Search
Close this search box.
HomeOutdoor GearCamping GearCamp Bedding11 Best Dog Beds for Camping & Backpacking Dog Beds 2024

11 Best Dog Beds for Camping & Backpacking Dog Beds 2024

EDITOR’S CHOICE
BEST BUDGET
BEST BACKPACKING
White Duck Dog Bed
Cheerhunting Outdoor Dog Bed
Ruffwear – Highlands Backpacking Bed for Dogs
  • Made w/ durable canvas fabric

  • Resistant to water, dirt & tearing

  • Two large sizes

  • Easy to Clean

  • Comes in larger sizes

  • Packs down nicely

  • Two sizes (M and L)

  • Lightweight starting at 0.6 lba

  • Cold Weather Ready with Closed-Cell Insulation

Wilderness Times may receive commissions for links included in articles to Amazon and other affiliate partners. We take pride in our testing and research, and recommendations are not given out lightly.

Camping with your furry best friend can be quite an experience for both of you. You share the love for the outdoors, so why not enjoy it together as well?

But to make the trip enjoyable for both of you, it’s important that you have the right gear for your dog. This includes a good camping dog bed.

To make your job a bit easier, I’ve gathered all the best models on the market into a single article. This should help you make the cut.

Let’s dive in! Here are the best dog beds for camping:

Best Dog Beds for Camping:

Best Dog Camping Cots:

Best Backpacking Dog Beds:

Best Dog Camping Beds

Let’s start with classic dog beds that are great to combine with dog sleeping bags.

White Duck Dog Bed

White Duck Dog Bed

Type: Pillow | Sizes: L – XL | Weight (lbs): 7.875 | Dimensions: 36 x 27 x 4 in | Easy to Clean: Yes

There are many reasons why this dog bed by White Duck ranks so high.

It’s tough, it’s comfortable and it’s easy to maintain. It’s everything you need in such a product.

First things first, let’s talk about the cover. Made of a cotton and polyester blend, this tight-woven fabric is resistant to tearing and ripping, so it’s ideal for outdoors.

The water-repellent coating makes it also water and dirt-resistant, so you don’t have to worry about weather elements.

Once it does get dirty, you can simply unzip it and throw it in the washing machine. This bed features YKK zippers, which are extremely durable.

The inner shell of this pet bed is filled with polyester fiber. But what’s great about it is that it’s made of recycled plastic PET bottles.

This type of fiber won’t flatten by the weight of your dog, making it suitable for heavier pooches.

And speaking of big dogs, this dog bed comes in 2 sizes: large and extra large.

So no matter what breed you may own, this bed will be sufficient for your furry friend.

Pros:

  • Resistant to water, dirt and tearing, this dog bed is suitable for year-round use
  • Two sizes to choose from, depending on your dog’s size
  • The stuffing is made from recycled bottles, so it’s sustainable
  • The flap covers the zippers, protecting them from water

Cons:

  • Quite heavy, so it’s not suitable for backpacking

Best for: Large dogs

Check Price at White Duck

Check Price on Amazon

West Paw Big Sky Nap

Westpaw Big Sky Nap

Type: Pillow | Sizes: XS – XL | Weight (lbs): 0.68 to 2.75 | Dimensions: 19 x 14 x 1.5 in to 41.5 x 26.5 x 2.5 in | Easy to Clean: Yes

If you’re looking for a dog bed suitable for different situations, then this model by Westpaw is right up your alley.

This dog bed has two sides: one features faux suede, while the other has soft fleece.

You can simply flip the bed to change the side depending on the weather, temperature and, most importantly, your dog’s sleeping preference.

Both fabrics are easy to clean, and most spots can be removed with a damp cloth.

But in case of tougher stains, you can simply throw it into the washer and even machine dry it.

For stuffing, Big Sky Nap uses eco-friendly IntelliLoft fill, which is made of recycled plastic bottles.

What a great way to help the planet. But aside from being sustainable, this fill is also very comfortable and durable.

This dog bed comes in five sizes, from XS to XL, so it’s suitable for all breeds.

All sizes are crate-friendly, so you can use these beds at home as well.

Pros:

  • It has two sides to choose from, depending on your dog’s sleeping preference
  • Easy to clean, both manually and using a washing machine
  • Made with recycled fill, so it’s keeping plastic bottles from landfills
  • Five sizes available, for dogs of all breeds

Cons:

  • The cover isn’t removable, so you have to wash the whole thing

Check Price at Westpaw

Check Price on Amazon

Ruffwear Mt. Bachelor Pad Kurgo Wander Loft Bed

Ruffwear Mt. Bachelor Pad Kurgo Wander Loft Bed

Type: Pillow | Sizes: M – L | Weight (lbs): 1.6 to 2.8 | Dimensions: 33.86 x 26.77 x 1 in to  36 x 48 x 1 in | Easy to Clean: Yes

This dog bed by Ruffwear is one of those models that can take some beating.

Whether it’s sand, mud or even rocky terrain, this dog bed is suitable for the occasion.

The top part of this dog bed is made of microsuede.

Aside from being super soft, the top is also water-resistant, durable and easy to clean.

Your pooch doesn’t have to sacrifice comfort when sleeping outside.

The bottom part, on the other hand, is non-slip and waterproof.

This means your dog can also use it on wet ground while remaining dry.

Don’t get fooled by the low profile of this bed. It’s filled with recycled polyfill, so this is a sustainable product.

But what’s also great about this type of fill is that it holds shape, so the bed won’t deform under the weight of your pooch.

This bed is pretty easy to pack and carry with you.

It features an integrated strap with a buckle, so you can roll and stow it away when not in use.

The strap also allows you to attach it to your backpack, for easy portability.

Pros

  • Waterproof base and water-resistant top make this bed suitable for wet weather
  • Easy to carry thanks to the integrated strap with a buckle
  • It’s machine washable, so it’s easy to clean
  • It has a warranty for defects in materials and craftsmanship

Cons

  • Thin compared to other models on this list

Best for: camping in wet weather.

Check Price On Amazon

Check Price on Ruffwear

Chuckit! Travel Dog Bed

Chuckit! Travel Dog Bed

Type: Pillow | Sizes: One Size | Weight (lbs): 1 | Dimensions: 39 x 30 x 3 in | Easy to Clean: Yes

This bed would be a tough competitor for the number one spot on this list, was it not for one thing.

It only comes in one size, which is 30 x 39 inches in dimension.

This means it’s great for small to medium dogs, but big pooches can’t enjoy this bed.

The top part of the dog bed features a poly-suede top and a double off-set quilted design.

This makes it both comfortable and durable. It’s rugged and also water-resistant, so you don’t have to worry about a bit of rain.

And thanks to the durable ripstop nylon at the bottom, you can place this bed onto any surface.

When it needs cleaning, just toss it into the washing machine. The double offset quilting prevents fill from clumping during the laundering process.

When not in use, the dog bed can be rolled and stored into a nylon stuff sack it comes with.

The sack keeps it dry and prevents damage when you’re, let’s say, hiking or backpacking.

Pros

  • Water-resistant and rugged, this bed is suitable for different weather conditions
  • Comes with a stuff sack for easier storage
  • Double offset quilting prevents fill from clumping when washed
  • Very affordable, so it won’t break your bank

Cons

  • Only comes in one size, so it’s suitable for small to medium dogs only

Check Price on Amazon

Check Price on Chewy

Cheerhunting Outdoor Dog Bed

Cheerhunting Outdoor Dog Bed

Type: Pillow | Sizes: L – XL | Weight (lbs): 1.72 | Dimensions: 43 x 26 x 2 in | Easy to Clean: Yes

The Cheerhunting Outdoor Dog bed is made with large breeds in mind.

There are two sizes to choose from: large and extra large.

If you own a small dog, there might be too much free room on this bed (but there’s nothing wrong with that, right?), but larger pooches will surely enjoy the comfort it offers.

Speaking of comfort, this dog bed is filled with recycled polyfill, which is a soft and breathable material that will keep your dog warm at night.

The cover is made of Oxford cloth, which is water, scratch and tear-resistant.

Now, the manufacturer warns that you don’t want to leave any water on it for too long, as it might absorb some of it.

So make sure to not leave the bed out when it’s raining.

To pack it, simply fold the bed down and store it into a stuff sack that comes with the purchase.

Then, you can attach the sack to your backpack when traveling from campsite to campsite.

Pros

  • The cover is water, scratch and tear-resistant
  • Large sizes make it suitable for most dogs
  • Four color options to choose from
  • Very lightweight, so it won’t weigh you down

Cons

  • Not entirely waterproof

Best for: backpackers on a budget.

Check Price on Amazon

Best Elevated Dog Cots for Camping

Best Dog Camping Bed

There are many reasons why you might opt for a dog cot instead.

Whether it’s for air circulation, durability or ease of cleaning, here are the models that are currently the best on the market.

GigaTent Elevated Pet Bed

GigaTent Elevated Pet Cot

Type: Cot | Sizes: One Size (up to 100 lbs dogs) | Weight (lbs): 6.125 | Dimensions: 35 x 24 x 8 in | Easy to Clean: Spot Clean Only

As you probably know, larger dogs are more prone to bone and joint issues, especially once they start getting old.

In that case, an elevated cot alleviates pressure on the joints, thus providing more orthopedic support than a regular bed.

This cot by GigaTent is an excellent option for these dogs.

It features a tubular steel frame featuring U-shaped legs, which distribute the dog’s weight evenly for a more comfortable nap.

The dog cot is quite sturdy and can withstand the weight of up to 100 pounds.

The cot is made of heavy-duty polyester, which is durable, comfortable and easy to clean.

In case it gets dirty, you can get rid of the stains with a damp sponge, then let it air dry.

This makes it great for outdoor use, regardless of the weather.

There’s no assembly required. Simply fold the legs open and the cot is ready for use.

You also get a nice carry bag with side handles for easier storage and transportation.

When packed, it fits nicely into your car truck, without taking up much space.

Pros

  • Suitable for medium and large dogs up to 100 pounds
  • Heavy-duty polyester is sturdy and easy to clean
  • U-shaped legs ensure well-distributed weight, stability and balance
  • Comes with a carry bag for easier transport and storage

Cons

  • Not suitable for very large dogs

Best for: car camping.

Check Price on Amazon

Carlson Pet Products Pet Bed

Carlson Pet Products Pet Bed

Type: Cot | Sizes: One Size | Weight (lbs): 5 | Dimensions: | Easy to Clean: Spot Clean Only

If you’re looking for a dog cot on a budget, then this model by Carlson Pet Products might be the perfect choice for you.

With a maximum capacity of 90 pounds, this cot is suitable for small to large pooches.

It’s 10 inches high, so it might not be the best option for a Chihuahua for instance, but dogs like Beagles and Retrievers would surely enjoy it.

This cot is extremely lightweight. With just 5 pounds, it’s unlikely to weigh you down much.

It might not be the first option for long-distance backpacking, but it’s great for shorter trips.

It folds down pretty compactly, and comes with a carry bag for easier transport.

Even though it’s light, this cot is by no means fragile. Made of steel construction and nylon material, it can easily withstand the weight of your dog.

The edges of the nylon are further reinforced for added security and durability.

The material is waterproof, making this cot suitable for different weather conditions.

Pros:

  • Very affordable compared to most products on this list
  • It’s lightweight, so it’s suitable for shorter trips
  • Packs down compactly for easier transport
  • Nylon is waterproof, making the cot suitable for all weather conditions.

Cons:

  • Somewhat high for very small dogs

Best for: shorter hiking and backpacking trips.

Check Price On Amazon

Check Price at Camping World

Backcountry x Petco The Dog Cot

Backcountry x Petco The Dog Cot

Type: Cot | Sizes: S – L | Weight (lbs): 4.5 | Dimensions: 36 x 23 x 6 in | Easy to Clean: Spot Clean Only

Most dog cots on the market are designed with large dogs in mind.

This means that they’re often too high for smaller pooches to climb onto it without much effort.

If you own a smaller dog but want to offer him the benefits of a cot, then this might be the right product for you.

In fact, this model comes in two sizes: small and large, so even bigger dogs can use it.

But in both cases, the cot is slightly shorter than most models. This can be especially helpful for pooches with joint issues.

This dog cot is rather light, with the larger version weighing about 6 pounds. This is thanks to the aluminum frame and polyester cover.

While light, these materials are also very durable and can withstand the weight of a medium to large-sized dog.

The cover features mesh panel, which provides airflow and cools down your pet during hot summer days.

The material is stain and tear-resistant, so you don’t have to worry about accidents destroying the cot.

While it doesn’t come with a carry bag, this cot features two climbing rope-style handles that make it easy for you to get it to the campsite and back into the car trunk.

Pros

  • Two sizes available, for small to large dogs
  • Stain and tear-resistant fabric makes the cot very durable
  • 1% of purchase goes to dog rescue programs
  • Aluminum frame makes the cot rather lightweight

Cons

  • Doesn’t come with a carry bag

Best for: small and short-legged dogs.

Check Price On Backcountry

Check Price on Petco

Best Backpacking Dog Bed

Best Dog Camping Bed

Dogs are perfect companions for backpacking. Being outsides for so many days in a row seems like a dream come true for our furry friends.

To make the trip more enjoyable for both of you, you’ll need a very lightweight bed that won’t weigh you down when going long distances.

Ruffwear – Highlands Backpacking Bed for Dogs

Ruffwear – Highlands Backpacking Bed for Dogs

Type: Closed-Cell Pillow | Sizes: M – L | Weight (lbs): 0.625 to 1.1 | Dimensions: 43.1 x 26.7 x 1 in | Easy to Clean: Hand Wash

Ruffwear is one of the best-known brands for outdoor pet gear, so it’s no surprise to see its product on this list.

It comes in two sizes, medium and large, so it’s suitable for most dogs.

This dog bed is designed with backpacking pooches in mind. That’s clear from first sight, as this dog bed comes folded down pretty compactly.

You can easily store it in your backpack along with the rest of your camping gear. It does, however, come with a separate stuff bag, so you can also hang it on the backpack exterior.

Of course, weight is just as important when you’re backpacking.

Luckily, that’s no issue either with this model. The medium size weighs 0.7 while the large one weighs just one pound!

But just because it’s so light, that doesn’t mean this dog bed won’t provide your pooch with comfort and warmth.

The bed is filled with closed-cell foam and synthetic down, so it’s suitable for very cold weather.

As for the cover, it’s durable, water-resistant and quick-drying, so it doesn’t matter whether it’s wet outside or not.

The top part is made of soft microsuede, while the bottom features a waterproof, nonslip base, so you can place it on any kind of surface.

Pros

  • The cover is water-resistant and can stand up to dog claws
  • Stakeout loops allow you to secure the bed to the ground or hang it up to dry
  • Very lightweight and compact, so it’s suitable for long trips
  • Non-slip waterproof base creates a moisture barrier

Cons

  • The cover is not removable

Best for: long trips with your furry friend.

Check Price at REI

Check Price On Amazon

Klymit Moon Dog Bed

Klymit Moon Dog Bed

Type: Inflatable | Sizes: S – L | Weight (lbs): 1 | Dimensions: 28 x 23 x 2.5 in | Easy to Clean: Cover is Machine Washable

Backpacking gear is more expensive than regular gear, and that goes for dog gear as well.

Klymit is known for making ultra-light camping gear, and this dog bed is no exception.

Made with the signature body-mapping technology, it features air chambers on the most important contact points, while saving up material where it’s not needed.

This ensures it stays lightweight without sacrificing comfort.

The dog bed is made of 210D polyester, which is a very sturdy yet flexible material.

It’s coated with PU, which makes it both waterproof and prevents dust buildup between the fibers.

Of course, your pooch doesn’t have to sleep directly on the bed.

It comes with a really nice cover, which features fleece on top and puncture-resistant fabric on the bottom.

Not only is it comfortable, but the cover also makes the bed much easier to clean.

If your dog leaves dirty paw prints on the cover, you can simply throw it in the washing machine and it will come out as new.

What makes this product so great for backpacking is how small it packs down.

With dimensions of just 11×6 inches, this bed is easy to pack along with the rest of your gear.

Pros

  • Comes in two sizes, so it’s suitable for both small and large dogs
  • Body mapping technology contours to the shape of the dog for optimal comfort
  • Can be used with or without a cover
  • The cover is machine washable for easier cleaning

Cons

  • Not insulated, so it’s not suitable for colder weather

Best for: dogs that prefer well-padded beds.

Check Price on Amazon

Coleman Roll-Up Waterproof Travel Bed

coleman roll-up travel dog bed

Type: Pillow | Sizes: One Size | Weight (lbs): 1.1 | Dimensions: 36 x 24 x 2 in | Easy to Clean: Yes

Owners of large pups know how hard it can be to find a suitable product for your furry best friend.

And not to even mention how expensive they can be. But that’s not the case here.

Coleman is known for offering quality products at an affordable price, like this dog bed.

This low-profile dog bed might not look like it, but it’s very soft and comfortable.

This is thanks to the cozy nylon and soft padding. The material is also water and tear-resistant, so it can take a beating.

The bottom is waterproof and non-skid, so you can place it on any type of terrain, without worrying about it getting dirty or even damaged.

And once you come home from your camping trip, you can simply wash it on a cool cycle and it will come out as new.

When not in use, you can roll the bed up and buckle up the straps.

It also features a nice handle, which makes transportation much easier. And given it weighs about a pound, that’s not bad for hiking and backpacking.

Pros

  • Waterproof and non-skid bottom make it suitable for use on any type of terrain
  • Designed for dogs that weigh up to 75 pounds
  • Buckles, straps and a handle make this bed suitable for hiking and backpacking
  • Very affordable, compared to other models on the list

Cons

  • Only comes in one size

Best for: pet parents on a budget.

Check Price On Amazon

Check Price on Chewy

Buyer’s Guide – Finding the Best Dog Camping Bed

When searching for the best product, there are a few things to keep in mind.

Types Of Dog Beds

There are four most common types of dog beds out there, so let’s see what’s the difference between them.

Closed Cell Foam

Closed cell foam dog bed has the best insulation out of the four, thanks to the high density of the foam.

This makes it a great choice for camping in cold weather, as it doesn’t let the cold from the ground reach your dog’s body.

The foam density also makes it water-resistant, as water drops have a harder time seeping in.

While it has a great insulating ability, that also means that closed cell foam is not as breathable as other options.

That’s something to keep in mind if you’re camping during warmer months.

Furthermore, the density of the closed cell foam also makes this type of bed heavy.

Open Cell Foam

Open cell foam is less dense than closed cell foam, so it’s not as rigid. That also means it’s not as great at insulating as closed cell foam.

However, open cell foam is lighter and softer than its counterpart. If the weather doesn’t drop too much during the night, you can definitely use this option instead.

Furthermore, because there’s less material involved, open cell foam is less expensive compared to closed cell foam.

Inflatable or Self Inflating

As you can assume, this type of bed uses air for filling. This means that it’s super light and compact when not inflated.

However, it has practically no insulating ability, so it can easily transfer cold from the ground.

What’s more, the air is nowhere near as comfortable as the foam is, for instance.

Fabric

Last but not least, we have fabric dog beds.

Depending on the exact material used, this type of bed can be extremely soft, warm and comfortable.

However, it doesn’t pack too compactly and can be quite heavy.

Weight

It’s no surprise that weight plays an important factor when deciding on what dog bed to get.

This is especially true if you’re backpacking, as you’ll have to carry a dog bed on your back as well.

Of different types of dog beds, self-inflating ones tend to be the most lightweight option out there.

However, certain brands do offer other types of dog beds made of high-quality materials that are light yet provide your dog with warmth and comfort.

Comfort

Best Dog Camping Bed

What’s the point of a dog bed if it’s not comfortable?

And we’re not just talking about insulation, although it does play a big role in the overall comfort of a bed.

But the outer shell can also be important.

Certain models have more padding, but that also means they might be slightly heavier and bulkier than other beds.

As for the cover, many feature suede or plush top side to make your pooch warmer at night.

Of course, the decision depends on your dog’s preferences, as well as other dog camping gear you might own.

If you already have a sleeping bag for your furry best friend, then you don’t need an extra warm dog bed.

Durability and Quality

If you plan on camping more than once a year, then durability is definitely a factor to consider.

What makes a dog bed durable is the choice of material.

So look for a dog bed that features a waterproof and non-slip material on the bottom, as that makes it more resistant to damage from harsh terrain underneath.

As for the top, it should be at least resistant to water and damage caused by scratching.

Portability

A dog bed might be lightweight, but that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s also very portable.

Take into consideration the way it’s packed down for storage.

Dog cots in general are slightly bulkier when packed, as they are simply folded down in half.

Canvas dog beds can also be quite bulky, as they generally are packed by being rolled down.

Easy to Clean

Most dog beds are made with this characteristic in mind.

When buying a perfect dog bed for camping, consider a product with a removable cover that can be washed in the washing machine.

Alternatively, it should feature a material that’s easy to clean with a bit of soap and a damp cloth.

Water Resistance

If you’re camping in less-than-ideal weather, water resistance is also an important factor.

Now, most dog beds aren’t exactly waterproof, because that would make them non-breathable as well.

But many of them are at least water-resistant, meaning they can take a bit of rain without getting soaked.

Your Dog’s Preferences

Finally, it really depends on how your dog prefers to sleep.

Whether it’s being extra warm, sleeping off the ground or enjoying a super-padded bed, it’s important to give your dog the comfort they enjoy at home as well.

Should I get my dog a camping bed?

In short – yes, you should. You want to keep your furry friend safe when you’re outdoors. And here’s why:

Prevents Insect Bites

Most of the annoying little bugs are on the ground, and will bite the heck out of your canine companion.

By sleeping on the bed (especially an elevated one), your pooch is slightly safer from annoying bites of these pests.

Protects Your Pet

Unless you own a Polar dog, it’s not a good idea for your dog to sleep on cold and possibly wet ground, as they might get sick.

What’s more, big breeds and older dogs shouldn’t sleep on the ground for other reasons as well.

These dogs tend to have issues with joints, so they need a comfortable bed to relieve pressure on their joints and bones.

FAQs

What is the best dog bed for outside?

There’s no single answer to this question. Our top pick for the best dog bed is White Duck Dog Bed, but no dog is the same, so yours might not like it as much as ours do.

What do I need to take my dog camping?

Your dog’s food and water bowls are a must, as well as a first aid kit designed for our furry friends.

You’ll also want to get an outdoor leash, bring your dog’s favorite toys, and either blankets or a dog sleeping bag (depending on the season).

Also, don’t forget poop bags, as you want to leave no trace behind.

Do elevated dog beds keep dogs warm?

Given it allows good airflow underneath, this type of dog bed doesn’t provide too much warmth.

You’ll have to use a sleeping bag as well if you want to make your dog warmer.

What do dogs sleep on when backpacking?

With plenty of lightweight dog beds out there, there’s no reason why your backpacking dog should have a nice dog bed when backpacking.

How do you sleep with a dog while camping?

If sleeping outside, make sure to keep a leash tethered to a tree or a stake while you’re sleeping.

This will prevent your pooch from roaming at night.

Where should my dog sleep when camping?

It’s best that your dog sleeps with you in your tent, as you can keep an eye on them.

When sleeping outside, your dog might encounter wildlife, which is not usually a very safe situation to be in.

Can you take dogs wild camping?

Absolutely, just make sure you’re adequately prepared.

Remember that your canine companion is also an animal, so encounters with wildlife can be dangerous if you’re not cautious.

To Sum Things Up

Camping with your furry buddy can be a great experience for both of you, as long as you have the proper gear.

We believe that White Duck Dog Bed is currently the best option on the market.

It’s comfortable, warm and easily withstands water elements. It’s also easy to clean, so dirty paws aren’t a big issue.

However, if you’re backpacking, you’ll need something lighter. In that case, Klymit Moon Dog Bed is definitely worth consideration.

Also be sure to check out our article on the best dog carriers for hiking with your dog.

Leave a Comment