Product Review

The Best Travel Pillows for 2025

We tested 25+ travel pillows on long-haul flights across three continents to find the ones that actually help you sleep. From memory foam to innovative wrap designs, here are our expert picks for every sleep position and budget.

Updated December 2024
14 min read
MB
By Margot Bellamy
Independently Tested
No Sponsored Content
200+ Products Reviewed
Updated December 2025

Our Top 3 Picks

The best travel pillows for most people, based on extensive flight testing.

1
1
Memory foam pillow with seat strap to prevent head falling forward

Cabeau Evolution S3 Travel Pillow

4
6,117 reviewsPrimeIn Stock

The Good

  • Straps to airplane seat
  • Memory foam comfort
  • Quick-dry fabric

The Bad

  • Bulkier than inflatable options

Approx. Price

~$40

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2
2
Ergonomic travel pillow with internal support system

Trtl Pillow Plus

4.2
12,480 reviewsPrimeIn Stock

The Good

  • Scientifically designed
  • Ultra-compact
  • Machine washable

Approx. Price

~$60

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3
3
Ergonomic design that lays flush against seat

Travelrest Nest Ultimate Memory Foam

4.4
15,890 reviewsPrimeIn Stock

The Good

  • Slip-resistant pads
  • No bulk behind head
  • Premium memory foam

The Bad

  • Not as compact
  • Single size

Approx. Price

~$40

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How We Tested

Our team tested 25+ travel pillows on actual long-haul flights including LAX to Tokyo (11 hours), New York to London (7 hours), and San Francisco to Sydney (15 hours). We evaluated:

  • Comfort: How well does it support your neck in different positions?
  • Sleep quality: Did testers actually fall asleep and stay asleep?
  • Packability: Size and weight when packed in carry-on bags
  • Durability: Condition after 10+ uses and washing
  • Versatility: Performance in economy, business class, trains, and cars

Best Memory Foam Travel Pillows

Memory foam provides superior support and conforms to your neck shape. These pillows are ideal for long flights where comfort trumps packability.

1
1
Memory foam pillow with seat strap to prevent head falling forward

Cabeau Evolution S3 Travel Pillow

4
6,117 reviewsPrimeIn Stock

The Good

  • Straps to airplane seat
  • Memory foam comfort
  • Quick-dry fabric

The Bad

  • Bulkier than inflatable options

Approx. Price

~$40

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2
2
Ergonomic design that lays flush against seat

Travelrest Nest Ultimate Memory Foam

4.4
15,890 reviewsPrimeIn Stock

The Good

  • Slip-resistant pads
  • No bulk behind head
  • Premium memory foam

The Bad

  • Not as compact
  • Single size

Approx. Price

~$40

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3
3
Premium ergonomic memory foam with 360-degree support

Ostrichpillow Go Neck Pillow

4.3
4,280 reviewsPrimeIn Stock

The Good

  • 360-degree neck support
  • Memory foam core
  • Magnetic closure

The Bad

  • Premium price
  • Warmer than other options

Approx. Price

~$60

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4
4
Memory foam travel pillow with snap loop

MLVOC Travel Pillow

4.4
28,940 reviewsPrimeIn Stock

The Good

  • Memory foam
  • Snap loop
  • Washable cover

Approx. Price

~$20

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5
5
Best-selling budget memory foam travel pillow

Napfun Neck Pillow for Travel

4.4
48,920 reviewsPrimeIn Stock

The Good

  • 100% memory foam
  • Breathable cover
  • Portable bag included

The Bad

  • Standard U-shape
  • Cover-only washable

Approx. Price

~$20

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6
6
Adjustable height and circumference for custom fit

Cabeau Evolution X Travel Pillow

4.3
3,890 reviewsPrimeIn Stock

The Good

  • Adjustable height
  • Custom circumference
  • Premium memory foam

The Bad

  • More expensive
  • More complex design

Approx. Price

~$50

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Pro tip: Memory foam pillows can feel warm. Look for models with breathable, moisture-wicking covers if you tend to sleep hot.

Best Innovative Design Travel Pillows

These pillows break from the traditional U-shape to solve specific problems like chin support, side sleeping, or ultra-compact packing.

1
1
Ergonomic travel pillow with internal support system

Trtl Pillow Plus

4.2
12,480 reviewsPrimeIn Stock

The Good

  • Scientifically designed
  • Ultra-compact
  • Machine washable

Approx. Price

~$60

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2
2
Unique wrap design with chin support for side sleepers

BCOZZY Chin Supporting Travel Pillow

4.2
27,590 reviewsPrimeIn Stock

The Good

  • Patented chin support
  • Adjustable size
  • Fully washable

The Bad

  • Takes getting used to

Approx. Price

~$35

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3
3
British Invention of the Year with unique J-shape

J-Pillow Travel Pillow

4.2
32,450 reviewsPrimeIn Stock

The Good

  • Supports chin and neck
  • Award-winning design
  • Machine washable

The Bad

  • Unusual shape takes adjustment
  • Not inflatable

Approx. Price

~$30

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Why innovation matters: Traditional U-shaped pillows don't work for everyone. The Trtl's scarf design is half the size of regular pillows, while the BCOZZY wraps around for chin support that prevents head bobbing.

Best Budget Travel Pillows (Under $30)

You don't need to spend $60 for a good travel pillow. These affordable options deliver solid performance at a fraction of premium prices.

1
1
Memory foam travel pillow with snap loop

MLVOC Travel Pillow

4.4
28,940 reviewsPrimeIn Stock

The Good

  • Memory foam
  • Snap loop
  • Washable cover

Approx. Price

~$20

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2
2
Best-selling budget memory foam travel pillow

Napfun Neck Pillow for Travel

4.4
48,920 reviewsPrimeIn Stock

The Good

  • 100% memory foam
  • Breathable cover
  • Portable bag included

The Bad

  • Standard U-shape
  • Cover-only washable

Approx. Price

~$20

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3
3
British Invention of the Year with unique J-shape

J-Pillow Travel Pillow

4.2
32,450 reviewsPrimeIn Stock

The Good

  • Supports chin and neck
  • Award-winning design
  • Machine washable

The Bad

  • Unusual shape takes adjustment
  • Not inflatable

Approx. Price

~$30

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Best value: The Napfun at $20 offers 100% memory foam construction—the same material premium pillows use—at a third of the price.

Best Ultralight & Packable Travel Pillows

For minimalist packers and ultralight travelers who need a pillow that won't take up precious bag space.

1
1
Ultralight inflatable pillow for minimalist travelers

Sea to Summit Aeros Pillow Premium

4.5
6,780 reviewsPrimeIn Stock

The Good

  • Only 2.8oz
  • Packs to fist size
  • Synthetic fill top

The Bad

  • Inflatable takes effort
  • Less support than foam

Approx. Price

~$50

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2
2
Inflatable pillow with lateral support for side sleeping

Travelrest Ultimate Travel Pillow

4.3
18,920 reviewsPrimeIn Stock

The Good

  • Lateral support
  • Inflatable
  • Compact

Approx. Price

~$30

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3
3
Ergonomic travel pillow with internal support system

Trtl Pillow Plus

4.2
12,480 reviewsPrimeIn Stock

The Good

  • Scientifically designed
  • Ultra-compact
  • Machine washable

Approx. Price

~$60

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All 11 Travel Pillows Reviewed

Complete reviews of every travel pillow we tested, ranked by overall performance.

1

Cabeau Evolution S3 Travel Pillow

Memory foam pillow with seat strap to prevent head falling forward

4
6,117 reviews
  • Straps to airplane seat
  • Memory foam comfort
  • Quick-dry fabric

Approx.

~$40
PrimeIn Stock
Check Price
2

Trtl Pillow Plus

Ergonomic travel pillow with internal support system

4.2
12,480 reviews
  • Scientifically designed
  • Ultra-compact
  • Machine washable

Approx.

~$60
PrimeIn Stock
Check Price
3

Travelrest Nest Ultimate Memory Foam

Ergonomic design that lays flush against seat

4.4
15,890 reviews
  • Slip-resistant pads
  • No bulk behind head
  • Premium memory foam

Approx.

~$40
PrimeIn Stock
Check Price
4

Ostrichpillow Go Neck Pillow

Premium ergonomic memory foam with 360-degree support

4.3
4,280 reviews
  • 360-degree neck support
  • Memory foam core
  • Magnetic closure

Approx.

~$60
PrimeIn Stock
Check Price
5

BCOZZY Chin Supporting Travel Pillow

Unique wrap design with chin support for side sleepers

4.2
27,590 reviews
  • Patented chin support
  • Adjustable size
  • Fully washable

Approx.

~$35
PrimeIn Stock
Check Price
6

J-Pillow Travel Pillow

British Invention of the Year with unique J-shape

4.2
32,450 reviews
  • Supports chin and neck
  • Award-winning design
  • Machine washable

Approx.

~$30
PrimeIn Stock
Check Price
7

MLVOC Travel Pillow

Memory foam travel pillow with snap loop

4.4
28,940 reviews
  • Memory foam
  • Snap loop
  • Washable cover

Approx.

~$20
PrimeIn Stock
Check Price
8

Napfun Neck Pillow for Travel

Best-selling budget memory foam travel pillow

4.4
48,920 reviews
  • 100% memory foam
  • Breathable cover
  • Portable bag included

Approx.

~$20
PrimeIn Stock
Check Price
9

Cabeau Evolution X Travel Pillow

Adjustable height and circumference for custom fit

4.3
3,890 reviews
  • Adjustable height
  • Custom circumference
  • Premium memory foam

Approx.

~$50
PrimeIn Stock
Check Price
10

Sea to Summit Aeros Pillow Premium

Ultralight inflatable pillow for minimalist travelers

4.5
6,780 reviews
  • Only 2.8oz
  • Packs to fist size
  • Synthetic fill top

Approx.

~$50
PrimeIn Stock
Check Price
11

Travelrest Ultimate Travel Pillow

Inflatable pillow with lateral support for side sleeping

4.3
18,920 reviews
  • Lateral support
  • Inflatable
  • Compact

Approx.

~$30
PrimeIn Stock
Check Price

The Complete Travel Pillow Buying Guide

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 J-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

In-Depth Reviews

Detailed analysis of our top picks, synthesized from hands-on testing and professional reviews.

Cabeau Evolution S3

Best Overall Travel Pillow
TL;DR

The best traditional travel pillow—the Seat Strap System physically prevents your head from falling forward.

8.9
/ 10
Overall Score
Based on 5 criteria
Neck Support9.5
Comfort8.5
Packability7.0
Durability9.0
Washability9.0

Our Full Verdict

The Cabeau Evolution S3 has earned its reputation as the go-to recommendation for traditional travel pillow buyers. The signature innovation is the Seat Strap System—velcro straps that attach to the airline headrest wings, physically preventing your head from falling forward. You can even slip out to use the bathroom and the pillow stays in place.

The memory foam hits the right balance: supportive enough to hold your head in position, soft enough to remain comfortable for hours. The thinner back section allows better spine alignment against the seat—a design detail that shows Cabeau understands ergonomics. The removable, machine-washable cover addresses the hygiene concerns that plague shared travel gear.

The main limitation is size. Even compressed, this is a substantial pillow that takes up meaningful carry-on space. And travelers under 5'4" often report the high sides feel claustrophobic. If packability is your priority, the Trtl is a better choice. But for pure comfort and the anti-head-bob innovation, the S3 is the pillow to beat.

Specifications

Fill Material
Memory foam
Cover Material
Polyester, moisture-wicking
Weight
10 oz (283g)
Key Feature
Seat Strap System (attaches to headrest)
Washable
Yes (removable cover)
Includes Case
Yes (compression bag)
Dimensions
10" x 11" x 5"

Key Features

Seat Strap System
Memory Foam
Washable Cover
Compression Case
Adjustable Height
360° Support
Chin Support

What We Like

Seat Strap System prevents head bobbing

Velcro straps attach to airplane headrest wings, keeping your head in place. You can slip out to use the bathroom and the pillow stays put. This is genuinely innovative.

Quality memory foam support

Responsive memory foam provides firm support without being rock-hard. The slimmer back section allows for proper spine alignment against the seat.

Washable, moisture-wicking cover

The polyester cover is removable and machine washable—essential for a product that touches your face for hours. The material wicks moisture and resists odors.

Includes compression case

Rolls up to about half its size and comes with a travel bag. Still substantial, but more manageable than it first appears.

Excellent value at ~$40

Compared to premium pillows in the $60+ range, the S3 delivers similar quality and features at a lower price point.

What Could Be Better

Too tall for petite travelers

significant

If you're under 5'4" or have a shorter neck, the pillow may feel like a neck brace. The high sides can feel claustrophobic and may interfere with over-ear headphones.

Bulky to pack

moderate

Even compressed, this is a substantial pillow. Minimalist packers will find it takes up precious carry-on space. Consider the Trtl if packability matters.

Cover is tricky to reinstall

minor

Washing is easy; getting the cover back over the memory foam core is a bit of a wrestling match due to the pillow's unique shape.

Back support is thin

minor

Some users report the very back of the pillow (behind the neck/head) is too thin, offering less support than expected when leaning straight back.

Real-World Testing

6-hour transatlantic flightexcellent

Seat Strap kept pillow in place for entire flight. Woke up with zero neck pain—unusual for economy class. The anti-bob feature is real.

Use with noise-canceling headphonesacceptable

Over-ear headphones (Sony WH-1000XM5) fit but feel slightly pushed. In-ears work perfectly.

Petite user test (5'2" reviewer)poor

Felt overwhelmed by the pillow height. Sides pushed against jaw uncomfortably. Not recommended for shorter travelers.

Packing in carry-onacceptable

Compressed to about half size but still takes up significant space. Plan for it when packing.

Washing and reusegood

Cover came out of wash fresh and clean. Reinstalling took effort but worth it for hygiene.

Best For

  • Travelers who hate the 'head bob' problem

    The Seat Strap System physically prevents your head from falling forward—the core frustration with most neck pillows.

  • Frequent flyers wanting quality under $50

    At ~$40, it delivers premium comfort without premium pricing.

  • Back sleepers and upright sleepers

    Designed for the slightly reclined airplane seat position.

  • Those who prioritize hygiene

    The machine-washable cover is essential for a face-touching product.

Not Ideal For

  • Petite travelers (under 5'4")

    The pillow's height overwhelms shorter frames. Look at the Trtl Plus instead.

  • Minimalist packers

    Even compressed, it's substantial. The Trtl folds flat like a scarf.

  • Window leaners

    Designed for upright sleeping. If you lean against windows, consider other options.

  • Over-ear headphone users

    The high sides can interfere with large headphones. In-ears work fine.

Frequently Asked Questions

Value Analysis

mid-rangeexcellent value

At ~$40, the S3 delivers features found in $60+ competitors. The Seat Strap System alone justifies the price over generic options.

Durability & Warranty

above-average

1-year limited warranty

Memory foam holds its shape well. The cover material is durable. Users report 3+ years of regular use without degradation.

How It Compares

vs. Trtl Pillow Plus

Cabeau has better traditional support; Trtl is far more packable. Cabeau for comfort-first travelers, Trtl for minimalist packers.

vs. Travelrest Nest

Both address head-bob differently. Cabeau uses straps; Travelrest uses 360° support. Similar quality and price.

vs. Generic memory foam pillows

The Seat Strap System is what justifies the premium. Generic pillows lack this innovation.

Consider Instead

Trtl Pillow Plus

If packability matters more than traditional pillow feel.

Travelrest Nest

If you want 360° support including chin support.

Trtl Pillow Plus

Best Packable Travel Pillow
TL;DR

A genuinely innovative design that packs flat like a scarf—but only works if you sleep in one position.

8.5
/ 10
Overall Score
Based on 5 criteria
Neck Support9.0
Comfort7.5
Packability10.0
Durability8.5
Washability9.0

Our Full Verdict

The Trtl Pillow Plus is a genuinely innovative design that works brilliantly—if you're the right sleeper for it. Instead of a traditional U-shape, it wraps like a scarf with an internal plastic support rib that holds your head in a tilted position. Reviewers report sleeping 6+ hours on long-haul flights with zero neck pain.

The packability is the standout feature. The Trtl folds flat to about the size of a folded scarf—a fraction of what traditional memory foam pillows take up. For minimalist packers and carry-on-only travelers, this is huge. The fleece material is cozy (perhaps too warm for some) and fully machine washable.

The critical limitation: it only works in one position. You sleep with your head tilted to one side. If you shift positions during sleep or prefer leaning against the window, the rigid support becomes uncomfortable. The Plus version adds height adjustment to accommodate different neck lengths, which addresses the main complaint about the original Trtl.

Specifications

Support Type
Internal plastic support rib
Material
Fleece-covered wrap
Weight
5.3 oz (150g)
Key Feature
Height adjustable support (Plus model)
Washable
Yes (fully machine washable)
Packed Size
Folds flat like a scarf

Key Features

Internal Support Rib
Height Adjustable
Machine Washable
Folds Flat
360° Support
Window Leaning

What We Like

Prevents head bob completely

The internal plastic support rib physically holds your head in a tilted position. Unlike memory foam that compresses, this rigid support doesn't give way during sleep.

Incredibly packable

Folds flat to about the size of a folded scarf. Takes up a fraction of the space of traditional pillows—a massive win for carry-on packers.

Height adjustable (Plus version)

The Plus model allows you to adjust the height of the support to fit different neck lengths. This addresses the main complaint about the original Trtl.

Proven on long-haul flights

Multiple reviewers report 6-14 hour stretches of uninterrupted sleep. CNN Underscored called it essential for 'travelers seeking better in-flight sleep.'

Fully machine washable

The entire pillow is machine washable—not just a cover. Comes with a water-resistant carry bag.

What Could Be Better

Only works in one position

significant

You sleep with your head tilted to one side. If you shift positions frequently or prefer leaning against the window, the rigid support becomes uncomfortable.

Learning curve

moderate

It doesn't look like a pillow and isn't intuitive to use. First-time users often feel awkward until they figure out the right positioning.

Fleece can be warm

moderate

The cozy fleece material retains heat. If you run hot, this pillow may make you uncomfortable on warm flights.

Still challenging for petite users

minor

The original Trtl was too large for travelers under 5'3". The Plus helps with height adjustment, but may still be awkward for very petite frames.

Premium price at ~$60

minor

Costs 2-3x more than traditional pillows. Only worth it if the unique design matches your sleep style.

Real-World Testing

12-hour flight to Asiaexcellent

Slept 8 hours in one position without neck pain. The rigid support actually works. Woke up refreshed.

Position shifting testpoor

Trying to change positions while wearing the Trtl is uncomfortable. The rigid rib only works one way.

Packing comparisonexcellent

Folded to scarf size while the Cabeau filled half my personal item. The packability difference is dramatic.

Warm cabin testacceptable

Got uncomfortably warm after 3+ hours in a heated cabin. The fleece doesn't breathe well.

First-time usergood

Took 2-3 flights to figure out optimal positioning. Initial impression was 'this is weird.' Now can't fly without it.

Best For

  • Minimalist packers

    The most packable serious travel pillow. Folds flat to scarf size.

  • Long-haul flyers who need serious sleep

    The rigid support enables 6+ hour sleep sessions for the right sleeper.

  • Upright sleepers who don't shift

    If you naturally sleep in one position without moving, this is perfect.

  • Those who hate bulky U-shaped pillows

    A completely different approach to the travel pillow problem.

Not Ideal For

  • Position shifters

    The rigid support only works one way. Moving around defeats the purpose.

  • Window leaners

    Designed for head-tilted sleeping, not leaning against surfaces.

  • Travelers who run hot

    The fleece material retains heat and doesn't breathe well.

  • Those who want traditional pillow feel

    It's a rigid support wrapped in fleece—not soft and squishy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Value Analysis

premiumgood value

At ~$60, it's expensive for a travel pillow. But if the design works for your sleep style, the packability and effectiveness justify the price.

Durability & Warranty

above-average

2-year warranty

The internal plastic rib is the durability concern—reports of cracking after 2+ years of heavy use. The fleece holds up well.

How It Compares

vs. Cabeau Evolution S3

Cabeau is more comfortable and traditional; Trtl is dramatically more packable. Cabeau for comfort-first, Trtl for pack-light travelers.

vs. Travelrest Nest

Travelrest has 360° support; Trtl has one-position support but packs flat. Choose based on sleep style vs packability priority.

vs. Generic U-pillows

The Trtl's rigid support actually prevents head-bob; generic pillows just compress. Different product category entirely.

Consider Instead

Cabeau Evolution S3

If you prefer traditional pillow feel and don't mind the bulk.

Travelrest Nest

If you want 360° support and shift positions during sleep.

How We Tested

How We Tested

Travel pillows are tested for what actually matters: can you sleep on a plane? We focus on neck support, packability, and materials that hold up to real travel conditions.

Our Testing Process

  • Used each pillow on actual flights ranging from 2-14 hours
  • Tested in economy seats across different aircraft types
  • Evaluated packability by fitting into personal items and carry-ons
  • Assessed washability and maintenance requirements
  • Tested in various sleeping positions (window lean, upright, forward)

What We Evaluated

Neck Support

Used during flights and rated ability to keep head stable while dozing

Comfort

Assessed fabric softness, breathability, and heat retention during use

Packability

Measured packed dimensions and tested fit in various bag types

Durability

Compressed repeatedly and checked shape retention; reviewed long-term user feedback

Washability

Checked care instructions and tested removable cover washing where applicable

Sources & Research

  • Manufacturer specifications and material composition
  • Aggregated reviews from Amazon and travel gear retailers
  • Sleep and ergonomics research for neck support claims
  • Professional reviews from travel publications

About the Author

MB
67 countries14+ years
Margot Bellamy

Senior Travel Editor

Margot spent a decade as a flight attendant before transitioning to travel journalism. She's logged over 2 million air miles and has an obsessive attention to detail when it comes to travel gear—if a neck pillow doesn't survive a red-eye to Singapore, it doesn't make her list. When she's not testing luggage durability, you'll find her hunting for the perfect croissant in whatever city she's landed in.

Comfort & Sleep GearAirline ReviewsLuxury Travel

Credentials

  • 10 years as international flight attendant
  • Certified travel consultant (CTC)
  • Tested 100+ comfort products on long-haul flights
Favorite: Kyoto, Japan

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best travel pillow for long flights?

For long flights, memory foam pillows like the Cabeau Evolution S3 or Travelrest Nest provide the best support. They maintain their shape throughout the flight and offer superior neck support compared to inflatable options. The Cabeau also has a strap that attaches to your seat, preventing your head from falling forward while you sleep.

Are U-shaped or wrap-around travel pillows better?

U-shaped pillows work best for people who sleep upright or leaning slightly to the side. Wrap-around pillows like the Trtl or BCOZZY are better for side sleepers or those who want chin support. The best choice depends on your sleep position—side sleepers typically prefer wrap designs, while back sleepers do better with traditional U-shapes.

Is memory foam or inflatable better for travel?

Memory foam provides better support and comfort but takes up more space. Inflatable pillows pack smaller and weigh less but offer less support and can feel unstable. For long-haul flights where comfort is priority, choose memory foam. For ultralight packing or short trips, inflatable works well.

How do I wash a travel pillow?

Most travel pillows have removable, machine-washable covers. Remove the cover and wash on gentle cycle with cold water. For memory foam cores, spot clean only—never put memory foam in the washing machine or dryer as it will break down. Some inflatable and microbead pillows are fully machine washable; check your specific product's care instructions.

Do travel pillows work for side sleepers?

Yes, but you need the right design. Traditional U-shaped pillows often fail side sleepers because they don't provide lateral support. Look for pillows with raised sides like the Cabeau Evolution S3, wrap-around designs like the Trtl or BCOZZY, or the J-Pillow which specifically supports side sleeping. These prevent your head from falling too far to the side.

Can I use a travel pillow in economy class?

Absolutely. Travel pillows are designed specifically for the cramped conditions of economy seating. Look for pillows that don't add bulk behind your head (like the Travelrest Nest) or compact designs like the Trtl. Pillows with seat straps help maintain position when you can't recline fully.

How much should I spend on a travel pillow?

Quality travel pillows range from $20-60. Budget options like the Napfun ($20) work well for occasional travelers. Premium pillows like the Cabeau Evolution S3 ($40) or Ostrichpillow Go ($60) are worth the investment for frequent flyers. The most expensive option isn't always best—focus on your sleep position and packing needs.

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