Traveling is an exhilarating adventure, but it can often be a challenge to get comfortable, especially during long flights, train rides, or road trips. Enter the travel pillow—a game-changer for anyone looking to catch some quality rest while on the move. With countless options available, finding the right travel pillow can seem daunting. Fear not, as we’ve put a plethora of travel pillows to the test to bring you the best of the best. Whether you’re looking for something adjustable, budget-friendly, or luxurious, we’ve got you covered. Buckle up as we dive into the best travel pillows that will elevate your travel experience.
Contents
- 1 Why You Need a Travel Pillow
- 2 How We Tested
- 3 1. Best Overall Travel Pillow: Travelrest Nest Ultimate Memory Foam Travel Pillow
- 4 2. Best Adjustable Travel Pillow: Trtl Travel Pillow
- 4.1 trtl Travel and Airplane Pillow – Real Sleeping Experience on Lon…
- 4.2 Pros:
- 4.3 Cons:
- 4.4 3. Ostrichpillow Go Neck Pillow
- 4.5 Ostrichpillow Original Travel Pillow & Power Nap Pillow – High-En…
- 4.6 Pros:
- 4.7 Cons:
- 4.8 4. Pluto Pod 2.0
- 4.9 Pros:
- 4.10 Cons:
- 4.11 5. Cabeau Evolution Kids Neck Pillow
- 4.12 Cabeau Evolution Kid’s Travel Pillow with Innovative Chin Strap &…
- 4.13 Pros:
- 4.14 Cons:
- 4.15 6. AirComfy Ease Inflatable Travel Pillow
- 4.16 AirComfy Ease Inflatable Travel Pillow with Luxuriously Soft Wash…
- 4.17 Pros:
- 4.18 Cons:
- 5 7. Bcozzy Neck Pillow
- 6 8. Tempur Transit Travel Pillow
- 7 9. Snugl Travel Pillow
- 8 10. Sea to Summit Aeros Premium Traveller Pillow
- 9 11. Infinity Travel Pillow
- 10 12. Therm-a-Rest Pillow Compressible
- 11 Best Travel Pillows: FAQs
- 12 Conclusion
Why You Need a Travel Pillow
Whether you’re a frequent flyer or an occasional traveler, a good travel pillow can make all the difference. Seats on planes, trains, and buses are not designed with every body type and height in mind, which can lead to uncomfortable sleeping positions. A travel pillow provides essential support for your neck and head, preventing them from rolling around and helping you maintain proper posture. This not only prevents neck strain but also enhances your quality of sleep, making it easier to stay well-rested and avoid jet lag.
How We Tested
We tested all the travel pillows featured in this guide. We focused on key characteristics such as portability, adjustability, materials, additional features (like washability), and price.
Our testing process involved wearing the pillows in the car on bumpy and windy roads to see if they kept us comfortable and supported. We also tested them individually over a few weeks while traveling in cars and on flights. This thorough process ensured that we could provide you with a comprehensive review of each pillow’s performance.
1. Best Overall Travel Pillow: Travelrest Nest Ultimate Memory Foam Travel Pillow
- OPTIMAL SLEEP IN THE SKIES – TOP AIRPLANE NECK PILLOW FOR 20…
- SLEEP INNOVATION: The Travelrest Ultimate shines with its di…
- REVITALIZE YOUR TRAVEL EXPERIENCE: Engineered with thermo-se…
After testing over a dozen travel pillows, the Travelrest Nest Ultimate Memory Foam Travel Pillow emerged as our top pick. This pillow combines affordability with high-quality materials and a traditional design that offers superior comfort. The high-quality memory foam molds nicely around your neck and shoulders, while the soft microfiber cover is machine washable, making it easy to keep clean.
Pros:
- Comfortable contouring memory foam
- Machine washable microfiber cover
- Non-slip material on the back
Cons:
- Only one size
- Not adjustable
At around $40, the Travelrest Nest Ultimate Memory Foam Travel Pillow offers excellent value for its price. Its non-slip backing helps keep it in place, and it compresses easily to fit into a small carrying pouch, making it a great travel companion.
2. Best Adjustable Travel Pillow: Trtl Travel Pillow
- Scientifically Proven Neck Pillows For Travel: Thanks to ou…
- Enjoy a Real Sleeping Experience on Long Flights: Add our n…
- Lightweight and Compact Design: Weighing in at only 4.5oz, …
For those who need an adjustable pillow, the Trtl Travel Pillow is a fantastic choice. Unlike traditional U-shaped pillows, the Trtl features an internal support piece that you place against your neck and jaw. The hypoallergenic fabric wraps around like a scarf and is secured with Velcro, offering unparalleled support and comfort.
Pros:
- Super soft and lightweight
- More discreet than other travel pillows
- Highly supportive
Cons:
- Must be repositioned to switch sides
Retailing for $60, the Trtl Travel Pillow is a bit pricier but worth the investment. It’s lightweight, machine washable, and folds up small, making it perfect for any traveler.
While the Travelrest Nest and Trtl Travel Pillow topped our list, several other pillows impressed us and deserve a mention.
3. Ostrichpillow Go Neck Pillow
- PREMIUM COMFORT MATERIALS – Constructed using microbeads filled…
- PATENTED DESIGN EXCELLENCE – Stand out with our unique and pate…
- VERSATILITY FOR EVERY SITUATION – Ideal for various scenarios, …
This pillow is a bit of a splurge, but its luxurious materials and ergonomic design make it worth considering. The Ostrichpillow Go Neck Pillow offers full neck support and is crafted from high-quality memory foam. It’s also highly portable, rolling up to fit into a small travel bag.
Pros:
- Comfortable and supportive
- Easy to pack
- High-quality materials
Cons:
- Does not pack small
- Can get warm after extended use
- Expensive
4. Pluto Pod 2.0
The Pluto Pod 2.0 stands out with its unique design inspired by a neck brace. It’s incredibly breathable, even with the hood and eye mask fully drawn, making it ideal for long flights. It blocks out light and noise, creating a mini sensory deprivation tank that enhances sleep quality.
Pros:
- Versatile and breathable
- Completely blocks out the world
- Crafted with durable materials
Cons:
- Expensive
- Currently sold out
5. Cabeau Evolution Kids Neck Pillow
- INNOVATIVE CHIN AND HEAD SUPPORT: 360-degree all around comfo…
- B CORP CERTIFIED: We are committed to creating comfort-on-the…
- BUTTERY SOFT, ECO-FRIENDLY FABRIC: Positive social impact and…
For young travelers, the Cabeau Evolution Kids Neck Pillow is a cute and functional option. Made from eco-friendly recycled material, it offers great support and comfort for children, preventing their heads from jostling around during travel.
Pros:
- Multiple designs and color choices
- Supportive and breathable
- Budget-friendly
Cons:
- Only available in one size
6. AirComfy Ease Inflatable Travel Pillow
- RELAX UPRIGHT COMFORTABLY – Our superior design keeps your head…
- ADJUST THE SIZE – Everyone’s different, so we’ve made our pillo…
- ATTACH IT TO HEADREST – Our elastic band holds the neck pillow …
If you prefer an inflatable option, the AirComfy Ease Inflatable Travel Pillow is small but mighty. Its unique bowtie shape and elastic band allow you to attach it to the headrest on your seat, providing excellent support.
Pros:
- Deflates and packs small
- Soft, velvety cover
- Versatile use
Cons:
- Manual inflation required
7. Bcozzy Neck Pillow
- THE BCOZZY PILLOW IS THE ONLY NECK PILLOW THAT STOPS THE HEA…
- A UNIQUE DESIGN ALLOWS 3 ERGONOMIC WAYS TO SUPPORT YOUR HEAD…
- PERFECT FOR THE HOME- Our soft neck pillow can help to keep …
For those whose heads tend to loll forward during sleep, the Bcozzy Neck Pillow is a genius solution. This pillow wraps around your neck and secures with Velcro, creating a double layer of support under your chin. While the back and sides could use more padding, the front support is excellent for keeping your head upright. It’s particularly well-suited for long flights where head drooping is a common problem. Despite its thinness, it provides sufficient support to lock your head in place, making it a top pick for frequent flyers.
Pros:
- Innovative double support under the chin
- Lightweight at 210g
- Includes a carry case
- Machine washable
Cons:
- The pillow is quite thin, lacking support on the back and sides
8. Tempur Transit Travel Pillow
- TRAVEL SIZE NECK PILLOW: Our original ergonomic innovation re…
- PRESSURE-RELIEVING COMFORT: Expertly engineered to provide pr…
- ERGONOMIC SUPPORT: Firmer pillow material properly and comfor…
The Tempur Transit Travel Pillow offers the luxury of Tempur mattresses in a compact form. Filled with Tempur’s patented memory foam, it absorbs and distributes pressure exceptionally well. This pillow provides a soothing, sinking feeling that helps lull you to sleep, though it could benefit from more height for added support. Ideal for car journeys where luggage volume is less of an issue, this pillow excels in providing comfort and support, albeit at a higher price and with less portability.
Pros:
- Exceptional comfort with Tempur’s special memory foam
- Removable and machine washable cover
- Comes with a three-year guarantee
Cons:
- No carry case or clip, making it cumbersome for travel
- Heavier at 700g
9. Snugl Travel Pillow
- THE WISE CHOICE FOR COMFORT – When did you last enjoy a comfor…
- REVERSIBLE DESIGN – Unlike other travel pillows for adults, th…
- SOFT YET SUPPORTIVE WITH DUAL ADJUSTABLE STRAPS – The unique e…
The Snugl Travel Pillow is perfect for travelers who like to keep their hands free. It features a carabiner clip that allows you to attach it to your backpack easily. This pillow is significantly higher than others, providing substantial neck support. However, the back doesn’t lie flat unless you lean against it, which might be a minor inconvenience for some. Despite this, its compact design and affordability make it a great value option for many travelers.
Pros:
- Comes with a carabiner clip for easy attachment
- Includes a carry case
- Memory foam filling and machine washable cover
Cons:
- The back does not sit flat against seats
10. Sea to Summit Aeros Premium Traveller Pillow
The Sea to Summit Aeros Premium Traveller Pillow is an excellent choice for those needing a compact and portable pillow. When deflated, it folds down smaller than the palm of your hand. It inflates easily, though the act of inflating it in public might feel awkward. While it’s not the coziest option due to its polyester material, it offers decent support for emergency naps. It’s perfect to keep in your bag for unexpected sleep opportunities.
Pros:
- Extremely compact when deflated
- Includes a carry case
- Front clip for neck support
Cons:
- Not the most supportive option
- Not machine washable
11. Infinity Travel Pillow
- INFINITY PILLOW: The patented travel pillow designed for all r…
- VERSATILE DESIGN: Adjust the portable neck pillow and find you…
- AIRY COMFORT: Sleep better than ever with the perfect balance …
For those who prefer a softer, more versatile travel pillow, the Infinity Travel Pillow is a fantastic option. This wrap-around pillow can be adjusted in numerous ways to suit your needs, whether you want full neck support, noise cancellation, or lumbar support. It’s particularly good for people who get sore backs during commutes. While it might be bulkier and less supportive than traditional neck pillows, its comfort and flexibility make it a great companion for various travel scenarios.
Pros:
- Cozy and versatile, can be arranged in various ways
- Made with breathable bamboo and polyester fill
- Machine washable at low temperatures
Cons:
- Lacks strong support
- Bulky and doesn’t come with a carry case
12. Therm-a-Rest Pillow Compressible
- Ultralight (9 ounce) compressible travel pillow with soft foam…
- Foam filling expands into a 4-inch thick pillow for head, neck…
- Compact design packs into a backpack, duffle, suitcase, or tot…
The Therm-a-Rest Pillow Compressible is a standout for camping enthusiasts. This pillow is soft and comfortable, more so than typical inflatable camping pillows. It compacts easily with pull cords, making it simple to pack. It’s also quite versatile, working well on trains and planes if you have a window seat. While it might not impress those with very specific sleep needs, it’s a great all-around camping pillow that offers excellent value and comfort.
Pros:
- Compact with a cinch cord for easy packing
- Made from recycled polyester and foam
- Machine washable
Cons:
- Not ideal for plane or car travel unless you have a window seat
Best Travel Pillows: FAQs
How do you use a travel pillow? Typically, you rest it at the back of your neck, rotating it to find the best spot for support. Some suggest wearing it backwards to support your chin and allow your head to rest flat against the seat. For us, the traditional method works best, especially with a pillow that supports both the front and back of the neck.
What should you look for in a travel pillow? Key factors include neck support, comfort, and weight. Portability and washability are also important, as is the use of sustainable materials. Bonus points if it includes features like a carabiner clip for easy attachment to your bag.
Are travel pillows worth it? Absolutely, as long as you choose one that fits your needs. A well-designed travel pillow can mean the difference between a restful sleep and an uncomfortable journey. Investing in a good-quality pillow, such as the Cabeau Evolution S3, is worth it for the added comfort and support.
Choosing the right travel pillow can significantly enhance your travel experience. Whether you prioritize portability, support, or comfort, there’s a pillow out there for you. Safe travels and sweet dreams!
Conclusion
A good travel pillow is an essential accessory for any traveler. Whether you prioritize adjustability, comfort, or portability, there is a travel pillow out there that fits your needs. Our top pick, the Travelrest Nest Ultimate Memory Foam Travel Pillow, offers excellent value for its price, providing comfort and support for any journey. If you’re willing to spend a bit more, the Trtl Travel Pillow and the Ostrichpillow Go Neck Pillow are fantastic options that offer unique features and superior comfort. Happy travels and sweet dreams!
For more in-depth reviews and to see the latest updates on travel pillows, be sure to check back with us regularly. Safe travels!
