8 Best Backpacking Pillow for Side Sleepers in 2024

Have you ever had trouble sleeping outside with a lumpy pillow that feels like a rock? Well, if you sleep on your side, you’re not the only one! It’s tricky to find the best backpacking pillow for side sleepers. It’s like a nighttime adventure, but not the fun kind.

In this article, we’ll discuss each pillow, explaining what makes them special for side sleepers. We’ll look at their features, materials, and why they’re perfect for you. So, learn about the coziest and most amazing backpacking pillows that will make your camping nights super comfy.

Let’s make camping feel like a happy adventure, not a restless one!

Best Backpacking Pillow for Side Sleepers – Our Top 8 Picks

Here is the list of the eight best backpacking pillows we have curated and reviewed for you.

1. Sea To Summit Aeros Down – Best Backpacking Pillow for Side Sleepers
2. Exped Down Pillow – Ideal for Neck Support
3. Therm-A-Rest Air Head Down– Ultra Soft Pillow
4. Exped Mega Pillow – Perfect for Shoulder Relief
5. NEMO Fillo Backpacking – Best Comfortable Pillow
6. Exped Ultra Pillow– Ideal for Side Sleeper
7. Therm-A-Rest Air Head – Economically Best Backpacking Pillow for Side Sleepers
8. Outdoor Vitals Ultralight Stretch Pillow – Best Lightweight Pillow

1. Sea To Summit Aeros Down – Best Backpacking Pillow for Side Sleepers

The first on our list, Sea to Summit Aeros Down, is like a magical pillow for people who love to sleep on their sides during backpacking adventures. It’s super light, comfy, and just right for side snoozers.

Imagine a pillow as light as a feather. The Aeros Down weighs just 2.5 ounces, making it a fantastic choice for a cozy pillow without lugging around something heavy. Toss it in your backpack, and you might even forget it’s there until it unfolds into a comfy cloud for your head.

What makes the Aeros Down extra cool is its mini valve. It makes blowing up and letting out air super easy. You can even adjust how squishy or firm your pillow is. Moreover, this pillow isn’t just light; it’s tough too. The special fabrics ensure they can handle moisture and won’t wear out easily.

The Aeros Down is a regular-sized pillow at 13.4 x 9.4 x 4.7 inches when it’s all puffed up. But when it’s time to hit the trail again, it packs to a tiny 3.2 x 2.6 inches. It’s like a magic trick for your backpack. It is big when you need it and small when you don’t.

Pros and Cons

Our Verdict

Having experienced the Sea to Summit Aeros Down firsthand, I believe it’s the ultimate pick for side sleepers seeking comfort on their adventures. This pillow’s lightweight design and secure PillowLock patches make it a dream for those who toss and turn, ensuring a restful night’s sleep without the pillow’s wanderings.

Check out our detailed review of the Sea to Summit Aeros Down pillow at “The Ultimate Guide to Sea to Summit Travel Pillow“

2. Exped Down Pillow – Ideal for Neck Support

The Exped Down Pillow is our second-best choice in Backpacking pillows. It is particularly tailored for side sleepers searching for optimal neck support during outdoor adventures.

The key feature distinguishing this pillow is its cleverly designed ridges that rise to cradle the neck, ensuring a supportive and comfortable sleep experience. For those who prefer a smoother surface, a simple flip of the outer cover provides an alternative, showcasing the pillow’s versatility.

Exped Down Pillow’s commitment to luxurious comfort amidst the great outdoors sets it apart from conventional ones. The soft, ergonomic design, crafted from comfortable nylon material, offers a cloud-like experience.

Moreover, the air core and down-filling work harmoniously to create a soft and supportive pillow that caters specifically to the needs of side sleepers.

Also, adjustability is a key feature facilitated by the exceptional flat valve. Whether you desire a higher loft or a lower profile, the Exped Down Pillow accommodates you easily. This height-adjustable feature ensures a personalized sleeping experience, adapting to individual preferences.

In terms of practicality, the pillow’s rectangular shape adds convenience, weighing approximately 5.6 ounces – a negligible addition to your backpack.

Finally, the three color options are the cherry on top that adds a touch of personalization to your outdoor gear.

Pros and Cons

Our Verdict

What impresses me most is its ridges, which provide excellent neck support, and the versatility of flipping it for a smoother surface. The luxurious comfort, adjustable features, and practical design make it a reliable companion for restful nights outdoors.

3. Therm-A-Rest Air Head Down– Ultra Soft Pillow

The Therm-A-Rest Air Head Down Pillow is a star among camping and backpacking pillows, and it’s easy to see why. It is crafted from lightweight polyester, making it a traveler’s delight. This pillow feels like a plush haven for your head

, Topped with ultra-soft down.

The most vital feature distinguishing this pillow from others is its exceptional packability. The light and compact design makes it perfect for hassle-free travel. Also, it packs to a size that won’t weigh you down in your outdoor escapade.

Furthermore, when fully inflated, the Air Head Down Pillow reaches a plush 4-inch thickness, thanks to the clever baffled air chamber. This perfect design ensures stability and provides loft and customizable support, catering to the unique preferences of different sleepers, like side sleepers.

One of its prime features is the removable polyester cover, which adds practicality by being machine washable for easy maintenance. Plus, the nonslip fabric keeps the pillow securely in place, preventing nighttime pillow wandering.

In terms of dimensions, the regular-sized pillow measures 11 x 15.5 x 4 inches. However, its true convenience lies in its compact form, a mere 3.5 x 4.25 inches. It weighs around 5 ounces and won’t burden your backpack.

Pros and Cons

Our Verdict

The Therm-a-Rest Air Head Down Pillow is the best backpacking pillow for side sleepers for comfort, warmth, lightweight design, and durability. Look no further if you seek a pillow that ticks all the boxes for a cozy, hassle-free outdoor experience.

4. Exped Mega Pillow – Perfect for Shoulder Relief

The next on our list of eight best backpacking pillow for side sleepers is the Exped Mega Pillow. It is a dream for anyone seeking shoulder relief during outdoor adventures. It shares the same thickness as the Sea to Summit Aeros Down pillow but stands out with its longer length, making it an excellent choice for those who need extra support.

Exped Mega Pillow is crafted from skin-friendly soft tricot nylon material and synthetic insulation, and these materials provide a super soft and comfortable surface for a restful sleep.

One notable feature is the practical loop on both sides, allowing you to tie it securely to a mat via a cord. This ensures the pillow stays in place throughout the night, preventing annoying slips and slides.

Moreover, height adjustability is another plus, making it suitable for side, back, and stomach sleepers. Adjusting the Height is a breeze – release some air until it feels right.

Furthermore, including a washable fleece cover adds a touch of luxury and ensures easy maintenance. Despite its generous size at 20.9 x 12.6 x 4.7 inches, the Exped Mega Pillow remains impressively lightweight at just 6 ounces. The rectangular shape offers versatility, catering to different sleeping preferences.

Pros and Cons

Our Verdict

Whether you’re seeking extra shoulder support or an adaptable pillow for various sleeping styles, the Exped Mega Pillow delivers. Its soft materials, height adjustability, and practical tie-down feature make it a reliable companion for a cozy and secure night’s sleep in the great outdoors.

5. NEMO Fillo Backpacking Pillow – Best Comfortable Pillow

The NEMO Fillo Backpacking Pillow is the epitome of comfort for outdoor enthusiasts. This pillow is a standout choice for those who prioritize a good night’s sleep on their adventures, as it is designed with simplicity and coziness,

The NEMO Fillo is easily packable and won’t weigh you down on your backpacking journey, tipping the scales at 9 ounces. Its rectangular shape, measuring 17 x 11 x 4 inches, offers a comfortable and familiar sleeping surface for various sleep preferences.

The true hero of this pillow is its dedication to comfort. Luxuriously soft, it provides a plush resting place that rivals the comfort of your favorite home pillow. Quick to inflate, it won’t keep you waiting when all you want is to snuggle into your sleeping bag and doze off.

What sets the NEMO Fillo apart is its commitment to sustainability. This pillow is a guilt-free choice for eco-conscious adventurers that aligns with environmentally friendly practices.

Pros and Cons

Our Verdict

The NEMO Fillo Backpacking Pillow is a reliable companion that puts your comfort first. It’s more than just a pillow; it’s a cozy haven that ensures your outdoor nights are as restful as can be. With its easy packability, softness, quick inflation, and commitment to sustainability, this pillow is a top-notch choice for those seeking the best outdoor comfort.

6. Exped Ultra Pillow– Ideal for Side Sleeper

Coming at number three, the Exped Ultra Pillow is a dream come true for side sleepers in the world of camping comfort. This ultralight gem weighs just 1.8 ounces, making it a breeze to carry and pack.

Its premium and ergonomic design, shaped like a Lima bean, is an exceptional addition to the backpacking pillow. The anatomic shape ensures your head stays firmly in place throughout the night, offering uninterrupted sleep.

One outstanding feature is its height adjustability, offering a customized sleeping experience. The Flat Valve ensures effortless inflation and deflation, saving time and energy. Moreover, its compact size of 15 x 10.6 x 3.9 inches and lime bean shape makes it convenient for any adventure.

Comfort is at the forefront, and the Exped Ultra Pillow lives up to this promise. Its thoughtfully crafted design, eco-friendly materials, and user-friendly features make it a perfect pick for campers and backpackers who prioritize a restful night’s sleep. Whether you’re a side sleeper or value compact comfort, this pillow is a reliable companion for outdoor escapades.

Pros and Cons

Our Verdict

The Exped Ultra Pillow is a side sleeper’s delight, offering a perfect blend of ultralight comfort and eco-friendliness. Weighing just 1.8 ounces, its anatomic design and height adjustability provide personalized support. Compact and easy to inflate, it’s the ideal camping companion for those who prioritize comfort and convenience.

7. Therm-A-Rest Air Head – Economically Best Backpacking Pillow for Side Sleepers

The Therm-A-Rest Air Head stands out as one of the best backpacking pillow for side sleepers. It weighs a mere 2.0 ounces. This pillow is a featherweight champion, packing up small and fitting conveniently into a pocket. Crafted from comfortable knit polyester, it’s a touch of luxury in the great outdoors.

Its claim to fame lies in being the most comfortable pillow, providing 4 inches of air padding that can be easily customized to your preferred firmness. The full-sized pillow offers comfort at camp, ensuring a restful night’s sleep. The ultralight design makes it perfect for lighter days on the trail or when traveling, making minimal impact on your pack.

Moreover, the Air Head’s soft stretch knit fabric is lightweight, packable, and nonslip, ensuring the pillow stays secure. Its precise shape is designed to nestle seamlessly into the hood of a sleeping bag, adding an extra layer of comfort.

In terms of dimensions, the large-sized pillow measures 12.5 x 18 x 4 inches. However, its true convenience lies in its packability, compressing to a mere 2.5 x 4.5 inches. Including a stuff sack adds a practical touch for easy storage and transport.

Pros and Cons

Our Verdict

The Therm-A-Rest Air Head is the top contender for side sleepers seeking the perfect blend of comfort, portability, and customization. It’s a lightweight marvel that transforms your camping experience into a cozy retreat, proving that big comfort can come in small packages.

8. Outdoor Vitals Ultralight Stretch Pillow – Best Lightweight Pillow

The Outdoor Vitals Ultralight Stretch Pillow is the top choice for lightweight comfort on a budget. This pillow weighs only 3.1 ounces. It is a feather-light addition to your backpacking gear, providing a wallet-friendly alternative to pricier options.

Crafted from ultra-tough 30D stretch nylon, this pillow is durable and versatile enough to double as a seat. The stretch material adds a touch of homey comfort, molding your head like your pillow at home. It’s like bringing a piece of your bedroom to the great outdoors.

Furthermore, the quick inflate and deflate valve ensures hassle-free setup and takedown, while the included carry sack adds convenience for storage and transport. The pillow’s 16 inches x 10 inches and height 4 inches balance compactness and comfort.

One standout feature is its affordability without compromising on quality. Despite being a tad heavier than some lightweight counterparts, the significant cost reduction makes it an attractive choice for budget-conscious backpackers.

Pros and Cons

Our Verdict

The Outdoor Vitals Ultralight Stretch Pillow is your go-to if you want a wallet-friendly marvel with impressive lightweight comfort. It’s the prime pick for thrifty backpackers, built with durable 30D stretch nylon and a homey feel.

Frequently Asked Questions