After a long day of hiking, few things are worse than trying to sleep with a bad pillow at camp. Getting good rest is essential for enjoying your outdoor adventures, but many camping pillows are uncomfortable, overpriced, or just too bulky.
You can easily create comfortable, lightweight pillows using items you already have or inexpensive alternatives that won’t weigh down your pack.
Some backpackers have found creative solutions, like swapping in a car washing sponge instead of shelling out for an inflatable pillow.
Others tackle the classic issues, camp pillows being too short, too hard, or too slippery, with simple tweaks that actually work. You can even whip up a quick and easy pillow using clothing from your pack.
Table of Content
Key Takeaways
- You can create comfortable camping pillows using everyday items like clothing, stuff sacks, or even car washing sponges.
- Simple modifications like adding a t-shirt cover can make inflatable pillows less slippery and more comfortable.
- Proper pillow height and support are crucial for side and back sleepers to wake up without neck pain during your outdoor adventures.
Essential Camping Pillow Hacks
Getting good sleep while camping can be tough without the right pillow. These practical hacks will help you rest comfortably without adding bulk to your pack.
DIY Pillow Solutions with Clothing
One of the easiest camping pillow hacks is just using your clothes. Stuff a fleece jacket or extra shirt into a stuff sack or pillowcase for an instant pillow.
This saves space, since you’re already bringing these items anyway. For better comfort, try the “buff technique”, use a neck buff to hold your clothing in place.
The stretchy material makes a more stable pillow that won’t move around at night. Another trick: layer soft items like t-shirts on top and denser stuff (think pants) on the bottom for a pillow that’s soft but still supportive.
No stuff sack? Grab a clean sock and you’ve got yourself a mini-pillow in a pinch.
Inflatable Pillow Modifications
Inflatable camping pillows are light, but honestly, they can feel awkward. Try the Trekology pillow hack, partially inflate it so your head can sink in a bit, instead of just rolling off.
Side sleepers, you might want to stack two inflatable pillows or put some extra clothing underneath for better neck support. Some folks also:
- Place the pillow inside a soft shirt for comfort
- Use a non-slip mat underneath to keep it in place
- Add a small towel on top to absorb sweat
Honestly, using a car washing sponge as a pillow sounds odd, but it works. They’re light, squish down small, and feel surprisingly good under your head.
Choosing Lightweight and Space-Saving Options
When you’re picking a camping pillow, weight and packability matter. Hybrid pillows with both inflatable sections and foam tops hit a nice balance between comfort and size.
Look for dual-chambered designs so you can tweak the firmness. The Nemo Fillo and Therm-a-Rest compressible pillows are well-liked and pack down small.
If you’re truly counting ounces, the sponge hack weighs next to nothing. Just cut a car washing sponge to your preferred size and toss it in your pack.
Don’t forget to use a waterproof stuff sack for your pillow solution. That way it stays dry and doubles as extra storage during the day.
Improving Pillow Comfort and Support
Getting a good night’s sleep while camping really depends on your pillow setup. With a few tweaks, you can make a basic camping pillow feel a lot more like your bed at home.
Layering Techniques for Extra Cushioning
Stacking your camp pillow with other soft items can make a huge difference. Try the buff and down jacket method: wrap your inflatable pillow in a buff (neck gaiter) and put a folded down jacket underneath.
This creates a cozy cradle for your head. Side sleepers, you might want two pillows, one under your head, another between your knees for hip and back comfort.
Another easy hack: slip a thin layer of clothing under your inflatable pillow. T-shirts are perfect for a bit of extra cushioning.
Some backpackers even use car washing sponges as an ultralight base layer. They keep their shape and add a surprising boost in comfort.
Using Towels or Blankets for Added Firmness
Wrapping your inflatable pillow in a small camping towel helps with temperature control. The fabric also keeps that sticky plastic feeling off your face.
Try inflating your pillow to about 70-80%, not all the way. Then wrap it in a towel or t-shirt for a good mix of support and softness.
If you want more firmness, fold a thin camp towel and place it under your pillow’s bottom edge. This gives a slight incline that helps with neck alignment for lots of folks.
The Sea to Summit Aeros pillows are especially nice for this, since their curved shape works well with layers.
Preventing Slippage During the Night
Waking up with your pillow halfway across the tent is just the worst. Try a non-slip mat (even a section of yoga towel) under your pillow setup.
Make a “pillow pocket” by folding the top of your sleeping bag over your pillow. That keeps it in place all night.
Or use the hood of your sleeping bag as a pillow anchor, just pop your pillow inside and cinch it a bit. It’s a simple trick that works.
If your sleeping pad has a built-in pillow section, put your camp pillow on top and secure both with a buff or bandana. This comfy pillow hack has saved plenty of campers from midnight pillow chases.
Keeping Your Camping Pillow Clean and Fresh
A clean camping pillow makes for better sleep and helps your gear last longer. Regular care keeps odors and allergens under control out there in the wild.
Quick Cleaning Tips in the Wild
Keeping your camping pillow clean in the backcountry isn’t always easy, but it’s doable. Using a removable pillowcase is a simple way to keep things fresh, it acts as a barrier between your face and the pillow.
For quick clean-ups, bring a tiny spray bottle with mild soap and water. Spray, gently rub the spot, and let it air dry.
Emergency Cleaning Solutions:
- Baby wipes work for fast clean-ups
- Damp bandana with a drop of biodegradable soap
- Sprinkle baking soda to absorb odors (just brush off after 30 minutes)
If your pillow gets really grimy, turn it inside out (if you can) and rinse with clean water. Squeeze gently, don’t wring it or you’ll mess up the filling.
Always air out your pillow during the day. Hang it on a branch or lay it on a rock in the sun.
Moisture and Odor Prevention
Moisture is your camping pillow’s worst enemy. It leads to mildew, mold, and that musty smell nobody wants near their face.
Moisture Prevention Tips:
- Store your pillow in a mesh bag when not in use
- Never pack it away damp
- Air out your pillow daily during your trip
A handy hack: put your pillow in a cotton pillowcase to absorb sweat and oils. Makes it feel more like home, too.
For inflatable pillows, make sure they’re bone dry before deflating. Any leftover moisture inside can mean mildew later.
Skip the perfume and deodorant sprays on your pillow; just toss a dryer sheet in your storage bag between trips for a fresh scent.
Conclusion
A good pillow can really make or break your camping trip. It’s wild how much difference a little comfort can add to your night under the stars.
Try stuffing some clothes into a soft stuff sack if you’re short on options. Not fancy, but hey, it works, and you don’t have to buy anything extra.
If you’re a side sleeper, the pillow stacking method is worth a shot. Honestly, your neck will probably be happier in the morning.
Unconventional choices can surprise you, like using a car washing sponge. Some ultralight backpackers swear by it, and it’s so light you might forget it’s even in your pack.
Test your pillow hack at home before you head out. Trust me, nobody wants to find out their setup flops when they’re miles from anywhere.
Here’s to better sleep and waking up ready for whatever adventure comes next. After a day of outdoor activities, you really do deserve it.
