Since neck and back problems are more of a concern for seniors, it is up to you to whether or not you want to sacrifice comfort for efficient weight.
Also, keep in mind that this is all relative. Pillows overall are lightweight items. So, if you choose a more comfortable option, you won’t really be adding a lot of weight to your gear. The truth is, many heavier pillows are still below half a pound in total weight.
Since this is a challenging balance to achieve, we’ve listed a variety of pillow options. For some, the main selling point is the limited weight. For others, the emphasis is on comfort. Read on to find which is best for you.
Camping Pillow Comparison
Sea to Summit Aeros Premium Pillow: 2.7 oz.
- Lightweight inflatable pillow with a soft brushed knit exterior is ideal for camping or travel
- Multi-function mini valve provides easy inflation, fast deflation and the ability to fine-tune the...
- Technical fabrics reduce weight, will withstand exposure to moisture and pack down small
This pillow weighs about the same as a deck of cards.
Because it is inflatable, it is very compact when it comes to storage.
The fact that it is inflatable is what leads to some of its downsides. Inflatable pillows are usually less comfortable than some other pillow materials.
Some seniors may not be interested in needing to blow up their pillow to use it. But, the manufacturer claims this inflation process is easy. Only five to seven breaths are needed to prepare your pillow for a night of sleep.
Coop Home Goods – Adjustable Travel and Camping Pillow: 3 lbs.
- FEEL AT HOME – Take the comfort and luxury of our bestselling pillows anywhere you go. This small...
- ADJUST IT AND ENJOY RESTFUL SLEEP – Our backpacking pillow is compressible and adaptable to any...
- SLEEP WITH PEACE OF MIND - Confidently use our CertiPUR-US & Greenguard Gold certified Travel...
When it comes to the balance between weight and comfort, this pillow leans heavily to one side. With memory foam and a polyester covering, this pillow maximizes comfort.
And as you would guess, that comfort comes at a cost. The weight of this pillow is three pounds. That is comparable to the weight of some tents.
But even though it is heavy, this pillow can be compressed to a small size for travel. If you are willing to put up with extra weight, this is one of the best pillows for seniors who prioritize comfort.
Therm-a-Rest Compressible Travel Pillow for Camping: 12 oz.
- 7oz
- 16 in x 16 in x 12 in
- Fill: Urethane Foam, urethane foam; Outer: brushed polyester
This pillow seems to bridge the gap between weight and comfort. It is only 12 ounces. At the same time, it is made of soft foam rather than being inflatable.
This pillow is also machine washable. Like other travel and camping pillows, this pillow compresses to a small size for easy packing.
TREKOLOGY Ultralight Inflatable Camping Travel Pillow: 3.4 oz.
- Small in Size - Big on Comfort! This is the most compact & lightweight inflatable camp pillow on the...
- New in 2.0! Now More Durable Than Ever! Enhanced design with latest highly durable elastic TPU...
- New in 2.0! Sleep Without Worry with Our Propitiatory Dot and Latch Design - No more slipping off...
Trekology’s inflatable camping pillow is a great ergonomic option for those who need extra support. This camping pillow is an Amazon’s Choice that can be easily stored in your pocket.
The ultralight pillow is waterproof and comes with a storage bag.
Best Ground Pad Options for Seniors
The effort required to choose a ground pad is similar to choosing a pillow. Many of the lightest weight ground pads compromise on comfort.
But there are a few other characteristics to look at when choosing ground pads.
- Thickness – A thicker pad is likely heavier but offers more padding
- Size – Ground pads have a variety of lengths and widths for people of differing statures.
- Durability – As a ground pad is one of the few layers of material between you and the ground, it must be durable to last.
- Materials – There are many ground pad materials; some of those with the lightest weight are inflatable like pillows.
- Insulation – Insulation is measured by an R-Value. The higher this number, the better the ground pad can retain heat.
In keeping with this article’s main topic, and what’s already been listed above, packing weight is a major factor in ground pad selection. But keep in mind that you can eliminate the need for a ground pad if you use a hammock tent. This can significantly reduce the weight of your pack.
Sleeping Pad Comparison
Nemo Tensor Ultralight Sleeping Pad: 15 oz.
No products found.
The Nemo Tensor Ultralight Sleeping Pad is admittedly on the expensive side. But the price may well be worth it.
This pad is lightweight at just around one pound. It is also made of a high-tech material that makes for a comfortable night of sleep. This inflatable pad comes with a pump that allows you to choose your level of inflation. The pump also prevents moisture from entering the pad, which improves the longevity of the product. The manufacturers are so confident in their merchandise that they offer a lifetime warranty.
With perks like that, the higher price of this pad is somewhat justified.
Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Sol Ultralight Foam Backpacking Mattress: 14 oz.
- Lightweight and compact closed-cell foam camping mattress is a durable, dependable, and economical...
- Trusted by mountaineers and backpackers for generations, the classic pad features folding...
- Reflective ThermaCapture coating and heat-trapping dimples capture radiant heat, increasing overall...
This pad offers a contrast to the previously listed product. This pad remains lightweight with big reductions in price and thickness.
Rather than being inflatable, this pad is made from more traditional material. The material used is foam in an egg crate mold. Foam on the bottom of the pad is thicker for the sake of durability. Foam on the top is softer for comfort.
This pad is thinner than other options, which may lead to it being less comfortable. But it is still a good lightweight option.
Sleepingo Camping Sleeping Pad, Hiking Air Mattress: 14.5 oz.
- 2" THICK SLEEP SUPPORT - Want to sleep comfortably anywhere? Then you will love this backpacking...
- LIGHT & PORTABLE - Our camping mat weighs only 14 oz and packs down to the size of a thin water...
- TEAR-RESISTANT WITH HEAVY-DUTY RIPSTOP NYLON FABRIC - These lightweight sleeping pads are made of...
