Do I Need a Backpacking Pillow?

By Alice Nichols

Deciding whether or not you need a backpacking pillow is an important consideration when planning a backpacking trip. A good pillow can make all the difference in getting a good night’s sleep and being able to enjoy the outdoors during the day. But, a pillow can add weight and bulk to your pack, so it’s important to consider if it’s really necessary.

When deciding if you need a backpacking pillow, first consider what type of terrain you will be camping on. If you are camping in rocky or uneven terrain, bringing a pillow may be essential to get comfortable enough to sleep through the night. However, if you are camping on flat terrain, like a meadow or beach, then you might not need one.

Another thing to consider is if you plan on taking multiple camping trips throughout the year. If so, then investing in a quality backpacking pillow may be worth it as it will provide more comfort than something like an inflatable pillow that could easily get punctured or lose air while on your travels. However, if this is just one trip and you don’t plan on taking more anytime soon then an inflatable option might suffice.

Finally, think about the type of sleeping bag that you are using for your trip. If it has an ergonomic design with contoured headrests and supports then this could provide enough cushioning for your head and neck that a separate pillow may not be needed at all.

Conclusion:

Do I need a backpacking pillow? It depends on where you will be camping, how many trips you plan to take in the future and what type of sleeping bag you have chosen. Taking all of these factors into account will help determine if bringing along a backpacking pillow is necessary for your adventure.