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10 Best Backpacking Pillow Side Sleeper 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Hikenture Camping Pillow with Removable Cover - Ultralight Inflatable Pillow for Neck Lumbar Support - Upgrade Backpacking Pillow - Washable Travel Air Pillows for Camping, Hiking, Backpacking (Black)

Rating
9.7
Chosen by1,250
Size
Weight
Material

Most important from
9992 reviews

Size
The pillow packs down to a tiny size, making it easy to carry along with all your other camping gear.
Weight
This is one of my favorite backpacking purchases. It is extremely tiny, light, and comfortable.
Material
The removable cover is made of a soft, durable material that feels great against your skin and is easy to clean.
Packability
The pillow packs down to a tiny size, making it easy to carry along with all your other camping gear.
Ease of Cleaning
The removable cover is made of a soft, durable material that feels great against your skin and is easy to clean.

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.

Rating
9.7
Chosen by1,250
Size
Weight
Material

Most important from
9992 reviews

Size
The pillow packs down to a tiny size, making it easy to carry along with all your other camping gear.
Weight
This is one of my favorite backpacking purchases. It is extremely tiny, light, and comfortable.
Material
The removable cover is made of a soft, durable material that feels great against your skin and is easy to clean.
Packability
The pillow packs down to a tiny size, making it easy to carry along with all your other camping gear.
Ease of Cleaning
The removable cover is made of a soft, durable material that feels great against your skin and is easy to clean.
#2

Therm-a-Rest Compressible Cinch Camping and Backpacking Pillow, Regular - 14 x 18 Inch, Fun Guy Print

Rating
9.4
Weight
Support
Packability

Most important from
2021 reviews

Weight
Heavier than an inflatable but worth it for better sleep quality.
Support
Feels great with medium softness, and packs up pretty small.
Packability
Compresses enough to be a worthwhile addition to backpacking gear.
Ease of Cleaning
Washing and drying the pillow maximizes its loft, making it fluffy and comfortable.

The Therm-a-Rest Compressible Cinch Camping and Backpacking Pillow is designed for side sleepers who engage in outdoor activities like backpacking. Measuring 14 x 18 inches, this pillow offers a decent size for comfort while remaining relatively lightweight at 10.1 ounces, making it suitable for travel and camping. The use of upcycled sleeping pad foam and a cover made of 60% recycled polyester highlights its eco-friendly design.

The pillow's support can be customized using the cinch cord, which allows you to adjust the firmness to your preference. This is particularly beneficial for side sleepers who need specific support levels to avoid neck pain. Additionally, the insulation layer on top prevents lumps, ensuring a smooth sleeping surface.

The pillow is packable, as it stuffs easily into itself for compact storage, and is machine washable, adding convenience for cleaning after outdoor use. It's important to let the pillow sit open for 24 hours upon first receiving it to restore its loft, and it should be stored uncinched for best performance. While it excels in packability and support, some users might find the initial setup slightly inconvenient. This pillow is ideal for adult side sleepers who prioritize comfort and sustainability while backpacking or camping.

Rating
9.4
Weight
Support
Packability

Most important from
2021 reviews

Weight
Heavier than an inflatable but worth it for better sleep quality.
Support
Feels great with medium softness, and packs up pretty small.
Packability
Compresses enough to be a worthwhile addition to backpacking gear.
Ease of Cleaning
Washing and drying the pillow maximizes its loft, making it fluffy and comfortable.
#3

Vaverto Small Memory Foam Bed Pillow for Camping - Compressible Medium Firm, Breathable Cover, Machine Washable, Ideal Backpacking

Rating
9.2
Size
Support
Packability

Most important from
8338 reviews

Size
Firm and small, yet effective when paired with a sleeping bag, keeping the head comfortably elevated.
Support
Perfect for side sleepers, offering soft and adaptable support between knees or ankles.
Packability
Rolls up nice and tight for travel, reforming quickly after unpacking, making it ideal for on-the-go use.

The Vaverto Small Memory Foam Bed Pillow is a versatile option for backpackers who need a reliable pillow that's easy to carry. Measuring 18" by 12" and weighing in at around 1.2 pounds, it's designed for portability, making it an excellent companion for travel and camping. The pillow's medium firmness, thanks to its gel-infused memory foam, provides good support for the neck, shoulders, back, and head, which is ideal for side sleepers seeking comfort and alignment during sleep.

A significant advantage of this pillow is its high-quality, breathable memory foam material, which includes ventilation holes for temperature regulation and sweat management. This feature helps maintain comfort during hot or cold nights, catering well to varying outdoor conditions. Additionally, the hypoallergenic design makes it suitable for those sensitive to allergens commonly found in traditional down pillows.

Packability is further enhanced by the included carry case and snap loop, allowing users to easily attach it to luggage or hang it in a vehicle, ensuring convenience on the go. The removable bamboo-derived viscose cover adds a layer of ease in cleaning, as it is machine washable, though care should be taken not to wash the foam itself.

On the downside, some users may find the pillow's 3.5-inch thickness not supportive enough if they prefer a firmer feel or higher elevation. Also, while it excels in terms of portability, its size might not be sufficient for those who prefer larger pillows. Nonetheless, with a strong customer rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, it's clear that many find this pillow to be a reliable choice for backpacking adventures and home use alike.

Rating
9.2
Size
Support
Packability

Most important from
8338 reviews

Size
Firm and small, yet effective when paired with a sleeping bag, keeping the head comfortably elevated.
Support
Perfect for side sleepers, offering soft and adaptable support between knees or ankles.
Packability
Rolls up nice and tight for travel, reforming quickly after unpacking, making it ideal for on-the-go use.

Buying Guide for the Best Backpacking Pillow Side Sleeper

Choosing the right backpacking pillow is crucial for ensuring a good night's sleep while on the trail, especially for side sleepers. A good pillow can provide the necessary support and comfort, helping you wake up refreshed and ready for the day's adventures. When selecting a backpacking pillow, consider factors such as size, weight, material, and support to find the best fit for your needs.
SizeThe size of the pillow is important because it affects both comfort and portability. A larger pillow can provide more support and comfort, especially for side sleepers who need extra height to keep their spine aligned. However, a larger pillow may be bulkier and take up more space in your backpack. Smaller pillows are more compact and easier to carry but may not provide enough support. Consider how much space you have in your backpack and how much support you need when choosing the size.
WeightWeight is a critical factor for backpackers who need to keep their gear as light as possible. A lightweight pillow can make a big difference in your overall pack weight, making it easier to carry your gear over long distances. However, lighter pillows may sacrifice some comfort and support. Look for a balance between weight and comfort that suits your needs. If you prioritize a lighter pack, opt for an ultralight pillow, but if comfort is more important, you might be willing to carry a slightly heavier pillow.
MaterialThe material of the pillow affects both comfort and durability. Common materials include foam, inflatable, and hybrid options. Foam pillows offer good support and comfort but can be bulkier and heavier. Inflatable pillows are lightweight and compact but may not be as comfortable or durable. Hybrid pillows combine foam and inflatable elements to offer a balance of comfort and portability. Consider your comfort preferences and how much space you have in your pack when choosing the material.
SupportSupport is crucial for side sleepers who need to keep their head and neck aligned with their spine. A pillow with good support can prevent neck pain and ensure a restful sleep. Look for pillows that are specifically designed for side sleepers, with extra height and firmness to provide the necessary support. Test different pillows to see which one offers the best support for your sleeping position. If you often switch positions, a pillow with adjustable support might be a good option.
PackabilityPackability refers to how easily the pillow can be compressed and stored in your backpack. A highly packable pillow can save space and make it easier to organize your gear. Inflatable pillows are typically the most packable, as they can be deflated and rolled up into a small size. Foam and hybrid pillows may be less packable but can still be compressed to some extent. Consider how much space you have in your backpack and how important packability is to you when choosing a pillow.
Ease of CleaningEase of cleaning is an important consideration, especially for longer trips where your pillow may get dirty. Some pillows come with removable, washable covers, which can make cleaning easier. Others may be made from materials that can be wiped down or spot cleaned. Consider how easy it is to clean the pillow and whether it will require special care. A pillow that is easy to clean can help you maintain hygiene and extend the life of the pillow.

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