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The 10 Best Travel Pillows of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Sleep and relax comfortably on the go with these top travel pillows

In This Article

• Our Top Picks
• Other Pillows We Liked

Our Testing Process

• Tips for Buying
• Why Trust T+L

Sitting upright for hours on end or sleeping on unfamiliar pillows can be incredibly uncomfortable, but a reliable travel pillow can make your trip a lot more tolerable. Whether embarking on a red-eye flight, hitting the road on a long car trip, or looking to get a good night's sleep in your hotel room, the best travel pillows will be comfy, supportive, and portable. 

We tested more than 40 travel pillows, looking at traits like comfort, durability, portability, and quality. We narrowed down the best options while using the accessory for road trips, long-haul flights, train rides, and even sleeping at home, making sure each option was comfortable for extended use. We also brought a few options into our Travel + Leisure lab to get a direct comparison, testing them out on our airplane set. After catching some of the best Z's, we rounded up pillow choices for different types of travelers who are looking to get more rest on their future trips.

Best Overall

Ostrichpillow go neck pillow.

The pillow has an asymmetrical design that can accommodate various neck, chin, and head support preferences.

It might warm your neck if you run hot while sleeping.

The Ostrichpillow Go Neck Pillow feels like sleeping on a cloud. This travel pillow provided the perfect amount of neck support and comfort when we took it on a flight, allowing us to get more rest than usual. The plush memory foam filling and asymmetric design can be easily adjusted to support the neck, chin, or head with the taller or shorter sides. Although the memory foam is soft and compressible, it felt more supportive than any other pillow we tried. The materials appear high-quality and luxurious, and it is easy to roll the pillow up to fit inside its compact drawstring sack. We found it a little tricky to roll up at first, but once we nailed the technique, we were impressed with how small it became — ideal for those who don't want a pillow to take up too much luggage space.

The pillow held its shape after being in the bag for long periods of time, which leads us to believe that it will hold up well with prolonged use. The pillow cover is removable and machine washable, but we air dried it to ensure it didn’t shrink (and had no issues putting it back on the pillow). A must-have for those with higher budgets, this pillow allows for better sleep and more comfort on flights.

The Details: Viscosa, memory foam | 10.5 x 9.5 inches | Machine washable | Carrying case included

Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim

Most Comfortable

Cabeau tne s3 travel pillow.

The cozy but firm material and innovative chin strap keep you from bobbing your head while sleeping.

It can feel stiff at first and takes some getting used to.

This soft and supportive travel pillow is the perfect accessory for long trips, whether you're in the car or in the air. The pillow itself can attach to any headrest with adjustable straps to prevent your head from sagging or falling into uncomfortable positions while sleeping. There's also an adjustable chin strap for added comfort and security — a feature that really sealed the deal for us during testing. The interior of the pillow feels like memory foam, which offers the ideal balance of support and coziness. The pillow's exterior fabric is soft yet breathable so you don't feel too hot or constricted, though it can take some time to find your perfect position.

We also love that the pillow cover is machine washable. We tested this pillow on a long international trip where it really got tossed around on planes, trains, and buses, so it felt great to wash the cover at the end of the trip, making it feel as good as new. Despite its fairly large size, the pillow is also quite portable as it rolls up into a compact carrying case that you can attach to a bag's exterior or slip into larger backpacks and totes.

The Details:  Polyester, microsuede, foam   | Machine washable | Carrying case included

Travel + Leisure / Anna Popp

Best Infinity-style

Infinity pillow travel pillow.

The modular design of the pillow makes it easy to use to support the neck, chin, or back while sitting.

The cushioning is fairly soft, so the support isn't as stiff as memory foam.

Most travel pillows come in one shape and size, so we love that you can contort this one in various ways to fit your needs. At nearly 40 inches long, the infinity design (yes, like the scarves worn in the early 2000s) can be wrapped once for less support or twice for the type of neck support found in traditional C-shaped pillows. We used the pillow during an all-day road trip and loved that we could wear it around the neck with a looser or tighter fit depending on how much neck support we wanted. We did find that it was still a little too big for us after looping it twice, so users with smaller necks may not get the support they're looking for. That being said, it can be used in many different ways to make sleeping on planes, trains, and cars more comfortable, so minimal support as a traditional neck pillow isn't necessarily a deal-breaker.

We also found that it's much easier to travel with the pillow since the closed ring shape makes it easy to wear around the neck instead of having to pack it away or risk it falling off. The bamboo fabric is extremely soft and breathable, so we never felt overheated or constricted, and the pillow is machine washable for easy upkeep after a trip. We should also note that it took up a lot of space in our luggage, but it may be worth packing a little lighter to be that much more comfortable while traveling. It also comes in a whopping 10 colors.

The Details: Bamboo, nylon | 39.3 x 6.6 inches | Machine washable

Travel + Leisure / Paige VandeWiele

Aeris Memory Foam Travel Pillow

It’s supportive and firm without feeling too stiff. 

This would be best for travelers who know they prefer a firm travel pillow.

We love the comfortable and supportive Aeris Memory Foam Travel Pillow for travelers who like a firmer neck pillow. The buckle strap adjusts accordingly to fit around your neck and offers 360-degree support on the chin, jaw, and back. We loved how you can lean back in the car or plane, and the back of the neck doesn't fall backward. In addition to having exceptional support, the Aeris travel pillow folds into a small ball and easily fits into the included circular carrying case that you can clip onto a backpack or suitcase without being a noticeable nuisance. The travel pillow also comes with earplugs and an eye mask, and features a frontal slip pocket that you can store them in. After a trip, you can unzip and remove the carrying case to machine wash it, although we recommend air drying it to prevent any possibility of shrinkage.

The Details: Velour, polyester, memory foam | 11.81 x 11.42 x 3.54 inches | Machine washable | Carrying case included

Best Hooded

Pluto pillow pod.

It boasts a cozy hood and built-in eye mask for total darkness even on bright flights.

It's one of the pricer options on this list.

Like the black-out curtains of travel pillows, this option comes with a hood and an eye mask that shields your eyes from any light, which is incredibly useful when you're trying to get some shut-eye on a busy flight. It has a soft neck brace that wraps around the neck with light support, and the hood goes on like a regular hoodie with a drop-down eye mask. Once our head was fully cocooned in the hooded pillow, we found that it was a game changer for travelers who have a hard time falling asleep with light or ambient noise around since it muffles sounds and blocks rays.

While the space-helmet-like shape looks quite different from other travel pillows on the market, it's still easy to put on and offers excellent portability. Plus, this newer model features an easy way to clip the pillow to a backpack or luggage handle. One thing to note is that the price point is quite high compared to other pillows on the market, but the unique design and high-quality fabric and construction make it worth it for those with higher budgets.

The Details: Alcantara fabric, WPS mesh | 12 x 6 x 4 inches (folded) | Machine washable

Travel + Leisure / Dera Burreson

Gingerlily Silk Travel Pillow

The silk material is gentle on skin and hair while traveling.

This pillow is 12 by 16 inches, so make sure you have plenty of room to pack it.

For those who love sleeping on silk pillowcases at home, this mini version for travel is an absolute must. Yes, it can be pricey to buy silk travel accessories, but it's also expensive to ruin a blowout and have to find a salon on vacation (and there's no price to be put on fresh, clean skin). This silk pillow is smaller than a standard pillow at 12 inches wide and 16 inches long, but you can still use it in a hotel bed, and it's perfect for trains, planes, and cars — just make sure you have the space in your personal item bag . After using this pillow for multiple long trips, it still shows no signs of loose stitches, fraying, or pilling. Rather, the pillow feels like it will last without ever going limp or flat.

The Details: Mulberry silk, cotton sateen, polyester | 12 x 6 inches

Travel + Leisure / Morgan Ashley Parker

Best Adjustability

Buyue travel neck pillow.

You can swivel it around to support any part of your head.

It comes with a drawstring bag to stuff it in, but the pillow still takes up a good chunk of space in a backpack.

With thick cushioning on one side of the pillow, the unique design of this travel pillow makes it easy to get comfortable in a small space where there isn't much wiggle room. No matter which way your head tilts when you sleep, you can adjust this pillow with the largest part of cushioning rotated to support the side or back of your head, or you can turn it to the front to prevent your chin from tipping forward or bobbing around. After testing the pillow on both road trips and long flights, we found that the fabric is breathable and soft for resting your head on, and we love that the cover comes off to toss it in the wash. Because of the thicker side of the pillow, it does take up a bit more space in a backpack, but it does come with a drawstring bag if you prefer to carry it outside of your luggage.

The Details: Polyester, spandex | 8 x 8 x 8 inches | Machine washable | Carrying case included

Travel + Leisure / Ava Wegner

Samsonite 2-in-1 Magic Travel Pillow

It has a modular design to shift from a U-shape to a rectangular pillow, offering versatility at an affordable price.

The neck pillow might not offer enough support for some since it's on the softer side.

This microbead pillow from Samsonite can be used as a neck pillow if you're sitting upright or you can shift it into a rectangular pillow for leaning against a window or laying on a tray table. The handy two-in-one design already gets bonus points for versatility, but the budget-friendly price makes it all the more better. In testing, it was an effortless process to switch from the U-shape to the rectangle shape by flipping the pillow inside out. Made with polyester and microfiber beads, this pillow is shockingly lightweight and feels nearly weightless to carry around an airport. Because the pillow is on the softer side with the microfiber beads, we discovered it's not as supportive as a memory foam pillow, but it still offered enough support to prevent the neck from uncomfortably craning too far to one side.

The Details: Polyester | 12.25 x 11.75 x 4 inches | Hand wash

Travel + Leisure / Anita Rutz

Best Splurge

Purple harmony anywhere pillow.

This supportive pillow is comfortable enough to sleep on at night and would make any hotel stay feel more luxurious.

At over three pounds, it's quite heavy but feels weightless if you attach the strap to a backpack.

If you're looking for a travel pillow that is just as comfortable — if not more so — than your pillows at home, then this luxurious one from Purple is the one for you. It's a miniature version of the brand's best-selling Harmony pillow, and it boasts the same cooling gel and bouncy, neck-supporting feel as the larger version. During testing, we found this pillow to be noticeably cooling, breathable, and moisture-wicking, which can come in handy for camping. We wouldn't use this pillow during flights because of the plush, rectangular shape that wouldn't work well when sitting upright, but it would be ideal when you're laying flat, like in a hotel room.

It comes with a machine-washable pillow cover, and there is a travel case sold separately . Because this is one of the priciest pillows on this list, we do wish the travel case was included, but we do think it's worth adding on for its carrying straps and compression features. The pillow feels quite heavy on its own, but when you attach the strap to a backpack, it feels weightless to carry. You can also compress the pillow in half if you have the travel case, making it much more portable. Although this is a splurge for a travel pillow, we think it's worth the investment for travelers in search of a comfortable pillow with luxe features like a breathable honeycomb design, a moisure-wicking cover, and strong neck support.

The Details: Talalay latex, knit | 16 x 13 x 6 inches | Machine washable

Travel + Leisure / Jackie Cucco

Best Breathable

Sleep number travel pillow.

The memory foam filling and synthetic fiber exterior let air pass through for superior breathability.

The pillow is large and was cumbersome to carry, especially for light packers.

It can get hot and stuffy on an airplane, so we love that the synthetic materials used to create this Sleep Number travel pillow are light and airy. The memory foam filling is bouncy and lightweight, and the soft fabric pillowcase is cooling enough to prevent overheating while sleeping in a plane, car, or train. Along with an airplane footrest , it could make a flight more comfortable. We used the pillow on a long-haul flight to Ireland and found it was ideal for leaning your head against the window or on the tray table since the pillow is on the larger side. While the size offers extra cushioning and support like a regular pillow, it did make it slightly annoying to carry through crowded airports since it doesn't come with a compact carrying case. However, it does come with a drawstring bag to carry it separately or you can use the clasp to attach it to backpacks, suitcases, or other luggage.

The Details: Lyocell blend, memory foam | 17 x 12 inches | Machine-washable cover | Carrying case included

Travel + Leisure / Emily Johnson

Other Travel Pillows We Liked

Some travel pillows we tested almost made the cut but didn’t due to a few weaknesses, though they still might make suitable options for some travelers.

Cabeau Evolution Classic Travel Neck Pillow : While the memory foam is the perfect balance of firm and soft, we found this pillow to be just a bit too bulky for frequent travel.

Travel + Leisure / Daniela Galvez

Therm-a-Rest Compressible Pillow : If you’re not a fan of the typical U-shaped travel pillow, this one is a good alternative. But because of its design, it offers no neck support and isn't the most useful when traveling via plane or train.

Slip Jet Setter Travel Pillow : The silk material is luxurious soft and cooling, but the pillow itself is extremely bulky to wear and difficult to travel with.

Snugl Neck Travel Pillow : Made with soft and supportive memory foam, the pillow is ultra-comfy to use in-flight, but we had a lot of trouble getting it back into the carrying case.

Cushion Lab Travel Deep Sleep Pillow : The comfort level with this pillow is so high that we started using it to sleep on nightly at home. However, it's not very portable, and we had a hard time rolling it up into the case.

Cabeau Evolution Cool Pillow : This is a great pick for travelers who get warm quickly, as the pillow is designed to prevent heat from building up when you wear it. However, we didn't find it as comfortable or supportive as the Cabeau TNE S3 Travel Pillow , so we would recommend that one instead, especially since they retail at similar prices.

Our T+L team tested more than 40 travel pillows to find the very best ones for every type of comfort-seekers. To thoughtfully curate this list, we researched and tested popular options, including pillows with the classic U-shape and rectangular ones, too.

Paying close attention to traits like comfort, quality, durability, and portability, we noted various features that stood out to us for both good and bad reasons. We looked for special features such as cooling designs, firmness, softness, or other claims by the manufacturer to check if they rang true. Our favorite pillows also kept their shape after being tucked away into a case and always sprang back into their original form with no signs of damage. 

After our real-world test, which involved trying the pillows on cross-country road trips and long-haul flights, we brought a few options into our lab to have one team member test them all against each other head-to-head. We then adjusted our results based on the direct comparison, and we will continue to capture testing notes every few months to update our articles accordingly.

Tips for Buying a Travel Pillow

Prioritize neck support.

When it comes to sleeping in planes, trains, or cars, you should focus on your neck and head support. When your head drops during sleep, it can leave you with a sore neck or even a headache. Your travel pillow should be supportive enough that your neck stays securely upright without feeling as though you're being squeezed.

Portability is key 

Whether you pack light or stuff your suitcase full, a compact travel pillow that fits into a small carrying case is ideal for bringing along on trips. Of course, some travel pillows don’t compress, but they should still be easy to clip onto a suitcase or backpack and not bump into too many things if you’re traversing an airport or train station. It's always more convenient when a carrying case is included, especially if it has a luggage trolley sleeve or straps.

Consider the filling material 

Travelers who like a firmer pillow should opt for a memory foam filling that can offer more support than an inflatable alternative. Microbead pillows can be just as supportive as memory foam ones, but they tend to be on the softer side and are more suited to travelers who like a little less structure while sleeping. 

Think about how you plan to use it

Travel pillows are a relatively broad category, so you'll want to narrow down your intended use and travel habits before purchasing since they come in all different shapes, styles, and sizes. For example, if you often find yourself in the middle seat while flying, you'll want a pillow with lots of head support like a memory foam, U-shape pillow or an infinity style that you can adjust. However, window-seaters might opt for a rectangular pillow for leaning against the plane wall.

Travel pillows aren't just for flights, either. There are also rectangular options that can help make you more comfortable while camping or staying in hotel rooms, rental properties, or even friend's houses that might not have great pillows. They are also a road trip essential for every adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

You can generally find washing instructions on the tag of the travel pillow when you buy it. Removable covers can usually go through a machine wash, but many of our team members opted to air dry the cover to prevent any shrinkage that could happen in a hot dryer. If a pillow doesn’t have a removable cover, you can spot clean the pillow by using a wet cloth dipped in soapy water.

Most standard travel pillows have a semicircular shape that you wrap around the neck to support your neck, head, and chin. These U-shaped pillows often have memory foam or microbead filling, but there are also inflatable neck pillows. There are unique J-shaped travel pillows that are perfect for supporting the neck and head of someone sitting in the middle or aisle seat. In addition, standard pillows make great travel pillows for certain situations, and plenty of rectangular-styled pillows compress down for better portability.

Most travel pillows will come with carrying cases to compress the pillow, making it more portable. If the carrying case doesn't have a handle, it should still pack down small enough to fit in a personal item such as a backpack or a tote bag. Some pillows have a luggage trolley pass-through sleeve, which you can slip over the handle of your suitcase, while others may have a strap or a clip that you can attach to a backpack to carry it hands-free.

Some pillows are specifically designed to be worn in multiple different ways, but in general, it depends on your comfort preferences. You can wear a travel pillow backward , forward, or you can lean on it in the window seat — the most important thing is finding the most comfortable position for you.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Anna Popp is a New York-based commerce writer at T+L, where she writes most of the team's tested content. Anna participated in testing travel pillows and worked with travel editors to determine the results for the best ones on the market based on a series of tests completed during trips taken by plane, car, and train. We will continue to update this article as we test even more travel pillows.

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• Trip Planning

The 9 Best Travel Pillows of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Get some quality shut-eye on the go

In This Article

• Our Top Picks

Final Verdict

How we tested, other travel pillows we tested.

• What to Look For

Why Trust TripSavvy

TripSavvy / Alessandra Amodio

Comfort is key when traveling, whether by car, train, bus, or airplane. And not just for your happiness—sitting or sleeping for hours on end can put your cervical spine (C-spine) in an unnatural position as your head bends downward to read, sways back to sleep on a headrest, or falls to the side to doze off against a window.

A travel pillow can help provide cushion to make falling asleep in transit easier, and the support may also help your C-spine and keep you comfortable during long flights and car rides. There are two main kinds of travel pillows: a donut or C-shape pillow and a rectangular pillow that mimics the type you use in bed.

All travel pillows should provide support and comfort, and you should be able to pack them down small enough to carry with you through an airport or on a train. To see what products were up to par, we tested 21 travel pillows over four weeks as we spent time in planes, trains, and cars. We looked for comfort, quality, portability, durability, and overall value.

Best Overall

Cabeau evolution classic travel pillow.

• Comfort 5 /5
• Quality 4.5 /5
• Portability 5 /5
• Durability 5 /5

Highly supportive material

Helps maintain natural C-spine shape

Easy-to-clean cover

Attaches to carry-on

Not as supportive for taller people

Material runs warm

Doesn’t pack down

The Cabeau Evolution Classic Travel Pillow has a responsive memory foam core, which we determined is what makes this neck pillow rise above the rest. Whether it's propping your head up while sleeping or supporting your neck while watching a movie, it feels like a cloud of softness and comfort that conforms to support your shape. 

The design is your traditional C-shape, but with raised sides to keep your neck up and a flattened rear to avoid pushing your C-spine forward. We thought the memory foam felt neither excessively firm nor too soft, but worked well to hold our head up comfortably when sleeping. Moreover, it bounced back to its original shape after we used it for over two hours.

The pillow doesn't deflate, but it has a clasp that keeps it from slipping around your neck and makes it easy to latch the pillow onto your bag when not in use. It comes with a soft cover that's removable and machine washable. Not only is it affordable, it's also better designed than most competitors at the same price point.

Dimensions: 9.5 x 10 x 5 inches | Weight: 11.6 ounces | Material: Polyurethane core, velour cover

TripSavvy / Daniela Galvez

Best Overall, Runner-Up

J-pillow chin-supporting neck pillow.

• Quality 5 /5

Super comfortable with a memory foam core

Packs down (carrying case included)

User-friendly

Doesn’t secure in place to prevent slippage

Less intuitive for the middle seat

This neck pillow has a unique J-shape design meant to support your head and neck while leaning against a window or seat in a car, bus, or plane. We found it super supportive while napping on a 19+ hour car trip and quite intuitive to use—one tester's 6-year-old cousin figured out immediately how to position this pillow.

The J-Pillow is lightweight, easy to move around, soft, and plush. It features memory foam, which is why it feels so supportive, and it has a machine-washable, cuddly, soft cover. The pillow is also quite durable and maintains its shape no matter the damage: We squished it under all the luggage in a trunk and it bounced right back to shape and didn't get any snags. 

Bonus: It comes with a stuff bag that you can tie around luggage, making the awkward shape much easier to travel with.

Dimensions: 12 x 8 x 13 inches | Weight: 8.16 ounces | Material: Memory foam core, polyester blend cover

TripSavvy / Jennifer May

Best Budget

Cloudz microbead travel neck pillow.

• Quality 4 /5

Great quality for the price

Easy to travel with

Two fabric options for hot/cold

Cover isn’t removable or washable

During testing, we found this classic donut-shaped neck pillow comfortable, supportive, lightweight, and soft but sturdy. The core has millions of tiny microbeads and is covered with super soft, plush fabric on one side and cooling spandex on the other, depending on what you need most during your travels. 

The pillow features a snap closure in front that helps keep your neck from falling forward and makes the pillow easy to attach to your bag for transport. During our tests, we specifically liked this pillow for neck support while switching between napping and reading or using a computer on long flights or train rides. And, despite being just $20, it also felt very high quality. 

While it didn't tear or snag during our travels, it’s worth noting that if you were to catch this on a door or snag it somehow, the millions of microbeads in the filling would come pouring out. 

Dimensions: 12 x 12 x 4 inches | Weight: 7 ounces | Material: Polyester, polyester blend

Therm-a-Rest Compressible Pillow

• Portability 4 /5

Recycled materials

Flat design like a bed pillow

Versatile use

Doesn't specifically contour to the neck

Not the most compact when stowed

The Therm-a-Rest Compressible Pillow is ideal if you value having something akin to an actual pillow, but small enough for traveling. The traditional rectangle is filled with upcycled chunks of foam from excess camping sleeping pad material, with a soft insulation layer on top to keep the surface from feeling lumpy. You can pull the drawcord string to cinch the pillow to your desired firmness.

We found this pillow incredibly comfortable, with a real pillow feel that was ideal for everything from flights and camping to sleeping at home. We liked the soft and breathable exterior, which was perfect for warm weather and hot plane rides. The pillow packs down into itself and you can use the drawcord to tie the pillow onto a suitcase or backpack.

Dimensions: 15 x 11 x 5 inches (small) | Weight: 7 ounces (small) | Material: Polyester fiber core, polyester cover

Best Splurge

Ostrichpillow go neck pillow.

Cool, minimalist design

Incredibly comfortable for long flights

Very compact when put away

Velcro might catch on clothes or hair

The Ostrich pillow is a simple and sleek design, with one sleeve of high-density memory foam that wraps around your neck with high sides to rest your cheek on and Velcro security in front. We found this design extremely comfortable, to the point that it felt like wrapping a marshmallow around our neck or sleeping on a cloud. We found it supportive for the neck, chin, and head while sitting in the middle seat on a flight, and it even kept our neck and back pain-free on a long international flight.

The memory foam is incredibly soft and plush, and the design is very accommodating among different-sized people who tested it. This pillow also has an appealing, modern design that looks more refined while wearing it than other options we've seen. One of us, who is already a hot sleeper, did report that the pillow was a little warm on a long international flight, but it wasn't uncomfortable.

What's more, it packs down super small, compressing to 60 percent of its size into an included stuff bag, which makes it easy to stash in your carry-on bag .

Dimensions: 9.8 x 6.7 x 2.7 inches | Weight: 14.8 ounces | Material: Memory foam core, viscose cover

Tripsavvy / Susan Brickell

Best Cooling

Cabeau evolution cool pillow.

Accommodates large headphones

Good balance between softness and support

Packs down small

May be too firm for some

The Cabeau Evolution Neck Pillow follows a C-shape design but with one significant difference: The top and bottom inch have memory foam for optimal neck support, while the middle is made with mesh vents to keep you cool.

Our testing found this design to be super supportive and firm without being too hard, and that the airy, cooling design worked as promised. The curved sections on each side are also designed to wear over-the-ear headphones comfortably. The pillow is lightweight and packs into a circular carrying case that's easy to attach to your luggage. Plus, the pillow maintains its shape even after being rolled and unrolled over and over. 

We found that even though this pillow runs nearly $60, it's worth it if you need firm support to sleep comfortably while traveling—especially in a middle seat.

Dimensions: 9 x 7 x 5 inches | Weight: 12.7 ounces | Material: Memory foam

Best Memory Foam

Aeris memory foam travel pillow.

• Comfort 4.5 /5
• Durability 4.5 /5

Super supportive

Compact when not in use

Comes with earplugs and eye mask

Requires effort to get into case

Made from ultra-supportive and contouring memory foam, it's no surprise that we found the Aeris Travel Pillow to be super firm and have excellent neck support. The memory foam is stiffer but still feels soft and comfortable to sink into. The sides come up high to provide an excellent chin rest when sleeping. We loved how we could lean back in the car or plane and the back of our neck wasn't against the headrest, which made for a comfortable nap. This neck pillow has a drawstring cord to secure it on any size neck.

The cotton cover is removable and machine washable. The whole pillow folds down small into a carrying case, which has the added feature of a side pocket to hold the included earplugs and eye mask.

Dimensions: 12.8 x 11.73 x 5.16 inches | Weight: 12.8 ounces | Material: Memory foam core; 80 percent velour, 20 percent polyester cover

TripSavvy / Anna Popp

Gingerlily Silk Travel Pillow

• Portability 3 /5
• Value 3.5 /5

Keeps skin and hair looking great

Big enough to use as a normal pillow

Quality materials and construction

Matching laundry bag, eye mask, and neck pillow available

Carrying case sold separately

Not particularly compact 

Retailing for almost $100 more than our overall winner, there’s no doubt that the Gingerlily Silk Travel Pillow is a splurge. However, it’s made from the finest mulberry silk, giving it an ultra-soft, smooth texture that helps to prevent wrinkles and protect your hair. We used ours on a five-hour Amtrak journey and loved that it kept a blowout looking sleek. The pillow may be expensive, but so is finding a salon on vacation (and there’s no price to be put on wrinkle-free skin!). 

The pillow is also made to last with high-quality materials and stitching. By the time we finished testing, it still looked brand new, and we felt that it would be a long time before it began to flatten. At 12 by 16 inches, this isn’t a full-size pillow, but neither is it the most portable option. This means you’ll need a significant amount of space in your carry-on or purse to tote it around, but on the flip side, being large enough to use for a regular night’s sleep at your destination adds to its overall value. Choose yours in sophisticated navy or pink and ivory stripes. 

Dimensions: 12 x 16 inches | Weight: Not listed | Material: Mulberry silk cover, silk and polyester core

Best Support

Cabeau evolution s3 travel pillow.

• Durability 4 /5

Unique chin strap for unrivaled support

Soft, washable cover

Folds compactly into included case 

Holds up well to intense travel 

Can feel a little restrictive at first 

Standing for “The Neck’s Evolution,” the TNE S3 from Cabeau features a patent-pending, totally unique chin strap designed to hold your head and neck firmly in place to prevent uncomfortable “bobblehead” syndrome. Other design features include raised side supports, a flattened back for greater comfort when leaning against your airplane seat, and an opening at the front of the neck for effective heat dispersal. Adjustable straps allow you to secure the pillow to any high-back seat. 

The interior is made from supportive memory foam, while the removable, washable cover features a soft, cozy fabric that held up well to our 12-day testing trip around Japan and South Korea . Despite using it almost constantly on different modes of transport, it looked good as new when we got home and only lost a slight degree of softness after washing. We especially liked that the pillow folds in half to fit inside a compact carry case, which has a clip for attaching it to your suitcase. There are seven bright colors to choose from. 

Dimensions: 7.5 x 6.3 x 11 inches | Weight: 14 ounces | Material: Memory foam core; polyester, microsuede, birdseye mesh cover

The Cabeau Evolution Classic Travel Pillow is exceptionally supportive, conforms to the natural curvature of the neck, and features a removable cover that is easy to clean. Also tying for the top pick, the J-Pillow Chin-Supporting Neck Pillow features an innovative design that delivers comfort and comes with an easy-to-carry stuff bag.

To determine the best travel pillows, we considered how easy the pillow was to set up and use out of the box, how the material felt to touch, how durable the material was against wear and tear, and how easy it was to clean. We put each pillow through a series of tests on plane, train, bus, or car rides exceeding two hours . During travel, we considered how supportive and comfortable the pillow was, how the fabric felt, how it made our neck feel, how easy it was to pack or compress, and whether it had any exceptional features that made traveling more comfortable.

Here are some of the other travel pillows we tested that fell short of our favorites list.

Trtl Pillow : For the price, this travel pillow didn't provide nearly enough neck support and not only felt flimsy but actually caused us pain during a 3.5-hour flight. Putting the wrap on was incredibly awkward and the fleece felt too stuffy riding in a car.

BCozzy Neck Pillow : This pillow has a unique wraparound design intended to create a double layer of cushion. However, it was too thick during testing to double up comfortably. It was definitely durable and well made, but not comfortable enough to recommend purchasing.

Ostrich Pillow Light Versatile : This pillow has comfortable, T-shirt-like fabric outside and a supportive, memory foam feel when you press on it. But the circular nature of the design just didn't work in testing to support the neck and head in a way that was also comfortable to sleep.

Cabeau Evolution S3 Memory Foam Travel Pillow : This memory foam pillow is supportive and soft, and it features mesh around the neck to keep you cool, as well as suede around the face to keep you cozy. Overall, this pillow is well made, thoughtfully designed, and comfortable enough for us to nap with on an 11-hour flight. It didn't fit into any single best category, but we recommend it nonetheless.

TripSavvy / Erin Johnson

Travelrest Ultimate Travel Pillow : This pillow's main selling point is that it rolls down super small for packability. But outside of that, we found little reason to buy it. It wasn't comfortable to sit or sleep with, caused us neck pain, the material was too plastic-y, and it's overall just confusing to use.

MLVOC Travel Neck Pillow Set : Our testing found this travel pillow too stiff to find a comfortable fit, not providing support to the head and neck, and allowing the head to bob from side to side. It also requires effort to stuff into the travel bag.

Samsonite Microbead 3-in-1 Neck Travel Pillow : This pillow features tiny beads, so it's not stiff like memory foam, but it didn't provide much support during testing unless our head was against a window. There isn't much support on the back of the neck, either. Overall, you can snag something more supportive for the price.

AirComfy Daydreamer Inflatable Neck Travel Pillow : This inflatable travel pillow isn't very comfortable once filled with air and was too small to fit in the crook of our neck comfortably. The surface gets dirty quickly and the plastic material was uncomfortable against the face. In short: Skip.

Everlasting Comfort Memory Foam Travel Pillow : This pillow has a soft, velvety cover and feels very firm with its memory foam core. We thought it might be too firm for some, but personally found it comfortable around the neck or leaning on for a window. For the price, it's well-made and a solid choice.

Dot&Dot Twist Memory Foam Travel Pillow : Filled with memory foam, this pillow has certain joints that twist into different shapes for personalized comfort. We found it to be thick and comfortable, but the bending nature tends to straighten slowly over time, so you'll have to readjust the position regularly.

Hest Pillow : This pillow packs down super small and then unfolds to be filled with shredded memory foam and polyester. Zippered access lets you adjust the loft to what you prefer, and we found it to be super comfortable and plush to sleep on. It's great for car trips and excellent for a full-size pillow versus a neck pillow, but we wish it came with a way to attach to luggage for air travel and that it was a bit lighter.

What to Look For in a Travel Pillow

You can find a comfortable neck pillow for just $20, but depending on your physiology, needs, and preferences, a pillow in the $40 to $60 range might be more comfortable. The price should correlate with design and features: A more expensive pillow should have a more streamlined design and features that make it worth more money due to better comfort, packability, and durability.

Most travel pillows come in one of two styles: Some kind of donut- or C-shaped neck pillow and a rectangular, small pillow that looks like what you use on your bed. 

A well-designed donut- or C-shaped pillow is ideal for keeping your spine aligned and preventing your head from jutting forward or falling back as you sit and sleep for hours while traveling. It should have support on all sides to keep your head from bobbing or your chin from falling. This style of pillow is ideal if you spend most of your travel time sitting up, whether working on a computer or trying to sleep in a middle seat (versus a window).

A rectangular pillow is ideal if you’re lying down in a car, train, or airplane, or if your head will be resting against a window. It’s also ideal if you want one item to do double duty, as you can use this travel pillow at home for a lumbar pillow or toddler pillow, or while camping. A rectangular pillow should feature materials that support your head and neck, and ideally have a customizable loft so you can adjust how thick or thin it depends on your sleep style to maintain that spinal alignment between your head and neck.

As we’ve said, a travel pillow’s primary purpose is to keep you comfortable and pain-free while in transit, which means it needs to be able to keep your head and neck in spinal alignment. That means the best travel pillow will be adjustable since some people need it tighter, looser, thicker, or thinner.

Frequently Asked Questions

Your travel pillow should have a machine-washable cover that you can remove and clean like any pillowcase. Let the cover air dry to prevent any shrinkage.

Travel pillows make sleeping more comfortable, usually making sleeping easier. A good travel pillow should provide support for your head and neck in a way that maintains cervical spinal alignment. Being out of alignment (with your head jutting forward, back, or to one side) is associated with the neck, shoulder, and back, and can make it very uncomfortable to sleep (not to mention not great for your musculature).

The most common way people wear these classic travel pillows is with the clasp in the front and the back of the "C" at the back of the neck. If you reverse this position, you may find it much more supportive and comfortable. Whichever orientation offers you the most comfort—and therefore facilitates rest—is the correct way.

Rachael Schultz is a fitness and outdoor product journalist based in Carbondale, Colorado. Growing up in and around cities on the East Coast, she wasn't taught how to backpack or ski as a kid, which means that as she moved West and her passion for the outdoors grew in adulthood, so did her research skills around what exactly one needed to buy to get outside. Now an avid mountain biker, skier, hiker, and camper, she's endlessly fascinated by and knowledgeable about the nuances of materials, performance, and convenience of outdoor gear. She's lucky enough to test everything from women's ski bibs to ultralight backpacking gear to camping cocktail kits. Rachael is passionate about making the outdoors just as accessible to those who haven't spent much time under the stars as those who grew up enjoying it, and that includes having the right gear to stay happy and motivated to head out again as soon as possible.

Journal of physical therapy science vol. 35,2 (2023): “ Changes in neck pain and somatic symptoms before and after the adjustment of the pillow height .” 106-113. doi:10.1589/jpts.35.106

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The Best Travel Pillow

By Sabrina Imbler

Short of scoring a row of empty seats—dream on!—your best bet for getting at least a little sleep while flying is a travel pillow.

After asking 10 panelists to try on eight travel pillows and after taking four cross-country red-eyes in window, aisle, and middle seats, we think the comfortable and easy-to-pack  Travelrest Nest Ultimate Memory Foam Travel Pillow is the best travel pillow for most people.

Everything we recommend

Travelrest Nest Ultimate Memory Foam Travel Pillow

The best travel pillow.

Its tall memory-foam walls let it offer more support than any other pillow we tested. It’s also shaped to sit flush against a headrest, and it compresses to a manageable size.

Buying Options

Cabeau Evolution Classic Pillow

A travel pillow available at airports.

This memory-foam neck-support pillow is highly adjustable, but without a contoured back, it can’t quite sit flush with the headrest. It’s available at many airport stores, though.

Trtl Pillow

A pillow for one-sided neck support only.

It’s a fleece scarf with a built-in plastic brace—like a one-sided neck brace, but softer and cozier. However, it’s not so great if you tend to shift position while you sleep, and it costs more than the other pillows we recommend.

Bcozzy Pillow

Great with large headphones.

Featuring an adjustable design that accommodates over-the-ear headphones, the Bcozzy is an excellent chin-support pillow for people who nod forward as they sleep.

The uniquely angled back on the Travelrest Nest Ultimate sets it apart from other travel pillows because it can lay flat against the seat back. Most other pillows have a rounded back, which pushes your head away from the headrest. The Travelrest also has rubber grip dots to prevent slipping while sleeping.

This pillow’s spongy memory foam cushions the entire circumference of your neck, preventing your head from leaning far in any direction, and its adjustable Velcro strap ensures it can fit most necks. The pillow’s cozy velour exterior is removable and machine-washable. Although it doesn’t pack flat, the Travelrest weighs less than a pound and compresses to a quarter of its size when rolled into its Velcro-strapped carrying case.

Our only complaint is that the Travelrest’s high walls, while supportive, can push over-ear headphones off of the ears of people with shorter necks. While the memory foam feels plush, it’s also quite firm; this offers excellent support, but not much give.

It also doesn’t let you adjust the fit, like our two wrappable picks: the Turtl and the BCozzy . If the Travelrest fits your neck, it’s an excellent pillow. If your neck is much longer or shorter than this pillow’s 5-inch wall, though, you might prefer the fit of one of our other pillow picks.

If our top pick sells out, or if you find yourself pillowless past security, the Cabeau Evolution Classic Pillow is almost as good a pillow.

It lacks the Travelrest’s angled, lay-flat back, but its U-shape, contoured memory-foam core and machine-washable velour cover still provide comparable levels of comfort. Its adjustable string closure also means that you can fit the pillow much tighter around your neck than you can with the Travelrest, making it a good choice for people with smaller necks or people who prefer a more constricted fit.

Additionally, it’s the only one of our picks that we’ve regularly seen in stores located behind the security checkpoint at many airports.

If you typically lean to the same side while sleeping, the Trtl Pillow’s fleece-covered plastic frame provides unshakeable support to one side of your neck while remaining comfortable to wear. It’s basically a one-sided neck brace.

The pillow’s cozy wraparound fleece will also keep your neck warm, making it a good choice for anyone who gets cold while flying (and a poor choice for those who sleep hot). But the Trtl’s winning quality is its tiny, packable size.

Unlike any of our other picks, the Trtl does not need to be compressed or stuffed into a carrying case. It will always take up about as much space as a PB&J sandwich. (It costs a lot more than one, though.)

The Bcozzy , a variation on the hemi-doughnut theme, is our pick for anyone who wears large over-the-ear headphones on a flight or tends to nod forward while they sleep.

The pillow’s overlapping ends form a snug cushion that holds your chin in place far better than do the Trtl’s plastic frame or the Travelrest and Cabeau’s chin-facing gap. While the pillow does not provide great support to either side of your neck, if paired with a large pair of headphones, the Bcozzy holds a head in place perfectly.

While not as compressible as our other picks, the pillow has a small loop that can be clipped to the outside of most bags so it doesn’t have to take up space inside your bag.

The research

Why you should trust us, who this is for, how we picked our best travel pillow finalists, how we tested travel pillows, our pick for the best travel pillow: travelrest nest ultimate memory foam travel pillow, runner-up for the best travel pillow: cabeau evolution classic pillow, also great for portability: trtl pillow, also-great chin-support pillow for forward-nodders: bcozzy pillow, other good travel pillows, the competition.

I am a frequent flyer who often takes red-eyes from coast to coast—I now live in Brooklyn but fly home to San Francisco to visit my parents. I’m also an insomniac, so falling asleep on planes has never been easy for me.

While writing this article, I tested eight travel pillows on two five-hour flights and slept with our four picks on two more cross-country flights. I also spoke with Rebecca Robbins, a postdoctoral fellow at the NYU Center for Healthful Behavior Change at the time of the interview, to see what she looks for in a travel pillow.

In addition, my Wirecutter colleagues as a whole are an exceptionally mobile group. We’ve worked remotely from every continent except Antarctica, so I asked some folks on staff which pillows they like and use regularly. (They’ve also since contributed some additional testing.)

Boarding a red-eye without a travel pillow in your bag is like choosing to sleep on the floor when there’s a perfectly good futon nearby. Sure, it’s no bed, but it’s a hell of a lot better than hardwood.

In an interview she did in 2017 with The Atlantic reporter Kelly Conaboy, Dr. Mary O’Connor, then the director of Yale’s Center for Musculoskeletal Care, said that despite a lack of clinical studies that support the efficacy of travel pillows, “Many of us who travel have experienced falling asleep with our neck in a weird position and it bothering us thereafter. So, I think they can be helpful, but that depends on how they’re used and whether they support the neck.”

In other words, using a supportive pillow may decrease the chances you wake up with an unwanted crick. It certainly has in our experience.

However, not all travel pillows are the same, and if you also happen to have a zealous hatred of your travel pillow, you probably have a bad one. So even if you have a generic pillow you picked up at some airport a few years ago, consider upgrading to one of our picks. And of course, these pillows work well on buses and trains, too.

So how can you tell if a pillow is likely to actually support your head? Rebecca Robbins, a postdoctoral fellow studying sleep at the time of our interview, says the best travel pillows will keep your head elevated and in alignment with your spine: “Look for something that would really be supportive. My one gripe with most travel pillows is that they’re too soft and not too full—you want something that will be supportive as you try to get comfortable in your limited space.” Robbins also recommends finding a pillow that can keep you cozy but not too hot, as she says it’s easier to sleep with a lower body temperature.

Robbins does her best to avoid one common travel situation. “My number one sleep tip is to not take a red-eye if you can avoid it,” she said. “If the flight is five hours, you’re going to only have three hours of true rest, because all the announcements—‘lower your window,’ ‘raise your window.’ Those can be significant distractions.”

We also looked at existing editorial reviews for guidance. Ethan Green , founder of the sleep resource blog No Sleepless Nights, compiled an extensive comparative review of popular travel pillows that we found helpful when deciding what models to test.

For people who want a travel pillow that will ease some of the discomfort of sleeping upright on a bumpy plane ride, we’ve identified the following key features:

• Comfort and support: The pillow should offer ample support for the weight of your neck and head but not restrict your movements or feel too tight.
• Portable (but not inflatable): You don’t want your travel pillow to take up so much space in your carry-on that you can’t bring other things you need, so it should compress to a smaller size. Barring that, there should at least be a way to clip it to the outside of your bag or luggage. Inflatable pillows are easy to pack but should be avoided. They inevitably spring a leak, often sooner rather than later.
• Soft: The material should feel plush against your skin but not trap so much heat that it’s uncomfortable to wear.
• Universal fit (or as close as possible): The pillow should allow space for people to sleep with a ponytail or accommodate bigger hair, as well as a whole variety of head shapes and sizes and neck lengths.
• Sleeping styles: It should also accommodate people who move their head in any direction while they sleep. It should also work in a window, a middle, or an aisle seat.
• Speed of compression/decompression: In case you need to quickly stow your pillow before exiting the plane, or if you want to catch some shut-eye in a moment’s notice, it shouldn’t take too long to stuff the pillow into its carrying case or unfold it to full size.
• Weight: Ideally, the pillow shouldn’t add undue burden to your carry-on. While inflatable pillows will always be the lightest option, memory-foam pillows don’t weigh much more and can offer significantly more comfort.
• Grip/traction: Your head will likely move around a bit while sleeping on a plane, especially if there’s turbulence. So any kind of grip or traction around the bottom of the pillow will help it stay in place and keep you snoozing.
• Machine washable: As you might expect from a vessel that ferries hundreds of people back and forth across the sky on a daily basis, planes can be filthy. So you’ll want to be able to wash the whole pillow—or at least its cover—before you take it on your next trip.

We researched more than 40 travel pillows—which ranged from variations on a hemi-doughnut to inscrutable crowdfunded designs—and after comparing hundreds of glowing and enraged Amazon reviews, we decided to test eight. We asked a panel of 10 people to try each of the pillows in a chair pushed against the wall of a conference room (the closest we could come to airline conditions in our office) and surveyed them on the fit, comfort, and support of each pillow. The panelists all had a variety of neck lengths and jaw sizes, and one even had a substantial beard. We also ran all of the pillows or their detachable pillowcases through a washing machine as instructed to see how well each stood up to a spin cycle and tumble dry.

And because simulations are rarely enough, I brought eight travel pillows on two cross-country flights to see how the pillows felt in the specific back design of an airplane seat. As I was lucky enough to have unnecessarily kind and understanding neighbors (thank you, Mike and Deborah!), I wore each of these pillows in a window, a middle, and an aisle seat to see if they felt comfortable in each configuration. I also tried on Deborah’s Muji travel pillow (as she offered), but determined it had much less support than our picks. I also carried all of our picks on two more cross-country flights on a different airline to ensure the pillows did just as well in different seat designs.

The Travelrest Nest Ultimate remains our top pick after several years because its plush but firm memory-foam core offers more support to your neck than that of any other pillow. It’s also one of the few pillows we tested that felt specifically designed for an airline seat, with an angled, grippy back that aligns perfectly to both upright and reclined positions and ensures the pillow won’t slide down as you nod off.

The velvety-soft pillow supports heads and necks of all sizes and can be fitted with an adjustable cord and clasp. In the tried-but-true shape of a hemi-doughnut—imagine a doughnut with a bite taken out—the Travelrest Ultimate may look like other pillows, but a number of thoughtful details make it a softer, more supportive pillow than all the rest.

The Travelrest offers better all-around support than any other pillow we tested. Its broad, marshmallowy walls hug the whole circumference of your neck. It feels supportive but not stifling. The easy-to-fasten Velcro strap means it can be adjusted to a snug fit for necks of many sizes. There’s even a small crevice for curlier hair or a ponytail.

In addition to fitting your neck, the Travelrest’s back tapers up to a point to fit flat against an airline seat back. Most neck pillows lack this tapering on the back and the excess padding can push your neck away from the headrest, causing your neck to droop forward. Additionally, the Travelrest has grippy dots on the back that prevent it from slipping.

In addition to its excellent support, the Travelrest is very comfortable and cozy to wear. Its memory-foam core is wrapped in velour, which kept my neck warm without overheating it. The Travelrest’s velour also felt softer and smoother against my skin than similar coverings on other pillows, such as the Cabeau Evolution. It’s also easy to clean: The Travelrest’s cover is easily unzipped and machine-washable. The velour retained its softness after going through a wash and dry cycle.

While the Travelrest isn’t inflatable, it packs down to the size of a roll of toilet paper in its carrying case. Once you fold it cinnamon-roll style and it’s small enough to fit inside the bag, a Velcro strap on the pouch helps you compress it even further. If there’s still not enough space for it in your bag, you can always clip its drawstring to any exterior loop.

All of these thoughtful details were not lost on our testing panel. They gave the Travelrest the highest marks of any pillow in comfort and neck support, and two-thirds of our testers picked it as their favorite pillow.

How the Travelrest has held up

After over a year of use, this pillow had lost none of its supportiveness. The memory foam was just as firm and springy as it was when we bought it. Its velcro strap was still easy to secure. If it fits you, this is a pillow that stays secure and comfortable on your neck for the duration of a long flight. However, we’ve also heard from multiple travelers that this pillow doesn’t fit them. The memory foam is quite firm, which offers excellent support, but not much give. If a pillow of up to 5 inches doesn’t fit comfortably on your neck, we think you’ll be happier trying one of our other picks.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

The Travelrest Nest Ultimate will never compress to the thin, flat size of a tiny pillow like the Trtl . But its unparalleled, cushiony support can still pack down to a reasonable size, and its 13 ounces won’t make your carry-on noticeably heavier. And if saving space is your highest concern, we think the Trtl provides space-conscious support without the spit-filled fuss of an inflatable pillow.

While the Travelrest’s voluminous plush can support all heads that lean left, back, or right, the pillow may not hold up the chins of people with smaller faces. When my head bobbed forward, my small face sank into the gap between the pillow closure and my neck. You can adjust the Velcro strap for a tighter fit, but the short strap cannot be pulled as tight as the Cabeau’s adjustable strings.

The Travelrest’s unbeatable support is in part due to the height of its sides, designed to come up to the jaw of the wearer. This means the pillow may be incompatible with larger over-the-ear headphones for people with shorter necks. For instance, when I tried to wear the Travelrest with my noise-cancelling Bose headphones , the pillow pushed the headset uncomfortably far up on my head, taking my earlobes with it. However, my editor, who has a longer neck, didn’t have this problem.

If you want a tighter, more adjustable fit, the Cabeau Evolution Classic  (which used to be called just the Evolution) is the way to go. Its contoured memory-foam design offers almost as much neck support as our main pick does, albeit without some of the Travelrest’s luxurious height. But the Cabeau’s adjustable clasp allows a far greater range of cinching than the Travelrest. In other words, the pillow can fit as tightly as you like.

Like the Travelrest, the Cabeau’s hemi-doughnut shape offers 360 degrees of support for anyone wearing it. It also boasts a cushioned memory-foam core and a contoured top that will keep your neck upright and head in place. But unlike the Travelrest’s gently arched bottom, the Cabeau’s flat bottom won’t sit as securely on your shoulders and may move around during your sleep. The Cabeau also lacks the Travelrest’s smartly tapered, grippy back that helps keep the pillow in place during flight. The Cabeau’s velour cover is also machine-washable, but it feels less soft than the Travelrest’s.

Although the Cabeau’s fit and shape aren’t quite as good as the Travelrest’s, this pillow is more adjustable. It can be tightened or loosened with two adjustable strings that clip together, which results in a far more adjustable range than the Travelrest’s short strip of Velcro. If you have a smaller neck and know you find a tighter grip on your neck comforting, the Cabeau may be the way to go.

Like the Travelrest, the Cabeau also packs down to a quarter of its size, thanks to an adjustable strap bisecting its carrying case. But at 15.2 ounces, it’s a bit heavier than the Travelrest.

Unlike any of our other picks, the Cabeau Evolution Classic is sold in many of those ubiquitous news stores inside airports. So if you find yourself lacing up your shoes after security and wishing you had bought one of our picks before your flight, look for the Cabeau’s contoured shape among the novelty hemi-doughnuts dangling off the travel pillow racks. It’s the best pillow you can buy at an airport. But if you have the chance to order online, the Travelrest offers more support.

There is a newer model of the Evolution Classic, the S3 , which has straps to hook onto a seat’s headrest. We think it’s a good choice if the Classic version is out of stock or otherwise unavailable. It’s still supportive and comfortable, but not as thick or soft as the Classic.

The Trtl Pillow , though odd-looking and unconventional, won a contingent of ardent fans with its firm support and slim, packable size. But it’s not our top pick because it works on only one side, and its warmth-trapping fleece can cause your neck to overheat. It’s also the most expensive of our picks.

The Trtl consists of an arched plastic skeleton inside of a soft, fleece scarf that wraps once around your neck and then closes with Velcro to hold the pillow in place. You just lean your head against the convex end of the bendy frame, wrap the pillow around your neck, and your head has a soft but firm pedestal on which to rest while you sleep. It sounds weird, but it’s not that different from a neck brace—only it’s one-sided and softer.

Because the Trtl Pillow is little more than a scarf with a plastic plate in it, it packs down to the size of a sandwich and can lay flat against the back of your bag. This is the smallest travel pillow we tested and also requires none of the squashing or awkward cinching it takes to stuff the Travelrest or Cabeau into their holding bags, which are also easy to lose. Unlike any of the other pillows we’ve seen, the Trtl is small enough to fit inside a briefcase or handbag, making it the best option for people who don’t normally travel with backpacks. And at a featherweight 5 ounces, the Trtl is the lightest pillow we tested.

Though the Trtl can support your head from only one side, the tall, bendy plastic frame inside offered more support on that one side than either the Travelrest or Cabeau . Yet even with its soft, wraparound design, it lacks the all-around support provided by our top and runner-up picks. If you are an asymmetrical sleeper (if you prefer sleeping with your head leaning to one side), the Trtl may be a good choice. However, it’s not a good choice for people who nod forward—the plastic insert is too stiff. If that’s you, we prefer the Bcozzy .

Some testers found the Trtl’s quasi-corseted-turtleneck design off-putting. But then again, no one looks cool wearing any travel pillow. And on that note, the Trtl’s cozy fleece will keep your neck toasty. So if you know you run hot, the Trtl may not be the pillow for you.

Wirecutter’s Ganda Suthivarakom swears by the Trtl: “It packs almost flat, weighs next to nothing, and can be helpful for sleeping even when you are stuck in a middle seat. As someone who is always cold on the plane, I don't mind the whole fleece scarf design, either.”

Trtl has a more padded version of the pillow that claims to be more adjustable; one of our longer-necked staffers tried it and reported that it is indeed more comfortable for him than the original Trtl was. However, the same limitations of the original apply to the new version.

The Bcozzy is a snakelike spin on the traditional hemi-doughnut that’s perfect for anyone traveling with large headphones or people who tend to nod forward while sleeping and wake themselves up. It lacks the tall, supportive sides of our other picks, but the overlapping front is the perfect height to keep your chin from nodding forward as you doze off. It’s not as supportive on the sides, but this leaves ample room for big headphones.

The Bcozzy’s best advantage is its overlapping circular design, which allows you to adjust the pillow to degrees of personal preference. You can place the overlapping ends of the pillow around any point of your neck (though it only really makes sense in the front or on the sides), and wear the pillow as loose or as tight as you’d like. We think it’s most comfortable when the ends meet right under your neck—and in that position, it cushions your chin better than any other pillow we tested.

The longer, leaner Bcozzy lacks the plush, ensconcing neck support of the Travelrest Nest Ultimate or Cabeau Evolution Classic . It lays so low on your shoulders that it might not even touch your jaw. But this makes the pillow perfect for anyone who likes to wear over-the-ear headphones along with a travel pillow while they sleep on the flight. I personally like to fall asleep to music and drown out the dull roar of an airplane, so the Bcozzy works perfectly for me.

We still think the Travelrest Nest Ultimate is a superior overall hemi-doughnut pillow, but the Bcozzy is an excellent choice if you plan to wear big headphones or know the feeling of that sharp, waking drop when your head falls forward on a plane.

The Bcozzy is also one of the least packable pillows, as it doesn’t come with a carrying case and does not compress particularly well. But its 7.4 ounces is around half the weight of the Travelrest or Cabeau, and it does comes with a little loop that clips onto the outside of a backpack or duffel. And even when squished down at the bottom of a bag, it doesn’t take up that much more space than the Travelrest or the Cabeau.

If you’re a back sleeper who can fall sleep sitting upright in your seat, facing forward, and not need to curl up or lean your head on the airplane window: You may want to try the Posture+ Travel Pillow, which is a U-shaped neck cushion, padded with memory foam, that looks like the back half of a cervical collar. When testing it, we slept surprisingly well, but it won’t suit all (or even most) sleep styles. It’s also not machine-washable.

If you have a shorter neck and tend to run hot on planes and would prefer a pillow designed to keep you cool: Consider the ventilated Cabeau Evolution Cool —the combination of a silky polyester cover (similar to spandex) and vented design did feel mildly cooler against our necks. And we liked the pillow’s silky feel, packable size, zippered carrying case. But it was significantly smaller than the standard Cabeau Evolution Classic and the Travelrest Nest Ultimate, and it left the chins of long-necked testers totally unsupported. It’s also more expensive.

If you always lean to the same side when sleeping: Consider Travelrest’s All-in-One , which has a novel across-the-shoulder design that could be comfortable in such a situation. It has a similar fabric to the company’s winning Ultimate Memory Foam Neck Pillow, but in our tests its bulky inflated tube offered no structured head support, which could pose a problem in bumpy conditions.

If you tend to be a forward-falling head bobber: Consider the Caldera Releaf , which is less travel pillow and more neck brace. It does offer superior neck support, but it constricted the throat too much for our comfort.

The Trtl Pillow Plus , a later addition to the Trtl lineup, is more height-adjustable and has more padding than its older sibling . Our self-described “giraffe-necked” tester said that it did indeed fit him better than the original Trtl had. However, it still supports your head from only one side, making it not a great choice for sleepers who nod forward. It’s also bulkier than the original and costs more.

The Cabeau Evolution S3 is a newer version of our runner-up pick , the Evolution Classic. We liked it, and we think it’s a solid choice if the original Evolution isn’t available. It has added straps that you can hook onto a headrest to keep your head from falling forward while you sleep, but our runner-up pick is softer and slightly thicker, which offers a bit more support. We did find the S3 to be easier to roll up into its carrying case, however.

Intrigued by one of the stranger innovations that we’ve seen in travel pillow design, we tested the Huzi Design Infinity , but we can’t recommend it. Instead of cinching or clasping at the front, it is designed to be looped several times around the wearer’s neck like an infinity scarf. But the pillow failed to support our testers’ necks. Regardless of who tried it, testers found that looping it twice was too loose and thrice was too tight. It was also the largest and least compressible pillow we tested.

The J-Pillow offered a singular, three-pronged design that proved impossible for anyone to figure out without instructions. After some explanation, our testers could wear the pillow correctly, but they still felt that its squishy stuffing offered insufficient support, and only to one side of the head. It’s also impossible to pack away efficiently due to its pyramidal shape. If you want a one-sided pillow, skip this and go for the Trtl instead.

We tested the inexpensive Travelrest Curl because we loved its plush and contoured big cousin, the Travelrest Nest Ultimate. But while the Curl contains the same luxurious memory-foam filling as the Ultimate, the pillow is so small that many testers found that it didn’t even come up to their jaws when worn. It does have an attractive price, but its skimpy size and unsupportive design could support only the shortest of necks.

We found the air-filled Sea to Summit Aeros Traveller Pillow to be similarly lacking. We liked how easy it was to fill—its dual-valve inflation mechanism means it won’t let air out between breaths—and we appreciated that it weighed only about a fifth as much as the Travelrest, but the Travelrest’s 360-degree support made it too hard to go back to an open-ring design that offers no support in the front. Also, one of our former freelance writers recently reported that when she pulled her pillow out of storage, after a few years of not using it, its internal bladder disintegrated in her hands.

This article was edited by Ria Misra and Christine Ryan.

Rebecca Robbins, postdoctoral fellow at the NYU Center for Healthful Behavior Change , phone interview , October 20, 2017

Meet your guide

Sabrina Imbler

Sabrina Imbler is a former staff writer for Wirecutter, where they covered kitchen tools and HVAC.

Further reading

Pluto Pod Travel Pillow: A First-Class Sleep Experience in Economy

by Dorie Chevlen

This travel pillow is so great you won’t even care if you look silly wearing it.

The Silly-Looking Trtl Travel Pillow Is the Only Way I Can Sleep on Flights

by Elissa Sanci

You might look funny while wearing the one-sided Trtl travel pillow in flight, but you won’t care when you land at your destination bright-eyed and bushy-tailed.

The Best Lumbar Support Pillow

by Ayanna Redwood-Crawford

If you slouch while sitting at your desk for long periods or suffer from back pain after a long workday, a lumbar support pillow can make all the difference.

The 36 Best Gifts for Frequent Travelers

by Samantha Schoech

We’ve put together a selection of fun, useful and clever gifts for that person who always has a trip planned.

10 Best Travel Pillows, Tested & Reviewed by Our Editors

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

If you travel regularly you’ve probably learnt to spot the difference between a frequent flier and a rookie—the most obvious tell-tale sign being a bulky travel pillow, typically carried by an inexperienced flier, hanging from a backpack or being worn (incorrectly) around the back of their neck before they even get on the plane. Many of us are guilty of buying one of these beanbag worms from the airport duty-free shop, only to realize that they’re more trouble than they’re actually worth.

Do a little research, though—as we’ve done for you here— and you might be pleasantly surprised to find that the humble travel pillow has upped its game over time. Specialized brands like  Trtl  and  BCozzy  have entered the market, while pillows that range in shape and materials have popped up on Amazon.

So which ones are actually worth taking on a flight ? We asked our frequent flying editors to test out the most reviewed styles. Below, 10 travel pillows we swear by for long-haul flights , road trips , train rides , and everything in between.

How we chose the best travel pillows

Every pillow on this list has been independently tested and reviewed by our editors. When testing, we consider quality, price, unique design features, as well as overall function and visual appeal. Our editors have traveled with each of these pillows to determine packability and comfort, and then reported back on how well they stacked up against other versions they've tried.

Our top picks:

• Best overall: Cabeau Evolution S3 travel pillow
• Best for neck support: Trtl travel pillow
• Best for back support: Napfun travel pillow
• Best for red-eye flights: Pluto Pod
• Best for side sleepers: BCozzy neck pillow

Best travel pillow for: Overall comfort

If you're looking for an upgrade to a basic does-the-job travel pillow or suffer from neck or back pain, Cabeau's Evolution S3 travel pillow is the best we've tested so far. The memory foam style has considered everything, from an adjustable toggle clasp to secure the pillow comfortably around your neck, to a handy side pocket—ideal for storing headphones or earplugs . What really sets this pillow apart from the rest are the velcro straps on the back, designed to loop around a plane seat's headrest, helping to keep your head upright and take any pressure off your neck.

Why we love it:  “The foam in this pillow is extremely comfortable, but what I love most is that the back of the pillow is flat, so you can sit right up against your seat, unlike the typical travel pillow styles which tend to be round and tilt your neck down slightly. The straps are a great idea, but if you're short it might not be possible to secure to the headrest, so keep that in mind. It also comes in a sleek cylindrical bag that, when clipped onto your carry-on , you’d never even know there was a travel pillow inside." — Sarah Allard , digital editor, Condè Nast Traveller UK

Best travel pillow for: Back support

Made with compressible memory foam, the Napfun travel pillow is soft, yet designed with nearly 360-degree concave support (on the chin, back of the neck, and shoulder) for actual support when resting on the go. Its outer fabric is skin-friendly, soft, and washable; it can be removed via the semi-invisible zipper on the back.

Why we love it: “I often struggle to find the perfect position before a nap or when resting (when traveling, or not). This is one of the only travel pillows that helped me stay comfortable, thanks to its material and support. It’s both stiff and soft—and the flat, slightly indented shape of the back did wonders for my posture when sleepy. Without feeling in the way, the adjustable front clip made sure my head didn’t droop forward, and the breathable thickness of the memory foam propped the side of my neck up while also allowing me to sink into the coziness of it. I also love that it's compressional—no matter how many times I’ve folded it down into its accompanying (and adorable) mini bag, it has yet to lose its shape, foaminess, or ability to fluff back up.” — Jessica Chapel , editorial assistant

Best travel pillow for: Red-eye flights

More than just a neck pillow, the Pluto Pod boasts a lightly structured and padded hood, as well as a pull-down eye mask. Do you resemble a bobble-headed, 1950s-style alien when you wear it? Yes, you do. Is it, by far, one of the best travel pillows we've tested? Absolutely.

Why we love it : “The pillow has helped me cut down on my sleeping tools. With the Pod, I can eschew ear plugs and an eye mask because the padded hood dampens noise and the flip-down eye mask blocks almost all light. Sleeping with one is like being inside a mini sensory deprivation tank, except you don’t have to worry about getting wet.” — Juliet Izon , contributor

Read a full review here .

Best travel pillow for: Upper body support

This clever crossbody-sling pillow offers neck and head support while allowing you to truly relax and lean to one side to fall asleep. The pillow comes with a cord at the top that can be secured in place by looping over your seat’s headrest. You can wear the pillow on either side across your body, or down one side, creating more of a barrier between you and the person next to you. The pillow is inflatable, too, so it takes up hardly any room in your luggage.

Why we love it:  “I really love the shape of this pillow, as it cradles not just your neck, but your whole upper body. Although I usually don’t like inflatable pillows, the rigidity of this style works to make you feel secure while sitting upright.” — Lauren Burvill , senior commerce editor, Condè Nast Traveller UK

Best travel pillow for: Neck support

Less a pillow and more a supportive wrap for your neck, this unique design from Trtl is ideal if you're short on space and weight in your carry-on luggage—it weighs only 4.5 ounces. The pillow is designed to look like a scarf and features a clever curved U-shaped neck support stand that sits under your jaw and is then secured in place by wrapping the fabric around your neck and connecting the velcro.

Why we love it:  “I often feel like most typical travel pillows are too bulky and hard to get comfortably on, so I was keen to try this style. It's perfect for keeping your neck upright and avoiding any of the nodding that can happen while asleep. I'll admit, it feels a little strange at first to put it on, but the hypoallergenic fleece is soft and warm. It's a great option not just for plane travel, but also long road trips or train journeys.” — Sarah James , deputy digital editor, Condè Nast Traveller UK

Best travel pillow for: Flexibility

Made of memory foam, this twist style pillow can be bent and contoured to almost any shape. Its flexibility means it can be worn in several ways, from around the neck to under your head, shoulders, or even lower back.

Why we love it:  “I often toss and turn a lot when trying to get to sleep, so I find I’m particularly wriggly when trying to get comfortable on a flight. This kind of flexible twist style of the pillow was perfect for me, as I was able to shape it to exactly where I needed it to be. I ended up settling with it half behind my neck and half under my chin, so I could lie on my side and get a couple of hours of precious sleep.” —L.B.

Best travel pillow for : Versatility

Slip this microbead-filled cap over your head and you’ll completely redefine the experience of sleeping on the go. From the outside, the wacky-shaped headpiece may feel a tad like a Teletubbies costume, but once you pull your head through the 27.5-inch opening, any place you find yourself in—no matter how bright or how loud—can turn into a sleep zone.

Why we love it: “And there’s no right or wrong way to use it: On a plane, use it to lean against the wall of the window seat, lie head down on the tray table of the middle seat, or tilt backward on the headrest of the seat.” — Rachel Chang , contributor

Best travel pillow for: Affordability

Made with lightweight microbeads, the Brookstone travel pillow is equally supportive and comfortable. One side features soft fleece, while the other is made of a cool microfiber spandex. It looks like you classic U-shaped neck pillow, but with a few small but mighty improvements. It can easily be attached to suitcases or weekender bags, features a storage pocket, and allows you to sleep upright without any tension on your neck.

Why we love it : “Brookstone’s microbead travel pillow is a game changer for long-haul flights. Having one on-hand for the past couple of years has transformed all-day flights and road trips into opportunities to actually rest and recharge. I love having lightweight microbeads instead of memory foam, which can feel neck-bracey and constricting to me. It’s supportive while also generous with head movement and the use of other accessories like over-the-ear headphones . The pillow’s sleeve even has a pocket that’s perfect for slotting in your phone, which definitely lessens the sense of clutter in commuting. I’m impressed by how well the pillow has kept its structural integrity after years of being run through a laundry machine. Overall, Brookstone’s travel pillow is the elegant sort of comfortable that wears like it’s not even there.” — Kat Chen , editorial assistant

Best travel pillow for: Side sleepers

Similar to the Trtl pillow but padded with soft microfleece and covered with microsuede, BCozzy's wrap-around design offers plenty of flexibility in terms of how you wear it. The pillow comes in two sizes and when wrapped around the neck offers double the support for your head, neck, and chin. The real standout of this design is the flat back, which is not only great for maintaining a healthy posture, but also means you can fold the pillow in half and wear it on one side.

Why we love it:  “Even on a plane, I'm a side sleeper. My go-to way to snooze is angling the side headrest as far as it can go so I can rest my head in the corner. Headrests can be very hit-and-miss on planes though, so being able to fold the BCozzy pillow in half is ideal as it can prop my neck and chin up on one side without it feeling too suffocating.” —L.B.

Best for: Warmth

This squishy infinity-style pillow is all about the soft and breathable bamboo fabric it’s made from. Coming in one large loop, the pillow is worn by wrapping around the neck twice and adjusting and scrunching accordingly depending on the level of comfort you’re looking for.

Why we love it:  “I’d say this pillow is less about neck support and more about soft and cozy scarf–meets–pillow hybrid. It feels like a sleeping bag for your neck—ideal if you get cold easily and are looking for something that’s more snuggly rather than stiff.” —L.B.

A version of this article was originally published on Condé Nast Traveller UK . It has been updated with new information since its original publish date. Additional reporting by Meaghan Kenny.

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The Best Travel Pillows For Flights

• Updated: March 13, 2024
• In Sleep Accessories

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In the photo above, you can see my top four travel pillows, all of which I’ve used on recent flights in 2024. Top row left to right: Cabeau Evolution S3, Flowzoom. Bottom row left to right: Bcozzy, Trtl.

You may already know that it’s kind of tricky to fall asleep when your head is nodding up and down like a bobblehead figure on a car dashboard.

Okay, so I exaggerate a little. You probably wouldn’t fit on a car dashboard. But you’ll know what I mean if you’ve ever tried sleeping with the wrong travel pillow that’s now 2000 miles away from a refund.

I regularly test new travel pillows, from the standard ones sold in airports to some very bizarre inventions. If you’ve ever seen the ones you stick your arms and face in, you’ll know what I mean. Take a look at this inflatable oddity I bought online:

I decided not to test this one in public because I’m not a huge fan of being laughed at by children.

“Mummy, why is that man’s head stuck in a beachball?”

While I’m all for manufacturers getting creative with the ergonomics of travel pillows, they still need to feel comfortable, support your neck and head, and ideally not take up too much space when you’re not using them.

Over the last ten years, I’ve taken a new travel pillow with me every time I’ve flown. I’ve also asked several family members and friends with different body shapes to help me compare multiple travel pillows on road trips. In the photo below, for example, you can see one of my more ambitious testing trips!

So if you need a good travel pillow for your next trip, here are the ones I recommend based on many hours of personally testing them on planes, trains, and automobiles. I bought all of them online in the UK, but the first three are also available in the US and Canada.

My top 4 travel pillows

Best travel pillow overall, with a flexible design, plush fabric, and multiple sizes

In the photo above, I’m using the large adult size of the Bcozzy (because I’m an adult…)

The versatile Bcozzy travel pillow is my top pick for several reasons. Perhaps most importantly, the coil design provides complete 360-degree neck support. That means there’s no opening for your head to drop through, which is my main issue with standard U-shaped travel pillows.

Secondly, I like how you can create different support heights with the overlapping ends. If you have a shorter neck, you can lean your head on just one level of the coil. Alternatively, if you’re a bit of a giraffe like me, you can double the ends together to get more support. I also like how there’s a small velcro patch on each end to secure it in place and keep it nice and snug.

The clever wrap-around design means you can lean to either side, or allow your head to rest slightly forwards without your chin hitting your chest. I also found the flatter back section meant it doesn’t push your head forward when you’re flying – a problem that chunkier travel pillows sometimes create.

The plush exterior fabric feels soft and comfy. And the polyester fiber interior has just the right amount of fill to cushion your head for long periods of time. Conveniently, the whole pillow is machine washable.

I like that it comes with a handy snap strap and carry bag to tie it onto hand luggage, which is useful as my only criticism is that it’s not as compact as an inflatable travel pillow.

The final reason why the Bcozzy travel pillow took top spot is because of what I call the partner test. After I’d finished putting my partner through the embarrassment of trying multiple travel pillows on our most recent flight, she asked to hang onto the Bcozzy, put her headphones on and fell asleep.

The Bcozzy comes in a large or extra large adult size, as well as two sizes for kids and multiple colors that might appeal to the little ones. The large was fine for me, but I think the extra large would probably suit my large frame (193 cm tall) even better.

It costs between $38 and $50 in the US, and £35 to £47 in the UK, depending on the size.

2. Cabeau Evolution S3

Best memory foam travel pillow, with high sides and a fastener

In the photo above, I’m using the Cabeau Evolution S3. I’ve fastened the cord tightly to keep my head upright.

The Cabeau Evolution S3 travel pillow has particularly high sides, so it’s probably best suited to taller adults or those with longer necks. It worked very well for me (193 cm), while my shorter partner (160 cm) found the sides a bit too raised for her liking.

A useful feature compared to basic U-shaped travel pillow is the adjustable cord lock at the front to draw the sides closer together. I found this pretty much gives it 360-degree support because the edges lock onto your chin, preventing your head from dropping forward.

I also had the previous iteration of the Cabeau, and like how they’ve made the back section thinner on the S3. It’s more comfortable to use on a plane because there’s less ‘lumpiness’ between the back of your neck and the seat.

The fill is responsive memory foam, which cushions your head well and provides effective support when you lean into it. And the external fabric is moisture-wicking polyester. Although the fabric doesn’t feel quite as soft as the Bcozzy, it’s still a very comfortable combination of fabric and fill, especially when compared to inflatable or microbead travel pillows.

Interestingly, the Cabeau Evolution S3 comes with an optional seat strap to keep it in place and prevent your head from doing that ‘flopping forward’ thing. I can see the logic behind the strap, but I didn’t use it as I wasn’t keen on the idea of attaching my head to a plane seat.

Conveniently, it comes with a small travel bag that it compresses into to save space, and the exterior cover can be removed and machine washed.

I wouldn’t recommend the Cabeau Evolution S3 for children due to the relatively high sides. Otherwise, it’s an excellent travel pillow that many adults will find comfortable to use. It costs just under $40 in the US on Amazon, and over £50 in the UK.

3. Trtl Travel Pillow

A curved internal piece creates a more substantial surface to lean on

In the photo above, I’ve positioned the Trtl sideways so I can lean against it. You can also position it to the front and rest your chin on it.

The Trtl travel pillow is quite unique in that it has a curved piece of flexible plastic inside one section. This provides a more solid structure to lean your head on compared to softer travel pillows.

My partner is a nurse, so she took one look at the Trtl and asked if it was a neck brace in disguise (it’s not). And I do think this is one that will be best suited to those who really feel the need for more support than the average travel pillow will provide.

Personally, I quite liked the extra support when I positioned the part with the structure on my side. However, when I positioned the main part to the front and rested my chin against it, I didn’t like how the fabric ended up being so close to my mouth – an issue my partner agreed with as even more of her face was tucked inside the fabric.

The other issue is that to keep your head upright, you need to wrap the fabric quite tightly around your neck. While this wasn’t uncomfortable, it did end up being quite warm. Perhaps you’d like that if you tend to get cold on flights, but it was a bit too snug for me.

It comes with a smart travel bag and clip to attach it to your luggage, which is good because it doesn’t compact much due to the curved plastic support piece.

Overall, I think the Trtl is one to consider if you’ve struggled to find a travel pillow that provides adequate support for your head or neck. With some adjusting and experimentation, it’s definitely possible to get some serious support out of it. Just be prepared to look a bit odd as you wrap and rewrap the long fabric piece while you work out how to use it!

The Trtl travel pillow costs just under $65 in the US, and just under £60 in the UK. This makes it a particularly expensive travel pillow, so I’d try it at home in advance so you can send it back if you don’t like the style.

4. Flowzoom

Best inflatable travel pillow, with an H-shape chin support option

In the photos above, you can see how the Flowzoom can be used in different ways.

If you’re looking at the photos of me using the Flowzoom and wondering if it really is that big, then yes, it is! I was surprised by how large it turned out when fully inflated, so smaller adults and/or those with shorter necks might want to skip this one.

What I liked about the Flowzoom though is the H-shape it has. This made it more comfortable than most other inflatable travel pillows I’ve tried because it doesn’t push your head forward as much.

In the photo above, you can see the H in the photo on the left. It’s interesting how they’ve designed it so you can turn it around and rest your chin on what would usually be the back section. And it actually worked pretty well, providing some decent support for my head and neck.

In the photo on the right, I’m using the Flowzoom the ‘normal’ way. The thin bar is now at the back and allows some room for my neck, while still supporting my head on the sides.

Like the Cabeau Evolution S3, I needed to tie the fastener quite tightly to prevent my head dropping forward through the gap with the pillow this way around, so I preferred to use it back to front.

I liked how the Flowzoom has some soft fabric on the outside to make it feel a bit softer. It’s quite thin though, and it doesn’t feel as comfortable to lean on as the previous three I’ve covered.

On balance, if you want an inflatable travel pillow that doesn’t take up much space when it’s deflated, but still provides good support for your head, the Flowzoom is one to consider.

It costs around $25 in the UK, where I bought it. It’s not currently available in the US.

Other mentions

The next travel pillows are ones I’ve tried in previous years. They are all still available, but I’ve found the four above to be more comfortable and/or supportive. However, I wanted to include these too in case my top picks don’t appeal to you and you’d like some more ideas.

5. J-pillow

A plush pillow with a thick chin support and piece to lean your head on

The J-pillow won a British invention award back in 2013, with its unique design that steers well away from the classic U shape. It has a sort of double J shape instead, with a section that sits under your chin to help prevent your head from dropping forward.

I’ve tested it on two flights, and it’s very comfortable to use in a window seat. That chin support really does help keep your head in place, and the side part feels plush to lean on. It didn’t feel quite as effective in a middle or aisle seat though.

The interior material is made from squishy polyester fiber. I personally like the feel of that, and it doesn’t get as hot as some memory foam pillows. I also like the fact that the whole pillow is machine washable, not just a cover.

My main issue is that the strange shape and springiness of the filling make it slightly inconvenient for storage. You can squash it down into your bag, or use the strap to tie it to your hand luggage. But it’s still kind of a lumpy ‘thing’ you have to cart around with you.

I think the J-pillow is a good choice if you have a window seat on a plane, or are traveling by car or train. It’s still okay for middle and aisle seats, but it might not stay in place quite as well. It costs around $40 in the US and around £20 in the UK.

6. Travelrest

Compact inflatable pillow for side sleepers

The Travelrest inflatable travel pillow is another one with an unusual design. It has a long shape that crosses the front of your body, providing a large surface area for you to lean against.

It comes with an attached strap that you can tether around the top of your seat to keep it in place. Alternatively, you can wear it like a bag and hug it to your body.

I like how it gives you a comfortable surface to lean against – especially if you have a window seat. And you can even make it work in a middle or aisle seat.

My main complaint is that it didn’t stop my head from drooping forwards when sitting upright. But in a reclining seat, it worked well as I’m naturally a side sleeper. My second complaint is that it looks a bit odd due to the size, and is a little awkward to change sides.

Considering how large it is when inflated, it rolls up tightly and is remarkably compact. So if you’re in need of a space-saving pillow, and you’re a side sleeper at home, this could be one you like. It costs around $30 in the US or £25 in the UK.

Large microbead pillow, with a plush cover

The Cloudz is a microbead-filled travel pillow that’s similar to the type you may have seen in airport shops. The microbeads provide soft cushioning, so it feels gentle when you let your head sink into it. It’s also large enough to keep your head reasonably upright, which isn’t always the case with this style.

It has a convenient snap closure which allows for a tighter fit around your neck, meaning your head is less likely to bobble around on awkward angles.

Like so many of this style though, the sheer quantity of material in the back section means you need to play with it to find a comfortable position. I found it was good for reading and watching movies, but when I wanted to sleep, I had to turn it sideways so it didn’t push my head forward.

The large size and quantity of microbeads also mean it doesn’t compact well, so you’ll need to tie it to the outside of your hand luggage.

If you’re a fan of the feel of microbead fill, the Cloudz travel pillow offers comfort and head support along with a soft external material. But if you’d rather save space and value ergonomic design, it might not be the one for you.

It costs around $15 in the US, which I think is a very reasonable price for a travel pillow. It’s not currently sold in the UK.

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The 9 Best Travel Pillows for Sound Sleep On-the-Go

Say goodbye to that sore neck.

Gear-obsessed editors choose every product we review. We may earn commission if you buy from a link. Why Trust Us?

Best Travel Pillows

What to look for in a travel pillow, how we selected these travel pillows, pick the perfect travel pillow following these tips from expert chris meehan..

Who hasn’t been on an airplane and left the flight with a sore neck from dozing off for a quick snooze ? Even if you do find a comfortable resting position, it’s likely you’ll be snapped back into consciousness by someone bumping into your seat while moving up and down the aisle, not to mention turbulence, or those drink /snack carts brushing against your armrest.

So, how to make the time in the air (or car or train) more relaxing? The right travel pillow may be the ticket the next time you take off somewhere. It's a basic travel accessory that ranks right up there with great luggage and noise-cancelling headphones .

In its U-shaped form, the travel pillow dates back to 1929 when the design was first patented. Its original intent was for use to recline in the bathtub. Since then, its look and feel has changed with modern versions configured in unique shapes to address all different kinds of travelers: long-haul fliers, restless sleepers, window-seat passengers, and more.

A decent travel pillow includes a soft cover using fabrics like brushed polyester, nylon, or microfiber, while the cushioning (or fill) inside should be supportive and comfortable yet structured enough for your head and neck. The fill types commonly used are assorted types of foam, microbeads, and polyester fiber, in addition to those kinds of pillows with an inflatable bladder

Whether you’re a side slumper, leaner on the seat-back, or nose-to-the sky snoozer, there is a pillow here for you. In our review and testing of travel pillows, we’ve found options in a variety of designs, weights, and shapes from under $20 to well over $60. Read on to find the best one for you!

• Best Overall Travel Pillow: Travelrest Nest Ultimate Memory Foam Travel Pillow
• Best Hot-Sleeper Travel Pillow: Cabeau Evolution S3 Memory Foam
• Best Bargain Travel Pillow: Cloudz Dual Comfort Microbead Travel Neck Pillow
• Best Splurge Travel Pillow: Ostrichpillow Go Neck Pillow
• Best Side-Sleeper Travel Pillow: Trtl Pillow Plus

The Expert: Taking multiple plane, train, and bus rides every year, I’m familiar with necessary on-the-go accessories like a travel pillow. For instance, I am based in Colorado and last year I flew to Alaska, Oregon, and Washington, D.C. My car travels included a road trip to Zion National Park with a buddy. My average trip takes about seven hours between the trains to and from the airport and the plane ride itself. After using quite a few travel pillows, I’ve found that I enjoy a side-sleeping pillow like the J-Pillow for plane rides since I tend to loll off to one side, and I like the traditionally shaped rectangular pillow, the NEMO Fillo, for other types of excursions like bus and car rides as well as car camping. Its combination of padding and inflate-ability make it versatile for many types of trips.

Many of the travel pillows below don’t look like the traditional U-shaped ones with microbeads—and for good reason. The U-shape doesn't work for everyone as it has a tendency to push the neck forward. Also, if the cushioning isn’t high enough on each side, it may cause your head to flop from left to right instead providing a stationary space. Any neck wobble may result in kinks, stiffness, and soreness.

Those designs that are squared or have flat cushioning behind the neck with more coverage under the chin help keep the head upright. Contoured areas to accommodate the shoulders and help keep the pillows properly aligned.

Depending on how you prefer to rest, the right pillows will ensure some shut-eye on the plane, in the car, or on the train. Here are some factors to consider.

Packability

While many are compact, this will be a factor depending on how light you like to travel. The most compact of all neck pillows is one that’s inflatable. These can deflate to a size smaller than a baseball. Bulkier memory foam pillows, on the other hand, will compress down to about the size of a football.

Most travel pillows weigh under 1 pound, so they’re manageable enough to bring along and to use without putting downward pressure on your shoulders.

U-shape is most common, but it’s not the only form factor out there. Some travel pillows are mini-sized traditionally shaped pillows. Others are coil or donut-shaped to allow for better chin support for slumping sleepers, and at least a few, like the J-Pillow, are designed to offer extra head support for those of us who love to sleep with our head against the wall of a plane or train.

Just like your pillow at home, travel pillows have a range of different fills. Microbeads are likely the stiffest and least compressible while memory foam offers solid support and adjusts to the shape of your head. Inflatable pillows also offer customized cushioning but are sometimes cheaper in design.

Most travel pillows have a soft, fleecy fabric made of polyester, nylon or micro fleece that’s designed for comfort against the face. The fabric of the pillow can also go a long way to describe its washability. Some have covers that are easy to take off and wash. Even some with integrated covers are still machine washable.

The recommendations below are based on my own travel experiences in the air, car, bus, and train. I also looked at customer reviews to gauge what pillows have performed well for most people. Additionally, I considered the work of Paige Szmodis , who investigated pillow options for the previous version of this article.

Overall, these pillows made their way onto red-eye flights, along for road trips (in cars and buses), camping, and even lounging on the couch. Neck support and comfort were factored in as well as portability, durability, washability, and usage. I also considered if pillows came with a storage bag, how well each pillow retained its shape, and what the packed dimensions were versus overall size.

These pillows represent the top options for travelers who go by car, plane, bus, train, or even those who need a good lightweight pillow for laying horizontal in the airport while waiting for their next flight.

Travelrest Nest Ultimate Memory Foam Travel Pillow

With limited space for a bulky pillow when on-the-go, packability is key. The Travelrest Nest packs an amazing amount of memory-foam cushioning into the smallest stuff sack. Even after being compressed in its bag for over a week, the pillow immediately puffed right back into its original shape.

While compact, it doesn’t compromise on support. With 5-inches of thermo-sensitive memory foam on all sides, it conforms to the shape of your neck and shoulders and keeps your head in place no matter if you tend to loll to the front, back, or sides. Unlike many U-shaped pillows, its angled back sits flush against any seat surface without pushing your head forward. Bonu: the nonslip panel helps prevent it from sliding off airplane seats.

At a reasonable price—Travelrest even throws in a travel bag and memory foam earplugs to sweeten the deal—its removable cover retains its velvety softness after cycles in the washer and dryer, though it’s a bit of a tight fit to pull the cover back on over the foam’s contours. The dense foam also makes it a little challenging to fold up into its bag, but once you get it in there, it can compress down to a quarter of its original size. On the down side, its high cushioning could pinch earrings or interfere with larger headphones.

Cabeau Evolution S3 Memory Foam

The Cabeau Evolution S3, which has many of the same top features as our Best Overall, is ideal if you sleep a bit on the hot side. Its breathable, moisture-wicking fabric helps to keep you cool and comfortable.

With its U-shaped design, this memory foam pillow prevents lateral movement—your head falling to either side—and features a slimmed flat back so it won’t push your head forward. While the back surface isn’t angled and grippy like the Travelrest, the Cabeau comes with straps to loop around your headrest to keep it in place. Note: These straps may not be compatible with all seat designs and might possibly disturb the person behind you on a flight. Also, with its thick cushioning, the Evolution's height may interfere with certain headphones.

The dense memory foam will take a few seconds to roll up into the travel case but it will hold its shape well after packing away many times. Plus, the polyester cover was easy to slip on and off to wash and dry. A bonus is the travel case which can easily be clipped onto the outside of your bags and luggage.

Cloudz Dual Comfort Microbead Travel Neck Pillow

One of the most well-known neck pillows out there, Cloudz is the one you’re most likely to find in an airport. It’s inexpensive and will do the trick for most flights and other travel, but isn’t as comfortable or as well designed as some of the other picks in our roundup.

The spandex fabric on one side allows the pillow to conform to your shoulders and keeps you cool, while the cozy plush on the other side helps you drift off to sleep. The snap in front keeps the pillow properly oriented while traveling. It’s not machine washable, and over time the small polystyrene beads will compress, ultimately reducing cushioning. As such, it’ll do in a pinch but won't have the durability as some of the other choices here.

Ostrichpillow Go Neck Pillow

The makers of the Ostrichpillow Go believe resting shouldn’t require any effort, which is why they pride themselves on designs that are minimalist and easy to use as well as sustainably made. The ergonomic and sleek Go neck pillow promotes 360-degree comfort with a memory foam core, yet it packs down into a stuff sack just over half of its original size. Even after being stored away for a week, it easily expanded back to its circular shape.

While other options may compress into slightly smaller packs, I like this pillow's dense memory foam padding and the Velcro fastener, which allows for a custom fit. Since its cushion height is higher on one side than the other, the taller side may interfere with headphones. For comfort, the cover is luxuriously soft and holds up after machine washing.

Trtl Pillow Plus

Trtl might have the most unconventional looking travel pillow—loop, wrap and nap, as the company says—but plenty of people—especially side sleepers—swear by it. Inside the fleece fabric that gets wrapped around your neck is a cushioned plastic brace that rests on one shoulder and props your head up. Some may find the fleece gets a little too warm, but if you’re always cold on the plane, this could work for you. The fleece wrap also detaches easily from the plastic brace for washing.

While the Trtl Plus is expensive (the costliest of the ones recommended here), it does offer a custom fit courtesy of two plastic knobs that adjust both sides of the plastic panel. It comes with a travel bag which is handy if you don’t want to lug it around on the outside of your bag when traveling.

If you’re still intrigued, but put off by the price, the original Trtl costs about $40 less and is a bit more subtle in styling than the Plus. It looks more like a fleece scarf than a neck brace. There’s no case but it folds almost flat with a Velcro latch, to about the size of a large book, so you can fit it in your bag.

Bcozzy Chin Supporting Travel Neck Pillow

If your head tends to fall forward when you try to sleep upright, the Bcozzy keeps your head up by curling around your whole neck with the ends overlapping under the chin. There are also a few more ways you can wear it, such as folded in half to elevate just one side of your head.

The Bcozzy, available in children's and extra-large sizing, doesn’t come with a removable cover, but the whole pillow is machine washable. A travel case is included.

Sunany Inflatable Neck Pillow

According to some studies, passengers shift positions on a plane every 15 minutes, so this travel pillow is ideal for anyone who changes it up frequently on a flight. It works for forward slumpers, side sleepers, and even couples who want to position it between themselves. It's also perfect for those who want to read or watch a program in privacy.

To make the most of this unique pillow, you'll need a tray table to rest it on. The Sunany pillow can be used at either 19.6- or 11.8-inches high depending on how it is oriented. One downside, considering its inflated size is so large, is that it can be cumbersome to reposition.

AirComfy Ease Inflatable Travel Pillow

This dog bone-shaped, inflatable travel pillow is as ideal for the skies as it is for the roads. Take it in the plane or the car since its adjustable strap easily fits around most headrests, and thanks to its basic shape and adjustability via inflation, you can customize how soft or firm it is depending on your needs.

The foam backed bladder helps reduce the balloon-like feel of some inflatable travel pillows. Use it behind the neck and shoulder or behind the lower back for lumbar support. Extra points for the plush cover that is machine washable.

With so many travel specific pillows and U-shaped design styles, why pick a traditional rectangle option as the most versatile? It’s simple—you can’t reinvent the wheel. With foam and an inflatable bladder, travelers can adjust its firmness, roll it up for neck support on a plane, press it against a wall or window, use it as a normal pillow, or take it along for car travel or camping.

This is the versatile pillow I bring on trips when I am doing multiple types of adventure and know I will need a pillow that can handle the travel itself and anything after. I appreciate the use of both the foam and the air bladder, which means I can adjust the cushioning and the support. With NEMO’s combination, it creates a pillow that doesn’t feel like you’re sleeping on a balloon like some inflatable pillows do. It also easily stuffs down into a sack—about the size of a big Chipotle burrito—that’s integrated into the removable, machine washable cover.

J-Pillow Travel Pillow

The J-Pillow diverges from the traditional U-shape, co-opting another letter for its design. The curve of the “J” cradles your chin while the rest of the pillow supports one side of your head.

While this design is best-suited for passengers at a window seat, I found the J-Pillow didn’t slip off my shoulder even when I wasn't leaning against a window. There is plenty of cushioning, so it's comfortable, but its biggest flaw is its slightly awkward and bulky shape.

Though it comes with a travel sack, it doesn’t compress nearly as much as other travel pillows. Because it didn’t fit into my backpack, I had to carry it separately—not exactly ideal for frequent fliers—though you could use its snap loop to attach to luggage or tie the bag’s drawstring to a gear loop.

What is typically the best way to clean a travel pillow? Should I look for one that is machine-washable?

Always follow the manufacturers’ recommendations. Many inflatable and foam pillows aren’t designed for machine washing and can get damaged in the process. Some of my favorite travel pillows have removable covers that are machine washable.

If given the choice of an inflatable, microbead, or memory foam travel pillow, what do you prefer and why?

If I'm not worried about packing space and my travel plans include a flight, I like memory foam since it cradles the head softly. If you’re traveling and doing multiple things while away, an inflatable pillow might be best since it takes up less space while packed and can be customized for different types of resting.

How do you know if a travel pillow is the right fit?

Think about how you rest while traveling and look for a pillow that fits those needs. You’ll want one with enough support to cradle your head as you nod off, whether that’s off to the side, straight back, or slumping forward.

Chris Meehan is an internationally published writer, author, and editor with more than two decades of professional experience. He has authored multiple adventure guidebooks with Falcon Guides and his work focusses primarily on the nexus between sustainability and outdoor adventure. He is an experienced gear reviewer, tester, and travel writer who has explored multiple continents. 

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The Best Travel Pillows For Long Flights

Our Review Process

Don't Waste Your Money is focused on helping you make the best purchasing decision. Our team of experts spends hundreds of hours analyzing, testing, and researching products so you don't have to.  Learn more .

Our Picks For The Top Travel Pillows

1. trtl ergonomic adjustable travel pillow, 2. mlvoc sweat-resistant support neck pillow, 3. bcozzy children’s cozy travel pillow, 4. dot&dot twist customizable easy clean travel pillow, 5. saireider ultra soft zippered neck pillow, 6. world’s best machine washable recycled fibers neck pillow, 7. napfun ergonomic side-sleeper travel pillow, 8. tallgo velour ergonomic travel pillow, 9. crafty world perfect nap thermo-sensitive neck pillow, 10. cloudz original dual comfort travel pillow, 11. mypillow roll & go cotton lumbar support travel pillow, 12. j-pillow head elevating easy carry travel pillow, 13. travelmate plush adjustable neck pillow, 14. therm-a-rest foam compact travel pillow.

Ergonomic Adjustable Travel Pillow

This machine-washable travel pillow comes in tons of fun colors and two sizes — adult and junior. It promises to keep your head in an ergonomic position while you sleep upright, and can easily be adjusted to make your trip more comfortable.

Adjustable Design This travel pillow will help you stay comfy during your next long trip. And when you get home, simply tosh it in the washing machine.

Sweat-Resistant Travel Pillow

Designed to reduce neck pain while traveling, this travel pillow has an adjustable rope for a snug fit. There's no need to worry about your new pillow collecting germs during your trip, as the pillow is machine washable. As an added bonus, the pillow comes with earplugs, an eye mask and a handy travel case.

Easy to Clean This neck pillow comes with a few extras, like a cute carrying case and a set of earplugs.

Children's Cozy Travel Pillow

No matter what your sitting position, this travel pillow will help you feel comfortable enough to catch some ZZZs. The pillow is made to wrap completely around your neck to provide both neck and chin support. It's also ergonomically designed to reduce pressure on your spine and shoulders, so you wake up without any aches or pains.

Added Chin Support Adults will love this travel pillow, which promotes a healthy posture while sitting in an office chair, a home sofa or a seat on an airplane.

Twist Customizable Easy Clean Travel Pillow

With this travel pillow, you'll get more uses than just resting your head during a flight. The pillow is malleable, so you can fold it to fit under your leg or straighten it out to put behind your back. At the end of your flight, you can utilize the handy snap closure to hang the pillow from your carry on.

Multiple Uses This versatile travel pillow wins high marks for its easy of use and soft outer fabric.

Buying Guide

Whether you travel by plane, train or automobile, chances are your journey is going to last at least a few hours. As long as you aren’t the driver, you’ll be able to rest your head and catch a few ZZZs. Travel pillows are the perfect solution, as bed pillows are just too big to realistically transport. When shopping for a comfortable travel pillow, there are a few things to look for.

Determine who you’re buying the pillow for. There are pillows for adults, as well as children. A good choice if you plan on bringing your kids along is a pillow that resembles the children’s bedtime pillow that they have come to know and love. It’s nice if it is also machine washable.

Look to see what type of support the pillow offers. You want a pillow that is going to prevent your neck from getting stiff and your muscles from getting sore. There are also models that have added chin support to keep your head from falling over as you drift off to sleep.

Ask yourself what type of material you prefer? The two most common types are cotton and memory foam. Cotton is soft and comforting, while the memory foam is able to conform to your specific body shape.

MORE: The Best Travel Blanket

Review the travel pillow’s uses. Some pillows are simply made for the neck and head, while others can also be used to support the back or to prop up a leg.

Consider a travel pillow that comes with a few extras. The MLVOC Memory Foam Travel Pillow also offers customers a handy set of earplugs and an eye mask for quieting the senses. It also includes a travel bag to keep all of the pieces together.

MORE: The Best Travel Must-Haves

What to Look For

• Always read the product label to locate the cleaning instructions. Many travel pillows are safe to throw in the wash, but some aren’t. You don’t want to accidentally damage the pillow and have to shell out money for a new one.
• Make sure the travel pillow doesn’t take up too much space so you have room in your luggage for more necessities. Another option is to choose a travel pillow that can be attached to your luggage.
• When it’s time to replace your travel pillow, consider a few alternative uses for it. You can use the pillow as a knee guard while gardening, a pet bed or even simply use the outer fabric as a rag for cleaning.
• When comparing the price of travel pillows, you’ll need to take into account size and extra features. One that comes with a travel case, earbuds and an eye patch, like the MLVOC pillow, will cost more than a pillow that doesn’t have all these features. Others that have more of an intricate design may also be higher in price.

Travel Pillow Rankings

More to Explore

We’ve been wearing travel pillows wrong this whole time.

Taking an in-flight nap is a real treat — if you can pull it off.

Most of us fly in the economy cabin, where reclining your seat can be seen as an act of malice and people literally fight over armrests . Some folks rock the travel pillow around their neck, but even that can be awkward and uncomfortable.

TikTok to the rescue! User @sidneyraz caused a stir recently when he pointed out that “travel pillows go in front”:

@sidneyraz you can actually sleep on a flight #traveltipsandtricks #inmy30s ♬ original sound – sidneyraz

Mind officially blown. And apparently I’m not alone, since the video racked up over 34.3 million views, 5 million likes and hundreds of comments.

How did we miss this? It makes total sense. With the neck opening facing your back, the bulky pillow doesn’t smoosh against the seat and force your neck into an awkward position.

Instead, as @sidneyraz demonstrates, you’ve got 360-degree support for your noggin. Snoozing is a snap!

A quick spin through @sidneyraz’s profile reveals dozens of little tips and ideas he dubs “things I should’ve known before I was in my 30s.” Like this one: You can erase permanent marker with dry erase marker.

@sidneyraz well this was terrifying #inmy30s #permanentmarker ♬ original sound – sidneyraz

Or, you can keep a cut avocado fresh and not-brown by storing the unused half in a little bowl of water.

@sidneyraz testing how to keep an avocado fresh over two days #avocado #inmy30s ♬ original sound – sidneyraz

Which makes sense — exposure to oxygen is what causes the unsightly-but-harmless brown discoloration to appear. Still, I had never even considered this! (And I am, uh, no longer in my 30s.)

Finally, there’s an incredibly easy trick to properly line a bread tin with aluminum foil. Brace yourself:

@sidneyraz first time trying this #bakingtip #cookingtip #inmy30s ♬ original sound – sidneyraz

Of course, you can always just stick the foil in there and poke and prod it into place. But when I’m worried about a sticky loaf, I’ll do any little thing I can to take the pressure off.

Much like @sidneyraz here, I find myself exasperated by my own ignorance at basic “adulting” skills. Perhaps I need to grab my travel pillow and take a newly comfy nap.

– by Kathleen St. John

Latest Reviews

From our partners

Best Travel Pillows

Whether you’re boarding an overnight flight or riding shotgun on a road trip, a supportive travel pillow can be the perfect companion for sleepers on the go. But with so many options out there, how are you supposed to know which is the best travel pillow for you? Well buckle up, folks, because we’re about to show you!

So keep reading to explore our top five favorite travel pillows, all of which we’ve personally tested. Plus, we’ll impart some expert tips and tricks for finding the travel pillow that best suits your body, budget, and lifestyle. Let’s get started.

Best Travel Pillows 2024 – Our Top 5

• Best Overall – trtl Travel Pillow Plus
• Best Travel Pillow for Chin Support – J-Pillow
• Most Comfortable Travel Pillow – BCOZZY Travel Pillow
• Best Travel Pillow for Car Trips – Cabeau Evolution Cool Pillow
• Best Inflatable Travel Pillow – Travelrest Nest Memory Foam Pillow

Best Travel Pillows Video Review

Best Overall Travel Pillow – trtl Travel Pillow Plus

Trtl pillow plus.

The trtl Travel Pillow Plus takes the neck support and comfort of the original trtl Travel Pillow to the next level!

Sleepopolis Score

First up on our list is the trtl Travel Pillow Plus, a perfect pick for those in need of extra head and neck support. 

This pillow is the best at promoting healthy posture in an upright position. It features a scarf-like design and internal plastic support system that work in tandem to prevent your head and neck from deviating out of alignment. 

While it’s true that the trtl travel pillow’s brace-like feature is quite different from the U-shaped models you might be used to, the plastic insert is less likely to compress as compared to foam , polyester, or other softer materials. Essentially, the hard yet flexible plastic serves to hold your head, neck, and spine in a safe and comfortable position no matter how long your journey may be. 

Oh, and don’t worry — you can’t actually feel the plastic against your skin, as it’s buried beneath two thick pieces of memory foam. Plus, it’s compact, weighs less than a pound , and is super easy to stow on the go.

Price: $98.99, with a 60-day return policy. 

Perfect For: Sleepers looking for a travel pillow that’s supportive enough for a long haul .

For all the details on this unique accessory, check our full trtl Travel Pillow Plus review .

Best Travel Pillow for Chin Support – J-Pillow

J-pillow travel pillow.

The J-Pillow Travel Pillow is designed to provide simultaneous support in three different areas: the head, the neck, and the chin.

Shoppers wanting a pillow prioritizing chin support might be particularly well-suited to the J-Pillow, available both on the company site and Amazon. 

With its signature J-shaped design, this pillow has three sections built for three simultaneous areas of support. The first cushioned section is designed to prop up the head, the second braces the neck, and the third supports the chin.

The J-Pillow ensures that your chin doesn’t fall and that your neck remains in alignment with the rest of your spine, regardless of how long your journey is. It’s specifically designed for overnight airplane travel. As an added benefit, the J-Pillow is extremely portable. It even comes with its own travel bag .

Of course, you don’t just have to use this pillow for travel. It’s perfectly capable of at-home usage, whether you’re watching TV in bed or resting on the couch. And for those interested in traveling or lounging in style, there are three color options to choose from: black and grey, dark blue, and silver grey.

Price: $39, w ith a 30-day return policy.

Perfect For: Sleepers looking for a versatile travel pillow that emphasizes neck alignment and chin support.

Our full review coming soon. For more options, see our roundup for the best pillows for neck pain .

Most Comfortable Travel Pillow – BCOZZY Pillow

Bcozzy neck pillow.

The BCOZZY pillow provides great chin support for amazing alignment while you travel!

Some travel pillows simply get the job done in terms of support, but if you’re really wanting optimal comfort, the BCOZZY travel pillow is the right pick for you. 

This pillow features an ergonomic, circle-like design that can be used in three main ways: You can wrap it around your neck for excellent chin support , turn it to one side for head support, or fold it in half and tuck it between your head and shoulder for a little extra loft.  This level of versatility makes it comfortable for sleepers of many preferences.

While there’s comfort in the design, there’s also comfort in the materials. It features a dual-sided cover fabric wherein one side is a fuzzy fleece material, and the other is made from smooth microfiber. Meanwhile, its polyester fiber fill is plush yet supportive, and does a great job of maintaining its shape. 

One of our favorite things about this pillow is how small and portable it is, making it perfect for folks on the go. You can tuck it in your carry-on, loop it around your suitcase handle, or just wear it around your neck like a scarf.

Price: $35-$45, depending on size. 

Perfect For: Sleepers looking for a cozy travel pillow that prioritizes comfort.

Our full review is coming soon, but in the mean time we encourage you to check out our best memory foam pillows for more comfortable options.

Best Travel Pillow for Car Trips – Cabeau Evolution Cool Pillow

Cabeau evolution cooling travel pillow.

The Cabeau Travel Pillow provides great neck support while also keeping travellers from overheating on their journey!

Not everyone prefers to travel by plane. So if you’re partial to car trips, we’d love to point you in the direction of the Cabeau Evolution Cool Pillow.

The feature that stood out to us were the straps on the back of the pillow. This allows you to attach the pillow to the headrest of your car. You won’t have to worry about it sliding out of place during your trip, making it less likely that you’ll be disturbed.

Th is pillow features a U-shaped design with angled sides for enhanced head and neck support . What sets it apart, though, is its ability to be adjusted for customized comfort.  Depending on how tight or loose you’d like it to fit around your neck, simply adjust the clasps on each side of the “U.”

Covered in a moisture-wicking blend of Spandex and polyester and filled with ventilated memory foam, every part of this pillow was made with hot sleepers in mind . This is especially useful if you’re roadtripping in the summer months. This pillow also comes with its own carrying case and earplugs for a cozy, quiet journey.

Price: $40, with a 30-day return policy.

Perfect For: Anyone traveling by car for long periods, or anyone wanting a quality cooling pillow.

Our full review is coming soon. See our roundup for the best orthopedic pillows for other good options.

Best Inflatable Travel Pillow – Travelrest Nest Memory Foam Pillow

Travelrest nest memory foam pillow.

The Travelrest Nest Pillow is a great option for the memory foam lover on the go!

If you’re a traveler who’s looking for a convenient, space-saving option, consider the Travelrest Nest Memory Foam Pillow. This inflatable option compacts into a small size so you can easily stow it in your carry-on or purse. As a little bonus, this pillow comes with its own carrying case and set of earplugs.

Th is pillow as a U-shaped design and, as the name suggests, is filled with a thick piece of memory foam. It offers a very moldable feel , and does a great job of conforming to the precise contours of your neck, chin, and jawline. If you love the way memory foam responds to pressure, this might be the travel pillow for you.

Additionally, the sides of the pillow are slightly raised in order to keep your head and neck comfortably supported, while the back of the pillow is angled to conform to your seat . In our experience, this angled back allowed us to sit up straight and not be pushed forward in any way. 

Oh, and did we mention that it’s covered in the softest velour fabric ? Honestly, this might be our favorite part of the pillow . We’d like to think anyone prioritizing comfort would agree.

Price: $40, with a 30-day return policy. 

Perfect For: Sleepers valuing the convenience of an inflatable travel pillow .

For more pillows available on Amazon, see our roundup for the best pillows on Amazon .

Methodology: How To Shop For A Travel Pillow

Now that we’ve shown you our favorite travel pillows, let’s take some time to show you how they were selected. When you’re shopping for the travel pillow that’ll meet your unique needs, it’s important to pay attention to portability, materials, and shape. So let’s take a look at each of these factors below:

Portability

When you’re wading through airports and bus terminals, the last thing you want is a travel pillow that’s big, bulky, and hard to carry. That’s why we aim for models that are easily folded or tucked away inside luggage.

That said, online shoppers should pay attention to the specific dimensions of a travel pillow (typically listed under “product description”) in order to get a sense for its size. Of course, if you’re shopping in-stores, take some time to see how easy it is to pack inside your purse or carry around the aisles.

We like to pick travel pillows that come with their own carrying case, and we’ll take a look at examples of that in a moment.

The next thing we consider is the specific materials used to make a travel pillow. Like regular bed pillows, they come in a variety of fabrics and materials, and each one offers its own feel and support. That said, it’s important to think about what type of support you’re looking for.

For example, memory foam travel pillows (arguably the most popular) typically provide a more moldable feel with contouring support. This might be ideal for sleepers in the market for something more dense or supportive.

On the other hand, travel pillows filled with polyester (probably the second most popular option) offer a fluffier, plush feel. This comes in handy for folks wanting to fold their travel pillow, as polyester fiber is easy to manipulate.

Lastly, hot sleepers might want to prioritize cover fabrics that are breathable or moisture-wicking. Polyester, spandex, and anything bamboo-based are all wonderful examples of lightweight, airy fabrics commonly used to cover travel pillows. For extra breathability, aim for travel pillows that feature a ventilated construction. Hot sleepers should also check out our Best Cooling Pillows page!

The materials used to make a travel pillow say a lot about its overall feel and support, but so does its shape. Most of you may be familiar with U-shaped travel pillows (frequently found in airport gift shops), and they’re popular for good reason. Travel pillows with a U-shaped design are compact, easy to pack in a suitcase, and offer great neck support.

But nowadays, travel pillows come in a plethora of shapes and sizes, all of which offer their own special benefits. While U-shaped pillows may be ideal for sleepers who like to rest their head from side to side , they can sometimes be lacking in chin support. If chin support is your primary concern, we suggest picking a C-shaped pillow that can be tucked beneath your chin or jaw .

Meanwhile, some sleepers might prefer a travel pillow that can be fully wrapped around the neck for a little extra security. I’ll admit that this is my favorite style, as scarf-like designs offer head, neck, and chin support all in one . Plus, some have a versatile, infinity scarf-like shape that can be looped and wrapped in different ways for different types of support. Ultimately, it’s important to take some time to consider what shape works best for your body.

Using a travel pillow can help you sleep better when you’re on the go and, perhaps more importantly, can prevent your head and neck from deviating out of neutral alignment while you snooze.

No, most commercial airlines do not consider travel pillows to be carry-on items. That said, it’s always a good idea to find a travel pillow that’s easy to pack in a suitcase or purse.

A versatile travel pillow that can be used to support different parts of your body is ideal for long flights. For example, a pillow that can serve as neck, chin, and back support might keep you feeling cozier for longer. Additionally, we suggest aiming for pillows that are filled with more firmly supportive materials, as they’re less likely to compress over time.

Final Thoughts

Well, sleepers, you’ve seen my top five favorite travel pillows and you are well on your way to picking the perfect one. And as you carefully consider every last detail, don’t forget to keep a close eye on size, shape, and materials in order to find the best fit. Oh, and be sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the answers to all your sleep needs.

Lauren Hapgood

The 15 Best Travel Pillows for Long Flights

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Written by Kyle Kroeger

Your dream vacation in Europe is finally approaching, and even the ten-hour flight awaiting you won’t be able to dim your excitement! Unless…you suffer a crick in the neck from an uncomfortable sleep, hunched over in your seat. That’ll put a downer on the trip!

Poor sleep is almost as bad as no sleep at all. To avoid the risk of a lousy nap on the plane, you’ll need to make your long-haul flight as comfortable as possible , especially regarding sleeping arrangements.

If you’re ready to pick the best travel pillow for airplane use or when you’re settled in your hotel, our guide is here to give you a hand. Below, we’ll review the best travel pillows on the market to lower your chances of neck pain during your lengthy journey.

We’ll also share a buying guide to help you choose the right travel pillow for your needs and answer some related questions that may be on your mind. Let’s dive in!

TL;DR: What’s The Best Travel Pillow For Long Flights?

Best travel pillows for long flights.

Whether you need a budget-friendly or high-end option, rest assured that you’ll discover the perfect place to lay your head the next time you’re completely smushed in a cramped plane seat.

1. Gorilla Grip Memory Foam Travel Pillow

Let’s kickstart our list with this affordable memory foam travel pillow by Gorilla Grip. Its unique, ergonomic shape is specially manufactured and tested to ensure maximum comfort on the longest flights .

This memory foam pillow is formed like a U, with a construction that’s just the perfect height to support your neck and keep your head in the correct posture. This way, you can say goodbye to sore neck and shoulder muscles, snoring issues, and breathing difficulties.

Better yet, we like that this pillow has a velvety exterior with a mesh interior. The outer part is soft to promote deeper sleep, while the section that wraps around your neck has a cooling effect to keep uncomfortable warmth and annoying sweat at bay.

If those features aren’t enough, this pillow is easily compressed into your carry-on bag. It also comes with useful accessories, such as a blinkable eye mask, a carry pouch, and earplugs to enhance your sleep quality .

Still, despite being equipped with drawstrings to adjust the pillow around your neck, many users thought it was too big for the average traveler. So, while it may be suitable for people with larger bodies and taller frames, the Gorilla Grip isn’t for everyone.

• A versatile product that works for airplanes, cars, trains, and more
• Made from BPA-free, PVC-free, and Formaldehyde-free materials
• Removable cover for washing by hand
• Budget-friendly price
• May not be convenient for smaller people due to the too-wide drawstring gap
• Ear plugs could be of better quality

See Related: Flying For The First Time? Here’s What you Need to Know

2. trtl Travel Pillow for Neck Support

The trtl travel pillow has thousands of positive reviews on Amazon, making you wonder what makes it so special. It’s pricier than the previous pillow, but the following features might justify its high cost.

First, this pillow has garnered the appreciation of people with small to average body dimensions. That’s because its structure is quite flexible. You must wrap it around your neck using the soft-touch hook, loop it around snugly, then start your nap!

Second of all, users liked how lightweight and compact this pillow is. Unlike the previous one, you can easily loop the trtl pillow through the handles of your luggage because it’s highly collapsable.

Lastly, we admire that this travel pillow is so you don’t have to go through the hassle of washing it by hand. No one has time for that when your vacation schedule is filled with sightseeing, exploring nature, and relaxing under the sun!

• One of the highest-rated travel pillows on Amazon
• Only weighs 0.28 lbs, which is the same as the weight of an apple
• Incorporates soft and hypoallergenic fleece for max comfort
• A flexible and versatile choice
• A bit expensive
• May not be the best pick for taller people as it isn’t height adjustable
• Becomes too warm unless a powerful AC is on
• Doesn’t accommodate the use of earbuds seamlessly

3. Blabok Inflatable Travel Pillow

This multi-position inflatable travel pillow by Blabok is worth mentioning for travelers who find it challenging to fall asleep on long flights. For starters, you can easily store it in your cabin suitcase and take it out to inflate it in under three minutes.

Plus, you’ll like that it has holes to place your arms inside so they don’t hang awkwardly by your side. Even better, you may use it in countless positions based on what feels more relaxing, whether upright or flat on the tray in front of you.

Yet, our favorite thing about this pillow is its multiple holes allow the air to flow inside it to keep you cool. As a result, you can kiss any feelings of stuffiness and discomfort goodbye!

Because nothing is perfect, one drawback you should know about is that this pillow takes up too much space. If you’re flying economy, using the Blabok pillow will leave no room for other activities besides sleeping. 

So, you won’t be able to watch a movie or eat your meal without deflating the pillow.

• A comfortable inflatable travel pillow with a unique design
• Quickly inflates and deflates
• Firm support for your back, even if you lean forward into the pillow
• Reasonable price
• A bit challenging to blow up while you’re sitting due to the tight space available
• Emits a plastic smell the first few times you use it

See Related: Best Travel Products to Combat Flight Anxiety

4. BCOZZY Neck Pillow for Travel

Another versatile travel pillow is this one by BCOZZY, as it offers double support to your chin, head, and neck. Even better, it should work out for every sleeping position, whether you’re sitting in an aisle seat, window seat, or middle or middle or aisle seat together.

We also like that its outer layer is made from breathable microfleece and microsuede to prevent the accumulation of sweat after hours of sleep. Thanks to its inner bounce-back material, you can enjoy sturdy yet comfy support that eliminates neck and shoulder aches.

Yet, the best thing about this travel pillow is that it comes in many sizes. The small and medium size is for kids and teenagers, while the large and X-large varieties accommodate adults of various heights.

Lastly, the BCOZZY neck pillow has more than ten colors ranging from solid black to cute pink and eye-catching neon green. Not many other travel pillows allow you to choose the color you’d prefer!

• Available in different sizes to conform to your body shape
• Adjustable to your favorite sleeping position
• Lets you wear earbuds or headphones freely
• Less bulky than traditional U-shaped airplane pillows
• Perfect for machine washing
• Moderately priced
• Material quality feels a bit cheap

5. Fabuday Travel Pillow

If you want a simple travel pillow or are accustomed to using U-shaped pillows for years, the Fabuday pillow can be a nice option. Its design is quite basic yet offers excellent support, which may be precisely what you’re looking for.

This C-shaped pillow surrounds your neck, preventing your head from leaning to the front or sides to alleviate the pressure on your muscles. On a long-haul flight, it can minimize jet lag to a huge degree.

Plus, it has a snap strap for instantaneous attachment to your luggage. Besides, you’ll like that the pillow’s cover comes off so you can wash it after putting it to use on a 12-hour flight!

Yet, one thing we’re not fans of is that the pillow’s gap isn’t adjustable since it comes with a snap button instead of a drawstring, so you won’t be able to tighten it to fit snugly around you.

• Lightweight despite taking a lot of space (weighs only one pound)
• Breathable material that doesn’t make your neck sweat
• Available in the colors blue, green, pink, dark gray, black, and more
• A low-budget option
• Only has one size that may or may not sit securely around your neck
• Bulky 

See Related: Best Travel Blankets | Cozy Portable Options

6. HEST Camping Pillow – Travel Pillow for Hotels

We understand that some people don’t want to take their chances with hotel pillows, even if it’s a five-star hotel. Whether you have sensitive skin that requires certain pillow fabrics or find it hard to fall asleep on a pillow you’re unused to, you don’t have to worry!

Your solution is as simple as buying the HEST camping pillow , considered the best travel pillow for hotels. You just put it in your suitcase and take it out later for a deep slumber in your hotel room .

It features a stretch woven nylon case that’s always cool and cozy for all sleepers and travelers. If you are camping under the stars, staying at a motel, or even sleeping on a plane, this pillow can make your experience more relaxing.

Even better, it’s dirt- and water-resistant, has an adjustable loft, and is made from polyester and memory foam. Talk about ultimate rest after hours on a flight!

• Available in three sizes for airplane use, camping, and hotels
• Integrated stow cover for improved portability
• Features a contoured shape that hugs your head and neck
• A pricey option
• Doesn’t pack down small

7. Dot&Dot Twist Travel Pillow

Another comfy and incredibly flexible pillow is Dot&Dot Twist. As the name suggests, this pillow is made from high-quality memory foam that you can twist and shape to match your sleeping position.

For instance, you could form a U shape with it to act as a typical travel pillow for sleeping on a plane. Or, you may try playing with the U shape further to reach that sweet spot you need for a peaceful sleep.

Unlike many travel pillows, this one also can be used as lumbar support, and it doubles as the perfect pillow to use besides your hotel’s pre-existent traditional pillows, especially if you want more support for your legs or knees. 

Choose from the colors black, blue, pink, green, and purple if you’re not a fan of dull gray.

• Excellent personalized support that other pillows don’t provide
• Also suitable for a quick nap in the office, a long road trip, etc.
• Machine-washable cotton cover for effortless cleaning
• Mid-tier price
• Only comes in one size

See Related: Must-Know Vacation Tips to Maximize Your Trip Experience

8. Vaverto Travel and Camping Pillow

Here’s our third suggestion for the best airplane, camping, and hotel pillows. The Vaverto pillow has a memory foam filling and a white bamboo cover for increased breathability, even in warm regions.

This camping pillow is unique because it’s compressible and quickly inflatable without your interference. When you’re ready for packing, fold it until it’s compact enough to place inside its little pouch. 

Take it to the hotel or camping site and watch it restore its original shape! Besides being sweat-resistant, the Vaverto pillow is hypoallergenic. So, you can forget about coughs and sneezes at night if you have allergies !

• A wonderful choice for people who intend to go camping or hiking on their vacations
• Easy to clean since the pillow cover goes into the washing machine
• Great for hot or cold weather conditions because it’s made with heat-regulating fibers
• Pattern is rather-plain looking, so it doesn’t have much to offer in terms of aesthetics
• While it’s breathable, its cooling effect could be better

9. J-Pillow Travel Pillow

Are you looking for a travel pillow that hugs your head without taking up too much space? Well, the J-Pillow could be exactly what you need.

As you might have guessed from the name, this kooky-looking creation is shaped like a J (or a distorted T), supporting your neck, chin, and head simultaneously. This embrace can limit discomfort, aching muscles, and pounding headaches on a long-haul flight.

We also like that the pillow has a special travel bag and that you can compress it into a smaller size than most U or C-shaped travel pillows on the market. If you’re not a person who packs light, the compactness of this pillow means you’ll have extra room for all the rest of your belongings!

• Unique design that provides extra support for the neck, head, and chin
• You can put it in the washing machine
• Perfect for sleeping in a window seat
• Mid-tier price range
• Slightly awkward to use in an aisle or middle seat
• May not be a good fit for tall people

See Related: Essential Tips & Tricks For Stress-Free Travel

10. Evolution S3 Travel Neck Pillow

If you’re reluctant about buying a U-shaped airplane pillow, the Evolution S3 may change your perspective. This pillow was featured on Travel + Leisure, CNN, and People Magazine, not to mention that it has thousands of Amazon ratings. So, let’s see what the fuss is all about!

What makes this travel neck pillow stand out is the pair of straps at the rear, allowing you to attach raised sides of the pillow to your plane seat. This prevents your head from sliding to the sides or the front, promising a deep, ache-free sleep.

Even with turbulence, this pillow should keep your head and neck in place until you’re ready to wake up.

Orthopedic expert-approved, ergonomically designed, and headphone-friendly, the Evolution S3 pillow can be your best buddy on 12-hour journeys!

• Constructed from dual-density memory foam for extra support to your neck muscles
• Comes with an adjustable clasp for easy tightening or loosening
• Slim, flat back and raised side supports to keep you steady
• Available with a washable cover and cute carry bag
• Moderate price
• Gets pretty hot around the neck (except for under the chin)
• May be slightly uncomfortable for people who are taller or shorter than the average

11. Sunany Store Neck Pillow for Travel

Do you like U-shaped pillows’ support but don’t want your neck to get too warm? Well, this travel pillow by Sunany Store brings you the best of both worlds!

We can’t say it has a flat-out amazing cooling effect, but it does a slightly better job at letting the air get around your neck than most U-shaped pillows. In addition, it comes with a soft velour cover that reduces skin irritation and discomfort.

You’ll also like that you can wear it multiple ways until you find the perfect angle that allows you to fall asleep faster. Whether you’re stuck in a middle seat or you’ve managed to successfully book a window seat, your head and neck should get the rest they deserve in all scenarios.

Yet, what makes this pillow incredibly travel-friendly is that it’s inflatable. You won’t have to worry about wacking other passengers with a big travel pillow as you’re boarding or getting off the plane!

Most users recommend inflating the Sunany neck pillow to 80–90% so it isn’t overly stiff.

• H-shaped, multi-directional design that promotes comfort and lets you wear earbuds comfortably
• Machine-washable velvet cover for effortless cleaning
• Comes with a hood so that you can sleep in lit environments
• Inflatable in a short amount of time
• Velcro strap pulls on your shirt’s fabric when not in use
• Flimsy straps

See Related: Best Beach Blankets | Sand-Free Portable Options

12. Huzi Infinity Pillow

In the world of travel pillows, higher versatility and flexibility is always better, which is what the Huzi Infinity pillow offers you. It’s shaped like an infinity sign that you can loop around your neck and adjust until it gives you the exact level of support you’re aiming for.

So, no matter the type of airplane seat you have, this pillow promises good sleep in any position. Better still, the pillow can double as a hotel pillow that provides additional assistance to your neck, head, back, or legs.

You’ll also like that it’s made from super-soft bamboo material and multiple layers of microfiber. This reduces uncomfortable warmth during sleep for hours on end.

Yet, one of our favorite things about this pillow is that you can drop it in the washing machine without removing an outer case to wash it separately. Even on a tight-schedule business trip or a romantic honeymoon, you can maintain your hygiene without wasting time!

• Incredibly flexible to suit the needs of every type of sleeper
• Better cooling than most travel pillows
• A convenient option for tall and short people alike thanks to its enhanced adjustability
• Less neck support than other pillows on this list
• Bulky even when you fold it
• A bit pricey

13. aeris Memory Foam Travel Pillow

Another U-shaped pillow worth looking at is this one by aeris. It comes with a soft cover that’s 80% velour and 20% polyester to promote comfort. Plus, the synthetic fabric is machine-washable and dries pretty quickly.

Like many other U-shaped travel pillows, the aeris Travel Pillow gives you maximum neck and head support to ward off soreness upon waking up from a long sleep on a flight. Its memory foam core hugs your neck and beautifully cushions your head, jaw, and chin.

That’s not all, though. The aeris Memory Form Travel Pillow has earplugs, a carry bag, and an eye mask. This makes it a lovely gift for your friend who’s always on the go!

• Amazing foldability to keep it out of your way if you’re standing in a crowded area
• Has a nice balance of firmness and softness
• Also works for road trips, train commutes, long office hours, and even relaxing at home
• Not much ventilation around the neck
• May be too hard for shorter people

See Related: Best Travel Yoga Mats for Dedicated Yogis

14. Cabeau Evolution Cool Neck Pillow

Cabeau offers you another noteworthy creation that you may want to give a shot at, and that is the Cool neck pillow. As the name suggests, this pillow features mesh vents around the neck to let the air in, preventing overheating if you wear the pillow for several hours. you might even say it’s the coolest pillow on this list (chortle).

Its neck, head, and chin support is also equally impressive. The pillow wraps around your neck to keep your head upright, and you can adjust its tightness with the straps involved until the angle is comfortable enough.

Due to its memory foam core, the neck pillow prevents you from slouching or leaning painfully to the left or right during sleep. As a result, you should wake up refreshed and unconcerned about nagging jet lag!

While it’s a bit expensive, you’ll appreciate the cooling effect of the Cabeau Evolution Cool Pillow , which can make or break the experience on an exhausting ten-hour plus flight. This is especially true if you’re a hot sleeper.

• Works perfectly with headphones
• Lightweight but highly supportive at the same time
• Suitable for people of different heights
• Zipper’s finish feels cheap
• High price point

15. Everlasting Comfort Travel Pillow

Last, you may want to check out the Everlasting Comfort travel pillow for additional neck support. With its basic design and enhanced support, it’s gained the admiration of over seven thousand reviewers on Amazon!

The case material is crystal velvet, which feels smooth against your skin. As for the core, it’s durable memory foam that restores its shape within hours of use. 

In addition, the pillow’s raised lobe design leaves no room for your head to tilt forward or sideways. At the same time, the memory foam filling conforms to the contours of your body and suits most body types.

You’ll also like that the Everlasting Comfort pillow has a pouch you can attach to your luggage by the drawstrings. Besides, you’ll get memory foam earplugs and a sleep mask to fall quickly asleep no matter how loud your surroundings are!

• Has the Climate-Pledge-Friendly certification
• Made from premium-grade memory foam
• Features adjustable straps and a pocket to keep your smartphone inside
• Not comfortable for shorter individuals

See Related: Ways To Make Travel Less Stressful

Things to Consider When Buying Long-Haul Flight Pillows

If you’ve been wondering what to look for in a travel pillow so that you can make the most of your purchase, here’s a buying guide to help you choose.

1. Pillow Size

The most important factor you should consider is whether or not the pillow’s dimensions will suit the measurements of your neck and head. A too-big pillow will be loose, so it won’t stop your head from leaning in all different directions. On the other hand, a very tight pillow might be outright painful, leading to a night of restless sleep.

That’s why you should carefully read about the dimensions of the best travel pillow for long flights that you have in mind. Reviews by other users will also let you know whether it’s more suitable for shorter people vs. taller ones.

Size is also a consideration when it comes to figuring out how you’re going to carry it. Will it fit in your carry-on luggage? Does it come with its carrying case or handles?

If all else fails, your best shot is to buy an adjustable or twistable pillow that lets you tinker with its shape until it fits around your neck perfectly.

2. Fabric Type

Researching the pillow cover’s fabric is necessary for a cozy sleeping session on a long flight. You don’t want to get stuck with a scratchy pillow case that constantly rubs against your skin until it irritates it.

In addition, you’ll want to look for fabrics with cooling effects, like bamboo fabric, for example. Unless you’ll be traveling in cold conditions, getting a pillow with breathable material is crucial to limit sweating during sleep.

3. Foldability

No one likes a travel pillow that attacks other passengers as you carry it in the airport or while boarding the plane! For that reason, go for pillows you can compress into a much smaller bundle, which you may easily fit into your carry-on bag.

Or, some pillows can be folded flat—perfect if you have limited space in your backpack. Others are inflatable, another good option for a hands-free traveling experience.

4. Ease to Clean

Many travel pillows come with removable and machine-washable covers that you can easily toss in the washing machine after each airplane journey. While these aren’t a bad choice, they don’t give you the highest degree of cleanliness out there since your sweat, drool, hair oil (and heaven knows what’s on the plane seat) still soak into the pillow itself.

Instead, think about buying a travel pillow where everything goes into the washing machine. Not only will that ensure the outer layer is clean, but it’ll also wash away any sweat or debris that could easily seep through the cover into the core underneath.

5. Additional Features and Accessories

You can’t say no to extra qualities that make your long-haul flight more comfortable and your sleep more peaceful. It’s always a good idea to have the following things with your travel pillow for max relaxation!

• Arm support
• The addition of earplugs, eye mask, carry case, or hood
• Breathable mesh around the neck
• Straps that attach the pillow to the seat
• Being headphone-friendly

6. Where to Buy a Travel Pillow

Finally, consider the most convenient place to buy a travel pillow. Undoubtedly, getting yours online is the most hassle-free way, and you can get discounts, deals, or even free shipping. The trouble with online shopping is that it’s impossible to try before you buy – and not all of us can be bothered with return policies!

However, if you’re pressed for time, you’ll find travel pillows for sale at the airport. Still, your options might be limited to the humdrum traditional travel pillow for five bucks compared to what delights you can purchase online or at a store specializing in travel goods.

See Related: Sea to Summit Packing Cubes Review: Are They Worth It?

Are airplane travel pillows worth it?

Absolutely. Airplane travel pillows minimize or eliminate the discomfort and soreness associated with upright sleeping in your seat. Based on their design and form, they can support your neck, head, chin, or all three to prevent you from straining your muscles and help you achieve proper posture.

Do you need a neck pillow for long flights?

Yes. Most airplane seats, especially economy, aren’t properly designed for long-term neck support.

As a result, your head will undoubtedly lean forward or to the sides during sleep without the support of a neck pillow. This might lead to discomfort, sore muscles, and even intense pain if you already have problems with your neck and shoulders .

Do they give pillows on long flights?

Most airlines will offer their passengers pillows on international long-haul flights despite the class they’ll be traveling. Still, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t grab your travel pillow, just in case.

You can’t be sure that the pillow you’ll be given will be comfortable enough or provide good support. So, keep the guesswork out of the way and buy a reliable travel pillow to ensure your long flight will go as smoothly as possible.

What is the best travel pillow for flights that go over 12 hours?

After reading our guide, you now have several travel pillows that you can choose from based on our thorough review. So, balance their pros and cons, prioritize the most important features, and you should have the perfect travel pillow to keep you well-rested.

As for us, our top pick has to be the trtl Travel Pillow for Neck Support . We like that it’s hypoallergenic, highly collapsible, and has the same weight as an apple. However, it’s a bit pricey and tends to get warm after hours of use.

You may want to look at our runner-up, Cabeau Evolution Cool Neck Pillow . It features a meshed material that should keep you from getting sweaty, easily conforms to the shape of your neck, and has amazing support. After you pick your favorite travel pillow, you should be ready to approach your first long-haul flight more confidently!

Related Resources

• Best Packing Cubes for Travel
• Best Travel Duffel Bags with Wheels
• Best Personal Item Bags for Travelers

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Caroline's Treasures BB9934PW1818 Moscow Watchdog Fall Fabric Decorative Pillow, Yellow Machine Washable, Indoor Outdoor Decorative Pillow for Couch, Bed or Patio, 18Hx18W

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• High-Quality Material: Our 18x18 Fabric Decorative Pillow from Caroline's Treasures features a durable 100% polyester fabric sham, designed to be water-resistant and withstand various weather conditions, perfect for outdoor patio furniture or indoor use.
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