navy travel pillow

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Samsonite 2-in-1 Magic Travel Pillow, Navy/Dots, One Size

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About this item.

• U-shaped pillow converts to square-shaped pillow in seconds
• Ergonomic design provides proper support that helps to prevent tension and strain in the neck and shoulders
• Lightweight, compact and easy to carry

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About Samsonite

Samsonite’s not just in the business of making luggage, we’re in the business of building confidence. Confidence that when you step off the curb, your luggage wheel isn't going to pop off. Confidence that if you put your laptop in the bag in one piece, that’s the way it will come out. Samsonite has set an industry precedence by perfecting and innovating luggage, casual bags, backpacks, travel accessories, and now electronics carriers and laptop bags. Over one hundred years of reliability, durability, style and innovative functionality. If you are going to head out the door, do it with peace of mind. Because, life has a way of coming at you fast. Be ready for anywhere.

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Awesome Travel Pillow & reversible neck pillow

Danny Black ☑️

Best Travel Pillow, U Shaped Reversible Pillow

Product information, warranty & support, product description.

U-shaped pillow converts to square-shaped pillow in seconds. Ergonomic design provides proper support that helps to prevent tension and strain in the neck and shoulders. Lightweight, compact and easy to carry.

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The 9 Best Travel Pillows of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Get some quality shut-eye on the go

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

TripSavvy / Alessandra Amodio

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

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

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

Final Verdict

How we tested, other travel pillows we tested.

• What to Look For

Why Trust TripSavvy

Best overall, cabeau evolution classic travel pillow.

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

Highly supportive material

Helps maintain natural C-spine shape

Easy-to-clean cover

Attaches to carry-on

Not as supportive for taller people

Material runs warm

Doesn’t pack down

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

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

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

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

TripSavvy / Daniela Galvez

Best Overall, Runner-Up

J-pillow chin-supporting neck pillow.

• Quality 5 /5

Super comfortable with a memory foam core

Packs down (carrying case included)

User-friendly

Doesn’t secure in place to prevent slippage

Less intuitive for the middle seat

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

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

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

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

TripSavvy / Jennifer May

Best Budget

Cloudz microbead travel neck pillow.

• Quality 4 /5

Great quality for the price

Easy to travel with

Two fabric options for hot/cold

Cover isn’t removable or washable

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

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

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

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

Therm-a-Rest Compressible Pillow

• Portability 4 /5

Recycled materials

Flat design like a bed pillow

Versatile use

Doesn't specifically contour to the neck

Not the most compact when stowed

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

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

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

Best Splurge

Ostrichpillow go neck pillow.

Cool, minimalist design

Incredibly comfortable for long flights

Very compact when put away

Velcro might catch on clothes or hair

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

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

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

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

Tripsavvy / Susan Brickell

Best Cooling

Cabeau evolution cool pillow.

Accommodates large headphones

Good balance between softness and support

Packs down small

May be too firm for some

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

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

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

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

Best Memory Foam

Aeris memory foam travel pillow.

• Comfort 4.5 /5
• Durability 4.5 /5

Super supportive

Compact when not in use

Comes with earplugs and eye mask

Requires effort to get into case

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

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

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

TripSavvy / Anna Popp

Gingerlily Silk Travel Pillow

• Portability 3 /5
• Value 3.5 /5

Keeps skin and hair looking great

Big enough to use as a normal pillow

Quality materials and construction

Matching laundry bag, eye mask, and neck pillow available

Carrying case sold separately

Not particularly compact 

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

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

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

Best Support

Cabeau evolution s3 travel pillow.

• Durability 4 /5

Unique chin strap for unrivaled support

Soft, washable cover

Folds compactly into included case 

Holds up well to intense travel 

Can feel a little restrictive at first 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

TripSavvy / Erin Johnson

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What to Look For in a Travel Pillow

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Best Travel Pillows: Reviews and Buyer’s Guide

Most people can agree long flights are no fun— but long trips without a high-quality travel pillow are even worse. Sure, you can try contorting your body to get comfortable enough to sleep, but nodding off on a plane is hard enough on its own. Plus, trying to get good sleep without a good pillow  can result in headaches, a stiff neck, and overall discomfort.

In this guide, we discuss the best travel pillows to help you get sound sleep on your next red-eye.

• Best Travel Pillows
• 1. Trtl Travel Pillow

Trtl’s travel pillow is one of our favorites because it has an entirely different design than most wrap-style pillows and offers scientifically proven ergonomic neck support.

Trtl is designed to hold your head upright in a better position than most standard travel pillows. It’s lightweight, only weighing half a pound, and easy to store.

To use it, wrap the Trtl pillow around your neck as you would a scarf, so it supports your head from all angles. Its internal structure stretches to create a hammock-like effect, allowing your head to rest without drooping too low.

The Trtl pillow features super-soft micro-fleece and a breathable mesh lining to keep you warm but not too warm. It’s also machine washable for convenient cleaning. You can buy the Trtl travel pillow from their website or Amazon, and it’s available in grey, black, red, and pink.

• 2. Travelrest® Nest™ Ultimate Memory Foam Travel Pillow

Travelrest® makes several travel pillows, but we like their Nest™ pillow because it has a patented ergonomic design and comes with a 2-year warranty.

Travelrest®’s Nest™ pillow looks a lot like a standard U-shaped travel pillow, but it has a velcro strap that allows you to wrap and secure the pillow around your neck for all-around cushioning. It also has a divet in the top to fit snugly against most headrests.

The Nest™ pillow features a soft velour cover and thermo-sensitive, contouring memory foam inside. The foam inside molds perfectly to your neck to promote neutral alignment and prevents disruptive neck movements.

We recommend memory foam pillows  to those with chronic neck pain because memory foam alleviates pressure points, preventing new pains from forming, and Travelrest®’s memory foam pillows are some of the best.

For convenient transport, the Nest™ pillow can be compressed down to only a fourth of its original size and zipped away in its complementary drawstring “stuff sack.” This pillow is easy to wash, too, as the cover can be easily unzipped and thrown in the washer and dryer.

To get sound sleep when you’re not on the road, invest in a comfortable mattress. Read our guide for reviews of top-rated mattresses and find your next bed.

• 3. Huzi Design Infinity Pillow

Remember infinity scarves? People loved them because they were versatile and easy to use. Huzi expanded upon this well-liked concept to create a game-changing travel pillow.

Huzi’s Infinity Pillow wraps around your neck to offer cozy comfort, much like a scarf would. Its Mobius shape allows you to adjust it in a number of ways, making it compatible with most sleep habits. It features super-soft, breathable bamboo fabric and microfiber filling to keep you at a comfortable temperature.

The Infinity Pillow is naturally antibacterial, helping you fight the germs associated with public travel, and machine washable for easy cleaning. It’s available in pink, navy blue, burgundy, grey, and bright green.

You can purchase the Infinity Pillow on Amazon.

• 4. Cabeau Evolution S3® Memory Foam Travel Pillow

Cabeau makes a handful of travel pillows, but their newest and most recommended model is their Evolution S3®. Cabeau claims this pillow is the “world’s best engineered travel pillow.”

While we’re fans of the Cabeau pillow pillow, we like to think there isn’t one “best” pillow for all sleepers. However, if you’re a back sleeper or deal with chronic pain, these will likely feel the most comfortable for you.

Cabeau’s Evolution S3® is a U-shaped travel pillow. It has straps at the bottom to hold the two ends together around your neck, and straps on the top to secure the pillow to your headrest.

Because this pillow straps to your headrest, it prevents your head from dropping forward and keeps your airways open. It also has raised sides to prevent your head from bobbing back and forth with outside movement. Its very thin back offers cushion for your neck and shoulder muscles, allowing you to relax.

Their pillow features contouring memory foam and a moisture-wicking cover for cushioning and cool comfort. The cover is machine washable, too, and comes with a compact carrying case.

Cabeau offers a limited manufacturer’s warranty and a “No Neck Pain Guarantee” with each of their pillows. Their warranty covers material or workmanship defects, while their pain guarantee allows you to return the pillow for a full refund if you ever experience any pain while using it.

• 5. J-Pillow Chin and Neck Travel Pillow

The J-Pillow is perfect for sleepers sitting upright and offers head, chin, and neck support with its unique shape. It wraps around one side of your neck to fill the gap between your head and shoulders and give your neck cushioning support.

The J-Pillow is designed to help your neck muscles relax so you can fall asleep easier and get more undisturbed rest. Its shape also prevents your head from bobbing by keeping your neck stabilized.

Though this pillow doesn’t compress down, it includes a convenient snap-loop fastener so you can easily attach it to your luggage. It features a soft polyester cover and supportive filling.  The J-Pillow is also machine washable for easy cleaning.

You can find the J-Pillow exclusively on Amazon.

• 6. AirComfy Inflatable Daydreamer Travel Neck Pillow

We like AirComfy’s Inflatable Daydreamer Travel Neck Pillow because it has a built-in pump which  inflates the pillow in less than a minute. The Inflatable Daydreamer Neck Pillow is a U-shape but has a more ergonomic design to offer better neck support. The back “U” of the pillow has extra cushioning, allowing your head to rest comfortably straight up without falling too far backward.

AirComfy’s travel pillow has an ultra-soft velvet cover that can be easily removed and thrown in the washing machine. It also comes with a convenient Packsack for easy transport.

You can buy the AirComfy Daydreamer on Amazon, and it comes in dark blue, purple, pink, and grey color options. As far as we can see, the AirComfy pillow does not come with a warranty or sleep trial, but Amazon does offer free returns with the product.

• 7. Bcozzy Chin and Neck Supporting Travel Pillow

The Bcozzy Chin and Neck Supporting Travel Pillow wraps around your neck to keep your head supported from all angles.

It offers extra support for your chin to prevent your head from falling forward while you sleep, and its wrap-style design keeps your neck in place. It has a thinner back to allow your head to rest back more naturally, preventing stiffness or soreness.

Bcozzy stuffs their pillow with lightweight Hollow Conjugated Siliconized Polyester Fiber. The cover of their pillow is polyester, too. Plus, their pillow can go in the washer and dryer for easy cleaning.

The Bcozzy pillow is available exclusively on Amazon and comes in black, pink, navy, red, grey, purple, and apple-green.

• 8. Cloudz Microbead Cool Gel & Bamboo Travel Neck Pillow

The Cloudz Microbead Cool Gel & Bamboo Travel Neck Pillow is one of our more budget-friendly options, sold for only $15 on Amazon. It has a straightforward U-shape design and comes in five fun colors: blue, black, pink, grey, and camouflage.

The Cloudz travel pillow has a soft-to-the-touch cover with mesh lining on one side to prevent heat retention. Cloudz also infuses cooling gels directly below the cover of their pillow to help combat body heat.

Their cover is part polyester part spandex, and the inside filling is 100% polystyrene beads. Cloudz’s pillow conforms to your neck and offers sturdy support without crunching down like other microbead pillows.

• 9. Therm-a-Rest® Compressible Travel Pillow

Therm-a-Rest’s Compressible Travel Pillow is the only rectangle travel pillow on our list and is better suited for camping and not so much for sleeping sitting up. These pillows are also great for people who like to avoid hotel pillows and want to bring a clean bed pillow from home on trips.

As their name suggests, these pillows compress to a quarter of their size so they can be easily thrown in with your luggage. They come in small, medium, large, and extra large size options and seven different color and pattern options, including blue heather, cardinal, denim, gray, lichen, moon, and pistachio.

Therm-a-Rest’s travel pillow features a brushed polyester cover and shredded urethane foam filling. We’re fans of their brand because they offer a lifetime warranty with their pillows, backing their quality and protecting your investment.

You can find these pillows on Therm-a-Rest’s website, Amazon, or at most places you can buy camping gear, such as Cabela’s.

If you commonly experience aches and pains, read our guide on finding the best mattress for a bad back .

• 10. AERIS Travel Pillow

The last pillow on our list is the AERIS Travel Pillow, a U-shaped pillow that comes with earplugs and an eye mask to help you get completely undisturbed sleep. It has an incredibly soft velour cover that’s also removable for easy washing, and the inside is stuffed with solid memory foam.

The AERIS Travel Pillow offers contouring comfort and is great for sleepers with neck pains. It provides enough support to keep your neck stabilized. Plus, it’s easily moldable so it can be compressed down to fit in its corresponding travel bag.

You can buy the AERIS Travel Pillow on Amazon. While it doesn’t have a sleep trial, Amazon still allows returns should you find the AERIS isn’t comfortable for you.

• What is a Travel Pillow?

As you can imagine, travel pillows are smaller than standard bed pillows and are easy to take on-the-go. They’re perfect for long flights, road trips, camping, and more.

Because we’re not accustomed to sleeping in a vertical position, travel pillows are designed to help us get comfortable dozing off straight-up in a chair. Travel pillows can prevent uncomfortable neck aches and help you catch up on sleep to pass the time.

Traditional travel pillows come in a variety of shapes and sizes to offer different levels of comfort and support. However, they fall into two main categories: inflatable and non-inflatable. We then have hundreds of different options amongst those two categories.

Inflatable pillows take portability a step further and can completely deflate to fit into your carry-on. However, these are filled solely with air and may not be as comfortable as non-inflatable counterparts. Plus, you have to blow them up manually. While this may be inconvenient for some, these pillows are perfect for people who are concerned about luggage space.

Non-inflatable pillows vary widely. Some are stuffed with foams, others with microbeads, and they’re available in different styles. These aren’t as easy to transport; however, they usually offer better cushioning comfort.

• Types of Travel Pillows

There are several different types of travel pillows because what’s comfortable for one person may not work for another. We all have varying sleep needs, so it’s best to consider your personal preferences when choosing the best travel pillow for your next trip.

Whether you’re choosing an inflatable or non-inflatable travel pillow, they’re available in the following shapes:

When you hear the term “travel pillow,” chances are your mind goes to the U-shaped cushions you can pick up in nearly any airport terminal.  These offer gentle comfort for your neck, with the primary complaints about them mentioning their lack of chin support.

In an effort to innovate the standard U-shaped travel pillow, the J-shape was born. These were created to offer better chin support and prevent your head from drooping uncomfortably.

While many believe the J-shape travel pillow is significantly more comfortable, it’s a lot harder to transport unless it’s inflatable.

A wrap-style travel pillow looks a lot like a scarf. As the name implies, these wrap around your neck to offer all-around support. They are excellent at preventing your head from tilting side to side or bobbing up and down as a result of turbulence or a bump on the road.

Wrap-style travel pillows are usually the easiest to transport because they fold right up to fit in a back pocket or purse.

Hourglass travel pillows look like an hourglass turned on its side— they have two wider ends and a thin middle. They usually come with a strap or Velcro to attach to your headrest and offer a cushion for both your head and neck.

In comparison to other travel pillows, these are the most versatile. When you’re not on the road, these can double as comfortable knee pillows. Plus, for people with back pain, they can be placed below the small of your back for extra cushioning support.

Rectangular

Rectangular travel pillows are the least popular because they can’t hold your neck upright. These are very similar to the bed pillows you use at home but much smaller.

Many airlines hand out rectangular travel pillows to their passengers on long-haul flights as they’re relatively inexpensive, but they’re not the most comfortable. These get placed behind your head to offer a bit of cushion.

See Also: Memory Foam vs Microbead Travel Pillow

• What to Consider When Buying a Travel Pillow

A good travel pillow offers you comfortable neck support, is easy to stow away, is convenient to clean, and comes with reliable warranty coverage.

In this section, we discuss the factors to think about when choosing the most suitable travel pillow to meet your sleep needs.

It can be tricky finding the perfect sized travel pillow. On one hand, you want something that’s going to be comfortable, but at the same time, you need something that will be easy to transport.

If saving space is a major concern for you, you’re almost always better going with an inflatable travel pillow as they’re the easiest to compress and tuck away. However, if you can accommodate a non-inflatable travel pillow, we recommend choosing those over inflatable options due to their difference in comfort.

Above all, you should make sure your travel pillow fits your body type.  A travel pillow is no good if it’s not comfortable for your shoulders and neck. While it may seem obvious to point out, all of us have varying shoulder and head sizes. Make sure the dimensions of your next pillow are compatible with your upper body.

Cleaning Instructions

Like most public transportation, planes are filthy. They’re a breeding ground for germs, which you would expect of a vessel designed to transport large numbers of people far and wide.

To prevent yourself from catching a cold, or other germs, always wash your travel pillow between trips.

For the most convenient care, choose a pillow that’s machine washable. Choosing something that requires more careful cleaning can be tedious, and you’ll likely be less inclined to wash your pillow as often as you should.

Save yourself the hassle of spot or dry cleaning travel pillows and look for one that can be easily thrown in your washing machine and dryer for a quick refresher.

Your Preferred Sleeping Position

Your preference for stomach, back, or side sleeping doesn’t matter much when you’re sitting straight-up in an uncomfortable chair.  However, your at-home sleeping habits still contribute to your decision when choosing the most comfortable travel pillow.

Your sleeping position determines how your head typically rests at night. Back sleepers are used to snoozing with their head flat back on a pillow, side sleepers usually sleep with the side of their face on the pillow, and stomach sleepers typically turn their necks to either side to make it easier to breathe.

Knowing that, we can safely assume the following about different sleep preferences:

• Back sleepers will feel more comfortable with a pillow that allows them to rest looking straight forward, such as a U-shaped or hourglass pillow.
• Side sleepers will likely prefer a wrap-style or J-shaped pillow that lets them rest the side of their head on the pillow.
• Stomach sleepers should be most comfortable in wrap-style travel pillows as they’re best for accommodating people who tilt their necks or head while they sleep.

More often than not, travel pillows do not come with a warranty. Instead, many come with moneyback guarantees or return policies that let you try them out and return them if you’re dissatisfied.

However, during our search for high-quality travel pillows, we found the average warranty for travel pillows, if a company has one, is around two years.

Now, because your travel pillow likely won’t come with a warranty, you must buy one with high-quality materials and craftsmanship to get your money’s worth. While travel pillows aren’t as expensive as regular bed pillows, they can still be costly.

• Tips for Getting Good Sleep While Traveling

Beyond investing in a high-quality travel pillow, there are other things you can do during your trip to help you get good sleep and prevent jet lag.

• Buy a comfortable eye mask and set of earplugs. Nothing complements a travel pillow better than an eye mask and earplugs— this trio of sleep-promoting accessories can help you completely block out any outside noises, lights, and distractions to doze off undisturbed. If you’re not a fan of earplugs, noise-canceling headphones work just as well.
• Try to keep your spine aligned. It may seem unnatural to focus on your posture while you’re trying to fall asleep, but keeping your spine in a neutral position allows your muscles to relax and prevents pain build-up at your pressure points.
• Drink plenty of water. It’s always important to stay hydrated, but it’s especially important when you’re on the road. Traveling can be stressful, and drinking plenty of water helps prevent headaches, fatigue, cranky moods, and more.
• Pack the best foods for sleep. Most of us like to grab a bite to eat before boarding a plane or heading out on a long road trip. However, if you’re not smart about it, your pre-trip meal can hinder your potential shut-eye. Skip greasy, heavy food, and choose foods that will help you sleep better , such as almonds, bananas, and whole grains.
• Wear comfortable clothes. You wouldn’t put on your tightest pair of jeans to go on a road trip, would you? Set yourself up for comfort by dressing in your favorite clothes for lounging around. Loose-fitting clothing helps promote healthy blood flow, too— which is necessary when you’re sitting for long periods. Additionally, don’t forget to wear layers. Airplanes are usually cold, and a sweater or a good travel blanket can help mitigate discomfort.
• Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best travel pillow for long flights?

There’s no one travel pillow that’s right for everyone. An inflatable travel pillow might be the right option for you if you need to save on space; if not, you might want to choose a pillow that’s going to be more comfortable. A side sleeper might want a wrap pillow, while a back sleeper might want an hourglass pillow. Finding the right travel pillow for you often requires you to consider what size and shape you want, and how much care you want to invest in the pillow.

Are memory foam travel pillows good?

Memory foam can help you sleep better while you travel, just as the material can help you sleep better at home in bed. Memory foam conforms to your head and neck, supporting you without adding pressure. However, you might not be able to machine wash your memory foam pillow, which can make keeping the pillow clean much more difficult.

Do neck pillows help you sleep on a plane?

A neck pillow can help some travelers catch some much needed rest. Others may find that a neck pillow pushes their head too far forward for them to feel comfortable. For optimal comfort, you should look for a travel pillow that lets you mimic how you would sleep at home in bed.

Do pillows count as a carry-on?

Pillows normally don’t count toward the usual limit of one carry-on and one personal item. It’s a smart idea to check with an airline or travel service before you fly, however. Some airlines may impose size regulations on pillows.

What should I look for when buying pillows?

When you’re choosing a new pillow, you want to consider its materials, loft, firmness, and your sleeping position. Back sleepers often prefer a U-shaped or hourglass travel pillow, while side and stomach sleepers might want to look at wrap pillows. Side sleepers may also enjoy a J-shaped travel pillow.

It’s also a good idea to think about how you would clean and take care of your new pillow—many customers love a pillow that they can just throw in the washing machine.

• Did You Find Your Next Travel Pillow?

Traveling can be a burden, especially if you do it often. A good travel pillow is a perfect companion for long trips, helping you get peaceful, sound sleep and make the most of some of the most comfortable mattresses found in hotels and similar places.

We hope our guide has steered you towards the most comfortable travel pillow for your sleep needs. However, if you still need more information, read our other guides for better sleep tips and advice on how to choose the best sleep accessories for you.

Meg Riley is a Certified Sleep Science Coach and a full-time writer focused on sleep and mattresses. She is currently the Editor-in-Chief of Sleep Junkie.

Meg started to focus on the sleep industry in 2018. Since then, she has written over 70+ articles on sleep hygiene, product reviews, and the newest trends in the mattress and bedding industry.

A non-exhaustive list of some of the topics she has written on: the effectiveness of alarm clocks, how to prevent jet lag, the NREM & REM Sleep Cycle, and causes and treatments of Restless Legs Syndrome.

Meg Riley has her undergraduate degree from Pennsylvania State University where she studied Advertising and Public Relations and wrote articles on the student experience for College Magazine.

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Silk Travel Pillow - Navy

Upgrade your travel experience with our exquisite silk travel pillow. Made from the finest mulberry silk, its ultra-soft and smooth texture reduces wrinkles and keeps your hair looking fresh. Naturally hypoallergenic, it's perfect for sensitive skin and allergies. The pillow is lightweight and can be effortlessly packed into our silk laundry drawstring bag, making it the perfect accessory for any voyage.

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The 8 best neck pillows for travel.

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

The Best Neck Pillows for Travel

Courtesy of Cabeau

The Cabeau Evolution S3 Travel Pillow is one of the best neck pillows for travel.

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

Best affordable: mvloc travel pillow, best for long flights: trtl travel pillow, best multipurpose: huzi infinity pillow, best inflatable: sunany inflatable travel pillow, best silk: slip jet setter travel pillow, best for backpacking: marchway ultralight inflatable camping pillow, best for kids: bcozzy double support neck pillow.

Frequent travelers praise the design of the Cabeau Evolution S3, which is made of a special dual-density memory foam. "My pillow at home is made with memory foam so it's like bringing a piece of home on my travels," says travel blogger Jasmine Cheng of The Wandering Girl . "The sides are also raised, which prevents my head from moving when I'm sleeping." 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.

A handy storage pouch on the side of the pillow allows you to keep your earbuds or other small items close by, and the pillow comes with a clasp that attaches to carry-on luggage . The removable pillow cover, which comes in a variety of colors, is machine-washable. What's more, this travel pillow can be stored in an included carry bag that condenses it to half its size.

Price: $39.99 or less Shop now: Amazon | Cabeau

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 Shop now: Amazon

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: $59.99 or less Shop now: Amazon | Trtl

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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: $45 or less Shop now: Amazon | Infinity Pillow

Read:  What to Pack in Your Carry-on Bag

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.

Courtesy of Slip

Travel pillows don't get softer than this luxurious new option by Slip. The Jet Setter Travel Pillow is made with the highest-grade long fiber mulberry silk, which helps to prevent skin creases and bedhead. It also comes with a carrying case with handles. The Jet Setter Travel Pillow is available in three prints and a pretty solid blush color.

Price: $99 or less Shop now: Amazon | Slip

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 , digital producer for travel 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 Shop now: Amazon

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: $44.97 or less Shop now: Amazon

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 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 on Amazon. 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: Choose headphones that block some or all external noise. The Bose QuietComfort 45 Wireless Headphones are especially well rated.
• White noise app: There are a variety of free apps, or you can try a paid option like Calm (which offers a free trial).
• Eye mask: An eye mask like this cotton option on Amazon helps to block out the bright light on planes.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Compression Socks for Travel
• The Top Walking Shoes for Travel
• The Top Carry-on Backpacks
• Can I Use My Own Airplane Seat Belt Extender?
• The Best Travel Medical Insurance Plans

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Best travel pillows to keep your neck supported and comfy

As a full-time travel journalist who’s been to over 50 countries, I definitely understand the importance of making economy feel like first class with the proper travel gear. In addition to my trusty foot hammock and Manta Sound sleep mask, a comfortable travel pillow that supports my posture is essential to getting a good night's sleep.

“Choosing a travel pillow that gives the proper support for your own needs is very important when trying to sleep while traveling,” agrees Julia Forbes, a certified sleep science coach at Sleep Advisor. “Finding a supportive travel pillow can make sleeping under circumstances that are not ideal better and help one wake up with fewer aches and pains.”

If you need something for the next long-haul flight, we’ve got you covered! Here are my picks for the best travel pillows on the market.

What to consider when buying travel pillows

When shopping for travel pillows, it’s important to think about the following factors.

Body type and personal preferences

“When looking for a travel pillow, what’s best for you depends on your body type and comfort preferences,” says Forbes . “You should also consider whether you’re looking for something to just rest your head on, or if you want a pillow with more features, such as pockets or the ability to block out light.”

For the most part, you’re probably not going to want a travel pillow that takes up a ton of space in your carry-on or one you have to lug around. “Travel pillows come in all different shapes and sizes, so you should not only choose one that fits your head and neck well, but you should also look for a pillow that does not take up too much space in your luggage,” says Forbes.

Travel distance

For shorter trips, a packable inflatable pillow that breaks down might be best, whereas if you’re traveling on a long-haul flight, you might want something with memory foam. “Travel distance and type of travel are also important to consider,” suggests Forbes. “Some people travel long distances often, and others only sometimes. If you tend to travel more often, it’s more important to find a pillow that can keep your head and neck supported so you can sleep for several hours while traveling.”

Type of travel

Think about the type of travel that you’re doing and what might be best for the situation.

“Some travel pillows are designed for sleeping on planes while others are better for traveling in cars, so it’s also important to consider the type of travel you will be doing,” instructs Forbes. “You should also take note of what the pillow is made of, because public transportation like planes and trains can be filled with germs, so you should try to purchase a pillow that can be easily washed.”

Pay close attention to what the filling is before purchasing your pillow. “Travel pillows also come with various types of fillings,” explains Forbes. “It’s important to set your priorities, such as if you want something that can easily compact for easy packing, the support level, or if you want something with adjustability.”

Consider the features that are important to you. There are pretty basic travel pillows, but there are also specifically made travel pillows to support sleepers who tend to lean forward or to the side or who even need 360-degree support, especially if you’re an aisle seat-lover.

Our top picks for the best travel pillows

Best travel pillow for chin support: j-pillow chin supporting travel pillow.

J-Pillow Travel Pillow - British Invention of The Year Winner - Chin Supporting Travel Pillows for Sleeping Airplane - Flight Pillow Supports Your Head, Neck & Chin (Blue)

If you tend to lean forward when you drift off in a plane, train or car, you need a pillow with good chin support to keep your neck from kinking. The J-Pillow Chin Support Travel Pillow is perfect for this, with its three-way support for your head, neck and chin. This is a great way to avoid stiff necks and get some good sleep. As a bonus, it’s even machine washable.

Specifications:

• Size: 10 inches x 6 inches x 8 inches.
• Type: J-Shape.
• Fill: Polyester.
• Weight: 8.16 ounces.
• Color: Dark blue.
• Price on publish: $47.95.

What we like:

• Provides essential three-way support.

What we don’t like:

• Some reviews mention that it’s not that convenient to walk around with.

The AP Buyline takeaway:

For a neck pillow with good chin support, go for the J-Pillow Chin Support Travel Pillow.

Get it here: J-Pillow Chin Supporting Travel Pillow

Best travel pillow for neck support: Cabeau Evolution S3

Evolution S3® Neck Pillow

This memory foam travel pillow offers essential neck support for sleeping while sitting up, and is even recommended by one of our experts. "My favorite travel pillow is the Cabeau Evolution S3. It has a horseshoe shape like many travel pillows; however, it has raised side cushions that give your head 360-degree support,” explains Forbes. “This support prevents your head from leaning too far, which makes sleeping much more comfortable. It also has headrest straps which keep the pillow in place, so you should not have any problems while you’re sleeping.”

• Size: 10 inches x 9.5 inches x 5 inches.
• Fill: Memory foam.
• Weight: 11.6 ounces.
• Color: Steel.
• Price on publish: $39.99.
• Provides ample neck support.
• Great price.
• Memory foam.
• Some reviews mentioned that wearing headphones with it is a little bit difficult and slightly uncomfortable.

For a travel pillow that offers crucial neck support, the Cabeau Evolution S3 is a great option for your next long-haul flight or road trip.

Get it here: Cabeau Evolution S3

Best travel pillow for long flights: Ostrichpillow Go Neck Pillow

Ostrichpillow Go Neck Pillow

When you’re on a long-haul flight, it’s survival mode to stay comfortable, and that starts with good neck support. The Ostrichpillow Go Neck Pillow is a great solution for whichever way your head tends to lean. Its 360-degree design offers support to your neck and is built to maintain proper posture. It comes in a variety of colors like gray, teal blue, navy blue, black, forest green and deep purple.

• Size: 9.8 inches x 6.7 inches x 2.7 inches.
• Type: Compresses down, 360-degree support.
• Fill: BASF memory foam core.
• Weight: 12 ounces.
• Color: Six.
• Price on publish: $69.
• 360-degree support.
• Several colors available.
• Washable sleeve.
• Some reviews briefly mention that it was a little short for them, so pay close attention to the measurements.

For a stylish, colorful pillow filled with quality memory foam and a 360-degree design to support your neck during long flights, choose the Ostrichpillow Go Neck Pillow.

Get it here: Ostrichpillow Go Neck Pillow

Best inflatable travel pillow: FlowZoom Inflatable Travel Pillow

Flowzoom air inflatable travel pillow - hooded neck pillow airplane - travel neck pillow - car & plane pillow - airplane pillow for long flight - inflatable neck pillow for traveling on plane - black.

Inflatable travel pillows are a great space saver and perfect for adjusting the firmness. You don’t have to worry about hanging on to anything clunky; you can just inflate it when you’re ready to fall asleep. This FlowZoom model is a solid option when it comes to inflatable travel pillows, and you can adjust it to the amount of support you need.

• Size: 11.5 inches x 8.78 inches x 2 inches.
• Type: Semicircular.
• Fill: Inflatable.
• Weight: 15.2 ounces.
• Color: Black.
• Price on publish: $31.95.
• Inexpensive.
• Adjustable and inflatable.
• Some reviews mention that because this travel pillow has a hood connected to it, it could potentially make it a little too warm.

For an inflatable option that you can store in your bag until you need it, go with the FlowZoom Inflatable Travel Pillow.

Get it here: FlowZoom Inflatable Travel Pillow

Best travel pillow for car trips: Huzi Infinity Pillow

Huzi Infinity Pillow

For long-haul car rides, add the Huzi Infinity Pillow to your list of road trip essentials. It has 360-degree support and will keep you rested for when it’s your turn to drive (that is, unless you’re a permanent passenger). It’s bendable and versatile and can adjust to your body and various sleep positions.

• Size: 10 inches x 6.5 inches x 6.5 inches.
• Type: 360-degree support.
• Fill: 60% nylon, 40% rayon made from bamboo.
• Weight: 1 pound.
• Color: 8 colors.
• Price on publish: $49.99.
• Adjustable.
• Available in many colors.
• Be careful when washing it because some reviews mention some pilling after.

For a versatile option that’s good for long car rides, go with the Huzi Infinity Pillow.

Get it here: Huzi Infinity Pillow

Best lightweight travel pillow: TRTL Travel Pillow

TRTL Travel Pillow

Some neck pillows can feel kind of suffocating, being big, bulky and even a little tight. The Trtl Travel Pillow is thin and secure, doing its job to keep your neck in a good position and support your head while you try to get some rest. It’s lightweight at just 4.5 ounces and easy to stuff in your tote bag.

• Size: 7 inches x 7 inches x 3.5 inches.
• Type: Fleece.
• Weight: 4.5 ounces.
• Color: Black, black/gray, coral, gray and red.
• Price on publish: $64.99.
• Lightweight.
• Machine washable.
• Supportive.
• Some reviews say that you have to wrap it pretty tight to get the support you need.
• A little pricey.

If you’re looking for a highly-rated neck pillow that will support you while you’re trying to get some shut-eye, the Trtl Travel Pillow is a great option.

Get it here: TRTL Travel Pillow

Best travel pillow for lumbar support: Cushion Lab Extra Dense Lumbar Pillow

Back Relief Lumbar Pillow - Peach Nectar

When it comes to travel pillows, it’s not all about the neck support: Some people sleep just fine and don’t even need a pillow for their neck, but their back might be another story. Specifically designed to relieve back pain, the Cushion Lab Extra Dense Lumbar Pillow is built to relieve pressure in the lower back and can travel around the world with you. It’s made with comfortable Hyperfoam so that it supports your natural posture while remaining comfy.

• Size: 16 inches x 16 inches x 4.5 inches.
• Type: Firm.
• Weight: 1.37 pounds.
• Color: Wellness green.
• Price on publish: $65.99.
• Provides back support.
• Some reviews mention that it might be a bit too big for people who are shorter.

If you’re looking for essential back support as you travel, the Cushion Lab Extra Dense Lumbar Pillow can relieve pressure on your lower back and help you have a more comfortable travel day.

Get it here: Cushion Lab Extra Dense Lumbar Pillow

Best compact travel pillow: Tempur-Pedic All-Purpose Memory Foam Travel Pillow

Tempur-Pedic All-Purpose Memory Foam Travel Pillow

If you tend to overpack as it is, the last thing you want to do is drag around another bulky item. Looking for a compact option that can fit nicely within your carry-on luggage while still providing the support you need with less of the hassle is essential. The Tempur-Pedic All-Purpose Memory Foam Travel Pillow can help you feel comforted on those long-haul travel days.

• Size: 11.5 inches x 4.5 inches x 4.5 inches.
• Type: Peanut shape.
• Weight: 8 ounces.
• Color: Navy.
• Small, compact option.
• Some of the reviews mention that it’s firmer than they thought it would be, so just keep that in mind when purchasing.

For a firm travel pillow that will keep you comforted on the go, choose the Tempur-Pedic All-Purpose Memory Foam Travel Pillow.

Get it here: Tempur-Pedic All-Purpose Memory Foam Travel Pillow

Best travel pillow for kids: TRTL Pillow Junior

TRTL Pillow Junior

Making sure your kids are comfortable and well-rested can make for a much easier travel day for you, as well. The highly rated TRTL pillow comes in a junior version for little kids aged 8 and up. The TRTL Pillow Junior is not too clunky, and weighs under 4 ounces, offering crucial support to their neck, regardless of which way they fall asleep.

• Size: Not listed.
• Type: Wrap.
• Weight: Less than 4 ounces.
• Color: Zebra, aqua and camo.
• Comes in fun patterns and colors.
• A little pricey for something they may grow out of before too long.

If you’re looking for a travel pillow to make your kid’s travel day as comfortable as can be, the TRTL Pillow Junior is a great option.

Get it here: TRTL Pillow Junior

Best silk travel pillow: THXSILK Silk Neck Pillow

THXSILK Silk Neck Pillow

If you like the feel of a silk neck pillow, the THXSILK Silk Neck Pillow is the ideal pillow to take on your next trip. It provides the support you need to get hours of relaxation on the go and is built to help you avoid any neck pain. It’s portable, lightweight and breathable, offering you a comfortable rest on the go.

• Size: 10.5 inches x 10 inches x 7 inches.
• Type: Adjustable, square shape.
• Weight: 14 ounces.
• Color: Black, charcoal, pink and gray.
• Price on publish: $32.99.
• Comes in multiple colors.
• Some reviews mentioned that it was softer than they expected it to be.

If you’re looking for a silk neck pillow to cozy up with on your next trip, go with the THXSILK Silk Neck Pillow.

Get it here: THXSILK Silk Neck Pillow

Best memory foam travel pillow: Dot & Dot Twist Memory Foam Travel Pillow

Dot&Dot Twist Memory Foam Travel Pillow for Neck, Chin, Lumbar and Leg Support - Neck Pillows for Sleeping Travel Airplane for Side, Stomach and Back Sleepers - Adjustable, Bendable Roll Pillow

There are quite a few amazing memory foam pillows on the market, but this Dot & Dot Twist Memory Foam Travel Pillow is easily one of the best. Its twistable, foldable design provides support to your back, shoulders, head and spine to keep you comfortable during your travels. It has a machine-washable cotton cover, making it easy to wash the germs from planes off of your pillow and get it ready for your next trip.

• Size: 26 inches x 3.8 inches x 3.8 inches.
• Type: Adjustable and bendable.
• Fill: Cotton and memory foam.
• Color: Gray, green, pink and purple.
• Price on publish: $24.99.
• Adjustable and bendable.
• Some reviews say that the pillow is a little bit bulky around the neck.

If you’re looking for a pillow that you can twist and mold to your body while getting the support that you need, the Dot & Dot Twist Memory Foam Travel Pillow is the ideal option.

Get it here: Dot & Dot Twist Memory Foam Travel Pillow

Best travel pillow for side sleepers: TravelRest Ultimate Travel Neck & Body Pillow

TravelRest Ultimate Travel Neck & Body Pillow

If you tend to lean to the side when you fall asleep on the plane or sitting up in a car, the TravelRest Ultimate Travel Neck & Body Pillow folds up nicely and packs in your carry-on while providing a lot of support with its unique design. You can deflate the pillow when you’re done using it, roll it up and store it back in your bag for easy navigation through the airport.

• Size: 10 inches x 3 inches (rolled up).
• Type: Across the body.
• Weight: 5.5 ounces.
• Color: Blue, gray, navy and red.
• Price on publish: $29.99.
• Inflatable and adjustable.
• Multiple colors are available.
• Some reviews mention that it doesn’t provide as strong support as other tighter, wrap-around neck pillows do.

The AP Buyline Takeaway:

If you’re looking for a good side sleeper pillow, the TravelRest Ultimate Travel Neck & Body Pillow is the ideal travel companion.

Get it here: TravelRest Ultimate Travel Neck & Body Pillow

How we selected the best travel pillows

I am a full-time travel journalist and have tried out quite a few travel pillows to make my long-haul flights more comfortable. In addition to my experience, I also spoke with experts like Dr. April Spencer , owner and chief operating surgeon at Dr. Spencer’s Global Breast Health & Wellness Center and Julia Forbes , a certified sleep science coach at Sleep Advisor, to come up with the best topics to consider when choosing a travel pillow that supports your posture and neck.

One of the most important aspects is that it provides the proper amount of support to your neck and the rest of your body. “Opt for pillows that offer adequate neck and head support, especially if you're prone to neck, shoulder or back pain,” says Spencer.

Before purchasing a pillow, be sure to look at the filling. “Choose a pillow made from comfortable materials, such as memory foam or soft fabric,” says Spencer.

Portability

Of course, as a travel product, you’ll want to make sure it’s nice and portable, not big and clunky. “Pick a pillow that is lightweight and easy to pack, preferably one that compresses or folds down for storage,” says Spencer.

Adjustability

Getting a pillow that adjusts a bit can help you find the right comfort level and firmness that match your preferences. “Consider pillows with adjustable features to customize the fit to your unique neck and body shape,” says Spencer.

When you invest in a travel pillow, you want it to last, especially because some are a bit pricier than you’d expect. “Look for pillows made from high-quality materials that are durable and long-lasting, ideally those that can withstand frequent washing and usage,” advises Spencer.

What types of travel pillows are available?

There are a wide variety of adjustable, firm, memory foam travel pillows on the market. You just have to think about your personal needs and preferences before looking for the one that’s best for you.

How to maintain and clean travel pillows

Some travel pillows might need to be spot-cleaned, while others have a protective sleeve that can go right into the wash. It all depends on the individual product, so be sure to read the instructions to see the proper way to clean the travel pillow you choose.

Best travel pillow shopping tips

When you’re shopping for the right travel pillow, Spencer recommends avoiding the following:

Too bulky or heavy

You don’t want to go with anything that’s too bulky because it might actually put stress on your neck or shoulders. “Large pillows can be cumbersome to carry and may not fit well in your travel bag,” says Spencer.

Lack support

It’s extremely important to have the proper support for your posture. “Pillows that are too soft or flimsy may not provide adequate support for your neck and head,” says Spencer.

Uncomfortable materials

Stay away from any materials that might cause you discomfort. “Avoid pillows made from scratchy or uncomfortable materials that may irritate your skin during use,” Spencer instructs.

Difficult to clean

When you travel on planes, trains and in cars with your travel pillow, you want something that’s easy to clean because it’s obviously going to be exposed to plenty of dirt and germs. Try to “choose pillows with removable and washable covers for easy cleaning, avoiding those with fabrics that are hard to clean or maintain,” says Spencer.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Is it better to sleep on a hard or soft pillow for neck pain.

According to OrthoUnited , when you’re choosing between a firm or soft pillow for the best travel pillow or the best pillow for neck pain , you’ll want to consider your sleep position. Side sleepers might want something firm to keep their head and neck supported, while stomach sleepers may want something on the softer side.

Which travel pillow is better: inflatable or foam?

It all really depends on your preference and what support you need. However, Spencer says that “memory foam pillows tend to offer the best support and comfort for travel.” She adds that “it's essential to choose one that provides proper support to prevent neck strain and ensure a comfortable journey, especially during long trips. Improper neck support can lead to discomfort, stiffness and even pain, which can negatively affect your travel experience.”

Related article: How to wash pillows (and how often you should wash them)

A Flight Attendant Designed This Oddly-shaped Travel Pillow to Help You Sleep, Even in the Middle Seat

Amazon reviewers say the J-Pillow “tops them all.”

Like noise-canceling headphones and compression socks, a travel pillow is another one of those things you almost can’t survive a long-haul flight without. Leaving it behind means arriving at your destination tired, probably cranky, and with a sore neck that could linger throughout the first days of your trip. So, regardless of how decidedly uncool it might look dangling from your carry-on, the prospects of getting half-decent rest on the plane make the funny optics all worth it. 

Even flight attendants agree. According to Amazon reviews, the stewards of the sky opt for this oddly shaped J-Pillow — one that they say “tops them all.”

J-Pillow Travel Neck Pillow

Buy on Amazon

While your typical neck pillow is shaped like a doughnut and wraps around the back of the neck, this one is made to sit higher up near the crown of your head. It has an extra hook-shaped “trunk” that curls around to support the neck and chin — that’s where the “J” in “J-Pillow” comes from — so you don’t succumb to any embarrassing head bobbing in public.

Related: The 12 Best Travel Pillows of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The cleverly engineered travel pillow was designed by a former Virgin Atlantic flight attendant, Gemma Jensen, who developed more than 200 prototypes before getting the J-Pillow just right. Her objective was to make the “world’s first chin-supporting neck pillow” so travelers always feel like they have a window to rest against, even when they don’t. In 2012, it won the British Invention of the Year award. Now, the pillow has a loyal flight attendant following and more than 15,000 ratings on Amazon, almost 9,000 of which are five stars.

“Skip the other pillows you see in the inflight magazines,” one says . This one “stays put and keeps [their] neck upright,” is “very comfortable and easy to pack,” and is just “by far the best,” they wrote. Another Amazon reviewer whose daughter is a flight attendant said they like that the pillow doesn't take up a lot of room. On Tiktok, the flight attendant xoblondevoyage also included it in a list of “travel must-haves,” along with a portable charger, hanging toiletry bag, Twelve South AirFly SE bluetooth transmitter , and selfie stick tripod.

Reviewers describe the pillow as squishy and velvety. It’s perfect not just for airplanes, but also for long car rides, train travel, and couch napping, too. It comes with a carrying case that protects it from airport germs and keeps it compact in your luggage. Lots of reviewers say gate agents didn’t count it as an extra personal item or mind that it was poking out of their carry-ons (it’s a little chunky).

The J-Pillow normally retails for $60, but it’s $50 at Amazon. It has thousands of positive reviews, including one that sums up the collective sentiment : “it was the bomb and you should buy one. Today. Now.” Shop more top-rated travel pillows, below.

Related: Flight Attendants on TikTok Reveal the 10 Products They Won't Travel Without — Starting at $9

More Top-rated Travel Pillows:

Mlvoc memory foam travel pillow, dot&dot twist memory foam travel pillow, bcozzy double-support neck pillow, cabeau evolution s3 travel neck pillow, tallgo travel pillow.

At the time of publishing, the price started at $50.

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