10 Best Backpacking Pillow Side Sleeper 2026 in the United States

The Wise Owl Outfitters Camping Pillow seems like a great choice for backpackers and side sleepers who require comfort and portability. Its small size (12 x 16 inches) and lightweight (9 ounces) make it easy to carry, which is ideal for those on the move. The memory foam fill offers good support for your head and neck, enhancing comfort—a crucial factor for side sleepers.

The soft micro-suede cover adds to the comfort, making it a pleasant pillow to rest on during camping or travel. An added advantage is its versatility; it can be used in various settings including airplanes, hammocks, and cars, and it can even double as a seat cushion if needed. The pillow's packability is excellent as it compresses into a waterproof stuff sack, taking up minimal space in your backpack.

Additionally, its machine-washable cover and the option to wash the entire pillow ensure it’s easy to keep clean. However, some users might find the medium firmness less suitable if they prefer a softer or firmer pillow. Despite its strengths, the memory foam might not provide the same level of support for everyone, especially for those who are used to thicker or adjustable pillows. This camping pillow is a solid choice for someone looking for a compact, comfortable, and versatile pillow to enhance their outdoor sleeping experience.

The Hikenture Camping Pillow is an ultralight, inflatable pillow designed specifically for outdoor activities like camping and backpacking. It stands out with its durable construction, featuring a thickened TPU bladder to prevent air leaks, ensuring reliability on your trips. The pillow boasts a removable, washable cotton cover, making it comfortable and easy to maintain. The ergonomic design caters to both side and back sleepers, offering good neck and lumbar support, which is essential for a restful sleep in the wilderness.

Additionally, the pillow’s firmness can be adjusted via the valve to suit personal preferences. It inflates quickly with a one-click valve and deflates just as easily, adding to its convenience. Packability is a significant strength, as it compresses down to the size of a soda can and weighs only 159 grams, making it highly portable and space-saving in your backpack. On the downside, hand washing the cover might be a minor inconvenience for some users. The Hikenture Camping Pillow is a practical choice for backpackers and campers who prioritize comfort, durability, and ease of use in their gear.

The Trekology Ultralight Inflatable Camping Travel Pillow (ALUFT 2.0) is highly portable and lightweight, folding down to a compact 5x2 inches and weighing just 3.9 ounces. This makes it an excellent choice for backpacking and travel. The pillow is constructed from durable TPU fabric that is also water-resistant, ensuring it can withstand various outdoor conditions.

Its ergonomic design provides good neck and lumbar support, which is beneficial for side sleepers looking for comfort during their adventures. The pillow measures 16x12x4 inches when inflated, offering sufficient support for a restful sleep. The anti-slip design with dots and a latch strap ensures the pillow stays in place on sleeping mats, preventing any sliding during the night.

It's easy to inflate and deflate, requiring just 5-8 breaths for inflation and featuring a quick deflate button for convenience. However, considering the material and design, it is hand wash only, which might be a bit cumbersome for some users. The compact size and lightweight nature are great for packing, although some may find the firmness less adjustable compared to foam pillows. This pillow is ideal for those who prioritize portability and durability, especially for outdoor activities like camping and hiking, but may not be the best for those who require a softer, more versatile pillow.