Getting good sleep while backpacking can make a HUGE difference in how much you enjoy the trip. After years of trial and error, I’ve finally figured out a backpacking sleep system that consistently helps me sleep comfortably in a tent, often for 9+ hours.

If you’re looking for how to sleep better while backpacking, you’ve come to the right spot! I’m going to share exactly what I use for my sleeping bag, camping pillow, and other gear for getting a comfortable sleep.

HOW TO SLEEP WELL BETTER WHILE BACKPACKING

Use an insulated sleeping pad

The sleeping pad is probably the single biggest factor in how I sleep better while backpacking. I use the Helix Insulated Air Sleeping Pad from REI. It’s a 4-season sleeping pad that is 3 inches thick, ultralight, and packs down small. It also has an impressive R-value of 4.9, which provides substantial insulation from the cold ground. As a side sleeper, I especially appreciate the extra cushioning. A thicker inflatable sleeping pad makes a huge difference compared to the thin foam pads I used to use.

Bring two backpacking pillows

This might sound excessive, but two pillows is one of my favorite backpacking sleep hacks! I use two Exped Ultra Pillows. One goes underneath my head and the second goes between my knees. Since I’m a side sleeper, having a pillow between my legs makes sleeping much more comfortable. The Exped pillows are also lightweight and pack down small, so the extra pillow doesn’t add much bulk to my pack.

Choose a warm sleeping bag or quilt

I used to spend way too many nights camping feeling cold. Now, I’d much rather have a sleeping bag that’s warmer than I need and vent it if necessary.

I use the -8°C / 18°F Waratah Ultralight Sleeping Quilt from Neve Gear. Even when backpacking in summer, I prefer having plenty of warmth available, particularly when temperatures drop overnight. Your sleeping bag temperature rating should match the conditions you expect, but if you tend to sleep cold, choosing a warmer sleep system can make a BIG difference.

Don’t forget an eye mask

An eye mask is one of the smallest pieces of gear I bring, but it makes a surprisingly big difference. During summer backpacking trips, the sun can rise incredibly early. An eye mask helps block out that early-morning light so I can stay asleep longer.

Consider a larger backpacking tent

This one is definitely a luxury, but I love having a little extra space in the tent. We use the 3-person Triple Rainbow DW from Tarptent. Since there are two of us, the extra space gives us room to spread out and makes the tent feel much less cramped.

A larger tent does add some weight, so this is one place where you’ll have to decide whether the extra comfort is worth it for your backpacking style. If you prefer a smaller tent, check out the Double Rainbow DW from Tarptent.

My backpacking sleep system

After plenty of trial and error, this is the setup that helps me sleep better while backpacking

• Insulated sleeping pad: REI Helix Insulated Air Sleeping Pad
• Pillows: Two Exped Ultra Pillows
• Sleeping quilt: Neve Gear Waratah Ultralight quilt, -8°C / 18°F
• Eye mask: Simple lightweight eye mask
• Tent: Tarptent Triple Rainbow DW

The biggest lesson I’ve learned is that you don’t have to sacrifice sleep just because you’re backpacking. A comfortable sleeping pad, warm sleep system, supportive pillows, and a few small comforts can make spending the night in a tent surprisingly cozy.

And honestly, waking up after 9+ hours of sleep in the backcountry makes those long hiking days a whole lot more enjoyable!

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