What Do You Use for a Pillow When You Go Camping?

When it comes to camping, a good night's sleep is crucial for enjoying the wilderness experience to its fullest. While sleeping bags and tents get a lot of attention, the humble camping pillow is often overlooked. However, the right pillow can make a significant difference in your comfort and sleep quality. In this blog, we'll explore the various options for camping pillows and help you find the perfect one for your outdoor adventures.

Our comfiest hammock has to be 'The Fat Hammock'. With a built in pillow and padded material it's the perfect place to relax

1. Traditional Camping Pillows: Traditional camping pillows are the closest in design to your regular bedroom pillows. They're usually filled with synthetic materials, such as polyester or foam, which provide a familiar level of comfort. These pillows are ideal for car camping where weight and space are not major concerns. They offer the advantage of being plush and supportive, but they can be bulky and not suitable for backpacking trips.

2. Inflatable Pillows: Inflatable pillows are a popular choice among backpackers due to their lightweight and compact nature. When deflated, they can easily fit into a small corner of your backpack. These pillows can be adjusted for firmness by controlling the amount of air you fill them with. The downside is that they can sometimes feel less comfortable and make a crinkling noise when you move. To enhance comfort, consider covering them with a soft pillowcase or clothing.

3. Compressible Pillows: Compressible pillows are filled with materials like memory foam, synthetic fibres, or a combination of both. They compress down to a small size for easy packing and expand to a larger size when in use. These pillows strike a balance between comfort and portability, making them suitable for both car camping and backpacking. They are softer and quieter than inflatable pillows, but they do take up more space in your pack.

4. Stuff Sack Pillows: A budget-friendly and versatile option is a stuff sack pillow. Essentially, you can fill a stuff sack with your clothes and use it as a pillow. This is a practical solution for ultralight backpackers who want to minimize their gear. The comfort level depends on the items you stuff it with – soft items like fleece jackets work best. The downside is that you might need those clothes for warmth during the night.

5. Hybrid Pillows: Hybrid pillows combine the features of inflatable and compressible pillows. They typically have an inflatable core for support and a top layer of soft, compressible material for comfort. This design offers the best of both worlds – the compactness of an inflatable pillow with the comfort of a compressible one. They are an excellent choice for those who prioritize both comfort and packing efficiency.

6. Natural Alternatives: For the minimalist camper or in emergencies, natural alternatives like a folded-up jacket, a pile of leaves, or a rolled-up sweater can serve as a makeshift pillow. While these options may not provide the best comfort, they can be a lifesaver in situations where you have limited resources.
   
   Justin Outdoors has put together the Ultimate Camping Pillow Test
    

When choosing a camping pillow, consider factors like the type of camping you'll be doing (backpacking vs. car camping), your sleeping position (side, back, or stomach), and personal preferences in terms of firmness and material. It's also worth considering the ease of cleaning, especially for longer trips.

In conclusion, the right camping pillow can significantly enhance your sleeping experience in the great outdoors. Whether you choose a traditional, inflatable, compressible, stuff sack, hybrid, or natural pillow, make sure it suits your specific needs and preferences. Remember, a well-rested camper is a happy camper!