Best Travel Pillows

We compared travel pillows using the manufacturers' specs, professional reviews, and owner reviews. Taro Schenker, who runs this site, uses the Trtl Pillow Plus on his own trips. We looked at:

• • Comfort: How well does it support your neck in different positions?
• • Sleep quality: Do owners report falling asleep and staying asleep?
• • Packability: Size and weight when packed in carry-on bags
• • Durability: How owners say it holds up after repeated use and washing
• • Versatility: Performance in economy, business class, trains, and cars

Types of Travel Pillows

Understanding the different types helps you choose the right pillow for your sleep style:

• • Memory foam pillows: Provide the best support by conforming to your neck shape. They maintain position throughout the flight but are bulkier to pack. Best for long-haul flights and travelers who prioritize comfort.
• • Inflatable pillows: Pack down to almost nothing and weigh very little. Less supportive than foam but ideal for ultralight packers. Modern designs have improved significantly with better materials.
• • Microbead pillows: Filled with tiny beads that mold to your shape. More comfortable than inflatable, more packable than foam. Good middle-ground option.
• • Wrap/scarf style: Revolutionary design that wraps around your neck like a scarf with internal support. Excellent for side sleepers and chin support. The Trtl pioneered this category.
• • J-shaped pillows: Support both neck and chin in one design. Great for preventing head bobbing forward. Takes some adjustment but effective once mastered.

Choosing by Sleep Position

Your sleep position is the most important factor in choosing a travel pillow:

• • Side sleepers: Look for pillows with raised or reinforced sides. Wrap-around designs like BCOZZY work well. Avoid flat U-shapes that don't provide lateral support.
• • Back sleepers: Need chin support to prevent head falling forward. The Cabeau Evolution S3 with its seat strap or the Sunany chin-support pillow work well here.
• • Forward leaners: Some people naturally sleep leaning on tray tables. Wrap pillows or face cushions work for this position.
• • Combo sleepers: If you shift positions, get a versatile pillow like the BCOZZY that adapts to multiple positions.

Key Features to Consider

• • Washability: Look for removable, machine-washable covers
• • Seat strap: Attaches to headrest to prevent slipping
• • Carry pouch: Essential for keeping pillow clean in your bag
• • Snap closure: Keeps pillow secure around your neck
• • Adjustability: Some pillows let you customize firmness or height

Travel Pillow Care Tips

• • Always use the included carry pouch to keep your pillow clean
• • Wash covers after every 2-3 trips, or immediately if you've been sick
• • Never put memory foam in the dryer—it will break down
• • Air out inflatable pillows after use to prevent odors
• • Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight

A quality travel pillow is especially important for anyone who flies frequently and needs to sleep across time zones. If you are shopping for a cabin crew member or pilot, our gifts for flight attendants guide covers the best comfort gear for people who live in the air.