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The 7 best travel neck pillows for 2024.

Avoid a literal pain in the neck with these expert-approved travel pillows.

The Best Travel Neck Pillows

Courtesy of Cabeau

Just like the pillow you use at home , the best neck pillow for travel is the one that makes you feel most comfortable, allowing you to relax, rest and ultimately fall asleep on the go. The difference, however, is that a travel pillow is typically used when sitting up, which means it needs to provide enough support to keep your head from bobbing.

Based on recommendations from travel experts and advice from physicians, these are the best neck pillows for travel.

• Best Overall: Cabeau Evolution S3 on Amazon
• Jump to features and traveler insights ↓
• Best Affordable: MVLOC Travel Pillow on Amazon
• Best for Long Flights: Trtl Travel Pillow on Amazon
• Best Multipurpose: Huzi Infinity Pillow on Amazon
• Best Inflatable: Sunany Inflatable Travel Pillow on Amazon
• Best for Backpacking: Marchway Ultralight Inflatable Camping Pillow on Amazon
• Best for Kids: BCOZZY Double Support Neck Pillow on Amazon

Best Overall: Cabeau Evolution S3

Frequent travelers praise the design of the Cabeau Evolution S3, which is made of a special dual-density memory foam. "I brought this neck pillow on 15-hour flights to and from New Zealand, and it proved to be a great investment," says Catriona Kendall , editor at U.S. News. "The pillow gave me enough support to sleep comfortably for hours, and I especially loved how I could roll it up into a small pouch and clip it to my personal item ."

Travelers also appreciate the patented seat strap system that attaches the pillow to a seat or chair headrest as well as the slim flattened back, both of which prevent the head from bobbing. The removable pillow cover, which comes in a variety of colors, is machine-washable.

Price: $39.99 or less

Best Affordable: MVLOC Travel Pillow

Travelers appreciate the support (and the price tag) of this memory foam travel pillow. An adjustable rope lock allows you to secure the pillow to your neck for maximum support and comfort. The breathable and machine-washable cloth exterior prevents overheating. This travel pillow also comes with earplugs and an eye mask for ultimate relaxation.

Price: $29.99 or less

Best for Long Flights: Trtl Travel Pillow

Courtesy of Trtl

The patented design of the Trtl Travel Pillow – with a hidden internal neck support surrounded by soft, hypoallergenic fleece – makes it a favorite among travelers, particularly for long flights. "Something about it just hits right in a travel accessory category where nothing previously worked for me," explains Meaghan Clawsie, luxury travel advisor at Elated Escapes . "I no longer have any back or neck pain when resting on long-haul flights." Simply wrap the pillow around your neck like a scarf, secure it in place with its built-in fastener and rest your head on the support.

If you tend to overheat easily, there's also the Trtl Pillow Cool , made with Tencel fibers to keep you at a comfortable temperature; a mesh panel makes the pillow particularly breathable as well. Both pillows are machine-washable.

Price: $64.99 or less

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Best Multipurpose: Huzi Infinity Pillow

Courtesy of Huzi Design

If you're not sold on the classic U-shaped neck pillows for travel, consider this snake-like option instead. Able to be twisted into a variety of positions, the versatile Huzi Infinity Pillow provides whatever support feels best – even if that means resting your head on the tray table for a bit. You can also wear it around your neck like a scarf for neck and back comfort (even when you're not snoozing), use it as an eye mask, or drape it over your head if you get cold or want to block out noise.

Travelers love the pillow's bamboo fabric, describing it as soft, smooth and cool. Since it's filled with polyester, the whole pillow can be tossed in the washing machine , unlike its memory foam counterparts. The Infinity Pillow is available in nearly a dozen different colors, including gray, navy and pink.

Price: $49.99 or less

Best Inflatable: Sunany Inflatable Travel Pillow

Courtesy of Sunany

Travelers love the H-shaped design of this inflatable pillow because it allows for use in multiple directions and supports both sides of the head and neck with a flat back. A removable hood on the pillow is a bonus: It encourages a cozy feel and prevents cold drafts from too much air conditioning. For optimal comfort, it is recommended to inflate the pillow about 80% to 90%.

A pocket for your earbud case on this travel pillow provides convenient access for listening to music, and the removable velour cover is machine-washable. The lightweight inflatable pillow can be stored in the included waterproof drawstring bag, which can also be attached to luggage. This travel neck pillow is available in black, gray and blue.

Price: $23.99 or less

Best for Backpacking: Marchway Ultralight Inflatable Camping Pillow

While you can often bring your pillow from home for tent camping, backpacking requires something more lightweight, such as this inflatable option by Marchway. "An inflatable pillow is a game-changer when it comes to backpacking, and an ultralight pillow can't be beat," says Leilani Osmundson , senior digital producer at U.S. News. "The Marchway pillow fits the bill: It's comfortable, packable and extremely lightweight." This pillow is designed for both back and side sleepers, and doubles as a lumbar support for everyday travels and needs. Once it's deflated, you can machine-wash the cover before folding the pillow into an included drawstring bag.

Price: $13.99 or less

Best for Kids: BCOZZY Double Support Neck Pillow

Courtesy of BCOZZY

The BCOZZY neck pillow is ideal for all travelers – including kids, with small sizes for youngsters between 3 and 7 years old, and medium options for ages 8 and 12. Travelers like the ergonomic design of the patented pillow, which supports the head and neck by propping the chin up. Overlapping pillow arms, which wrap around the neck and under the chin, can be tightened based on the level of support you need.

If you or your child is a side sleeper, fold the pillow in half, double up the sides and place it on your shoulder, leaning your head to the side. An elevated side option allows you to overlap the pillow arms on top of each other and rotate it 90 degrees to the side for double support for the neck and chin.

This travel pillow is available in a variety of colors and patterns, including light blue and pink hearts. A snap strap attaches the included travel bag to your child's luggage , and you can throw the pillow in the washing machine after your trip.

Price: $40.97 or less

Frequently Asked Questions

Experts agree a supportive pillow is essential for travel. "The biggest issue many travelers experience when sleeping on a plane is that the seats don't recline enough," explains Dr. Alex Dimitriu, a sleep/wake and performance specialist who is dual board certified in psychiatry and sleep medicine. "This often results in the head being just on the brink of tipping forward – which is not a comfortable sleeping position. Because of this insufficient recline, it is important to keep padding behind the head and neck minimal to reduce the tendency for the head to tip forward."

Most travel pillows are designed to be worn around the neck, providing enough support to prevent the head from tipping forward.

When shopping for a neck pillow for travel, experts recommend considering the following factors:

Proper head support:  What's most important is ensuring your head is supported in the right places by your travel pillow – and, in particular, not being pushed forward by excessive padding. "A good pillow would provide support for side sleeping, rather than a lot of padding behind the head, which just pushes the head forward too much," says Dimitriu.

Material: Consider both the external and internal material of the pillow:

External: Chiropractic physician Eric Smith advises to make sure the material of your travel pillow is breathable and won't subject you to an overheated sleep, since one of the main reasons for moving around a lot as you sleep is getting too hot. "When your face gets too hot on one side, even if you're sleeping, you're going to move from it because it's too warm," Smith explains.

There's no real consensus on which material is best for a cool, comfy sleep – and different people will have different preferences – so Smith's advice is to try before you fly (and don't hesitate to request a refund if your chosen pillow isn't working out).

• Internal: Memory foam pillows tend to offer more firm support – something Smith recommends for anyone, but especially older travelers. "The majority of patients I have that get older, we actually need a more firm pillow, we need a more firm bed, we need more support," Smith says. Pillows filled with microbeads mold more to the neck and head, while inflatable pillows can be adjusted to your preferences based on how much air you use to blow them up.

A travel pillow for your neck isn't considered a carry-on or personal item (and the same generally goes for small, loose items like packable jackets and umbrellas). That said, it's always best to review your airline's carry-on luggage size restrictions before traveling.

A good neck pillow for travel isn't the only key to achieving a decent sleep while in transit. "From the standpoint of evolution, we're kind of hardwired to be a little bit more on high alert in those situations," explains Rebecca Robbins, an instructor in medicine at Harvard Medical School and scientist at Boston's Brigham and Women's Hospital. "We're a little bit more in fight or flight mode; our brain is subconsciously scanning the environment for threats and there are new sounds and new smells."

She recommends finding elements that are relaxing to you, which might include some of the following:

• Travel blanket: Look for something lightweight, such as the EverSnug Travel Blanket . This blanket comes with a carrying case, which can double as a pillow when the blanket is stored inside.
• Essential or aromatherapy oils: Scents like lavender and peppermint can be especially calming.
• Earplugs: You can buy traditional foam earplugs to block out some of the external noise, or invest in a pair of noise-canceling headphones .
• White noise app: There are a variety of free apps, or you can try a paid option like Calm (which offers a free trial).
• Sleep mask: A sleep mask helps to block out the bright light on planes.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Walking Shoes for Travel
• The Top Compression Socks for Travel
• Can I Use My Own Airplane Seat Belt Extender?
• How to Get Wheelchair Assistance at the Airport

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Contour Memory Foam Pillow

Sleep deeper and wake refreshed. The therapeutic design of this contour pillow adapts to your head, neck and shoulders to provide the enhanced support and gentle alignment you need. Comfort your way, choose between the higher contour or the lower contour for what feels best to you.

• Soft washable cover is easy to keep fresh
• Therapeutic design ideal for side and back sleepers
• Never gets flat!

At Sleep Innovations, we care about the science of sleep. We design different products for different sleepers, so your best nights lead to even better days.

• Therapeutic support
• Contour design for enhanced neck support and alignment
• Ideal for back and side sleepers
• Always holds its shape

Product Dimensions 

• Travel Size: 15" x 10" x 5"  
• Standard Size: 20" x 15" x 5"  
• Queen Size: 24" x 15" x 5"  

Related Products

Versacurve Multi-Position Memory Foam Pillow

Cooling Gel Ventilated Memory Foam Side Sleeper Pillow

Forever Cool Gel Memory Foam Pillow

4" Dual Layer Gel Memory Foam Mattress Topper

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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
• Others We Liked

Our Testing Process

• Tips for Buying

You Might Also Want

• 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

• PHOTO: 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

• PHOTO: 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. After three months of use in the real world, this pillow has held up well and shows no signs of wear and tear.

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

• PHOTO: 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. After using it on several flights over the course of three months, we wish the neck area was a little bit wider for comfort, but otherwise love the restful sleep we're able to get on planes when wearing this.

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

• PHOTO: 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

• PHOTO: 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 during our three-month testing period, 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

• PHOTO: 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. After three months of use in the real world, we haven't noticed any signs of damage.

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

• PHOTO: 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. We did notice some light wear on the pillowcase strap after three months of use in the real world, but the pillow itself is holding up great.

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

• PHOTO: 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. After three months of testing, the pillow shows no signs of wear and tear.

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

• PHOTO: 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 luxuriously 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.

If you're planning on sleeping during your next long (or not-so-long) flight, these other accessories will help you snooze peacefully.

Kashwere Travel Blanket : This is our favorite travel blanket we've ever tested, offering the perfect combination of comfort, durability, and versatility. It's super cozy and will help you feel more relaxed on your travel days.

Beskar Travel Footrest: This hammock-style footrest creates a cradle for your feet in the footwell in front of your seat, reducing pressure on your legs and making any trip instantly more comfortable.

Slip Lovely Lashes Contour Sleep Mask : After testing over a dozen sleep masks, we chose this as our favorite, thanks to cutouts to prevent smooshed lashes and fine silk that's ultra-gentle against the skin.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Anna Popp is a New York-based associate commerce editor 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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Rest Easy With The 9 Best Neck Pillows For Travel

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While traveling itself can be exciting, the actual act of flying leaves a lot to be desired. Between the cramped quarters, lack of privacy and skimpy airline pillows, getting comfortable—let alone comfortable enough to fall asleep—often feels next to impossible. That’s where a great neck pillow comes in. The best neck pillows for travel are designed to comfortably support your head and neck so that you can rest easy, even if you’re flying upright in economy. Our favorite is the Ostrich Go Luxury Pillow . It’s made of cushioning memory foam with a wrap design that offers support in all directions.

The best neck pillows for travel keep your head propped and supported for more comfortable travel.

The key to finding a good neck pillow is balancing size. It needs to be big enough to support you comfortably, but not so large that it’s inconvenient to carry or stash in your carry-on luggage . The best neck pillows for travel also meet other needs, like combatting heat retention if you’re prone to overheating or doubling as a sleep mask if you absolutely need darkness to snooze. Below, we share our picks of the best neck pillows for travel so you can arrive to your destination feeling rested and ready for what’s ahead.

• Best Overall Neck Pillow For Travel: Ostrich Go Luxury Travel Pillow
• Best Neck Pillow For Travel In A Window Seat: Trtl Travel Pillow
• Best All-In-One Neck Pillow For Travel: Pluto POD
• Best Cooling Neck Pillow For Travel: Cabeau Evolution Cool Pillow
• Best Inflatable Neck Pillow For Travel: Blabok Inflatable Neck Pillow
• Best Neck Pillow For Travel With Neck Pain: Cabeau Evolution S3 Travel Neck Pillow
• Best Firm Neck Pillow For Travel: TravelRest Nest Ultimate Memory Foam Travel Pillow
• Best Soft Neck Pillow For Travel: BCOZZY Neck Pillow
• Most Versatile Neck Pillow For Travel: Ostrich Mini Travel Pillow

Best Overall Neck Pillow For Travel

Asymmetrical design with 360 degrees of comfort, ostrich go luxury travel pillow.

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Weight: 0.5 pounds | Cover material: OEKO-TEX® Viscose and elastomer | Fill material: Memory foam | Care: Sleeve is machine washable

• Adjustable wrap design for a personalized fit
• 360 degrees of support
• Compresses to 60% of original size for easy stowing
• Memory foam can trap heat
• Size variability is somewhat limited

This versatile pillow is designed in a wrap style that allows users to easily control how tightly or loosely it fits around the neck. Filled with forgiving memory foam, it molds to the shape of your neck, shoulders and chin, providing 360 degrees of optimal comfort and support that’s secured by easy-to-use velcro. While the soft and plush pillow feels luxurious when in use, the memory foam core allows for generous compression, which makes it considerably more portable than some others. Simply roll the pillow up and slide it into the included travel bag—it compresses to 60% of its original size for easier travel. The complete coverage it offers is ideal for someone who shifts around frequently in their sleep. Whether you sleep with your head back, to the side or straight in the middle, the Ostrich Go supports it from all angles. “When shopping for a neck pillow, look for one that supports the neck and the head,” says Dr. Vyas. She adds that a pillow with padding in the back—in addition to the neck and sides—is a better way to support the head during sleep. Made of soft viscose, the outer shell can be removed and thrown straight in the washing machine for easy clean-up.

Although this is a high-quality and supportive pillow, keep in mind that it is on the pricier side. Additionally, the velcro portion is short, so there isn’t a ton of size variability if you want to secure it extra tight.

What the reviews say: "I'm one of those people that can never sleep on a plane, no matter how long the flight is," writes one reviewer. "I've tried many types of pillows and nothing helped. I had a 12-hour flight coming up and decided to give this one a try. Best decision ever. I had several hours of good sleep and felt so much more rested." Another says, "This pillow is great. I first used it on an airplane and was pleasantly surprised at the strong level of support my neck received. I was able to nap without waking with a stiff neck or headache...I love how small this packs inside a suitcase. Or I can tie it onto the outside of my carry-on and have it ready when I want it."

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Best Neck Pillow For Travel In A Window Seat

Soft support for one side of your neck, trtl travel pillow.

Weight: 0.28 pounds | Cover material : Fleece | Fill material: Foam, plastic | Care: Outer wrap is machine washable

• Incredibly lightweight 
• Personalized fit
• Designed to support one side of the neck at a time
• Can be tricky to get into place

When it comes to lightweight portability, the Trtl Pillow can’t be beat. This option works more like a padded neck brace that’s wrapped in soft fleece, rather than a traditional pillow. When not in use it conveniently wraps into a surprisingly small package that weighs less than half a pound. It’s easy to shove in a purse, but it’s easy to wrap around the handlebar of your carry-on suitcase, too.

The firm and sturdy inner support system holds your neck, chin and jaw in place while the soft, scarf-like exterior wraps around your neck. Thanks to the velcro enclosure, the fit can be completely personalized, so you can wrap it as tightly or loosely as you like. Don’t let the fleece fool you, it’s surprisingly breathable and lightweight while perfectly warm and cozy at the same time. The brace system sits on one side, which means it can only support one side of your neck at a time, so it's ideal if you're in an aisle or window seat. If you’re someone who twists and turns a lot in your sleep, you likely need to remove and reposition it each time you adjust your head.

What our editors say: Emmy Favilla, managing editor at Forbes Vetted, swears by the Trtl Pillow and has been using it exclusively for years on both domestic and long-haul flights. “I’ve found it’s ideal no matter which seat I’m in,” she says. Since switching from more traditional neck pillows to the Trtl, “I don’t wind up feeling any residual neck or shoulder pain whatsoever after dozing off on a long flight. Plus, because you can adjust it to your liking, it's easy to get a personalized fit. It may sort of look like you're wearing a neck brace, but it works, and I'm standing by it forever.”

Best All-In-One Neck Pillow For Travel

Boasts a hood, eye mask and neck support.

Pluto Pillow

Weight: Less than 1-pound | Cover material: Alcantara and WPS mesh blend; Spandura | Fill material: Foam, recycled fill | Care: Cover is machine washable

• Includes a sleep hood and eye mask
• Padded neck band is adjustable
• On the bulkier side

The Pluto team was thinking way outside of the box when they brainstormed this combination sleep hood, eye mask and neck pillow. The patent-pending design is engineered to address common travel woes, from too much light and noise to bobbing heads, and it’s completely up to the task. The Pod resembles the hooded part of a hooded sweatshirt, with a wide, supportive band that uses Velcro to secure it around the neck. Those features muffle sound and offer comfortable neck support all the way around. There’s also a blackout eye mask that can be folded down to effectively block out light. All together, this delivers about as much sensory deprivation you can hope for when you’re on a crowded plane 10,000 feet in the air.

The Pod snaps into itself for a tidy bundle, but fair warning that it is on the larger side. Fortunately, the Velcro band means you can also secure it to retractable luggage handles. Not sure whether the Pluto Pod is what you’re after? The company offers a 110-night trial so you can put it to the test.

What our editors say: Lindsey Vickers , a former mattress and sleep editor at Forbes Vetted, loves the Pluto POD for travel. She found it addressed each of her travel-nap woes, from an unsupported neck to a bobbing chin to excessive light.

Best Cooling Neck Pillow For Travel

Moisture-wicking material keeps you cool and dry, cabeau evolution cool pillow.

Weight: 12.7 ounces | Cover Material: Polyester | Fill Material: Memory foam, plastic | Care: Cover is machine washable

• Vented for breathability
• Moisture-wicking cover material
• Doesn't compress well for storage

With mesh side vents that let hot, stale air escape, this cooling pillow keeps you free from sweat, even on the stuffiest flights. The adjustable front clasp makes it easy to pull the pillow tightly around your neck or loosen it as needed, and the dual memory foam construction provides firm support that’s comfortable and soft. The high sides keep your head pleasantly in line with your spine, so you don’t bobble around or wake up feeling sore and stiff. While the pillow provides ample cushioning, it’s purposely flat in the back, so you can sit comfortably against your head rest without being pushed forward. The moisture-wicking material helps keep you dry and cool throughout the flight.While this is extra-comfortable thanks to the thick memory foam, it doesn’t compress tightly and can be a bit cumbersome to carry around.

What the reviews say: One customer says this pillow is "well-built, comfortable and keeps your neck cool. This is the best neck pillow I’ve ever used. I can wear noise cancelling headphones with this without issue and the ventilation really works." Another says it's "very sturdy, well-built and provides great comfort when traveling. The vents on the sides prevent overheating and sweat."

Best Inflatable Neck Pillow For Travel

A classic u-shape with raised sides, blabok inflatable neck pillow.

Weight: 11.3 ounces | Cover material: Faux velvet | Fill material: Plastic, air | Care: Cover is machine washable

• Faux velvet cover is soft and comfortable
• Quick and easy to inflate and deflate
• Some reviewers note that it's bigger than they expected

Most inflatable neck pillows are known for having sharp edges or a rough, unforgiving surface. That’s not the case with this versatile pillow. The elongated “U”-shaped pillow is coated in faux velvet, which means it’s soft and cozy to the touch and doesn't irritate your skin. To use, simply turn the valve to inflate, then wrap it around yourself. The pillow offers extra neck support on both the left and right side, so it’s a great choice if you’re sitting in the aisle, window or middle seat. An elastic strap is the key to tightening or loosening it, which means it’s completely customizable and there’s no need to worry about itchy velcro scratching your neck or chin. When ready to deflate, simply turn the valve, roll it up and pack it into the included travel bag.

What the reviews say: "It’s easy and fast to inflate even as an asthmatic. Plus, because it’s inflatable, you can adjust the fullness as needed," says one customer. "When I wanted to wear my sleep headphones with it, I just made it a little less full and everything worked. I love that the cover is removable so it can be washed, too." Another says, "We used these pillows on an overnight flight to France. The flight was uncomfortable, but the pillow was great. It was easy to inflate, stayed in place, and stayed inflated for six hours without any loss of air. What more can one ask of a travel pillow?"

Best Neck Pillow For Travel With Neck Pain

Cradling headrest pillow delivers ample neck support, cabeau evolution s3 travel neck pillow.

Weight: 0.7 pounds | Cover material: Microsuede | Fill material: Memory foam | Care: Cover is machine washable

• Flattened back helps maintain spinal alignment
• Seat straps keep the head and neck in place while you sleep
• It takes some effort (especially if you're short) to attach the straps to your seat

This memory foam pillow has a traditional "U" shape with an adjustable toggle clasp that means 360-degree support. A slim, flattened back lets you sit comfortably upright without the head pitching forward, while raised sides offer gentle contouring around the jaw. But the big differentiator is the patented seat straps, which can be attached to the seat back to keep the head from slouching or tipping forward when you fall asleep. By keeping your head in place, the pillow does a great job of maintaining cervical spine alignment—a big plus if you're dealing with neck pain. That's why the Cabeau Pillow is recommended by orthopedic experts. We also like that it compresses down to half its size and comes with its own travel bag.

What the reviews say: "This is a real winner. I travel a lot and take long trips, and this [pillow] allows me to sleep for a long period of time because my head isn't flopping around," says one reviewer. "I also have no neck pain, which I have had with my other [travel pillow]. It folds up nicely and fits in its case far better than my others. You can't go wrong with this." Another confirms, "The sides are high and supportive enough that I woke with zero neck pain and [experienced] zero head bobs while sleeping."

Best Firm Neck Pillow For Travel

Firm support to all sides of your head, travelrest nest ultimate memory foam travel pillow.

Weight: 0.8 pounds | Cover material: Polyester | Fill material: Memory foam | Care: Cover is machine washable

• Slanted design keeps your neck and spine aligned
• Raised sides keep the head from wobbling
• Tall sides may be incompatible with some headphones

This memory foam pillow features extra-tall sides that help keep your head in a naturally upright position throughout your entire flight. Whether you sleep with your head to the right side, left side or front, you are supported on all angles by firm yet soft padding encased in a soft fleece cover. Most importantly, the pillow is designed with a flat back so it sits flush against your seat. That means you don't jut forward, so your head and neck can stay appropriately in line with your spine to allow for maximum comfort. The pillow is also lined with non-slip rubber grip dots to prevent it from slipping out of place while you sleep.

This pillow provides firm support to all sides of your head and neck, and it comes at an affordable price. It’s perfectly portable, too—the pillow compresses and slips easily into an included travel bag that can clip onto your luggage.

What the reviews say: "It's super supportive," says one reviewer. "I've slept hours and hours thanks to its support." Another writes, "This is my favorite travel pillow. It provides a firm support for your neck with just enough give so it's not too stiff."

Best Soft Neck Pillow For Travel

Feels like sleeping on a down pillow, bcozzy neck pillow.

Weight: 7.4 ounces | Cover material: Microfleece and microsuede | Fill material: Polyester | Care: Cover is machine washable

• Versatile design can be used in different positions
• Soft cover material and ample support
• Some reviewers describe it as bulky

This super-plush travel pillow comes in a completely customizable design, so the pillow itself can be wrapped in a number of ways depending on your preference. Depending on which way you wrap it, the pillow can support your head and neck whether you’re sitting in the aisle seat, the window seat or the middle seat. The soft cover is made from microfleece and microsuede, so it’s soft against your skin and doesn't cause irritation or itching. The arms of the pillow can be doubled up to provide extra support to your neck and chin, or you can leave it in a single layer for more gentle, soft support.

The filling feels like you’re sleeping on a down pillow rather than stiff, firm memory foam. If this pillow wasn’t already versatile enough to begin with, the soft filling makes it even more adaptable. “Soft support is my preference when shopping for a neck pillow,” says Dr. Vyas. “It allows one to lean on a window or side of the plane if needed.”

What the reviews say: "What I absolutely love about this neck pillow is that it’s flatter in the back so your neck is not pushed forward so much, has adjustable Velcro to adapt it to your liking and is ultra-soft, yet firm where it needs to be," says one reviewer. Another writes, "The pillow's construction is comfortable, and the material feels soft against the skin."

Most Versatile Neck Pillow For Travel

Lets you comfortably hold your head for better rest, ostrich mini travel pillow.

Weight: 0.4 pounds | Cover material: Viscose and elastomer | Fill material: Polyester | Care: Machine washable

• Clever design fits on the hand for support
• Small and compact
• Not for those who are looking for a traditional neck pillow

Whether you’re on an airplane, commuting on a train, driving across the country or simply lounging in a reading chair, this do-it-all pillow is the perfect alternative to the traditional “U”-shaped option. The innovative product slips onto your hand—it’s suitable for lefties and righties—and lets you hold your head comfortably and securely with soft, gentle padding. Made from super-soft viscose, the pillow can be slipped onto your palm, or all the way up your forearm if you’re someone who likes to cross your arms, and lay the tray table in front of you. It’s a completely versatile option for anyone looking to get more out of their neck pillow. Thanks to the smaller size and unique shape, this is also one of the most portable and compact neck pillows on our list.

What the reviews say: "I frequently sleep on my hands, only to wake up to an uncomfortable dead arm," writes one reviewer. "This solves that problem, as it moves with my head and hands, keeping me comfortable no matter which way I turn. [It's] very useful for long flights and car rides, as it fits in a carry-on bag and is highly portable." Another says, simply, "It's a comfortable little convenience everyone [has] to have."

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The 11 best shoes for standing all day, according to podiatrists, why trust forbes vetted.

The Forbes Vetted team consists of many travel enthusiasts, which is why in addition to our sleep experts, we tapped multiple Vetted editors to share their recommendations for their favorite neck pillows for travel.

• This story is overseen by senior travel editor Astrid Taran , a globetrotter who has visited over 30 countries and attempted sleep on hundreds of planes, and mattress and sleep editors Bridget Chapman and McKenzie Dillon .
• For this story, we spoke with two doctors who specialize in sleep health: Dr. Nilong Vyas, board-certified sleep expert at Sleepless in NOLA and medical review expert at Sleep Foundation ; and Dr. Abhinav Singh MD, medical director of the Indiana Sleep Center , author of Sleep to Heal: 7 Simple Steps To A Better Sleep , and medical review expert at Sleep Foundation.
• To keep you up-to-date on the best neck pillows for travel, we refresh this round-up regularly. It was last updated in July 2024 to include the Cabeau Evolution S3 Travel Pillow and new insight in our shopping guide.

How We Chose The Best Neck Pillows For Travel

We began researching our picks of the best neck pillows for travel based on the recommendations of our seasoned Forbes Vetted team and the expert insight of Vyas and Singh.

• We researched bestsellers and potential contenders from well-known brands like Ostrich and Cabeau.
• We considered an assortment of pillow types, from traditional “U” shapes to unconventional designs, in an effort to find options for varying needs and preferences.
• We carefully considered specifications like weight, materials, ease of cleaning and price point.
• We scoured customer reviews for insight into how these pillows performed for people and made an effort to avoid pillows with concerning feedback.

What To Look For In A Neck Pillow For Travel

When shopping for the best neck pillow for travel, the most important thing is to find a pillow that supports your head, neck and spine. Sleeping comfortably while sitting up can be challenging, but having a firm pillow that keeps your neck in proper alignment with your spine is essential in making sure you don’t wake up feeling stiff and sore.

“Sleeping in an upright position without the use of a pillow may result in neck strain and disturbances in the sleep cycle,” said Dr. Vyas. “The forward bobbing of the head can lead to wakefulness, leading to a less restful sleep experience,” she added.

When selecting the best pillow for you, consider how you normally sleep—do you like to sleep on your side? Do you sleep flat on your back? Do you turn around a lot? Answering these questions helps you find a pillow that supports your specific needs.

For example, the Trtl Travel Pillow is a fantastic option for sleeping on a plane, but it only supports one side of your neck at a time. That means if you’re someone who switches sides frequently, you have to take it off and reposition it completely each time you squirm around. The best neck pillows for travel should be supportive and comfortable, but they should allow for ample movement without being restrictive.

On the flip side of support is comfort. The best neck pillows for travel are made with materials that you find personally comfortable. For most people, soft, smooth fabrics are appealing and they’re unlikely to cause friction-related irritation.

Portability

If you’re the type of traveler who finds themselves sitting on top of your carry-on to cram it shut, chances are you don’t have the extra space to tote around a cumbersome pillow. Portability is key when shopping for a travel pillow—you need to carry it with you through security, to the gate and on to the plane, so you want to select one that’s either easy to carry or easy to pack in a carry-on. That’s where an inflatable pillow, like the Blabok Inflatable Neck Pillow , comes in handy. It can be packed flat and blown up to its appropriate size once you board, which saves space in your bag while providing comfort and support on the plane. If you’re looking for a bit more plush comfort, consider bringing a larger pillow that has some sort of clip or hook that lets it hang from your bag, eliminating the need to carry or pack it.

Breathability is a key consideration. Airplanes can get stuffy—especially if you’re in the middle seat—so having a pillow made from a light, airy material helps keep you cool. Cotton or viscose are both great materials for the outer sleeve, while memory foam can be a super supportive material for the filling.

Traditional neck pillows have a “U”-shape that go around the neck and help keep the head comfortably upright. But some options, like the BCozzy Neck Pillow , wrap around the neck in a few different ways, which can be useful if you’re crammed in a middle seat, for instance. Depending on how you prefer to sleep while sitting upright, you may want to consider a travel pillow like the Ostrich Mini Travel Pillow , which fits comfortably on either hand so you can prop up your head.

The best neck pillows for travel are made with high-quality materials that stand up trip after trip. In that case, memory foam may be a better option than an inflatable travel pillow, which could spring a leak at an inopportune time. If you’re looking for longevity, a pillow with a removable and washable cover is also a good idea.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Are neck pillows good for use on planes.

Neck pillows can make air travel much more comfortable. Targeted neck support can help relieve strain and make it possible to rest comfortably, even in an upright position. Just be mindful of the pillow’s size and portability. While most airlines don’t count neck pillows as a carry-on item, it’s always a good idea to find one that packs down well.

Which Travel Pillow Is Better, Inflatable Or Foam?

It comes down to personal preference. Travel pillows made with memory foam are cushioning and supportive, but they can retain heat. Inflatable pillows aren’t as contouring as foam, but you can inflate them to a level that you find personally comfortable. Plus, they’re compress well so they’re easy to pack.

What Material Is Best For A Travel Pillow?

A memory foam travel pillow, like the Ostrich Go Luxury Travel Pillow, offers cushioning support that works particularly well if you’re traveling by car or plane. Look for a pillow that compresses well for easy storage and comes with a removable, washable cover so it’s easy to keep clean.

How Do I Choose A Good Travel Pillow?

Support is the primary consideration, so look for a pillow that’s firm enough to maintain proper alignment when you’re sitting upright. Breathable materials and portability are also important, as is ease of care. If the entire pillow can’t be machine washed, make sure the pillow has a removable, washable cover.

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Sleep Innovations Memory Foam Contour Pillow, Travel Size, Head, Neck, and Shoulder Alignment, Side and Back Sleepers, Medium Support

About this item.

• Travel Size Memory Foam Contour Travel Pillow: The therapeutic design of this compact contour pillow adapts to your head neck, and shoulders for enhanced support and gentle alignment; Ideal for side and back sleepers
• Cervical Support: Choose between the higher or lower contour depending what level of neck support you need; This memory foam pillow always holds its shape; The soft removable cover is easy to wash
• Pillows With A Purpose: Whether you want a classic memory foam pillow a huggable body pillow, a cooling gel memory foam pillow for hot sleepers, or a curved pillow for therapeutic support, weâ€ve got you covered
• Made In The USA: Our memory foam mattresses mattress toppers, and pillows are all Hypoallergenic and CertiPUR-US certified, offering you high quality materials for high quality sleep
• Committed To Great Sleep: We invented the memory foam mattress in a box and we continue to innovate restorative foams and fabrics to give you the best night's sleep on our pillows toppers, and mattresses

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Sleep deeper and wake refreshed. The therapeutic design of the Sleep Innovations Contour Memory Foam Pillow adapts to your head, neck and shoulders to provide the enhanced support and gentle alignment you need. Get comfort your way by choosing between the higher or lower contour for what feels best to you. Either way, responsive memory foam relieves pressure points that cause tossing and turning, so you'll experience longer periods of deep sleep each and every night. A soft-knit cover comforts you instantly, and the spring-back properties of the memory foam fill ensure that your pillow always holds it shape. It's personalized nighttime support on a whole new level.

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I Tried This Travel Pillow That Looks Like A Neck Brace & Slept So Much More On My Flight: A Trtl Travel Pillow Review

The Trtl travel pillow is a game-changer for anyone stuck in the tight confines of economy class. Its smart design, compact size, and superior neck support make it a much better alternative to traditional travel pillows.

Let’s be real: Economy Class isn’t known for comfort. Whether you're trying to nap on a red-eye flight or just looking to avoid neck pain during long hauls, a travel pillow is often the go-to solution. But not all travel pillows are made equal. After many uncomfortable experiences with travel pillows, I finally gave the Trtl Travel Pillow a shot – and it completely changed my experience flying in Economy. I didn't even mind that a few concerned passengers, thinking I was in a neck brace, were asking me if was okay. 

Trtl Pillow - Scientifically Proven Super Soft Neck Support Travel Pillow - Machine Washable Grey

• Scientifically Proven Neck Pillows For Travel: Thanks to our unique, patented design, you can easily adjust your Trtl travel neck pillow to achieve top-level comfort and experience ultimate neck support. The internal support system keeps your head and neck in an upright position while you nap, keeping you from waking up with aches, strains, or pains. The perfect airplane or car travel essential.
• Enjoy a Real Sleeping Experience on Long Flights: Add our neck pillow to your long flight essentials’ list to experience a deep sleep during lengthy flights. The super soft fleece, plush cushioning, and cozy shoulder support will lull you into a long, refreshing nap while on the plane.
• Lightweight and Compact Design: Weighing in at only 4.5oz, The Trtl Travel Pillow's lightweight design allows you to attach it to the outside of your backpack or luggage easily without feeling weighed down. No more dragging around a bulky neck pillow for traveling!
• Easy To Carry & Machine-Washable: Unlike regular U-shaped traveling pillows constructed with memory foam, Trtl Pillows are conveniently machine-washable and fast-drying, so you can keep them fresh for your next adventure. Simply remove the internal support and pop the wrap into the washing machine.
• Arrive at Your Destination Feeling Refreshed: We believe that maximizing the amount of rest you receive during your journey allows you to arrive at your destination feeling refreshed and ready to go. With our neck pillow’s comfort-driven design, you can achieve the ultimate rest you need so you feel refreshed and ready for your next vacation holiday.

How is the Trtl Pillow different from regular travel pillows?

This is my honest opinion: I was 100% sure this pillow would not be comfortable at all. It came in a super flat – and suspiciously light – package and the lack of cushioning made me question everything. At first glance, the Trtl looks nothing like traditional travel pillows. The best way to describe it is that it is more like a soft scarf with hidden neck support. 

How did It make my flight more comfortable?

• Lightweight & compact

It’s flat, it’s easy to pack, and is so lightweight (148g!) – what’s not to love about it?  It also took up very little room in my carry-on, so I didn’t feel like I was sacrificing valuable packing space for comfort.

• Ergonomic neck support (and prevented me from snoring)

It’s very extreme – I usually struggle to get any sleep or I sleep and snore so loudly on planes, but with the Trtl pillow I managed to catch a few solid hours of shut eye while keeping my mouth shut. How? The Trtl pillow has a built-in internal support system – sort of like a brace – that cradles your neck and supports your jaw. Most U-shaped pillows shift, leaving my neck sore by the end of the journey, but the Trtl stayed secure. No more awkwardly resting my head on the window or trying to position my arms to create makeshift support. Think of it as a gentle brace that keeps your head from bobbing around, but without being too stiff or restrictive.

• Soft, fleece material to keep you cosy

The Trtl is made with soft fleece material, making it comfortable on the skin. It felt cosy and warm without being too hot, which was why I kept it on throughout the flight – when I was sleeping, watching movies, reading, rawdogging it (aka doing nothing but staring at the interactive flight map and memorising city names). I also wore it while contemplating a bit too long on why it is called “Trtl” because it didn’t have a “turtle vibe”. By the time I made trips to the lavatory in the Trtl, people began asking me if there was anything wrong with my neck. A quick selfie later, I realised it did look like I had a neck brace on. Oh well. 

• Adjustable fit

Verdict: Should you buy the Trtl Pillow?

Yes, I loved it, and it changed the way I feel about travel pillows now.  Overall, the Trtl travel pillow is a game-changer for anyone stuck in the tight confines of Economy Class. It might be pricier than than most travel pillows but to be comfortable throughout a long-haul flight is a small luxury. To be honest,  I don't think I can ever go back to regular travel pillows now.

Other alternative pillows (if you prefer more conventional travel pillows)

Proglobe Orthopedic Neck Pillow, $29.97, Buy it now

Huzi Infinity Pillow - Travel Pillow, $68, Buy it now

OTO Neck Relaxar NR-103 Travel Pillow, $22 (U.P. $25), Buy it now

Our articles may contain affiliate links. If you buy through these links, we may earn a small commission. Prices are correct at time of publishing.

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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.

What To Buy For Your Travels

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The 10 Best Memory Foam Travel Pillows (That Actually Work)

Searching the the perfect memory foam travel pillow for your next trip? We’ve got you covered!

Whether you’re looking for a neck pillow for plane rides or a full-blown travel pillow, we’ve put together a big guide to all of our favorites. There’s something here for every size, shape, and price range.

It’s due time to say goodbye to the old u-shaped neck pillows you see lining the retail racks at airports.

#1. Ostrich Pillow Go

• Price: (Click to Check Current Ostrich Pillow Go Price on Amazon)
• Type: Neck Pillow

When it comes to memory foam neck pillows, the Ostrich Pillow Go is easily my top pick. You may be familiar with the Ostrich Pillow brand for their original concept, this very odd-looking, head-consuming pillow .

Unlike the meme-worthy original Ostrich Pillow, the Ostrich Pillow Go has a great design. It’s simple, it’s comfortable, and it won’t have you looking like a total weirdo.

If I had to choose one travel neck pillow for planes, trains and cars, this would be the one.

Differing from a traditional u-shaped travel neck pillow, the Ostrich Pillow Go has a wrap-around design. This helps to give true 360-degree support for your neck and head. It feels like a 50/50 split between a neck pillow and a (comfortable) neck brace. A snug fit will keep your head from going too far to any one side while also keeping it from falling forward.

An asymmetrical design gives the pillow more height in certain areas than others. Laying your head on a higher side will keep your neck straighter, while a lower side lets your head fall a bit more. The difference isn’t much, but it’s enough to allow you to vary things a bit and add some extra comfort on long trips.

The foam inside the Ostrich Pillow Go is more firm than what you’d find in the average memory foam nick pillow. Anyone who has been frustrated by many of the more flimsy options on the market will likely find the Go to be more to their liking.

Velcro fasteners on the two ends of the pillow allow for easy adjustments. The vast majority of people won’t have a problem getting the right fit. Only those who have particularly large necks may find it difficult to keep a secure velcro connection.

Overall, the Ostrich Pillow Go is a very comfortable pillow. The shape is well-designed and the memory foam is just the right density for balancing comfort and stability. A good pillow, along with other smart travel decisions , can go a long way in keeping you feeling good.

Size & Packability

The Ostrich Pillow Go is one of the larger memory foam neck pillows on this list when in use, but packs very nicely when it isn’t.

Unlike a standard u-shaped neck pillow, the Go’s shape makes it perfect for rolling. You can easily compress it down in an instant and put it inside the carrying bag that comes with the pillow.

Build Quality & Style

The Ostrich Pillow Go’s construction is very good. It looks and feels like one of the most well-made neck pillows on the market.

Inside, the foam is sturdy and retains its shape well. Outside, the removable 95% viscose, 5% elastomer cover is soft and comfortable on the skin.

The Go pillow comes in a two-tone color scheme. There are a few different color options for the inside section of the pillow (the part that touches your neck), but the main part of each pillow is a light heathered grey.

All in all, the style of the Go is markedly more tasteful and subtle than the zany neck pillows you see lining the average airport retail rack.

Extra Features

Each Ostrich Pillow Go comes with a small carrying pouch. This pouch allows for easy travel, keeping the pillow compressed to about half of its normal size.

The Go also features a removable outer cover. It easily zips on and off, making it very easy to throw in the washing machine.

#2. NEMO Fillo (Smaller) & Fillo Luxury (Larger)

• Price(Small): (Click to Check Current NEMO Fillo Price on Amazon)
• Price(Large): (Click to Check Current NEMO Fillo Luxury Price on Amazon)
• Type: Full Travel Pillow

Rather than a neck pillow, the NEMO Fillo is a full-fledged memory foam travel pillow. If you’re looking for the most versatile pillow on the list, this is it.

The Fillo was created by NEMO Equipment to be the perfect travel, camping, and backpacking pillow. Its innovative design makes it an extremely packable option that is as close as it gets to at-home pillow comfort.

If you think you can’t easily travel with a full-sized pillow, think again. Matter of fact, WebMD even recommends bringing your own pillow to avoid germs .

The NEMO Fillo does an incredible job of providing a ton of comfort in such a light package. For a travel pillow that you can take just about anywhere, it really can’t get much better.

A high degree of innovation is what really sets the Fillo apart from similar travel pillows. Sandwiched in between a layer of memory foam, the Fillo features an air bladder that is inflated by a simple mouthpiece on the side of the pillow.

This air/memory foam combo gives the pillow a unique edge over almost anything else on the market. The air allows you to get just the right pillow height and firmness while the thick memory foam adds just the right amount of padding.

Whether it’s being used as a plan/train/automobile pillow, a hiking/camping pillow, or a full hotel pillow replacement, the Fillo performs extremely well.

This is the perfect solution to give travelers some extra assurance that they’ll have a comfortable pillow wherever they go. Unlike many hotel pillows, the Fillo works for side sleepers, stomach sleepers and back sleepers alike.

The standard Fillo is 17″x 4″ fully inflated and compresses down to about the size of a potato when packed.

Slightly larger than the standard Fillo, the Fillo Luxury is 20″ x 11″ fully inflated and compresses down to about the size of a grapefruit when packed.

Both the Fillo and the Fillo Luxury have built-in stuff sacks. This means that you don’t have to worry about losing the small pouch you need for neatly packing your pillow. Simply pull the self-contained stuff sack out of the side of the pillow and you’re good to go.

Regardless which model you choose to go with, the Fillo is a packing dream.

The Fillo has great construction for being such a lightweight, easy-to-pack pillow. From the memory foam padding to the air mouthpiece and the air bladder itself, everything works and holds up very well.

The microsuede or jersey covers feel great and come in a variety of colors.

Memory foam pads, an air bladder, a built-in stuff sack, and a removable pillowcase/cover all combine to make what is just about the most feature-rich travel pillow on the market.

One of the coolest features unique to the Luxury model is a built-in shock cord on the underside of the pillow. It allows you to pack in a piece (or multiple pieces) of clothing under the pillow to add height.

#3. Cabeau Evolution

• Price: (Click to Check Current Cabeau Evolution Price on Amazon)

The Cabeau Evolution is one of the bestselling memory foam travel neck pillows of all time. It’s a staple, widely used by travelers all across the globe.

If you’re looking for a more traditional, no-frills neck pillow for planes, trains, and everything else, the Evolution is hard to beat.

Cabeau has designed the Evolution to be a very comfortable pillow for a wide variety of positions.

The most noticeable thing about the Evolution is that it is quite large on the neck. Even taller travelers will usually find that the sides come up much higher than what would be common for most standard neck pillows.

These high sides make the Evolution very stable and very supportive, but they can be a bit much for those with shorter necks. A small person may feel a bit “swallowed up” by the Evolution.

One of the best comfort features on the Evolution is its flat back. The pillow dips in a bit toward the edges, keeping the back of your seat from pushing the pillow (and thus your head) forward much. It’s a small detail that makes a big difference.

Compared to most of the other pillows on this list, the Evolution definitely has more of a true memory foam feel to it. It’s cushy and comfortable, but the extra-high sides keep your head from sinking down too far. Put on a cozy pair of travel socks and snuggle up.

The Cabeau Evolution is definitely one of the larger travel neck pillows out there. Its sides are especially high compared to the norm.

Even though it’s quite large when in use, it still packs down nicely into the pouch that comes with the pillow.

A big part of the reason that the Evolution sells so well is that it’s a very reliable pillow. Cabeau has has designed and built the pillow with materials that are a big step up from plain old neck pillows. The memory foam is plush, but still holds up well after being compressed down many times over.

You can get the Evolution in a wide range of colors.

The Cabeau Evolution comes with a travel bag, a removable cover, and adjustable front toggles.

It also includes a unique built-in pouch on the side of the pillow. Most regular-size smartphones will fit in it, but larger phones may not. If nothing else, it’s a good place to store headphones or earplugs.

#4. Travelrest All-in-One Ultimate

• Price: (Click to Check Current Travelrest Ultimate Price on Amazon)

The Travelrest All-in-One Ultimate is definitely the most interesting pillow on this list. One look at the pillow and it’s easy to see why. The Travelrest’s strange shape allows it to be set up in a variety of positions in an airplane seat.

In order to keep the pillow packable, the Travelrest uses both air and memory foam in its construction. It’s quite large when inflated and gives you plenty of space to lean on the pillow.

You’re likely already well aware that it’s very hard to stay asleep when you’re holding your body upright . The Travelrest gives you some freedom to lean without encroaching on your neighbor’s seat space.

Travelrest designed the All-in-One Ultimate to be a complete solution for full upper body comfort in an airplane seat. Not only does it keep your head up, it also gives you a solid surface to lean a shoulder on.

The strap configuration on the All-in-One Ultimate gives you the freedom to play around with the pillow until you find what works best for you. You can anchor it to your seat’s headrest, sling it around your back, or simply wedge it under your arm without an anchor point.

Filling the pillow with air is easy, with only a few breaths being enough. It’s equally easy to let air out with just a few taps of the vent. The air gives the pillow its size and structure. The memory foam gives the pillow the extra comfort.

Overall, this is a very comfortable option that can be set up in many different configurations. It may take a bit of playing around to find the perfect position, but it’s very effective once you find it.

For such a large pillow when in-use, the Travelrest packs up very nicely. This is thanks to its inflatable design. This is definitely the largest of of the plane-oriented travel pillows on our list when it’s fully inflated.

Rolled-up and stowed, the All-in-One Ultimate isn’t any bigger than the average rolled-up neck pillow.

Since the Travelrest All-in-One Ultimate is an inflatable pillow, it’s not quite as durable as a travel pillow with a 100% memory foam structure. That said, the Travelrest is still plenty tough.

The materials are good and the pillow is well made. It should hold its shape and it should not leak. Test the pillow as soon as you get it to be sure. Travelrest tends to do a good job with quality control, but it’s always a good idea to double check anything that inflates.

As we already stated, this is definitely on the larger end of the travel pillow spectrum when it’s fully inflated. It’s effective and comfortable, but may not be the best option if you’re looking for something subtle. People will notice this one and will likely ask you about it.

Instead of a travel pouch, the Travelrest All-in-One Ultimate simply rolls up into itself and is easily secureable with the built-in straps. It’s very easy to attach it to your backpack or carry on.

The outer cover is removable and machine washable.

#5. Therm-a-Rest Compressible

• Price: (Click to Check Current Therm-a-Rest Price on Amazon)

The Therm-a-Rest Compressible pillow is the bestselling memory foam travel/camping pillow on the market. It’s a versatile, comfortable choice that works really well for all sorts of needs.

Unlike the other full-size travel pillow on our list (the NEMO Fillo), the Therm-a-Rest Compressible doesn’t include an air bladder. The inside of the pillow is filled only with memory foam that expands to be 4″ thick when unrolled.

There’s reason behind the Therm-a-Rest Compressible being the most popular travel pillow online- it’s simple and comfortable. This is a great choice if you want the most straightforward full-size travel pillow that doesn’t involve any inflating or extra attention.

It’s not the thickest pillow out there, but it does a pretty good job for being so easy to carry along. On a plane, it’s small enough to put behind your back or your head if you’re leaning against the window.

I think most people will find that they’ll need to fold the pillow for maximum comfort when being used as an actual pillow in bed. Unless you like thinner pillows, it may be a bit too thin when using it unfolded as an actual pillow replacement.

The Therm-a-Rest Compressible won’t get quite as small as the NEMO Fillo when packed, but it still is a very efficient option. Like the Fillo, the Compressible pillow has a built-in stuff sack to keep things simple.

Completely compressed and stuffed, the regular Compressible is just a bit larger than a regular-sized water bottle.

The pillow comes in a handful of sizes: 12″ x 6″(Small), 14″ x 18″(Medium), 16″ x 23″ (Large), 16.5″ x 27″ (X-Large).

All in all, the Therm-a-Rest Compressible is a simple, well-made option. It’s not bombproof, but it’s plenty sturdy for such a lightweight travel pillow. The memory foam holds up well, even after repeated compressing.

The Compressible also looks good. It comes in a decent variety of colors and patterns. It’s easy to find something that fits your preferred style.

This is really a no-frills memory foam travel pillow. The two standout features are the self-contained stuff sack and the pillow’s ability to be completely machine washed. Simply throw the whole thing in the washing machine when it’s time to clean it.

#6. MLVOC Travel Pillow

• Price: (Click to Check Current MLVOC Price on Amazon)

The MLVOC Travel Pillow is a strong performer with an ergonomic shape. A soft removable outer cover combined with plush interior memory foam make it very comfortable on long trips.

This is a good option for anyone who finds something like the Cabeau Evolution to be a bit too bulky. The MLVOC has more of a contour, making it a good choice for travelers with shorter necks.

The MLVOC comes in a set with a travel pouch, mask, and earplugs.

#7. Twist Travel Pillow

• Price: (Click to Check Current Price on Amazon)

The Twist is a super versatile memory foam travel pillow that can be formed into all sorts of shapes. You can wear this one like a traditional u-shaped neck pillow, straighten it out, or a bend it into a mix of the two.

Inside the pillow are flexible joints that allow it to be twisted into whatever shape you’d like. They are surprising secure and durable for what you’d expect out of a product like this.

The Twist has a removable cover for easy cleaning and a simple snap mechanism on each end, making it easy to secure around your neck or on your luggage.

#8. AERIS Travel Pillow

• Price: (Click to Check Current AERIS Price on Amazon)

The AERIS travel pillow is an affordable, straightforward memory foam travel neck pillow. It’s very simple in its design and works well for a wide range of travelers.

Of all the neck pillows on this list, the AERIS is the closest thing to what you’d think of as a “standard” option. It may not look like much, but it’s actually strong performer. This is thanks to its thick, quality memory foam and soft removable cover.

The AERIS comes as a set with a travel pouch, a mask, and earplugs.

#9. GOSLEEP Travel Pillow

• Price: (Click to Check Current GOSLEEP Price on Amazon)

The GOSLEEP is one of the most unique travel pillows on the market. Instead of a standard neck pillow design, the GOSLEEP is a flat pillow/eye mask combo that anchors to the headrest of your seat.

Once the pillow has been secured to the seat, you put the eyemask on and pull the elastic cord around the headrest. Not only doe the eyemask block light, it also secures your head, keeping it from bobbing around while you rest.

The BCOZZY is a simple wraparound style neck pillow that is specifically designed to help keep your chin up. It’s a solid performer that comes in three different sizes.

If you’ve had a hard time finding a neck pillow that keeps your head from falling forward, the BCOZZY’s innovative shape could be just what you need.

Best Memory Foam Travel Pillows – Summary

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Designed For Travelers

The wrap-around shape of our Travel Pillow cradles your neck and supports your head to relieve pressure, allowing your neck and shoulder muscles to relax. You can just kick back and enjoy the ride.

Sleepers Love The Travel Pillow

With over 10 million pillows sold and 15,000 5-star reviews, our Tempur-Pedic® pillows are just as legendary as our mattresses

Great Travel Pillow

"Love this travel pillow. It is very comfortable and provides the right amount of support. Used it on an intercontinental overnight flight. It really came in handy and was so comfy."

— SharBear, Hollywood, FL

Quality and Packability

"The Tempur-Pedic travel pillow provides the same support and comfort as the full-size neck pillow in a convenient size for traveling. It compresses down to a size that easily fits in a backpack."

— Well Rested Traveler, Grand Rapids, MI

Worth. Every. Cent.

"Back to back 12 hour flights, this pillow is a game changer (especially if you have the regular Tempur-Pedic pillow!) Super comfortable, awesome support. Should have bought this years ago."

— SuperG, Seattle, WA

Medium-firm

Designed for:

Measurements:.

12" x 11" x 3"

*Dimensions of each individual pillow may vary.

We recommend a cold temperature setting for machine washing and a cool setting for machine drying. Air-drying is best. Do not “over-dry” the cover and do not use chlorine products or harsh stain removers of any kind.

Product Care

• Horseshoe shape TEMPUR-Material™ cradles and supports the neck
• Removable and washable cover

RETURN POLICY:

Sorry: given their use as a personal item, pillows may not be returned. Read our return policy.

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Lightweight, water-resistant pillow cover made with patented, temperature-balancing ThermalSense® fabric.

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The Best Memory Foam Pillows

By Jackie Reeve

Jackie Reeve is a writer covering all things bedding. She has also reported on towels, rugs, and chicken coops (with help from her 20 backyard pets).

If your current down or down-alternative pillow seems comfortable at first but sinks too low while you sleep, or if you wake up with pain in your head, neck, and shoulders, you might like a memory-foam pillow instead—they’re firmer, and they keep their shape. These generally come in four types of foam: shredded, single slab, layered, and contoured. We tried 18 memory-foam pillows and picked our favorite of each type, but the one that was the most popular with our testers was the adjustable shredded-foam Nest Bedding Easy Breather Pillow .

Everything we recommend

Nest Bedding Easy Breather Pillow

Best memory-foam pillow.

Our testers love shredded foam more than any other type, and this pillow is a longtime favorite. It has moldable, customizable filling that gives back- and side-sleepers firm support.

Buying Options

Budget pick.

Weekender Gel Memory Foam Pillow

An inexpensive, supportive foam rectangle.

The most affordable memory-foam pillow we tried is also our favorite one-piece foam pillow. It offered some of the best neck and shoulder support without overheating our testers.

Upgrade pick

Tempur-Pedic Tempur-Adapt Pro + Cooling Pillow (mid-density)

A high-quality layered-foam pillow.

This pillow is made with stacked sheets of foam and has a better cover than any other foam pillow we tried—it’s luxe, cool, and soft but substantial. The pillow comes in three thicknesses, and it’s one of the few we tested that you can try in a store.

Ecosa Pillow

Best contoured memory-foam pillow.

Height-adjustable and curved to provide targeted neck support, the Ecosa was the best contoured pillow we tested. It’s pricier than others we recommend, but it’s the favorite of our back- and side-sleepers who struggle with pain.

The Nest Bedding Easy Breather Pillow is our overall favorite memory-foam pillow, and it has been a consistent tester favorite since 2016. Our testers generally prefer shredded foam to solid, layered, or contoured foam, and the Easy Breather is one of the most comfortable shredded-foam pillows we’ve found.

It’s adjustable—you can unzip the cover and scoop out filling to get your ideal loft—and it offers firm support. It has a soft, cool cover, and the shredded foam is encased in its own washable inner pouch (making it the first fully washable shredded foam pillow we’ve tested). The pouch also has a zipper, so you can still add and remove as much shredded-foam filling as necessary to get your ideal loft. Another plus: The Easy Breather doesn’t have the chemical smell we’ve found in other shredded-foam pillows we’ve tried.

Nest Bedding offers a 30-day return policy and a two-year warranty on the Easy Breather.

The Weekender Gel Memory Foam Pillow is our favorite solid memory-foam pillow—it felt cool to use, it’s the lightest of our picks, and our side- and back-sleepers found it more supportive than several pricier pillows they tried. It’s also one of the highest-rated and least expensive memory-foam pillows we found on Amazon.

Its cover does feel less luxe than those of our other picks, and the foam inside makes it much squishier than the layered Tempur-Pedic and contoured Ecosa pillows we recommend, so your head sinks a bit more (but not as much as with down or down-alternative pillows). This pillow could be a better choice if you often find memory foam too stiff and lofty, or if you just want to try a memory-foam pillow to see if it’s right for you.

The Weekender pillow comes with Amazon’s 30-day return policy.

The Tempur-Pedic Tempur-Adapt Pro + Cooling Pillow (mid-density) is made with some of the best foam we’ve tried—it feels dense and luxurious.

The pillow comes in three heights, or densities, and the “lo” and “mid” options are made with two sheets of memory foam sandwiching a middle layer of “micro cushions” (the layer looks a bit like hundreds of mini marshmallows squished together). The “hi” height is a single, thick block of memory foam. We tried the layered mid-density version with testers of various body sizes in various sleep positions, and we wouldn’t recommend anything taller unless you have especially broad shoulders or need significant height.

Most of our side- and back-sleepers found this pillow very supportive, but some thought it was too big. The outer cover is made from the highest-quality fabric of any foam pillow we tested; it’s well stitched and taut, and the material stayed cooler than most others we tried.

This pillow comes with a five-year limited warranty—the longest warranty of our picks—and it’s one of the few pillows we’ve tested that you can try in stores to make sure your choice fits your body before you buy. (Tempur-Pedic accepts returns only if the pillow is damaged.)

The Ecosa Pillow is made with contoured memory foam to offer extra support for the natural curve of the neck, and it was the overall favorite in our testing with back- and side-sleepers who struggle with neck, shoulder, or arm pain while they sleep.

The pillow is firm with a bit of squish, so our testers felt cradled without sinking. It’s also more adjustable than any other solid-foam pillow we tested—it comes with two sheets of extra foam you can add to the bottom (inside the cover) to adjust its height. We think it’s the best contoured pillow for most bodies.

Ecosa offers a 100-night return policy, so you can try this pillow risk-free.

The research

Why you should trust us, who should use memory-foam pillows, how we picked and tested, our favorite shredded-foam pillow: nest bedding easy breather pillow, an affordable single-piece foam pillow: weekender gel memory foam pillow, a luxurious layered-foam pillow: tempur-pedic tempur-adapt pro + cooling pillow, a supportive contoured-foam pillow: ecosa pillow, care and maintenance, the competition.

I personally prefer memory-foam pillows. As a side-sleeper I like a fair amount of height and a very firm pillow to keep my shoulders and arms from getting sore, and in testing for this guide I had some of the better nights of sleep I can remember. I also co-wrote our main guide to bed pillows . Our picks are the pillows I would spend money on myself.

For this guide I built on the research from our main guide to pillows , and I also interviewed Dr. Jonathan Kirschner , a physiatrist at New York City’s Hospital for Special Surgery . We talked about pain caused by using the wrong pillow for your body and neck shape, and he explained the proper alignment for the neck during sleep. He also shared what to look for in any good pillow.

Memory-foam pillows (shredded foam, solid foam, layered foam, or contoured) are best for people who sleep on their side or back and don’t get enough support from down and down-alternative pillows. We don’t recommend most memory-foam pillows for stomach-sleepers unless you can customize the fill or you specifically need more height. Although some of these pillows are adjustable, most of our picks are pretty lofty; in our testing, the extra-firm, extra-high support didn’t feel comfortable to most stomach-sleepers.

Dr. Jonathan Kirschner of New York City’s Hospital for Special Surgery told us that, when choosing a pillow, you should maintain your body’s natural alignment. “In the neck we have a natural curve called the lordosis,” he said, “and you want the pillow to accommodate for that.” In testing I’ve found that the most supportive pillows make my head feel like it’s comfortably floating and not pulled in any one direction. If you like the feel of memory foam but need a smaller, softer pillow (in our test panel stomach-sleepers and side- and back-sleepers with smaller frames tended to have this preference), we have more options in the Competition section . To see the pillows we tested with other fills (as well as more options in shredded foam, our testers’ favorite style), read our main guide to bed pillows .

We used the same criteria for this guide as we used for our main guide to pillows :

Comfort: We looked for pillows with good neck and shoulder support, and we ruled out most pillows that caused overheating. Memory foam can feel hotter than down and down-alternative pillows, though, so in some cases we considered pillows with great support that felt a little warm.

Construction: As with all pillows we’ve tested, we looked for strong stitching along the seams, we noted the quality and thickness of the outer cover, and we judged the cover’s ability to protect the foam inside. We also checked the foam to see if it was fragile.

Return policy and warranty: Determining whether a pillow is a good fit takes a few nights, so we looked for generous return policies (from 30 to 100 days) from the companies whose pillows we recommend. Only one of our recommended pillows—from Tempur-Pedic—doesn’t offer returns, but unlike the others, it’s available to try in stores. Most of our picks also come with three- to six-year warranties (which mainly cover manufacturer defects).

In 2019 we tried a total of 18 memory-foam pillows in shredded, solid, layered, and contour styles. We’ve tested shredded-foam pillows for several years for our main pillows guide , but this was our first time considering all styles of foam pillows. After conducting first-round testing that eliminated the least comfortable models, we had a panel of six testers (representing side-sleepers, back-sleepers, stomach-sleepers, and some combo sleepers) spend a few weeks sleeping on the 14 remaining pillows. Going by their notes on comfort and breathability—and building on our years of shredded-foam pillow testing—we made our picks.

Over the years, we’ve tried more than 100 pillows—stuffed with down, down alternative, and foam—with dozens of sleep testers. And the Nest Bedding Easy Breather Pillow has consistently been one of the most popular among back- and side-sleepers because of its firm but soft support, its adjustable shredded-foam fill, its high-quality materials, and Nest Bedding’s decent return and warranty policies.

We’ve been recommending versions of the Easy Breather since 2016. This pillow is comfy and firm, offering neck support that doesn’t cause pain. The Easy Breather stands out for being completely machine-washable. It’s the top-ranked shredded-foam pillow among our side- and back-sleepers, scoring higher than the Xtreme Comforts , Leesa Hybrid , and Sleep Number ComfortFit Classic pillows. We also found that our testers almost universally preferred the feel and support of shredded foam to that of solid, layered, or contoured foam.

One of our favorite features of shredded-foam pillows over other memory-foam pillows is their adjustability. Although you can choose from three heights on the Tempur-Pedic pillow or add foam sheets to the Ecosa pillow, neither is as customizable as the Easy Breather, from which you can remove clumps of fill to get a loft that feels just right for you. Easy Breather contains all the foam in a zippered, all-cotton inner pouch that tucks inside the outer cover. You can remove clumps of the shredded foam until you get the loft just right (and maybe save those pieces in a bag for future adjustments); we think this makes it the most flexible of our memory-foam pillow picks.

The Easy Breather’s thick Tencel-blend cover is softer than the covers on our other memory-foam pillow picks, with a stippled surface that masks the slightly lumpy texture of the shredded-foam fill. Compared with other shredded-foam pillows we’ve tested, the Easy Breather also has less of a chemical smell when you first open the package (it dissipates in a day or so).

The Easy Breather comes with a 30-day return policy (just save the original packaging for returns), which should be long enough for you to make sure it’s the right choice, plus a two-year warranty covering manufacturer defects. Tempur-Pedic offers a longer warranty and Ecosa offers a longer return policy, but Nest’s protection is still better than what we’ve seen from most competitors in our years of pillow testing. Nest also has 13 showrooms , so if you live near one you might be able to try this pillow in person.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

If you find this pillow to be too lofty, you can adjust it by removing some fill, but the process can be messy. Some of our testers have said that when they’ve done this, the fill has left dusty clumps of foam everywhere. They still love the Easy Breather’s adjustability, though, and we think it’s worth the temporary mess—keep a vacuum handy.

The Weekender Gel Memory Foam Pillow was the highest-rated solid memory-foam pillow for our testers, and it’s one of the cheapest foam pillows we tried. It’s the perfect choice if you want a low-risk way to try a memory-foam pillow for the first time, or if you know you don’t like the feel of shredded foam. The Weekender’s foam feels less high-tech and engineered than that of our other picks—it reminded me of the inexpensive foam you can buy at sewing and craft stores. It doesn’t offer as much resistance to the head and neck (what helps keep them elevated and aligned), but for most of our testers it got the job done.

One tester praised its “cushiony softness” and noted that it was just the right thickness for her shoulders. It’s not as tall or as firm as the Nest Bedding, Tempur-Pedic, and Ecosa pillows, but another tester, who has a small frame and generally prefers low pillows, still found it too high. It might be a good choice if you prefer a medium-height pillow.

It’s available in standard (which we tested), queen, and king sizes. Our testers were divided on the quality of the quilted outer cover—some thought it felt cheap, others noted it was cool and soft—but when it’s inside a pillow case, we don’t think you’ll notice. The cover fits the pillow tautly and is removable for easy washing. From a style perspective, we thought the contrast piping looked cute. The Weekender comes with a three-year warranty, and if you buy through Amazon, you have 30 days to return it.

The Tempur-Pedic Tempur-Adapt Pro + Cooling Pillow (mid-density) , with its three layers of foam, is the highest-quality foam pillow we tried—it molds to the shape of your head and neck and is better than the Easy Breather at keeping its shape throughout the night. The outer cover is also cooler and better quality than anything else we tested.

We tried the mid-density version—the pillow also comes in a “hi” height that consists of a single block of memory foam and a “lo” version with thinner layers inside—and the foam was firm but spongy, so our heads and necks were cradled but didn’t sink. When squeezed, the foam inside returned to its original shape faster than that of any other memory-foam pillow we tried, so we think this pillow will probably hold its shape and provide comfortable support for longer than any of our other picks. When you remove the cover, this pillow looks like solid foam, but unlike most solid-foam pillows, which are flat rectangles, this one is rounded and overstuffed. That’s because of the “micro cushion” layer sealed inside the memory foam, which gives it more resistance, extra loft, and a rounded shape. It’s the only memory-foam pillow we’ve tried made with layered sheets of solid foam, and it’s particularly comfortable if you need a lofty, dense pillow to keep the curve of your neck properly aligned.

It’s the only one of our picks that’s sold widely in stores (the Easy Breather is available in Nest showrooms, but only a handful of them exist nationwide), and because Tempur-Pedic will accept returns only if the pillow is defective or damaged from shipping, we think you should try it out in person. For this kind of money, it’s worth the extra step. It does come with a five-year limited warranty.

The cover is cool and smooth, and it fits the foam inside perfectly, with less bunching and excess material around the edges than on other pillows we tested. It’s one of the few pillows I’ve tried with cooling technologies (in this case, the proprietary cover fabric) that actually worked through the night. It’s a big pillow, though—it’s tall and fat, and it comes in only queen and king sizes, unlike our other picks. If a lower, squishier pillow works best for your neck and body shape, this one is not for you.

If you need focused support for your neck muscles or struggle with any kind of upper-body pain (including headaches), the contoured Ecosa Pillow might help you get a better night’s sleep. Its raised curves are more rigid than the fill of our other memory-foam picks, and it keeps its shape—your head doesn’t feel as molded into the foam as with our other picks—but also stays squishy so you don’t feel like you’re sleeping on a brick.

Our experts have told us time and time again that a good pillow should work with the natural contour of your neck, and the Ecosa’s shape sits right against the neck to directly support its arc. We tried three contoured pillows, and the Ecosa was the most comfortable and supportive of the neck. I’m a side-sleeper prone to stiff arms and shoulders, and this was my favorite memory-foam pillow (though it did cause me a bit of overheating). I also reached for it while battling sinus headaches. In our testing, a back-sleeper with chronic neck problems also preferred the Ecosa to other memory-foam pillows, and she chose it over another contoured pillow she had been using. It comes with two thin sheets of foam that you can add inside the cover to raise the height, and in our tests we found that Ecosa’s guidance on the number of layers to use was fairly accurate.

The breathable, zippered cover of the pillow is nice quality, too. It’s soft to the touch and hugs the contours of the pillow well, so there’s no bunching as you shift in the night. As with all of our picks, the cover is removable and washable. Ecosa says the pillow has a layer of activated charcoal to give it antibacterial properties, but we didn’t test for that nor do we put a lot of stock into antibacterial claims.

Although the surface has a bumpy texture that split our test panel, it’s less lumpy, and more uniform, than the shredded foam of the Nest Bedding pillow, so it may require less of a transition if you’ve previously been sleeping on down or down alternative. The Ecosa has a 100-night return policy, the longest of any pillow we recommend. It does not come with a warranty, whereas our other picks do.

We’ve talked to some textile experts who said you can wash shredded-foam pillows (though not single-piece foam pillows) in a washing machine without removing their stuffing, but most manufacturers do not recommend it. The Easy Breather is the only shredded foam pillow we tested that can be washed , due to the inner pouch that holds all the foam.

Washing a non-machine washable pillow could void the warranty or affect the ability to return pillows you’ve purchased. We also think it’s possible that washing foam filling could damage it, cause mold if it’s not dried thoroughly, or possibly harm your washer and dryer (if the stuffing leaks). Our safest suggestion is to wash foam-pillow covers only.

You can remove single-piece or shredded foam from its cover (you’ll need a big basket or bag to hold the shredded foam, as it expands quite a bit when you scoop it out). Always check the cleaning instructions on the label, but generally we recommend washing the cover in cold water and drying it on low heat to prevent any damage. Make sure the cover is completely dry before restuffing it.

Notable contenders

Shredded foam.

The Sleep Number ComfortFit Pillow Ultimate is our upgrade pick for back- and side-sleepers in our main pillows guide , and it’s a fantastic option if you don’t like the mess of removing shredded foam. In this guide we recommend only our top memory-foam pillow pick in each style (shredded, solid, layered, and contoured), but this Sleep Number model is the next-best after the Easy Breather. It has three sealed envelopes of shredded foam inside a soft cover, and you can remove these pouches to adjust the loft for your needs.

The Xtreme Comforts Shredded Memory Foam Pillow (standard) is our budget pick for side- and back-sleepers in our main pillows guide, and like the Easy Breather it has been a recommendation of ours since 2016. It typically costs more than twice the price of the Weekender solid-foam pillow, but it’s loftier and also has adjustable fill—it’s consistently popular among testers. It was our former top pick, but half of our test Xtreme Comforts pillows in 2019 had a strong chemical smell that didn’t dissipate; if you end up with a smelly one, you may have to replace it. We also tried the Xtreme Comforts Slim Sleeper Shredded Memory Foam Pillow , the same pillow with less fill, but we found that people who preferred a flattish pillow liked down options more, and that people who wanted a pillow with more support needed more loft.

In several years of testing, side-sleepers have liked the Sleep Number ComfortFit Pillow Classic a lot, and it ranked in the middle of the pack for back- and stomach-sleepers. But no one in our testing liked it better than the Nest Bedding Easy Breather or the Xtreme Comforts.

The SleepNumber Classic True Temp Pillow was the highest rated pillow overall in our 2023 bed pillow testing , and sleepers in every position loved it. It’s a solid foam insert inside a cooling cover that’s also lined with some down alternative polyfill stuffing to provide more cushioning than solid foam alone. Eight of our 10 testers rated it 6 out of 10 or higher. Though one tester who disliked it said it actually gave her back pain.

The Malouf Z Zoned ActiveDough Pillow is thinner than the other solid-foam pillows we tried, but one of our smaller-framed testers (a side- and back-sleeper who prefers memory foam to other fills) gave it the highest ratings. It’s cool to sleep on, and the outer cover is high quality, but the foam is a little more fragile than that of our picks—be careful when taking it out of its cover, because it tears easily. It’s also smellier than most other memory-foam pillows we tried, so you need to air it out for a day or two before using it. But if you’re looking for a supportive but squishy pillow and need something thinner than most memory-foam options, this pillow is excellent.

The Tuft & Needle Original Foam Pillow was the favorite solid-foam pillow in testing with our stomach-sleeper. The company told us it isn’t technically made of memory foam (it’s an open-cell foam), and maybe that’s why our stomach-sleeper found it more supportive than the memory-foam options we tried.

If you like the squishy feel of down alternative but need firmer, loftier support, you might like the shredded-latex and down-alternative Saatva Pillow . As a side-sleeper who likes a tall, firm pillow, I chose the Saatva as my overall favorite in 2019 testing, as it was softly supportive and cloudlike. The shredded Talalay latex core is surrounded by down-alternative fill, and you can remove the core—although one of our sleep-testers tried this and found that the resulting pillow wasn’t supportive at all. Most of our testers didn’t like the texture, which was soft but not as squishy as a plain down-alternative pillow.

Nest Bedding’s Easy Breather Natural Pillow is a version of our favorite pillow, the Easy Breather . It has an organic-cotton cover and is made with shredded latex foam instead of memory foam. It smelled a bit when it arrived, but that odor faded after a few days. It didn’t feel as comfortable as the original Easy Breather during our first round of testing, so we didn’t see a reason to sleep-test both.

We’ve tested versions of the Pillow Cube , rectangular pillows that are advertised for side-sleepers only due to their height and shape. Some versions of the Pillow Cube come in 4-, 5-, and 6-inch thicknesses; the size is meant to correlate with the space between your neck and the side of your body. When we tested a Pillow Cube, one of our sleep testers thought it was fine (“I do like that the support of the pillow starts lower down my neck than it would with a traditional pillow, so I’m probably going to stick with it for a while—but it definitely hasn’t changed my life”), but it gave me a headache after about 10 minutes of use. We think the addition of half-sizes in the future would help buyers get a more accurate fit and prevent pain.

We tried the Purple Pillow , which is made with the same purple, jiggly “Hyper-Elastic Polymer” as the top layer of the Purple Mattress we tested . As with the Purple mattresses, our testers didn’t respond well to the sensation of lying on the gel-like foam. The pillow is very flat and very heavy. Our stomach-sleeper thought it was supportive but just couldn’t get past the feel.

The Live and Sleep Resort Classic Memory Foam Pillow costs about the same as the Weekender pillow, but our testers gave it lower marks because it was notably stiff.

The Epabo Contour Memory Foam Pillow has a concave dip in the center for your head and neck and is thinner than the Ecosa and Therapedic contoured pillows we tested, but it didn’t give our testers enough support.

This article was edited by Daniela Gorny and Christine Ryan.

Jonathan Kirschner, MD, RMSK, physiatrist at New York City’s Hospital for Special Surgery , phone interview, March 4, 2019, email interview, April 23, 2019

Rebecca Robbins, sleep consultant at The Benjamin , phone interview , May 7, 2018

Sean Bergman, chief marketing officer at PureCare , phone interview , October 27, 2015

Michael Breus, PhD, psychologist and American Academy of Sleep fellow , interview

Terry Cralle, RN, sleep industry consultant , phone interview , October 27, 2015

Shannon Maher, assistant professor of home products development at the Fashion Institute of Technology , phone interview , October 26, 2015

Meet your guide

Jackie Reeve

Jackie Reeve is a senior staff writer covering bedding, organization, and home goods at Wirecutter since 2015. Previously she was a school librarian, and she’s been a quilter for about 15 years. Her quilt patterns and her other written work have appeared in various publications. She moderates Wirecutter’s staff book club and makes her bed every morning.