10 Best Camping Pillows 2025 in the United States

The Therm-a-Rest Compressible Cinch Camping and Backpacking Pillow is a solid choice for outdoor enthusiasts seeking comfort while camping or backpacking. Measuring 12 x 16 inches, this small pillow is both lightweight and packable, making it easy to carry on any adventure. One of its standout features is the ability to adjust firmness with the cinch cord, allowing users to find their desired level of support, which is particularly beneficial for those with specific comfort needs.

The pillow is made from upcycled sleeping pad foam, paired with a soft cover that is 60% recycled polyester, showcasing an eco-friendly approach. This makes it a great option for environmentally conscious campers. The added light insulation layer helps provide an even sleeping surface, minimizing lumps that can disrupt sleep.

The pillow needs to be unpacked and allowed to sit for 24 hours upon arrival to achieve its full loft, which might be inconvenient for those who want immediate use. While machine washable, it’s best to store it uncinched to maintain its shape and performance, requiring extra care when packing. With its fun design, this pillow appeals not only to environmental concerns but also to those who appreciate a touch of personality in their gear. If you're looking for a larger pillow or one with extra firmness options, you might want to explore other sizes offered by the brand.

The Klymit Drift Camping Pillow is designed to offer a comfortable and supportive sleep experience outdoors, making it a strong choice for campers who want a bit of home comfort on the trail. Its size (18 x 12 x 5.5 inches) is compact enough to pack down to 11 x 5 x 5 inches, which helps with transport without taking up too much space. Weighing 1.3 pounds, it’s a bit heavier than some inflatable or air pillows, mainly due to the shredded memory foam filling, but this weight adds to its plush support and comfort. The shredded memory foam adapts to your head and neck, providing better support than many standard camping pillows that rely on air or simple stuffing.

The outer shell made of 70D polyester ripstop with a water-resistant coating adds durability and weather protection, which is helpful in outdoor settings. The inner cover is 100% jersey cotton, offering a soft feel against the skin, though the care instructions recommend hand washing the pillow, which might be less convenient for some users. One nice feature is that the outer cover is machine washable, making it easier to keep clean on extended trips. Its rectangular shape and plush firmness suit campers who prefer a soft pillow rather than a firm or inflatable one.

This pillow balances comfort, durability, and portability well, making it a solid option for car campers, weekend backpackers, or anyone who wants a reliable, supportive pillow for outdoor adventures. However, if your priority is ultra-lightweight or extremely compact gear, this pillow might feel a bit bulky and heavy, so it’s best suited for those who prioritize comfort and support over saving every ounce of weight.

The Therm-a-Rest Compressible Cinch Camping Pillow is a lightweight and eco-friendly option for campers and backpackers looking for comfort on the trail. Measuring 14 by 18 inches and weighing just 11 ounces, it strikes a good balance between being compact enough to carry easily and large enough to provide decent support. The pillow uses upcycled sleeping pad foam as filling, wrapped in a soft cover made of 60% recycled polyester, which makes it both comfortable and kind to the environment.

One standout feature is the cinch cord that lets you adjust the firmness to your liking, a handy option if you prefer either a softer or firmer pillow. The top insulation layer helps keep the surface smooth and free of lumps, enhancing comfort for various sleeping positions. It's also machine washable, making it simple to clean after outdoor use. On the downside, the pillow requires some care before first use—letting it sit open for 24 hours to regain its loft after packaging, and it's best stored uncinched to maintain its shape. This may be a minor inconvenience if you're in a hurry.

Though it’s not the largest pillow available, its size and adjustability make it versatile for multi-position sleepers, and its 6-inch thickness offers solid neck and head support. This pillow is well suited for campers who prioritize lightweight gear without sacrificing comfort, especially those who value environmentally conscious materials and easy maintenance.