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 Klymit Drift Camping Pillow is a versatile option designed to provide comfort on outdoor adventures, especially for side sleepers. It features a large size of 23 x 16 x 6.5 inches, which offers ample space for side sleeping but may be considered bulky by some. The pillow weighs 28 ounces, which is relatively heavy for backpacking, potentially adding to the load during long hikes.

The pillow is stuffed with shredded memory foam, providing a balance of softness and support, and allows for foam removal to customize firmness. The material includes a durable 70D polyester ripstop outer shell and a soft jersey cotton inner case, ensuring both longevity and comfort. The outer shell is water-resistant, and the entire pillow is designed to be easy to clean with a removable, machine-washable cover, making maintenance convenient.

When packed, it compresses to a size of 13.5 x 5 x 7 inches, which is compact but not the smallest option available. This pillow is particularly suitable for those who prioritize comfort over ultralight packing and are looking for a durable, supportive pillow for camping. However, it may not be ideal for minimalist backpackers due to its weight and packed size.