleep system - don't skimp on the pad(s).
Therm-a-Rest is a top brand (not cheap). Klymit makes some more budget friendly options I also recommend.
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There are tons of pillow options on the market. Check out REI for a big selection.
A backpacking inflatable pillow like this is popular:
If they are just car camping - I'd probably buy them something nicer/bigger. I even have a fancy Memory Foam one my mom made a fun cover for that I love for camping.
Trekology Ultralight Inflating Travel / Camping Air Pillows (orange) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01LW1RPEV/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_DZo8ybF4Z65NP
Do it!!!! Take advantage of this amazing opportunity. But take care of yourself.
I recently went on my first vacation since my accident and had the same worries and similar travel times. I did mounds of research (so many hours) on what to use to get more comfortable. Here are my top fave products. I used them all. All deflated or rolled super small and my husband loved them too. I didn’t look like a freak with too many airplane gadgets. Good luck!!!
Obligatory disclaimer: this is all my opinion, not trying to push products, I don’t benefit from this in any way.
butt cushion
neck pillow
multi use pillow thingy
Sea to Summit Aeros Pillow
Love this pillow. I've got wide shoulders and I'm a side sleeper. I have the large and it fits me great.
Klymit Cush Inflatable Pillow & Seat Cushion, Blue / Gray https://www.amazon.com/dp/B006WS5WXO/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_vo1RybPQVZ0A2
The Exped Large UL pillow is 20.5 x 13.4 x 5.1 and 2.8 oz.
But but Kek...
https://www.amazon.com/Frog-Lube-14706-FrogLube-Liquid/dp/B00579HNK4/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1492252705&sr=8-2&keywords=frog+lube
/r/Hammocks
/r/hammockcamping
I have 2 hammocks, a Grand Trunk Skeeter Beater for camping, and an ultralight one that stays in my backpack/bob. The Skeeter Beater is definitely more comfortable, but takes longer to set up (due to the ridgeline that holds up the bugnet).
The cheap one is good for naps or hanging out at work. I'd spend a night in it if I had to. Mostly in my bag for napping though. I also have an inflatable hiking pillow that works really well.
There are many shortcomings to hammocks though. You have to find somewhere to hang them, which sounds easy but can be hard sometimes. You get a cold butt without really warm temperatures (or an underquilt, or a sleeping bag). It takes a night or two to get used to sleeping in one, but holy hell is it better than the ground! You also need a rain-fly if it's going to be wet (which is a whole 'nother bag).
They're also useful for keeping the creepy crawlies off you.
I wouldn't use it for a primary long-term arrangement, but with proper planning they can make an effective system. 9 times out of 10 I'll reach for the hammock while loading up for a backpacking trip, and like I said I do carry one with me pretty much everywhere I go.
Another option to look into for BOB's/GHB's are simple Bivvy Bags. Smaller/lighter than a sleeping bag or hammock system, but still provide protection from the elements. Not great for sleeping in, but much better for surviving.
In the spirit of ultra-light, this camping pillow just weighs 4 ounces!
Leisure Co Ultralight Inflatable Camping Pillow -
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07BTKDBCD/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_XjWIBbP68FQ5A
Klymit Cush - sitpad and pillow (side-sleepers: the 'cupholders' in the pad are for your ear)
I run into the same problem.
I bought the NatureHike knock-off of a Sea-to-Summit Pillow but supplement it with my pack brain underneath.
For reference: at home I sleep with two very firm pillows stacked on top of one-another.
No stuff sack or rolled-up piece of clothing is going to have the density to be a pillow substitute for me.
With this, your base weight has been reduced by 44.55oz (2.78lbs) for free.
If you have cash, consider these changes (all USD):
= 3.86oz for $29.
Additionally, cutting on your big 4 will have huge weight savings.
Also, what clothes are you wearing? Mark those as worn if they are already in lighterpack!
I can’t camp without my trekology pillow! Only 2.8 oz and amazon has it for $13 right now!
I just finished 300 miles of the mountain to the sea trail in North Carolina.
I did it in just under a month.
I had an amazing time, and I would definitely do a long hike like that again. I think I will be more selective about the region I hike next time. I look forward forward to my next adventure!
I used injini toe sock liners underneath darn tough wool socks, and I believe this is why I didn’t have any blister/foot problems. Even after hiking with wet feet/socks/shoes for 4-6 days at a time. I highly recommend these to hikers and also to anyone doing long distance running.
I liked my backpack just fine. It’s balance when off my back was annoying. Like setting it down, it would always feel lopsided and lay on the ground in a frustrating way. But while wearing it, it was comfortable and seemed great. I grew quite fond of it.
For parts of the trail, a bear canister was required and this was a challenge with my pack and gear. Very ungraceful and will make me be more thoughtful in the future about trails I choose. I am happy not to have to deal with that canister every day now that I am done.
I used trekking poles the whole time and loved them.
I brought a kindle ereader with me and was happy to have something to wind down with in the evenings. I was able to read several books while on the trail!
My favorite pieces of gear:
accordion style seat pad
injini toe sock liners
sunscreen stick
Pack:
Osprey lumina 45
My sleep system:
Therm a rest neoair xlite torso pad
tekology inflatable pillow
I also used a synthetic quilt. I don’t have a link for it
My shelter:
single person tent
I used winter window cover treatment plastic for my footprint and was VERY IMPRESSED!! After a month, still done have any rips or noticeable wear.
Cooking system:
A lightweight cup for boiling water
Stove
A sawyer squeeze for water filtration paired with a couple smart water bottles
Great experience. Loved all my gear!
I use the FlexAir from Litesmith. $7 for a three pack. It weighs 0.88 oz on my scale. I use the pillow stuffed into my empty clothes stuffsack and throw my puffy in there as well. The down jacket combo on top makes the pillow less "bouncy" and is nice and soft. Only used this setup a couple times but I like it more than the knockoff S2S from Naturehike I used to use.
Edit: added weight
This one?
I have this and LOVE it!!!! I went through 4 different pillows before finding this.
I have the Sea to Summit Aeros and the nature hike knock off this one Honestly the knock is pretty decent, the blow up valve and the covering are not as nice as the seat to summit but other wise it's perfectly adequate and still light weight at 3oz.
This one has worked really well for me. I initially bought it for my wife when she went to Peru this summer and I've used it on several backpacking trips already this fall. It is light and packs down pretty small.
Super awesome lightweight inflatable pillow.
This one: https://www.amazon.com/Trekology-Ultralight-Inflating-Camping-Pillows/dp/B07BWFJVPH
This is the one I have. It works.
Klymit Cush Inflatable Travel Pillow & Seat Cushion https://www.amazon.com/dp/B006WS5WXO/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_O.sYBb24W8H74
Just wanted to say that naturehike makes a good inflatable pillow. I own it and have used it about 15 nights in the last year and love it. cost me 13 dollars and with prime shipped free.
https://www.amazon.com/Naturehike-Portable-Inflatable-Pillow-Protective/dp/B01C6YXJ0A
I am a really picky sleeper, and unlike many others, I feel like I need a pillow in a hammock. I found something I like, but it is not cheap lol. I use the Exped UL (Large) air pillow, wrapped in a GooseFeetGear down pillow stuff sack. Packs down to the size of a baseball, totals 2.9oz for both. It is marvelous.
https://www.amazon.com/Frog-Lube-14706-FrogLube-Liquid/dp/B00579HNK4 I use this about once every 6 months and then open and close it like 20 times and wipe up and mess.
Dear Sir, I would like to talk to you about our Lord and Savior, FrogLube... It's expensive but everything it touches will smell minty fresh and you won't attract any unwanted attention - at least from the neighbors.
Your wife might steal some to use as hand lotion.
Trekology DREAMER COMFORT Ultralight Inflating Travel / Camping Air Pillows (orange) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B072M4M4VT/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_1zPWAbVZV5T5S
These often go on lightning deal for $11-13. Good pillows and comparable to higher end versions.
The pillow is 2.9oz
Trekology Ultralight Inflating Travel / Camping Air Pillows (orange) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01LW1RPEV/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_e49fzbZKZHRZT
Well, not quite under 2 oz but this one is super cheap and quite comfy. The surface is decently comfy but stick a Buff over it and it's even better.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B071FQJV82/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&th=1
Naturehike makes a reasonable clone. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01C6YXK5E/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Agreed - one of my daughters and I have Trekology's and they've worked great for a few years, not to mention they're $15 (if they're not on sale) and 3.4 oz. I bought a different brand for a "Lightning Deal" on Amazon and it lasted for two trips, so the Trekology's seem to have better QC.
I did branch out and buy a different pillow for my daughter whose off-brand pillow failed. It has a fuzzy covering on one side for a slight weight penalty, 4 oz. total. She loves the comfort, so we'll see if the durability is any better: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07BTKDBCD/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
I use this: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B071FQJV82/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
I had bought a cheaper inflatable pillow but it was just uncomfortable. Your mileage may vary, but I refuse to sacrifice a good nights sleep to save an ounce or two. I also have the Nemo Disco sleeping bag which is made for side sleepers over the traditional mummy bag. It weighs a little more, but I can toss and turn, roll over on my stomach, or sleep on my side.
I recently was intrigued by the trtl pillow, although I haven't tried it yet. linky
Currently I have this one and I like it because it's super compact, but I'm not sure how effective it is for sleeping on coach.
I've never used the wipes. You may want to buy them here to try them for less:
http://www.bladehq.com/item--FrogLube-CLP-Wipes--15888
On amazon, I think this is the jar I have:
http://www.amazon.com/Frog-Lube-Liquid-Bottle-4-Ounce/dp/B00579HNK4
I mostly use the stuff on firearms, but it seems to work great on knives and it's food safe.
Edit: whoops, screwed up a link, I'll find the right one.
The MSR HH NX is a very nice tent, very well made and livable. It is kinda narrow though. Overall, I really enjoy using it when conditions aren't right for a hammock.
2015 Wishlist:
TAR Xtherm
Osprey Exos 58
MH Ghost Whisperer
STS Aeros Premium Pillow
Geigerrig Hydration Bladder
Also in the market for a decent camera if anyone has any suggestions?
Thanks! I’ll check out that trail. I’m hoping to do a few hikes through the spring/summer to prep for the hike and go from there to see if I’ll be confident in doing the hike.
I plan on doing at least 2 over night hikes to test my gear... which I have yet to buy but will purchase the things I need in the new year (you never know I may change my mind and that’s a lot of gear to buy)... I found the following online...
sleeping bag, pillow, tent, cook set, backpack , and cooking stove
Of course I’ll have my clothing, food and toiletries. I’m hoping to be as lightweight as possible. Any gear suggestions would be great, I’m also ok with crossing the boarder to get a good deal... I’m a Winnipeger after all, I’m cheap! Lol
NO WD-40! Breakfree CLP is your best bet cause you can get it almost anywhere. I use Froglube or Seal nowadays and they both work great.
https://www.amazon.com/Therm-a-Rest-6434-Travel-Cushion/dp/B00HANW9FY/ref=sr_1_5?keywords=therm-a-rest+seat&qid=1556067571&s=gateway&sr=8-5
You can actually order one from Amazon now: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B072M4M4VT