top 20 travel pillow

The Best Travel Pillows of 2024

Travelrest Nest Ultimate Memory Foam Travel Pillow

Materials Memory foam
Shape Neck pillow
Weight 13 oz.
Travel Bag Yes

Ergonomic design aligns the back of the pillow flush with seat
Best in class memory foam pillow is soft and supportive
Great lateral and chin support stabilizes the head in all directions
Some compression against the jugular when strapped down too tight
Foam closes around the neck entirely, which can trap heat and feel too warm for some

Memory foam is the ideal fluff for a supportive travel pillow. But even the best foam isn’t going to give you the support you need for long-haul comfort if it isn’t formed right. What elevates the Travelrest Nest ($40) above the rest isn’t in what they have added — it’s in what they took away.

Travelrest cut a wedge out from behind the neck of the Nest, allowing the pillow to lay flush against the seat. Slip-resistant rubber pads are printed on the underside, preventing the pillow from sliding off the headrest. Your head remains stable and motion-free without all the bulk behind the head.

Another notch is carved out behind the neck, allowing the back of the head to sit naturally into the pillow. The functional form lets you lean back and rest without having to tilt the chair back, which makes everyone else a little bit happier.

In our experience, many travel pillows don’t support the chin securely enough. We are happy to report the Travelrest Nest fastens around the neck with Velcro tabs, cradling the chin and preventing head nods while dozing off. The combination of form and foam gently secures the head in a neutral position and makes the Travelrest Nest pillow our top choice.

Out of our four testers, all agreed that the Travelrest Nest is by far the most comfortable travel pillow. And at just a penny under $40, it’s an easy product to recommend investing in for your next travel plans. For most travelers out there, this is the travel pillow to snag.

Cloudz Microbead Travel Neck Pillow

Materials Microbeads
Weight 7 oz.
Travel Bag No

Inexpensive option
Good for side sleepers
Dual-sided microfleece or spandex cover for temperature regulation
Large volume behind the neck requires you to rotate the pillow to the side to sleep.
No pillowcase or travel bag

Better than the stock pillow provided by the airline, and many sleeps beyond the sweatshirt stuffed behind your neck, the Cloudz Microbead Travel Neck Pillow ($16) is a small investment for better sleep on the go.

The top of the pillow is soft microfleece with soft, cooling spandex on the underside. Inside, the hemi donut-shaped pillow is filled with small foam microbeads. Think of it as a fleecy beanbag pillow for your neck.

This is a great starter pillow for those who are considering getting a travel pillow, but don’t want to spend a lot of money on it. You need to know it’s going to be a little limiting though.

The back of the pillow has a lot of fill, which is OK if you just want some support while reading or binging the latest inflight entertainment. But it’s too much pillow behind the neck if you want to get some sleep.

We found we had to rotate the pillow 90˚, shifting the bulk of the pillow to the side. This also turns the notch to the side, which does two things. It supports the chin better, and it supports the head pretty well for side sleepers. It does expose the other side to nodding off and down to the side, so choose your side wisely.

The microbead fill is louder than other synthetic lofts, and over time, the microbeads can collect dirt and grime. Since there is no pillowcase, you will have to either spot-clean this pillow or risk washing the entire pillow in a washing machine (on gentle and in a delicates bag). But for 16 bucks, the Microbead Travel Neck pillow gets a lot of things right and is our bargain pick for travel pillows.

TRLT Travel Pillow

Materials Fleece scarf with internal plastic frame
Weight 4.25 oz.

Small and compact pillow
Removable case
Supportive for head bobbers
Light weight
Looks like a neck brace
Caused some mid-back pain on longer flight

The TRTL Travel Pillow ($60) is a quirky-looking little pillow that caught our tester’s attention because they are a side sleeper, and a bit of a head bobber. If this describes you, it’s a familiar story: As soon as you start to fall asleep, your head drops and jolts you awake, beginning a rinse-and-repeat cycle of catching interrupted micro naps.

That’s all in the past with this pillow, which has an internal plastic frame that sits over the shoulder and wraps around the neck up toward the ear. You instinctively lean into the structure, and it cradles the head from the side.

A microfleece scarf fastens over the chin and around the neck, gently locking the head in place. It works so well that our tester realized their head began to gradually float off the chairback without dropping the chin. It’s an odd sensation, and you can fix this by tilting the seat back slightly, allowing gravity to do what it does best.

The TRLT is a small, compact pillow that is easy to maintain. The pillowcase unzips off the frame and can be thrown in the wash. The downside is it looks a bit like a neck brace, and we found the plastic scaffolding can push up against the ear. We also found that while it stabilizes the neck, the stabilizing force was oddly distributed down the chain to the middle of the back, causing some dull pain on longer flights.

Overall, the TRTL Travel Pillow offers a simple solution that’s easy to maintain. It’s a bit pricey, but we feel the simplicity and function warrant the price.

Blabok Inflatable Travel Pillow

Materials Vinyl with air
Shape Head pillow
Weight Unknown

Inexpensive
Incredibly comfortable
Easy to inflate and deflate
Comes with eye mask and ear plugs
Incurs funny looks

Our reviewer ordered the funky-looking Blabok Inflatable Travel Pillow ($25) as a last-minute addition to an international flight, where she knew she would be spending some serious sleep hours on the plane.

“In the past, I’ve quietly giggled to myself when seeing travelers dutifully blow into their airport comfort balloons, but I’m a convert. Through flight delays, layovers, and crazy long flights, I ended up singing the praises of this thing!”

It not only gives you multiple positions to support your head and neck during a flight, but during layovers, it is a solid napper in quiet terminal corners. Armholes allow comfortable positioning, and the open, airy internal chamber means you can breathe easily while face down in the pillow. And to our surprise, it’s shockingly easy to inflate. A few breaths, and you’re good to go.

The Blabok pillow deflates just as fast and rolls up tiny, making it our favorite inflatable travel pillow and our preferred travel pillow for long flights. Bonus tip: Because of its shape, if you have sore legs/hips from your adventures, it can be used as a knee support pillow. Funny looks be damned, we’re sleeping better than anyone else on the Blabok Inflatable Travel Pillow .

J-Pillow Travel Pillow

Materials Polyester fill
Shape Head and neck pillow
Weight 11 oz.

Great for side sleepers who lean against a wall
Chin support spots you from leaning forward
Soft microfleece cover
Only supports one side of the head
Doesn't compress down as well as memory foam

Not your traditionally shaped travel pillow, the J-Pillow Travel Pillow ($50-60) has three dimensions that cradle the head and neck in an X, Y, and Z axis. The head leans into the large flaps, with the ‘J’ tail wrapping under the chin. It gives the neck mild support and prevents the head from dropping forward.

As you would suspect from a pillow you lean into, the J-Pillow is ideal for those who have a window seat, where you can catch some winks against a wall. One side is completely unsupported, so if you are the type of sleeper who tosses a bit and occasionally leans the other way, your sleep might get disrupted.

We found this more of a problem when seated in the aisle or middle seat. Seated next to the window, we could lean into the pillow with the added confidence of uninterrupted sleep.

The J-Pillow is filled with a polyester loft. It’s not as firm as memory foam, and it doesn’t run as warm either. That’s partly because the structure only cradles half the head. The airflow is decent, and with the airplane vent aimed at us, this pillow keeps things cool.

No removable cover to be found here, and you toss the entire pillow in the wash — which isn’t a bad thing. It ensures the entire pillow is cleaned. The pillow crushes down to a small, travel-friendly size and carries in the provided stuff sack.

Despite the quirky design, the J-Pillow is a comfortable and supportive option — especially if you like to sit tucked away in a window seat.

Cabeau The Neck’s Evolution S3 Neck Pillow

Best in class memory foam comfort
High lateral walls for maximum head support
Seat straps holds pillow to the chair
Over-the-top elastic strap supports chin and keeps mouth closed
Raised side supports feel bulky and adds pressure around the neck
With straps, this is a more fidgety travel pillow and takes time to set up

No matter how good the pillow, it’s hard to prevent the dreaded head bob. Even Cabeau — the grandmaster of travel pillows — couldn’t get around this. This matters most when seated in the aisle or middle seat, where personal space is limited. To that end, Cabeau released The Neck’s Evolution S3 ($50). The secret sauce? Straps — lots of them.

A pair of vertical straps tack the pillow to the seat back, cutting the bobble off at the head. If the pillow doesn’t move, you don’t move. The third, elastic strap, wraps over the pillow’s horseshoe ends (not out in front), fastening to the opposite side. Wrapping over the pillow, the strap is, in essence, a hammock for your chin. It keeps the chin up and prevents the head from nodding forward.

What we love about this design is that it 1) immobilizes the chin just enough without feeling too rigid, and 2) leaves the front of the pillow exposed, allowing the neck to cool off. This is important because memory foam can really trap the heat. With the small gap, the pillow spills heat, keeping you feeling cooler. It’s kind of genius.

The memory foam is the softest we tested. It is even softer than the Travelrest Nest (which is made from very good, resilient foam). We did find the amount of foam significant and noticeable. The sidewalls ride up to just below the ears. If you end up slouching in your chair (or have a shorter neck), this is pronounced and you feel the foam pushing into the ears and around the neck. This can become uncomfortable over time.

The pillow rolls up tight and packs in a zippered pouch. And if all this isn’t enough, Cabeau threw in a pair of earplugs to help cancel out the noise. All in all, at just under $50, the Cabeau The Neck’s Evolution S3 is an excellent neck pillow and a good alternative to the Travelrest Nest .

Cushion Lab Ergonomic Travel Pillow

Shape Neck Pillow
Weight 10.5 oz.

Asymmetrical design rotates 360˚ to fit a variety of sleep positions while seated
Accommodates over the ear headphones
Small packed size and comes with a travel bag
Available in two different sizes
Low sides do not provide as much lateral support
Snug fit can be too tight

One of the best advantages you can give yourself while traveling is options. The asymmetrical shape of Cushion Lab’s Ergonomic Travel Pillow ($55), allows you to turn the pillow around your neck to match the seating requirements.

Flat on the underside, the top of the pillow rolls between 2.5 and 5 inches, with three different notches that you can position under the chin and behind the head. Window, middle seat, aisle … the variety allows you to find the best sleeping position for any seat.

The memory foam pillow is protected by a form-fitting pillow case with an elastic cord that keeps the pillow packed tight. It all packs away nicely in a small widemouth ditty bag that is easy to pack and unpack.

The extra-dense memory foam is stiffer and similar to what we found in the Ostrich Go Neck . While the Go Neck is perhaps more stylish, the third notch gives the Ergonomic Travel Pillow one more option to find the perfect position — and the upper edge between the two.

We also like Cushion Lab’s overall lower profile. It allows you to wear over-the-ear headphones and feels less restrictive without compromising head and neck support. The Ergonomic Travel Pillow lives up to the name and allows for fine-tuning your fit to match your travel circumstances perfectly.

Ostrich Go Neck Pillow

Asymmetrical sides allow you to rotate the pillow into multiple positions to match the seating
Crushes down small
Washable removable cover
Dense memory foam has excellent support
High sidewalls press into ears
Wrapping design holds heat

Another innovator in the travel pillow space, Ostrich brings disruptive designs that are both functional and fun. The Go Neck Pillow ($70) is a stylish memory foam “shawl” that secures around the neck with a hook-and-loop closure. The wave-like shape has a lower, plumper cushion that rises and narrows behind the neck before it crests to a taller, thinner pad. The asymmetrical cushions narrow and close together with a 5-inch Velcro tab.

You can rotate the Go Neck to match a variety of positions, but we really only found two that work — with the chin between the fold where the two flaps come together, or 180˚ backward, with the chin tucked in the other narrowing. The pillow feels more comfortable with the overlap in front, but the reverse is slightly taller and supports the chin well.

While ergonomic (and perhaps even beautifully designed) the foundation of the Go Neck is a stiffer memory foam. It isn’t as soft as either the Cabeau or Travelrest pillows. The firmness is supportive, but can feel more rigid and less forgiving over time. Plus it’s about $20-$30 more than our top pillows, which excludes it from what we feel are better bargain options.

BCOZZY Neck Pillow

Weight 8 oz.

Adaptive design rotates around the neck to give you support where you need it
Allows plenty of ear room for those who wear over-the-ear headphones
Fully machine washable
Four different size variations available
Takes a while to position it right
Snug wrapping design can get hot

Many travel pillows are available in a one-size-fits-all option, which means if it doesn’t fit you, it doesn’t work at all. So when a travel pillow comes in a variety of sizes that can be configured to match a variety of seating options, our interest is piqued.

Bcozzy’s Neck Pillow ($45-60) snakes around the neck, overlapping the ends with a long Velcro hook and loop closure. The long, skinny pillow undulates with alternating hourglass narrows and plump supportive pads. Available in four sizes (two youth, two adults) there’s a Bcozzy for everyone. And, you can rotate the pillow 360˚ around the neck to give you support where you need it.

Side leaner? Rotate the overlapping ends under the ear and lean into the pillow. Middle seat? Position the narrow section behind the neck and support the chin with the overlapping ends. Departing the plane? Just loosen up the Velcro tabs and wear it off the plane. Compared to other pillows, it wears relatively under the radar and is easy to use.

The Bcozzy doesn’t have a removable pillowcase. Instead, you toss the whole thing in the washing machine to wash the entire pillow. It is recommended that you put it inside a delicates bag or a tied-off pillowcase and wash it on a gentle cycle. This prevents the machine from breaking down the polyester fibers.

The Bcozzy Neck Pillow isn’t the cheapest pillow on our list, but with the right size, it is very easy to use and works in virtually any seated position, making this one of the more versatile travel pillows on our list.

Honeydew Sleep Company Scrumptious Travel Pillow

Materials Copper infused cooling memory foam
Weight 2 lbs., 8 oz.

You can add or remove fill to match your desired firmness
Hand-made in U.S.A.
Bulky to carry
Large size forces chin to drop even with the seat tilted all the way back

Take your favorite pillow from home, shrink it by 30%, and cut a wedge in it so it curves around the neck, and you’ve got Honeydew’s Scrumptious Travel Pillow ($130-220).

The memory foam fill is shredded into small pieces, giving it a soft and even fluff. Infused with copper, it’s antimicrobial and helps keep the body cool. The downside is that it doesn’t pack down as well.

Stuffed inside the provided cotton sack (included), the pillow carries around at a bulky 9 x 12 inches. That’s partly the foam, but there’s no getting around — it’s a lot of pillow. Unpacked, the Scrumptious is a whopping 12 x 21 inches.

A crescent-shaped notch lays behind the neck and over the shoulders, allowing you to lean back into the pillow. But it wasn’t enough to prevent our chins from dropping. Even with the seat pushed all the into the furthest position, the mass of the pillow pushed our heads forward. We found it hard to prevent the chin from dipping down as we dozed.

The Scrumptious is big and not all that comfortable while on the plane. But once we arrived at our destination, we stored the hotel pillow in the closet and used the Scrumptious instead. The soft and even proprietary fill is better than our pillows at home and gives us a better night’s rest while on the road.

You just need to be prepared to carry the extra baggage with you as a carry-on, or find room for the pillow in your bags. For the comfort the Honeydew Scrumptious Travel Pillow provides, however, it’s worth finding the space.

Sea To Summit Aeros Premium Traveller Pillow

Materials 20-denier polyester face fabric, TPU air bladder
Weight 3 oz.
Travel Bag 3 x 4 x 2" soft-sided case

Truly lightweight and compact travel pillow
Three chin snaps fit multiple neck sizes
Narrows at the middle to accommodate for neck tilt
Expensive for an air pillow
Lacks support of a foam pillow
Little to no chin support

Sea to Summit has been making some of our favorite camp pillows for years. In fact, the Aeros Ultralight is our go-to pillow for most of our adventures where weight is critical. If an inflatable pillow can handle what the Rockies, Cascades, and all the associated climbing gear can throw at it, we feel confident it can handle the threats faced in coach.

Made specifically for traveling, the Sea to Summit Aeros Premium Traveller Pillow ($45) is a crescent-shaped version of their inflatable camp pillow. The poles of the kidney-shaped pillow inflate out over the shoulders and snug up against the neck just below the ears, tapering behind the neck between the two poles.

The pillow snaps together securely under the chin with three snap options. We like how the snaps provide more security than Velcro. From kids to weightlifters, the options fits a variety of neck sizes. Unfortunately, the Aeros doesn’t support the neck as well as memory foam. Both side-to-side and chin support were less stable than the memory foam counterparts.

And at $45, you aren’t getting a better deal. You are buying a lack of space. The Aeros packs down to the size of a deck of cards or two and weighs in at a welterweight 3 ounces, which is how most ultralight investments work. You don’t buy comfort; you buy room in the pack.

This makes the Sea to Summit Aeros Premium Traveller an option for gram-counting travelers who feel strongly that comfort is a luxury. It also works as a good backup travel pillow or if you are carrying for two and need to carry a barebones backup pillow. If an airline weight limit is giving you the business, this is the pillow to grab.

Hest Travel Pillow

Materials Cut up memory foam, stretch-woven nylon cover
Weight 1 lb., 4 oz.

Stuffs and zips up into into itself with durable outer carrying case
Soft and incredibly comfortable foam fill
Mimics the feel of a full-size pillow
Soft pillow case is purchased after market
Some users find the cut up memory foam feels lumpy

The Hest Travel Pillow ($75) is billed as both a camping and travel pillow. It is a small, 10 x 15-inch rectangular pillow with some overbuilt upgrades that make it probably a better (read: heavy) option for traveling over camping.

The entire pillow is carried inside a water-resistant nylon shell, which reminds us of a hearty ski jacket denier. Unzip the outer shell and the pillow pulls inside out with a softer stretch woven material. Another zipper reveals the inner pillow — which you can remove and throw the case in the wash for cleaning.

The memory foam is doughy soft and a good upgrade from most camp pillows. But it’s also more expensive. At $75, it’s creeping into a serious sleep investment. While the stretch woven pillow liner is soft, Hest sells an even softer aftermarket pillowcase, but you will have to open the wallet a little more and pay an additional $20.

A rectangular memory foam pillow is the closest approximation to a pillow from home and it works great in a pinch catching a nap in the terminal or as a backup pillow at the hotel if the provided pillows look suspicious.

For overall comfort, we prefer the modified rectangular pillow from Honeydew . The brand’s Scrumptious Pillow is divine. But for overall packability and travel-friendly size, we prefer the Hest Travel Pillow , which crunches down to about 1.5 L (and costs half the price of the Scrumptious).

Travel Pillow Comparison Chart

How we tested travel pillows.

The GearJunkie staff gets around. At least one of us is in the air during any given week traveling on assignment — so we’ve logged the miles, all of them in coach, and many of these clocked across the Atlantic or Pacific. The redeye may be effective, but it also means if we don’t get our rest, we are up for a very long following day. To make it all work, the GearJunkie staff gets by on coffee… and travel pillows.

Like your pillow at home, a travel pillow should support the neck and be comfortable. Since it’s for use on the road, it should also pack up small so we can either wear it to our connecting flight or securely clip it to our carry-on luggage or travel backpack without whacking other travelers.

To test pillows, we evaluated fill materials and took note of how pillows supported the neck. Did it limit head bobble and keep the neck aligned? Or were we woken up nodding forward? We evaluated how soft the outer material is, and if we could remove and wash the case during or after our travels.

In our search, we aimed to find and test pillows that every person stuck in coach across the spectrum could enjoy — from window, aisle, to middle seat (be damned), we chose for travelers marching gate to gate with pillows around necks or strapped to our luggage.

We take testing seriously and the testing doesn’t stop here. As new travel pillows hit the market, we’ll be lining up with the rest of you and continue to test, ensuring that our lineup is as fresh as walking into customs at 7 a.m.

Steve Graepel has worked at GearJunkie as a contributing editor since 2009, testing everything from packrafts, to bike bags, cycling bibs, sleeping bags, winter boots, trail runners, and travel pants . Many of these stories require travel to meet with manufacturers and test gear in real-world conditions. Between testing, Steve is always striving for the perfect sleep score. His personal best is 87.

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Best Travel Pillow for You

Travel pillow design and fill.

The overall goal of a travel pillow is to support the head for uninterrupted rest. Travel pillows get this done with designs that contour around the body’s shape and close the gaps by molding the pillow’s fill to the head and neck. Together, the shape and fill keep everything comfortably in alignment.

Not all pillows are created equal. That’s because not all seats are the same. While you can lean your head against the wall in a window seat, you are stuck sleeping upright in an aisle or middle seat. Bobblehead sleepers might give in and drop into the tray for uninterrupted sleep.

If you can select your seat in advance, you can better predict the best pillow to bring. But we’re not always that lucky (nor that good at planning) so it might be helpful to have a few pillows available to match your assigned seat, or pick a good all-rounder travel pillow that works in a variety of seating.

Most travel pillows are horseshoe-shaped and wrap around your neck. The semicircular shape keeps the head from wobbling too much and maintains neck alignment. This design works well in almost every seat, as long as you don’t mind sleeping upright.

Side sleepers might prefer some structure to support the neck or padding that accommodates leaning against a wall. The downside is your head can still slide off the unsupported side and nod forward.

The rectangular pillow is your traditional camp pillow. Tried and true, these down, synthetic, or even air-filled pillows can be a little bulky, but don’t rule them out. They are a great option for table sleepers and window leaners, and are miles ahead of your down jacket when trying to catch some zzz’s between flights on the terminal floor.

A more updated window seat option is the J-Pillow . Winner of the British Invention of the Year, the J-Pillow offers head, neck, and chin support, and can flip sides, making it a good option for windows.

Memory Foam

One of the many wonders that came out of NASA, memory foam was developed in the 1960s. It is a viscous polyurethane that crushes down small and bounces back with hearty resilience. Recently, memory foam has become the online mattress wonder-kid, bringing mattress stores to their knees by selling directly to consumers.

We also see a lot of memory foam used in the latest camp mattresses and camp pillows. The benefit is that it forms to the body, cradling the head and neck with support. It’s a durable and comfortable fill and is a good choice for people who take sleeping seriously.

The downside is that when crushed, the foam is constantly trying to expand. To keep the pillow packed down, you need to stuff it in the stuff sack (usually sold with the pillow). And even packed, it’s always going to take up some space. A good insulator, foam will also retain heat more than other insulations. If you are a hot sleeper, consider options with cooling covers and venting designs.

Some memory foams are shredded or cut into small pieces. The foam lofts evenly but doesn’t crush down as small as the solid memory foam pillows. Both Hest and Honeydew offer shredded memory foam pillows. Both brands are also traditional rectangular-shaped pillows that mimic your pillow from home.

As the name implies, microbeads are small, round beads that are used to loft the pillow. To clarify, we aren’t talking about the microspheres smaller than one millimeter that are banned in North America. These are the larger, beanbag fill that shift inside the pillow to fill in otherwise awkward spaces while distributing pressure on the head and neck.

If you’ve ever spent much time sitting in a bean bag chair, you already know the downside. A microbead pillow can be comfortable out of the gate, but over time the microbeads shift and feel more uncomfortable. You might find yourself waking up and readjusting the pillow during your flight.

A firmer, stuffed microbead pillow will provide more support, and microbead pillows are usually less expensive. The only microbead pillow on our list is the Cloudz Microbead Travel Neck Pillow . At $16, it’s a bargain and works better than other microbead pillows we’ve tested.

Down and Synthetic Fill

The rectangular synthetic (or down) fill pillow is your old-school camp pillow. While down compacts more, both synthetic and down rectangular pillows can be a little bulky, and since they typically don’t clip to your luggage or wrap around your neck, you inevitably need to carry them around in your hands.

But don’t rule them out — they are a great option for table sleepers, as they fill in the gaps against the window, and are miles ahead of your down jacket when trying to catch some zzz’s between flights on the terminal floor. Plus, you can use them camping or at the hotel if the provided linens look debatable.

Inflated Air

Pillows have come a long way, but some technology doesn’t need to be fixed. The inflatable pillow supports through design of the shell that wraps around the neck. An inflatable camp pillow is great for using on extended backcountry trips. They pack down small and disappear in the pack.

In general, inflatable pillows aren’t as comfortable. They tend to be firmer than foam pillows and don’t snug and support as well as their memory foam counterparts. And they can be prone to punctures, which makes them useless if that happens in flight.

Look for inflatable pillows that are made up of durable material, like thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), or one that comes with a rugged cover. Valves can also be a weak point on an inflatable pillow. Make sure the one you buy has a tough, well-built valve that isn’t prone to leaking. And ask around — fellow travelers and online reviews are your best resources for gauging a pillow’s durability over time.

All said, we found the inflatable travel pillow from Blablok one of the most comfortable pillows we’ve ever used. It’s massive but compresses down to a small package — one of the benefits of inflatable pillows.

With a travel pillow, a huge part of durability is inside the pillow. With proper care, a pillow filled with either microbeads, polyester fill, or memory foam can last for several years.

However, after repeated use, memory foam tends to be more durable and resilient than microbeads. It doesn’t flatten or get lumpy and is more resistant to collecting dust. So memory foam might be the better option if you want a long-term solution. We generally find memory foam to be more supportive, too.

In general, the more features a pillow has, the higher the price will be. We see this with well-established companies like Cabeau, which use high-quality memory foam and invest time in R&D to develop cooling vents and stabilization seat straps. While more expensive, these products are more dialed, durable, and comfortable designs.

When you shop for a pillow, determine your must-have features, weigh them against your style of sleep, look at your budget, and find a travel pillow that’s best for you. If you’re new to travel pillows and still trying to figure out what kind of pillow you want, consider what you don’t like with the complimentary pillow you get before takeoff. After all, it’s free and a great way to test a pillow with low commitment.

With that baseline, swing back by our buyer’s guide and look at what pillows work best to meet those gaps in your needs. In the end, a travel pillow shouldn’t cost more than $60. It’s a drop in the bucket for a better travel experience.

Packed Size

The ‘packability’ of a travel pillow matters less than it does for a camping pillow. But it still matters, and this point will be salient when you are boarding and departing the plane. If it wraps around your neck, you can suck it up and try to stylishly pull it off (don’t worry, nobody can). If it has a stuff sack, you can compress it (or not) and buckle it to your luggage. As a last resort, you can carry it out by hand.

We recommend stuffing a travel pillow in its stuff sack before you land and snapping it to your carry-on’s side pocket. This keeps the pillow out of the way and allows you to move quickly in and out of the gate and through the terminal.

The most compact travel pillow is an inflatable pillow, like the Sea To Summit Aeros Premium Traveller Pillow . In general, we prefer a compressible pillow that offers support. Memory foam compresses reasonably well and, in our experience, is more comfortable.

Plus, we’d rather not make our first impression with others by blowing up anything on a plane. That said, the inflatable travel pillow from Blablok inflates quicker than you would think and is very comfortable on long flights.

Travel Tricks: Get a Good Night’s Sleep on a Plane

It’s fair to say sleep quality is compromised while in transit. But you can take extra measures to get the best rest possible. Below are travel tips we’ve gained from GearJunkie staff and our traveling friends in the industry.

Bring an Eye Mask

Sure, you can buy these but you may not need to. We always travel with a Buff . Our founder, Stephen Regenold — someone who’s seen it all — gave the Buff one of his highest accolades in a podcast interview with GearJunkie. He shared that the Buff might be one of the most unique pieces of gear ever developed. We use it as a hat, a sweatband, and pull over the eyes on flights. It does a great job of blocking out the light.

Continuing with damping out the senses, earplugs are a cheap and easy purchase. We get them in bulk at the hardware store and bring a few with us on the road. You may have a pair of these kicking around the garage or you might have noise-canceling headphones. Those less sensitive to sounds might get away with streaming music or podcasts through earbuds.

If you use over-the-ear headphones, consider a lower-profile travel pillow. We liked how the Bcozzy Travel Pillow slides low around the neck while still providing chin support options.

The cabin temperature on flights is generally set between 71 to 75 degrees F. That’s not bad, but it’s well below our core temperature. Dozing off, you may start to feel the chill set in. We always pack a good flannel , hoodie, or puffy jacket on a flight. It’s what we bring everywhere, so we keep one (or both) in our carry-on. And a hoodie or hat does a lot to keep heat from escaping.

Before you bed down, have a warm cup of caffeine-free tea or eat some fatty food. The extra calories will turn on your metabolism and burn off as heat. Finally, if they offer it, take advantage of that free blanket and drape it over your legs. If you run cold, every little bit helps.

Keep the Essentials at Hand

There’s a strategy for staying organized during travel. For us, it starts with a good travel pant. Knowing everything has its place keeps us worry-free and able to rest up peacefully. The best travel pants have pockets for your device, ID, and plane-friendly EDC. Plus pants with legs are warmer on overnight flights.

Absolutely. Travel pillows add a bit of comfort and help you get a better night’s sleep on the plane than a wadded-up jacket. The minimal investment of money, space, and weight is nothing compared to the comfort and support a good pillow provides. It only takes one long flight of trying to keep your head upright while dozing off to realize the value that a good travel pillow provides.

Different pillows have different requirements when it comes to cleaning. Be sure to check your pillow’s packaging. If your travel pillow has a removable pillow case, generally these can be thrown in the wash. We recommend following the instructions on the pillow case.

If you are on the road, you can wash the pillow cover out in the sink. You don’t need any special soap for this. Laundry soap or bath soap will work fine. Knead the pillow case gently with your hands until it’s clean. Then rinse it with clean water to get the soap out and hang it out overnight to dry.

If your pillow doesn’t have a removable case, we recommend spot washing them with soap and water or a cleaning wipe.

Most pillows require a bit more delicacy, particularly inflatable pillows. If you’re handwashing an inflatable pillow, make sure the valve is closed so water doesn’t get inside, and then immerse the pillow in soapy water. And never tumble-dry inflatable pillows, as it can damage the air bladder.

The best pillow is the one that matches your sleep needs. Most travel pillows are a horse-shoe shape that wraps around your neck to support your head. If you only want to buy one travel pillow, this semicircular pillow design is a great option. We recommend the Travelrest Nest Travel Pillow . It supports the head and neck without requiring a window to lean against and keeps you from nodding into an adjacent stranger.

Specialized pillows, like the J-Pillow , are great options for window seats. Side sleepers might appreciate the TRLT Travel Pillow , as it supports the head with a stiffened brace and emulates the position you’re most used to sleeping in at home.

If you already have one, don’t rule out the traditional camp pillow. Filled with down or synthetic loft, it can fill the crack against the window and provide a little more comfort than the stock pillows you might be handed before takeoff. It’s also a good pillow to pull out in the terminal if you are stuck between flights and need to crash for a few hours.

Long flights mean lots of idle time in the seat. Whether passing the time watching in-flight entertainment or getting the best sleep you can, we prefer the inflatable Blablok or the Travelrest Nest . Cabeau’s The Neck’s Evolution S3 Neck Pillow is also a great choice. The straps lock it to the headrest and prevent your head from bobbling forward.

We liked the simplicity of the TRTL Pillow and used it on a flight to Mexico. But we found that the internal support structure moved any pain from the neck, down the back between our shoulders. In the end, we preferred using the TRTL on shorter flights.

The simplest and most compact travel pillow is inflated with air. It won’t be as supportive as a memory foam pillow and can feel a little hard, but the air chamber can fit around your neck and add reasonable support. Deflated, it folds up and stows away smaller than a T-shirt.

The Best Camping Pillows of 2023

A camping pillow is both a luxury and an easy, lightweight addition to your pack. Here are the best camping pillows currently on the market.

The Best Travel Backpacks of 2024

We found the best travel backpacks of 2024, including top picks from Peak Design, Osprey, Patagonia, and more.

Steve Graepel is a Contributing Editor and Gear Tester at GearJunkie. He has been writing about trail running, camping, skiing, and general dirtbagging for 10+ years. When not testing gear with GearJunkie, he is a Senior Medical Illustrator on the Neurosurgery Team at Mayo Clinic. Based in Boise, Idaho, Graepel is an avid trail runner, camper, angler, cyclist, skier, and loves to introduce his children to the Idaho outdoors.

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Travel Accessories

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
Other Pillows We Liked

Our Testing Process

Tips for Buying
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

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

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.

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

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.

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

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

Travel + Leisure / Morgan Ashley Parker

TripSavvy / 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, 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

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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

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 luxurious 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.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Anna Popp is a New York-based commerce writer 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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The Best Travel Pillow

By Sabrina Imbler

Short of scoring a row of empty seats—dream on!—your best bet for getting at least a little sleep while flying is a travel pillow.

After asking 10 panelists to try on eight travel pillows and after taking four cross-country red-eyes in window, aisle, and middle seats, we think the comfortable and easy-to-pack Travelrest Nest Ultimate Memory Foam Travel Pillow is the best travel pillow for most people.

Everything we recommend

Travelrest Nest Ultimate Memory Foam Travel Pillow

The best travel pillow.

Its tall memory-foam walls let it offer more support than any other pillow we tested. It’s also shaped to sit flush against a headrest, and it compresses to a manageable size.

Buying Options

Cabeau Evolution Classic Pillow

A travel pillow available at airports.

This memory-foam neck-support pillow is highly adjustable, but without a contoured back, it can’t quite sit flush with the headrest. It’s available at many airport stores, though.

Trtl Pillow

A pillow for one-sided neck support only.

It’s a fleece scarf with a built-in plastic brace—like a one-sided neck brace, but softer and cozier. However, it’s not so great if you tend to shift position while you sleep, and it costs more than the other pillows we recommend.

Bcozzy Pillow

Great with large headphones.

Featuring an adjustable design that accommodates over-the-ear headphones, the Bcozzy is an excellent chin-support pillow for people who nod forward as they sleep.

The uniquely angled back on the Travelrest Ultimate sets it apart from other travel pillows because it can lay flat against the seat back. Most other pillows have a rounded back, which pushes your head away from the headrest. The Travelrest also has rubber grip dots to prevent slipping while sleeping. This pillow’s spongy memory foam cushions the entire circumference of your neck, preventing your head from leaning far in any direction, and its adjustable Velcro strap ensures it can fit most necks. The pillow’s cozy velour exterior is removable and machine-washable. Although it doesn’t pack flat, the Travelrest weighs less than a pound and compresses to a quarter of its size when rolled into its Velcro-strapped carrying case.

Our only complaint is that the Travelrest’s high walls, while supportive, can push over-ear headphones off of the ears of people with shorter necks. While the memory foam feels plush, it’s also quite firm; this offers excellent support, but not much give. It also doesn’t let you adjust the fit, like our two wrappable picks: the Turtl and the BCozzy . If the Travelrest fits your neck, it’s an excellent pillow. If your neck is much longer or shorter than this pillow’s 5-inch wall, though, you might prefer the fit of one of our other pillow picks.

If our top pick sells out, or if you find yourself pillowless past security, the Cabeau Evolution Classic Pillow is almost as good a pillow. It lacks the Travelrest’s angled, lay-flat back, but its U-shape, contoured memory-foam core and machine-washable velour cover still provide comparable levels of comfort. Its adjustable string closure also means that you can fit the pillow much tighter around your neck than you can with the Travelrest, making it a good choice for people with smaller necks or people who prefer a more constricted fit. Additionally, it’s the only one of our picks that we’ve regularly seen in stores located behind the security checkpoint at many airports.

If you typically lean to the same side while sleeping, the Trtl Pillow’s fleece-covered plastic frame provides unshakeable support to one side of your neck while remaining comfortable to wear. It’s basically a one-sided neck brace. The pillow’s cozy wraparound fleece will also keep your neck warm, making it a good choice for anyone who gets cold while flying (and a poor choice for those who sleep hot). But the Trtl’s winning quality is its tiny, packable size. Unlike any of our other picks, the Trtl does not need to be compressed or stuffed into a carrying case. It will always take up about as much space as a PB&J sandwich. (It costs a lot more than one, though.)

The Bcozzy , a variation on the hemi-doughnut theme, is our pick for anyone who wears large over-the-ear headphones on a flight or tends to nod forward while they sleep. The pillow’s overlapping ends form a snug cushion that holds your chin in place far better than do the Trtl’s plastic frame or the Travelrest and Cabeau’s chin-facing gap. While the pillow does not provide great support to either side of your neck, if paired with a large pair of headphones, the Bcozzy holds a head in place perfectly. While not as compressible as our other picks, the pillow has a small loop that can be clipped to the outside of most bags so it doesn’t have to take up space inside your bag.

The research

Why you should trust us, who this is for, how we picked our best travel pillow finalists, how we tested travel pillows, our pick for the best travel pillow: travelrest nest ultimate memory foam travel pillow, runner-up for the best travel pillow: cabeau evolution classic pillow, also great for portability: trtl pillow, also-great chin-support pillow for forward-nodders: bcozzy pillow, other good travel pillows, the competition.

I am a frequent flyer who often takes red-eyes from coast to coast—I now live in Brooklyn but fly home to San Francisco to visit my parents. I’m also an insomniac, so falling asleep on planes has never been easy for me. While writing this article, I tested eight travel pillows on two five-hour flights and slept with our four picks on two more cross-country flights. I also spoke with Rebecca Robbins, a postdoctoral fellow at the NYU Center for Healthful Behavior Change at the time of the interview, to see what she looks for in a travel pillow.

In addition, my Wirecutter colleagues as a whole are an exceptionally mobile group. We’ve worked remotely from every continent except Antarctica, so I asked some folks on staff which pillows they like and use regularly. (They’ve also since contributed some additional testing.)

A pile of neck pillows on a wood table. We looked for the best neck pillow available.

Boarding a red-eye without a travel pillow in your bag is like choosing to sleep on the floor when there’s a perfectly good futon nearby. Sure, it’s no bed, but it’s a hell of a lot better than hardwood. In an interview she did in 2017 with The Atlantic reporter Kelly Conaboy, Dr. Mary O’Connor, then the director of Yale’s Center for Musculoskeletal Care, said that despite a lack of clinical studies that support the efficacy of travel pillows, “Many of us who travel have experienced falling asleep with our neck in a weird position and it bothering us thereafter. So, I think they can be helpful, but that depends on how they’re used and whether they support the neck.” In other words, using a supportive pillow may decrease the chances you wake up with an unwanted crick. It certainly has in our experience.

However, not all travel pillows are the same, and if you also happen to have a zealous hatred of your travel pillow, you probably have a bad one. So even if you have a generic pillow you picked up at some airport a few years ago, consider upgrading to one of our picks. And of course, these pillows work well on buses and trains, too.

So how can you tell if a pillow is likely to actually support your head? Rebecca Robbins, a postdoctoral fellow studying sleep at the time of our interview, says the best travel pillows will keep your head elevated and in alignment with your spine: “Look for something that would really be supportive. My one gripe with most travel pillows is that they’re too soft and not too full—you want something that will be supportive as you try to get comfortable in your limited space.” Robbins also recommends finding a pillow that can keep you cozy but not too hot, as she says it’s easier to sleep with a lower body temperature.

Our recommended best travel pillows: The Cabeau and Travelrest pillows are in stuff sacks; the Trtl and Bcozzy pillows are collapsed and lying flat on a table.

Robbins does her best to avoid one common travel situation. “My number one sleep tip is to not take a red-eye if you can avoid it,” she said. “If the flight is five hours, you’re going to only have three hours of true rest, because all the announcements—‘lower your window,’ ‘raise your window.’ Those can be significant distractions.”

We also looked at existing editorial reviews for guidance. Ethan Green , founder of the sleep resource blog No Sleepless Nights, compiled an extensive comparative review of popular travel pillows that we found helpful when deciding what models to test.

For people who want a travel pillow that will ease some of the discomfort of sleeping upright on a bumpy plane ride, we’ve identified the following key features:

Comfort and support: The pillow should offer ample support for the weight of your neck and head but not restrict your movements or feel too tight.
Portable (but not inflatable): You don’t want your travel pillow to take up so much space in your carry-on that you can’t bring other things you need, so it should compress to a smaller size. Barring that, there should at least be a way to clip it to the outside of your bag or luggage. Inflatable pillows are easy to pack but should be avoided. They inevitably spring a leak, often sooner rather than later.
Soft: The material should feel plush against your skin but not trap so much heat that it’s uncomfortable to wear.
Universal fit (or as close as possible): The pillow should allow space for people to sleep with a ponytail or accommodate bigger hair, as well as a whole variety of head shapes and sizes and neck lengths.
Sleeping styles: It should also accommodate people who move their head in any direction while they sleep. It should also work in a window, a middle, or an aisle seat.
Speed of compression/decompression: In case you need to quickly stow your pillow before exiting the plane, or if you want to catch some shut-eye in a moment’s notice, it shouldn’t take too long to stuff the pillow into its carrying case or unfold it to full size.
Weight: Ideally, the pillow shouldn’t add undue burden to your carry-on. While inflatable pillows will always be the lightest option, memory-foam pillows don’t weigh much more and can offer significantly more comfort.
Grip/traction: Your head will likely move around a bit while sleeping on a plane, especially if there’s turbulence. So any kind of grip or traction around the bottom of the pillow will help it stay in place and keep you snoozing.
Machine washable: As you might expect from a vessel that ferries hundreds of people back and forth across the sky on a daily basis, planes can be filthy. So you’ll want to be able to wash the whole pillow—or at least its cover—before you take it on your next trip.

We researched more than 40 travel pillows—which ranged from variations on a hemi-doughnut to inscrutable crowdfunded designs—and after comparing hundreds of glowing and enraged Amazon reviews, we decided to test eight. We asked a panel of 10 people to try each of the pillows in a chair pushed against the wall of a conference room (the closest we could come to airline conditions in our office) and surveyed them on the fit, comfort, and support of each pillow. The panelists all had a variety of neck lengths and jaw sizes, and one even had a substantial beard. We also ran all of the pillows or their detachable pillowcases through a washing machine as instructed to see how well each stood up to a spin cycle and tumble dry.

And because simulations are rarely enough, I brought eight travel pillows on two cross-country flights to see how the pillows felt in the specific back design of an airplane seat. As I was lucky enough to have unnecessarily kind and understanding neighbors (thank you, Mike and Deborah!), I wore each of these pillows in a window, a middle, and an aisle seat to see if they felt comfortable in each configuration. I also tried on Deborah’s Muji travel pillow (as she offered), but determined it had much less support than our picks. I also carried all of our picks on two more cross-country flights on a different airline to ensure the pillows did just as well in different seat designs.

The Travelrest Ultimate pillow, a firm donut-shaped neck pillow, resting on a blanket. The recommended best travel pillow.

The Travelrest Ultimate remains our top pick after several years because its plush but firm memory-foam core offers more support to your neck than that of any other pillow. It’s also one of the few pillows we tested that felt specifically designed for an airline seat, with an angled, grippy back that aligns perfectly to both upright and reclined positions and ensures the pillow won’t slide down as you nod off. The velvety-soft pillow supports heads and necks of all sizes and can be fitted with an adjustable cord and clasp. In the tried-but-true shape of a hemi-doughnut—imagine a doughnut with a bite taken out—the Travelrest Ultimate may look like other pillows, but a number of thoughtful details make it a softer, more supportive pillow than all the rest.

The Travelrest offers better all-around support than any other pillow we tested. Its broad, marshmallowy walls hug the whole circumference of your neck. It feels supportive but not stifling. The easy-to-fasten Velcro strap means it can be adjusted to a snug fit for necks of many sizes. There’s even a small crevice for curlier hair or a ponytail.

In addition to fitting your neck, the Travelrest’s back tapers up to a point to fit flat against an airline seat back. Most neck pillows lack this tapering on the back and the excess padding can push your neck away from the headrest, causing your neck to droop forward. Additionally, the Travelrest has grippy dots on the back that prevent it from slipping.

The best travel pillow, the Travelrest Ultimate, showing the grippy back side.

In addition to its excellent support, the Travelrest is very comfortable and cozy to wear. Its memory-foam core is wrapped in velour, which kept my neck warm without overheating it. The Travelrest’s velour also felt softer and smoother against my skin than similar coverings on other pillows, such as the Cabeau Evolution. It’s also easy to clean: The Travelrest’s cover is easily unzipped and machine-washable. The velour retained its softness after going through a wash and dry cycle.

While the Travelrest isn’t inflatable, it packs down to the size of a roll of toilet paper in its carrying case. Once you fold it cinnamon-roll style and it’s small enough to fit inside the bag, a Velcro strap on the pouch helps you compress it even further. If there’s still not enough space for it in your bag, you can always clip its drawstring to any exterior loop.

All of these thoughtful details were not lost on our testing panel. They gave the Travelrest the highest marks of any pillow in comfort and neck support, and two-thirds of our testers picked it as their favorite pillow.

How the Travelrest has held up

After over a year of use, this pillow had lost none of its supportiveness. The memory foam was just as firm and springy as it was when we bought it. Its velcro strap was still easy to secure. If it fits you, this is a pillow that stays secure and comfortable on your neck for the duration of a long flight. However, we’ve also heard from multiple travelers that this pillow doesn’t fit them. The memory foam is quite firm, which offers excellent support, but not much give. If a pillow of up to 5 inches doesn’t fit comfortably on your neck, we think you’ll be happier trying one of our other picks.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

The Travelrest Ultimate will never compress to the thin, flat size of a tiny pillow like the Trtl. But its unparalleled, cushiony support can still pack down to a reasonable size, and its 13 ounces won’t make your carry-on noticeably heavier. And if saving space is your highest concern, we think the Trtl provides space-conscious support without the spit-filled fuss of an inflatable pillow.

While the Travelrest’s voluminous plush can support all heads that lean left, back, or right, the pillow may not hold up the chins of people with smaller faces. When my head bobbed forward, my small face sank into the gap between the pillow closure and my neck. You can adjust the Velcro strap for a tighter fit, but the short strap cannot be pulled as tight as the Cabeau’s adjustable strings.

The Travelrest Ultimate’s unbeatable support is in part due to the height of its sides, designed to come up to the jaw of the wearer. This means the pillow may be incompatible with larger over-the-ear headphones for people with shorter necks. For instance, when I tried to wear the Travelrest Ultimate with my noise-cancelling Bose headphones , the pillow pushed the headset uncomfortably far up on my head, taking my earlobes with it. However, my editor, who has a longer neck, didn’t have this problem.

The donut-shaped Cabeau neck pillow resting on a blanket.

If you want a tighter, more adjustable fit, the Cabeau Evolution Classic (which used to be called just the Evolution) is the way to go. Its contoured memory-foam design offers almost as much neck support as our main pick does, albeit without some of the Travelrest’s luxurious height. But the Cabeau’s adjustable clasp allows a far greater range of cinching than the Travelrest. In other words, the pillow can fit as tightly as you like.

Like the Travelrest, the Cabeau’s hemi-doughnut shape offers 360 degrees of support for anyone wearing it. It also boasts a cushioned memory-foam core and a contoured top that will keep your neck upright and head in place. But unlike the Travelrest’s gently arched bottom, the Cabeau’s flat bottom won’t sit as securely on your shoulders and may move around during your sleep. The Cabeau also lacks the Travelrest’s smartly tapered, grippy back that helps keep the pillow in place during flight. The Cabeau’s velour cover is also machine-washable, but it feels less soft than the Travelrest’s.

The Cabeau's cover comes off the foam core with a zipper.

Although the Cabeau’s fit and shape aren’t quite as good as the Travelrest’s, this pillow is more adjustable. It can be tightened or loosened with two adjustable strings that clip together, which results in a far more adjustable range than the Travelrest’s short strip of Velcro. If you have a smaller neck and know you find a tighter grip on your neck comforting, the Cabeau may be the way to go.

Like the Travelrest, the Cabeau also packs down to a quarter of its size, thanks to an adjustable strap bisecting its carrying case. But at 15.2 ounces, it’s a bit heavier than the Travelrest.

Unlike any of our other picks, the Cabeau Evolution is sold in many of those ubiquitous news stores inside airports. So if you find yourself lacing up your shoes after security and wishing you had bought one of our picks before your flight, look for the Cabeau’s contoured shape among the novelty hemi-doughnuts dangling off the travel pillow racks. It’s the best pillow you can buy at an airport. But if you have the chance to order online, the Travelrest offers more support.

There is a newer model of the Evolution Classic, the S3 , which has straps to hook onto a seat’s headrest. We think it’s a good choice if the Classic version is out of stock or otherwise unavailable. It’s still supportive and comfortable, but not as thick or soft as the Classic.

The Trtl is less a pillow and more a plush neck brace.

The Trtl Pillow , though odd-looking and unconventional, won a contingent of ardent fans with its firm support and slim, packable size. But it’s not our top pick because it works on only one side, and its warmth-trapping fleece can cause your neck to overheat. It’s also the most expensive of our picks. The Trtl consists of an arched plastic skeleton inside of a soft, fleece scarf that wraps once around your neck and then closes with Velcro to hold the pillow in place. You just lean your head against the convex end of the bendy frame, wrap the pillow around your neck, and your head has a soft but firm pedestal on which to rest while you sleep. It sounds weird, but it’s not that different from a neck brace—only it’s one-sided and softer.

Because the Trtl Pillow is little more than a scarf with a plastic plate in it, it packs down to the size of a sandwich and can lay flat against the back of your bag. This is the smallest travel pillow we tested and also requires none of the squashing or awkward cinching it takes to stuff the Travelrest or Cabeau into their holding bags, which are also easy to lose. Unlike any of the other pillows we’ve seen, the Trtl is small enough to fit inside a briefcase or handbag, making it the best option for people who don’t normally travel with backpacks. And at a featherweight 5 ounces, the Trtl is the lightest pillow we tested.

Though the Trtl can support your head from only one side, the tall, bendy plastic frame inside offered more support on that one side than either the Travelrest or Cabeau. Yet even with its soft, wraparound design, it lacks the all-around support provided by our top and runner-up picks. If you are an asymmetrical sleeper (if you prefer sleeping with your head leaning to one side), the Trtl may be a good choice. However, it’s not a good choice for people who nod forward—the plastic insert is too stiff. If that’s you, we prefer the Bcozzy, which we talk more about below .

A closeup of a hand holding the Trtl's cover open to show the lightweight frame inside.

Some testers found the Trtl’s quasi-corseted-turtleneck design off-putting. But then again, no one looks cool wearing any travel pillow. And on that note, the Trtl’s cozy fleece will keep your neck toasty. So if you know you run hot, the Trtl may not be the pillow for you.

Wirecutter’s Ganda Suthivarakom swears by the Trtl: “It packs almost flat, weighs next to nothing, and can be helpful for sleeping even when you are stuck in a middle seat. As someone who is always cold on the plane, I don't mind the whole fleece scarf design, either.”

Trtl has a more padded version of the pillow that claims to be more adjustable; one of our longer-necked staffers tried it and reported that it is indeed more comfortable for him than the original Trtl was. However, the same limitations of the original apply to the new version.

The Bcozzy is another donut-type pillow, but it's longer and thinner, enabling a more coiled configuration.

The Bcozzy is a snakelike spin on the traditional hemi-doughnut that’s perfect for anyone traveling with large headphones or people who tend to nod forward while sleeping and wake themselves up. It lacks the tall, supportive sides of our other picks, but the overlapping front is the perfect height to keep your chin from nodding forward as you doze off. It’s not as supportive on the sides, but this leaves ample room for big headphones.

The Bcozzy’s best advantage is its overlapping circular design, which allows you to adjust the pillow to degrees of personal preference. You can place the overlapping ends of the pillow around any point of your neck (though it only really makes sense in the front or on the sides), and wear the pillow as loose or as tight as you’d like. We think it’s most comfortable when the ends meet right under your neck—and in that position, it cushions your chin better than any other pillow we tested.

The longer, leaner Bcozzy lacks the plush, ensconcing neck support of the Travelrest Ultimate or Cabeau Evolution. It lays so low on your shoulders that it might not even touch your jaw. But this makes the pillow perfect for anyone who likes to wear over-the-ear headphones along with a travel pillow while they sleep on the flight. I personally like to fall asleep to music and drown out the dull roar of an airplane, so the Bcozzy works perfectly for me.

We still think the Travelrest Ultimate is a superior overall hemi-doughnut pillow, but the Bcozzy is an excellent choice if you plan to wear big headphones or know the feeling of that sharp, waking drop when your head falls forward on a plane.

The Bcozzy's small fabric loop for fastening.

The Bcozzy is also one of the least packable pillows, as it doesn’t come with a carrying case and does not compress particularly well. But its 7.4 ounces is around half the weight of the Travelrest or Cabeau, and it does comes with a little loop that clips onto the outside of a backpack or duffel. And even when squished down at the bottom of a bag, it doesn’t take up that much more space than the Travelrest Ultimate or Cabeau.

If you’re a back sleeper who can fall sleep sitting upright in your seat, facing forward, and not need to curl up or lean your head on the airplane window: You may want to try the Posture+ Travel Pillow, which is a U-shaped neck cushion, padded with memory foam, that looks like the back half of a cervical collar. When testing it, we slept surprisingly well, but it won’t suit all (or even most) sleep styles. It’s also not machine-washable, and it is pricy.

If you have a shorter neck and tend to run hot on planes and would prefer a pillow designed to keep you cool: Consider the ventilated Cabeau Evolution Cool —the combination of a silky polyester cover (similar to spandex) and vented design did feel mildly cooler against our necks. And we liked the pillow’s silky feel, packable size, zippered carrying case. But it was significantly smaller than the standard Cabeau Evolution and the Travelrest Ultimate, and it left the chins of long-necked testers totally unsupported. It’s also more expensive—now about $20 more than the Travelrest.

If you always lean to the same side when sleeping: Consider Travelrest’s All-in-One , which has a novel across-the-shoulder design that could be comfortable in such a situation. It has a similar fabric to the company’s winning Ultimate Memory Foam Neck Pillow, but in our tests its bulky inflated tube offered no structured head support, which could pose a problem in bumpy conditions.

If you tend to be a forward-falling head bobber: Consider the Caldera Releaf , which is less travel pillow and more neck brace. It does offer superior neck support, but it constricted the throat too much for our comfort.

The Trtl Pillow Plus , a later addition to the Trtl lineup, is more height-adjustable and has more padding than its older sibling . Our self-described “giraffe-necked” tester said that it did indeed fit him better than the original Trtl had. However, it still supports your head from only one side, making it not a great choice for sleepers who nod forward. It’s also bulkier than the original and costs nearly twice as much.

The Cabeau Evolution S3 is a newer version of our runner-up pick , the Evolution Classic. We liked it, and we think it’s a solid choice if the original Evolution isn’t available. It has added straps that you can hook onto a headrest to keep your head from falling forward while you sleep, but our runner-up pick is softer and slightly thicker, which offers a bit more support. We did find the S3 to be easier to roll up into its carrying case, however.

Intrigued by one of the stranger innovations that we’ve seen in travel pillow design, we tested the Huzi Design Infinity , but we can’t recommend it. Instead of cinching or clasping at the front, it is designed to be looped several times around the wearer’s neck like an infinity scarf. But the pillow failed to support our testers’ necks. Regardless of who tried it, testers found that looping it twice was too loose and thrice was too tight. It was also the largest and least compressible pillow we tested.

The J-Pillow offered a singular, three-pronged design that proved impossible for anyone to figure out without instructions. After some explanation, our testers could wear the pillow correctly, but they still felt that its squishy stuffing offered insufficient support, and only to one side of the head. It’s also impossible to pack away efficiently due to its pyramidal shape. If you want a one-sided pillow, skip this and go for the Trtl instead.

We tested the inexpensive Travelrest Curl because we loved its plush and contoured big cousin, the Travelrest Ultimate. But while the Curl contains the same luxurious memory-foam filling as the Ultimate, the pillow is so small that many testers found that it didn’t even come up to their jaws when worn. It does have an attractive price, but its skimpy size and unsupportive design could support only the shortest of necks.

We found the air-filled Sea to Summit Aeros Traveller Pillow to be similarly lacking. We liked how easy it was to fill—its dual-valve inflation mechanism means it won’t let air out between breaths—and we appreciated that it weighed only about a fifth as much as the Travelrest, but the Travelrest’s 360-degree support made it too hard to go back to an open-ring design that offers no support in the front. Also, one of our former freelance writers recently reported that when she pulled her pillow out of storage, after a few years of not using it, its internal bladder disintegrated in her hands.

This article was edited by Ria Misra and Christine Ryan.

Rebecca Robbins, postdoctoral fellow at the NYU Center for Healthful Behavior Change , phone interview , October 20, 2017

Meet your guide

Sabrina Imbler

Sabrina Imbler is a former staff writer for Wirecutter, where they covered kitchen tools and HVAC.

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Get some quality shut-eye on the go

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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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The best travel pillows for taking on a long flight

By Lauren Burvill and Charley Ward

Best travel pillows 2024 tested by our editors

All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

If you travel regularly you’ve probably learnt to spot the difference between a frequent flyer and a rookie – the most obvious tell-tale sign being a bulky travel pillow, typically carried by an inexperienced flyer, hanging from a backpack or being worn 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 realise 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 recently. Specialised brands like trtl and BCozzy have entered the market, while neck 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.

The best travel pillow to buy in 2024 at a glance

Best overall: Cabeau Evolution S3 Travel Pillow
Best for neck support: Trtl travel pillow
Best for side sleepers: BCozzy neck pillow and Travelrest pillow
Best for price: Ecosafeter portable travel pillow
Best lie flat pillow: Mini Snoooze travel pillow

How we tested the best travel pillows

Every travel neck pillow on this list has been independently tested and reviewed in our office by our editors Charley Ward and Lauren Burvill . Each pillow is then passed on to a member of the wider team to take with them on a flight to further test when travelling. When testing, we look for quality, design features and value for money, as well as overall function and visual appeal.

What are the different types of travel pillow?

There’s a variety of shapes on offer, so think about your personal needs and preferences before making your choice. The main kinds are:

Memory foam travel pillows. These mould to your body in a way that’s far superior to the traditional beanbag styles on offer at the airport. Cabeau Evolution and Kierain do these very well, and Ecosafeter’s version also has a slight hump at the back to help relax your spine.
Body slings. These styles are great for side sleepers, offering full upper body support that you can lean against while you drift off. Travelrest’s inflatable travel pillow is our favourite, which can be worn cross-body or to your side to create a firmer separation between yourself and your neighbour. Dot & Dot does a similar version that can be twisted however suits, so you can use it around your neck, shoulders or even tucked below your lower back, helping to ease whichever area is most achey.
Wraparound neck pillows. These twist around the neck like a scarf, offering double the support of U-shaped designs. They also tend to be cosier as a result. Bcozzy’s has a flat back, to help you keep a better posture, while Huzi’s infinity neck pillow is comfy, soft and scrunchy, allowing you to bunch it up where it suits best.
Neck supports. Travel brand Trtl has been upping the ante lately. The brand's signature fleecy wraparound scarf cleverly hides an internal neck and chin support structure that keeps your neck in the optimum upright sleeping position, even in the middle seat or aisle seat. There’s now an adjustable version, as well, providing extra support for those on the taller side. They come with a carry bag that attaches to your rucksack.
Mini classic pillows . Perfect for adding a bit more comfort when sitting in first or business class seats – and when in your hotel room too. Snoooze does our favourite, which is 100% machine washable and rolls up into a carry bag just 30 by 11cm, so it’ll tuck nicely in your hand luggage when not in use.

See below for our full take on each of the best travel neck pillows available to buy now.

Cabeau Evolution's S3 travel pillow

Best travel pillow for: overall comfort

If you're looking for a basic does-the-job travel pillow, the one below from Kierain is the ideal buy. But if you're looking for a step above in terms of design and comfort, or suffer from neck or back pain, Cabeau's 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 though are the velcro straps at 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 like it: “I tested this pillow when I flew to Mexico City. The foam in it 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 luggage , you’d never even know there was a travel pillow inside." Sarah Allard, digital editor

Kierain’s travel pillow

Best travel pillow for: overall value

Kierain has one of the top-rated and best selling travel pillows on Amazon , and it’s easy to see why. A step above the standard microbead styles, this travel pillow is 100 per cent memory foam with a soft velour cover, plus has an easy-to-use snap closure, making it simple to secure and stay in place.

Why we like it: “The bag it comes in is surprisingly small (about the size of a small wash bag), so it hardly takes up any room in your carry on luggage , which is a real plus. The best part though is the plush and squidgy memory foam. I often find the traditional neck pillows too stiff and constricting, but this one was soft while still giving good support.” Sarah James, deputy digital editor

trtl's original pillow

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 148 grams. 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 like it: “I often feel like most typical travel pillows are too bulky and hard to get comfortable on, so I was keen to try this style when I flew to Vancouver. 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

Trtl Travel Pillow Plus

Best travel pillow for: customised support for your exact requirements

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Trtl has revamped its clever wrap-style neck pillow to accommodate people of all heights more comfortably. The latest iteration is adjustable, to better suit your particular requirements, and the pillow section itself has been given a high-density foam makeover. Trtl’s offering is a lot smaller than standard U-shaped pillows, and weighs a petite 225 grams, so it won’t take up precious space in your hand luggage – or you could use the included clip to attach it to your rucksack .

Why we like it: “I tried both the original and the revamped Trtl pillows on a flight to Japan, and this one definitely proved a more comfortable fit. It does take a bit of fiddling to get it to sit properly, and the fleece wrap is certainly cosy – even a bit too warm at points. Reviews are mixed online, but I think it’s worth taking the time to adjust it correctly as, once I did, it made for a far more comfortable experience than using standard U-shaped neck pillows. For long haul flights in coach, it’s certainly worth a try; I had no neck pain at all when I finally disembarked from the plane.” Charley Ward, commerce writer

Travelrest pillow

Best travel pillow for: upper body support

This clever across-body-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

Our verdict: “This pillow came in handy on a flight to Australia. I really love the shape of this style, 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, commerce editor

Dot&Dot’s twist travel pillow

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 like 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.” Lauren Burvill, commerce editor

Ostrichpillow Go Neck Pillow

Best travel pillow for: ergonomic design with a luxurious feel

Ostrichpillow has a number of interesting travel pillows (are you brave enough to try this napping aid ?), including a genius padded headband -come-eye mask that makes quickly grabbing some shut-eye while leaning against the window actually comfortable. The Go pillow, however, is the brand’s most traditional offering. It has a memory foam core with a velcro closure to ensure a snug fit, no matter the shape or size of your neck. It compresses down impressively small when stored in the included drawstring travel bag, making it easy to bring along in even the smallest cases. It has a removable and washable cover as well.

Why we like it: “It’s really, really soft, and satisfyingly squishy at the same time; the memory foam filling is clearly high-quality. In fact, out of all the travel pillows I’ve tried, this one feels the most luxurious when in use. It kept my neck at a good angle to avoid aches and pains – it was surprisingly supportive, in fact. It’s easy to adjust and I like that the cover can be slung straight in the washing machine, so it’s ready to go for your next trip.” Charley Ward, commerce writer

Ecosafeter’s portable travel pillow

Best travel pillow for: price

The Ecosafeter travel pillow is a memory foam style with a slight “hump” shape that’s designed to help relax the Cervical spine. The design is particularly great for sleeping upright, especially if you suffer from back or neck pain, with added neck support as well as a soft and flexible feel.

Why we like it: “I find it super difficult to sleep upright, which is why I loved the high back and firm cushioned support on this pillow. I took it with me on an overbooked flight with a 2am takeoff and did manage to get some sleep, admittedly in and out, but that’s better than my usual long haul wide-eyed experience.” Sophie Knight, visuals editor

BCozzy's neck pillow

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 like 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 feeling too suffocating." Lauren Burvill, commerce editor

Huzi infinity pillow

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.

Our verdict: “I’d say this pillow is less about neck support and more about soft and cosy 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.” Lauren Burvill, commerce editor

Snoooze travel pillow

Best travel pillow for: lying flat

One for not just the plane but also the hotel, this flat pillow from Snoooze is particularly suited to business or first class passengers flying in a flatbed. Danish designer Ann Sjogreen Sanger worked with scientists, sleep experts and leading UK manufacturers to create the two travel pillows – a full size and mini option. Both are machine washable, come with a soft 100 per cent cotton pillow case and roll up into compact travel bags – the mini fits into a cylindrical bag that’s 30cm by 11cm.

Why we like it: “This pillow feels surprisingly full and thick compared to how compact it can be stored. I always struggle with hotel pillows (they’re often too big and fluffy), but the Snoooze feels firm yet squidgy and helped me get proper deep sleep during a hotel stay in Greece recently. I tested the full size, but think the mini can do the same job if you’re short on carry-on space or would prefer to use a flat pillow to get some sleep in economy.”

Lifeventure inflatable travel pillow

Best travel pillow for: space-saving

You won’t find any bells and whistles with Lifeventure’s inflatable travel pillow, but at £12.99, the price is hard to beat for your standard u-shaped travel pillow. It packs down into a remarkably bijou carrying case and weighs in at just 54 grams. A dual valve makes it easy to blow up very quickly – I inflated it by mouth in two minutes.

Why we like it: “I wasn’t convinced by the idea of an inflatable polyester travel pillow, especially not in comparison to some of the super-soft memory foam numbers I’ve tried (Ostrichpillow cinches it for me in the cosiness stakes). However, I was pleasantly surprised on test. The material is clearly good quality and it provides decent enough neck support when fully inflated. But really, the main plus point of this pillow is how compact and lightweight it is when deflated. It folds down smaller than your average purse. If you have back or neck issues, avoid this one. But if you’re off backpacking, or space in your bag is an especially hot commodity, then this pillow is the one to buy.” Charley Ward, commerce writer

Slip travel pillow

Best travel pillow for: fashionistas

Beauty aficionados will know that silk pillowcases are superior to cotton offerings for those seeking smoother, sleeker hair – studies have shown that its slippery, friction-free surface helps to both tackle frizz and reduce stress on delicate facial skin while you slumber. So why compromise when you’re on a plane? Luxury silk pillowcase brand Slip has used the same 22 momme long fibre mulberry silk for its travel pillow as it does its regular cases, along with a super-dense foam inner that secures around the neck with an adjustable strap for 360-degree support. It’s available to purchase separately or as a set with a matching silk eye mask for an extra cost (currently on sale ).

Why we like it: “This is another unusual option – its vivacious appearance generated some comments in the office upon unboxing. It’s not one for wallflowers; it’s very colourful and one of the largest pillows (if not the largest) we’ve ever seen. Nobody’s going to miss you while you’re wearing it – and if you’re especially petite, it likely won’t suit. Nonetheless, the silky finish feels both luxurious and cooling when around the neck, which doesn’t go amiss on a stuffy aeroplane. The traditional U shape doesn’t reinvent the wheel, but for those seeking a little luxury on long haul flights, this is a welcome treat. Be warned: this pillow isn’t going to squeeze into your suitcase, so bear that in mind, but it gives a high level of support and keeps your neck upright, so a good choice if this is the most comfortable position for you on a plane.” Charley Ward, commerce writer

Snugl travel pillow

Best travel pillow for: versatility

Snugl’s well-designed and thoughtful memory foam travel pillow is available in three sizes to ensure you get the best fit (taking a different approach to Trtl, with its adjustable number above). It’s made from quality, hypoallergenic memory foam with a removable washable cover. There are a selection of colours to choose from, and there’s a carabiner clip to attach the travel bag to your suitcase.

Why we like it: “Don’t be fooled by the chunky appearance – this Snugl pillow packs down into an impressively small bag. It toes the line well between portability and being robust enough to ensure a lack of neck ache when you disembark the plane; this really impressed. But what we like the most is how adjustable it is. There are two straps to secure it around your neck to your preferred tightness, and it’s been created to comfortably sit around your neck in either a conventional, reversed, forward facing or shoulder-facing arrangement to accommodate your sleeping style – a real plus for me as a side-sleeper.” Charley Ward, commerce writer

The Best Travel Pillows for Long-Haul Flights

By Lauren Burvill

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 (wrongly) 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 recently. 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.

How we choose 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 top picks:

Best overall travel pillow: Cabeau Evolution S3 travel pillow
Best for neck support: Trtl travel pillow
Best for side sleepers: BCozzy neck pillow
Best budget buy: Dot & Dot Twist memory foam travel 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: 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: 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: 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: flexibility

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: 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

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.

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

This article was originally published on Condé Nast Traveller UK .

The 10 Best Travel Pillows of 2024, Tested by Gear Experts

Elevate your flying experience with a good place to rest your head.

Our product picks are editor-tested, expert-approved. We may earn a commission through links on our site. Why Trust Us?

We at MH are always testing the latest travel products, and the one item we're always looking for new developments in are travel pillows. Like your favorite pillow at home, the best travel pillow is going to fit unique to your sleeping habits, which is why we went and tested a wide range of travel pillows that will appeal to all types of individuals.

Best Travel Pillow for Long Trips

Pluto pod travel pillow.

Best Overall Travel Pillow

Trtl travel pillow.

Best Travel Pillow Under $30

Mlvoc travel pillow 100% pure memory foam neck pillow.

Aside from a stiff drink, a travel pillow is the one item that makes flying tolerable. A good travel pillows is soft, supportive ( memory foam is a good start), long-lasting, and easily packable. Not sure which one is right for you? We've done the legwork to round up the best travel pillows so far this year.

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Since we first got our hands on the Pluto POD to test earlier this year, the travel pillow gets on average one positive comment per trip through the airport. We've even gotten comments from flight attendants on how much they like the design! For starters the POD looks like something out of science fiction, and that's not done by accident. What the POD does is act as a sensory deprivation mask along with being a travel pillow, resulting in something almost entirely different than your average travel pillow. With all that being said, the POD has helped us power through cross country flights of 5+ hours like a champ.

The overall design is larger than most travel pillows, which may dissuade some. However it does pack up to an impressive carrying size that still fits in a travel backpack or carry-on . Why the large size? Well for one the neck support is firm and allows the wearer to wrap it as tight or as loose as they'd like in order to get the right head positioning. The hood is also large, as it extends out over the top of the head to fully immerse yourself into the pillow. The hood keeps the pull down eye mask inside: it's a legit eye mask, meaning it's not too thin or flimsy.

The POD is a bit bigger in size than most of the travel pillows on this list, which is why it might not be the ultimate best for taking on short excursions. But for long trips we have yet to find a pillow that's better. As for price, you won't regret making the investment on the POD. Grab one now before stock sells out.

The Trtl Pillow upends the traditional concept of bulky, bean-filled travel pillows. It’s a one-of-a-kind design that wraps around your neck like a scarf. A built-in inner “rib” contours the jaw, neckline, and shoulder, so it supports your head unlike any travel pillow we tested. That’s made it a favorite among some of the biggest names in the travel industry. It’s thin, lightweight, and packs down small, making it perfect for travel. If you’re inclined to drool while you sleep (no judgment), it’s also machine-washable.

It's true there might be a couple of other travel pillows with as good of comfort (if not better) but when you consider the unmatched portability the Trtl still takes the cake as our best travel pillow of 2023.

Cabeau Evolution TNE S3 Travel Pillow

Cabeau makes a number of high quality travel pillows, and the TNE S3 is the latest iteration of its top selling product. The pillow's memory foam core has been a favorite from Cabeau fans for the past few years now as a trusted go-to for flying. This updated TNE S3 comes with a seat strap that will help you lock in the travel pillow, and a unique chin strap design that allows you to hold your head up in place for a secure sleep position.

This pillow is great for those who are prone to getting a sore neck when sleeping on a plane. It's also a solid option for those who are constantly finding themselves shifting their travel pillow around to get in a preferred spot. The one downside we found when testing is the pillow's design can push up on the ears and shift your earbuds around, which can be annoying for those who like to wear AirPods on the place.

J-Pillow Chin Supporting Travel Pillow

J-Pillow’s Chin Supporting Travel Pillow is unlike any other on the market. That’s because it’s purpose-built to support your head and neck while traveling. The design isn’t for everyone and can take some getting used to. But, if you find traditional travel pillows aren’t supportive enough, we think this is a great alternative. The plush headrest is extremely comfortable, and the cushy design compresses smaller than typical U-shaped travel pillows. While many travel pillows boast only a washable cover, the entire J-Pillow can be thrown in the washer and tumble-dried, ensuring it’s hypoallergenic.

Our testers found the J-Pillow works best when laying it up on a window, whether it be a car, train, or plane. The downside is we believe there are other pillows that might be more comfortable when resting standalone, with no window to add support.

Cabeau Evolution Cooling Travel Pillow

If you run hot—even on freezing cold flights—Cabeau’s aptly named Evolution Cooling Travel Pillow helps keep you cool while napping. The ventilated mesh neck vents ensure better airflow than any pillow on this list, making this an especially great alternative for long-haul flights. With a memory foam core, this model offers excellent head and neck support. The thin, lightweight design packs down smaller than traditional travel pillows, so it’s well-sized for tossing into a carry-on.

Some travelers may find that the wraparound design feels more like a neck brace than a neck pillow . Unfortunately, these unique features come with a price, as this is among the most expensive options on this list.

Ostrich Pillow Go Neck Pillow

Ostrichpillow has long been a favorite among travelers in the know. The Ostrichpillow Go, in particular, features a unique, swooping design with the best neck support of any pillow we’ve tested. It’s also height-customizable so travelers can adjust to their preferred comfort level. The soft cover feels great against the skin and is removable for easy machine-washing. It packs down to less than half of its full size to slip effortlessly into the included carry bag, making it ideal for travel.

One qualm we had when testing was it felt quite heavy, weighing nearly a full pound.

Wise Owl Outfitters Memory Foam Travel Pillow

Whether sleeping at home, in a tent, or on a plane, memory foam is our go-to pillow type. Wise Owl Outfitters’ Memory Foam Pillow features a memory foam core that’s soft yet supportive enough for window-seat naps in-flight. The plush micro-suede cover provides the perfect surface to rest your face and is machine-washable to boot. And because the design packs down incredibly small into the included stuff sack, it’s a great pillow for travel, camping, and any adventure in-between.

It’s available in two sizes: Small (12 x 16 inches) or Medium (14 x 18 inches), so you can choose the right one for your travel style.

OPTP The Original McKenzie

Travel pillows needn’t be just for sleeping. The Original McKenzie Self-Inflating AirBack Lumbar Support Pillow from OPTP makes any airplane seat, whether in coach or First Class, even more comfortable. Once properly inflated, it more than doubles in size for additional support for your lower back or anywhere you need it really. The built-in twist valve allows for fine-tuning the inflation to your comfort level. It packs down to just 8 x 3 inches, small enough for even the most compact carry-on bag.

We also love that the design is versatile enough to use just about anywhere and even rest your head on like a typical camp or travel pillow.

TETON Sports Camp Pillow

Travel pillows are often air- or bead-filled, so they can feel strange compared to your pillow at home. Not so with Teton Sports’ Camp Pillow. There are no fancy inner ribs or self-inflating features with this one. It’s a straightforward pillow, much like the one you probably already sleep on, only smaller. That design makes it immediately comfortable in almost any position, though it’s not as supportive as others on this list. It is, however, extremely packable, lofts up on its own (with no inflation necessary), and is machine-washable. Plus, at less than $20, it’s the cheapest pillow on this list.

What to Look for in a Travel Pillow

Shopping for travel pillows isn’t much different than shopping for traditional bed pillows. When we spent the past two months testing each travel pillow, we considered these features:

Firmness : As with typical bed pillows, travel pillows range from soft (plush) to medium to extra-firm. The right one for you is a matter of personal preference.
Core construction : The core of most travel pillows is either memory foam, air-filled, or bead-filled.
Size & packability : How small does the travel pillow pack down? Will it fit in or clip on a carry-on travel bag? Consider whether the packed size fits into your travel style.
Washability : Is the entire pillow machine-washable? Or just the outer cover?
Price: In our experience, you shouldn’t need to spend more than $40-60 on a great travel pillow unless it's truly exceptional (like the Pluto POD). A quality travel pillow can be had for around $30.

Do Travel Pillows Count As a “Personal Item” for Air Travelers?

The short answer is: Sometimes . It’s up to the discretion of TSA agents. In our experience, if you carry your travel pillow in your hand through airport security or onto the plane, TSA and gate agents are more likely to count it as a personal item. We recommend wearing it around your neck, where it’s more likely to be overlooked.

How We Tested

We tested and thoroughly researched two dozen travel pillows for this roundup. We noted everything, including firmness levels, packability, durability, ease of washing, and, of course, price. The list above represents our honest opinions on the best travel pillows for travelers to shop in 2023.

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Best Travel Pillows

Whether you’re boarding an overnight flight or riding shotgun on a road trip, a supportive travel pillow can be the perfect companion for sleepers on the go. But with so many options out there, how are you supposed to know which is the best travel pillow for you? Well buckle up, folks, because we’re about to show you!

So keep reading to explore our top five favorite travel pillows, all of which we’ve personally tested. Plus, we’ll impart some expert tips and tricks for finding the travel pillow that best suits your body, budget, and lifestyle. Let’s get started.

Best Travel Pillows 2024 – Our Top 5

Best Overall – trtl Travel Pillow Plus
Best Travel Pillow for Chin Support – J-Pillow
Most Comfortable Travel Pillow – BCOZZY Travel Pillow
Best Travel Pillow for Car Trips – Cabeau Evolution Cool Pillow
Best Inflatable Travel Pillow – Travelrest Nest Memory Foam Pillow

Best Travel Pillows Video Review

Best Overall Travel Pillow – trtl Travel Pillow Plus

Trtl pillow plus.

The trtl Travel Pillow Plus takes the neck support and comfort of the original trtl Travel Pillow to the next level!

Sleepopolis Score

First up on our list is the trtl Travel Pillow Plus, a perfect pick for those in need of extra head and neck support.

This pillow is the best at promoting healthy posture in an upright position. It features a scarf-like design and internal plastic support system that work in tandem to prevent your head and neck from deviating out of alignment.

While it’s true that the trtl travel pillow’s brace-like feature is quite different from the U-shaped models you might be used to, the plastic insert is less likely to compress as compared to foam , polyester, or other softer materials. Essentially, the hard yet flexible plastic serves to hold your head, neck, and spine in a safe and comfortable position no matter how long your journey may be.

Oh, and don’t worry — you can’t actually feel the plastic against your skin, as it’s buried beneath two thick pieces of memory foam. Plus, it’s compact, weighs less than a pound , and is super easy to stow on the go.

Price: $98.99, with a 60-day return policy.

Perfect For: Sleepers looking for a travel pillow that’s supportive enough for a long haul .

For all the details on this unique accessory, check our full trtl Travel Pillow Plus review .

Best Travel Pillow for Chin Support – J-Pillow

J-pillow travel pillow.

The J-Pillow Travel Pillow is designed to provide simultaneous support in three different areas: the head, the neck, and the chin.

Shoppers wanting a pillow prioritizing chin support might be particularly well-suited to the J-Pillow, available both on the company site and Amazon.

With its signature J-shaped design, this pillow has three sections built for three simultaneous areas of support. The first cushioned section is designed to prop up the head, the second braces the neck, and the third supports the chin.

The J-Pillow ensures that your chin doesn’t fall and that your neck remains in alignment with the rest of your spine, regardless of how long your journey is. It’s specifically designed for overnight airplane travel. As an added benefit, the J-Pillow is extremely portable. It even comes with its own travel bag .

Of course, you don’t just have to use this pillow for travel. It’s perfectly capable of at-home usage, whether you’re watching TV in bed or resting on the couch. And for those interested in traveling or lounging in style, there are three color options to choose from: black and grey, dark blue, and silver grey.

Price: $39, w ith a 30-day return policy.

Perfect For: Sleepers looking for a versatile travel pillow that emphasizes neck alignment and chin support.

Our full review coming soon. For more options, see our roundup for the best pillows for neck pain .

Most Comfortable Travel Pillow – BCOZZY Pillow

Bcozzy neck pillow.

The BCOZZY pillow provides great chin support for amazing alignment while you travel!

Some travel pillows simply get the job done in terms of support, but if you’re really wanting optimal comfort, the BCOZZY travel pillow is the right pick for you.

This pillow features an ergonomic, circle-like design that can be used in three main ways: You can wrap it around your neck for excellent chin support , turn it to one side for head support, or fold it in half and tuck it between your head and shoulder for a little extra loft. This level of versatility makes it comfortable for sleepers of many preferences.

While there’s comfort in the design, there’s also comfort in the materials. It features a dual-sided cover fabric wherein one side is a fuzzy fleece material, and the other is made from smooth microfiber. Meanwhile, its polyester fiber fill is plush yet supportive, and does a great job of maintaining its shape.

One of our favorite things about this pillow is how small and portable it is, making it perfect for folks on the go. You can tuck it in your carry-on, loop it around your suitcase handle, or just wear it around your neck like a scarf.

Price: $35-$45, depending on size.

Perfect For: Sleepers looking for a cozy travel pillow that prioritizes comfort.

Our full review is coming soon, but in the mean time we encourage you to check out our best memory foam pillows for more comfortable options.

Best Travel Pillow for Car Trips – Cabeau Evolution Cool Pillow

Cabeau evolution cooling travel pillow.

The Cabeau Travel Pillow provides great neck support while also keeping travellers from overheating on their journey!

Not everyone prefers to travel by plane. So if you’re partial to car trips, we’d love to point you in the direction of the Cabeau Evolution Cool Pillow.

The feature that stood out to us were the straps on the back of the pillow. This allows you to attach the pillow to the headrest of your car. You won’t have to worry about it sliding out of place during your trip, making it less likely that you’ll be disturbed.

Th is pillow features a U-shaped design with angled sides for enhanced head and neck support . What sets it apart, though, is its ability to be adjusted for customized comfort. Depending on how tight or loose you’d like it to fit around your neck, simply adjust the clasps on each side of the “U.”

Covered in a moisture-wicking blend of Spandex and polyester and filled with ventilated memory foam, every part of this pillow was made with hot sleepers in mind . This is especially useful if you’re roadtripping in the summer months. This pillow also comes with its own carrying case and earplugs for a cozy, quiet journey.

Price: $40, with a 30-day return policy.

Perfect For: Anyone traveling by car for long periods, or anyone wanting a quality cooling pillow.

Our full review is coming soon. See our roundup for the best orthopedic pillows for other good options.

Best Inflatable Travel Pillow – Travelrest Nest Memory Foam Pillow

Travelrest nest memory foam pillow.

The Travelrest Nest Pillow is a great option for the memory foam lover on the go!

If you’re a traveler who’s looking for a convenient, space-saving option, consider the Travelrest Nest Memory Foam Pillow. This inflatable option compacts into a small size so you can easily stow it in your carry-on or purse. As a little bonus, this pillow comes with its own carrying case and set of earplugs.

Th is pillow as a U-shaped design and, as the name suggests, is filled with a thick piece of memory foam. It offers a very moldable feel , and does a great job of conforming to the precise contours of your neck, chin, and jawline. If you love the way memory foam responds to pressure, this might be the travel pillow for you.

Additionally, the sides of the pillow are slightly raised in order to keep your head and neck comfortably supported, while the back of the pillow is angled to conform to your seat . In our experience, this angled back allowed us to sit up straight and not be pushed forward in any way.

Oh, and did we mention that it’s covered in the softest velour fabric ? Honestly, this might be our favorite part of the pillow . We’d like to think anyone prioritizing comfort would agree.

Price: $40, with a 30-day return policy.

Perfect For: Sleepers valuing the convenience of an inflatable travel pillow .

For more pillows available on Amazon, see our roundup for the best pillows on Amazon .

Methodology: How To Shop For A Travel Pillow

Now that we’ve shown you our favorite travel pillows, let’s take some time to show you how they were selected. When you’re shopping for the travel pillow that’ll meet your unique needs, it’s important to pay attention to portability, materials, and shape. So let’s take a look at each of these factors below:

Portability

When you’re wading through airports and bus terminals, the last thing you want is a travel pillow that’s big, bulky, and hard to carry. That’s why we aim for models that are easily folded or tucked away inside luggage.

That said, online shoppers should pay attention to the specific dimensions of a travel pillow (typically listed under “product description”) in order to get a sense for its size. Of course, if you’re shopping in-stores, take some time to see how easy it is to pack inside your purse or carry around the aisles.

We like to pick travel pillows that come with their own carrying case, and we’ll take a look at examples of that in a moment.

The next thing we consider is the specific materials used to make a travel pillow. Like regular bed pillows, they come in a variety of fabrics and materials, and each one offers its own feel and support. That said, it’s important to think about what type of support you’re looking for.

For example, memory foam travel pillows (arguably the most popular) typically provide a more moldable feel with contouring support. This might be ideal for sleepers in the market for something more dense or supportive.

On the other hand, travel pillows filled with polyester (probably the second most popular option) offer a fluffier, plush feel. This comes in handy for folks wanting to fold their travel pillow, as polyester fiber is easy to manipulate.

Lastly, hot sleepers might want to prioritize cover fabrics that are breathable or moisture-wicking. Polyester, spandex, and anything bamboo-based are all wonderful examples of lightweight, airy fabrics commonly used to cover travel pillows. For extra breathability, aim for travel pillows that feature a ventilated construction.

The materials used to make a travel pillow say a lot about its overall feel and support, but so does its shape. Most of you may be familiar with U-shaped travel pillows (frequently found in airport gift shops), and they’re popular for good reason. Travel pillows with a U-shaped design are compact, easy to pack in a suitcase, and offer great neck support.

But nowadays, travel pillows come in a plethora of shapes and sizes, all of which offer their own special benefits. While U-shaped pillows may be ideal for sleepers who like to rest their head from side to side , they can sometimes be lacking in chin support. If chin support is your primary concern, we suggest picking a C-shaped pillow that can be tucked beneath your chin or jaw .

Meanwhile, some sleepers might prefer a travel pillow that can be fully wrapped around the neck for a little extra security. I’ll admit that this is my favorite style, as scarf-like designs offer head, neck, and chin support all in one . Plus, some have a versatile, infinity scarf-like shape that can be looped and wrapped in different ways for different types of support. Ultimately, it’s important to take some time to consider what shape works best for your body.

Using a travel pillow can help you sleep better when you’re on the go and, perhaps more importantly, can prevent your head and neck from deviating out of neutral alignment while you snooze.

No, most commercial airlines do not consider travel pillows to be carry-on items. That said, it’s always a good idea to find a travel pillow that’s easy to pack in a suitcase or purse.

A versatile travel pillow that can be used to support different parts of your body is ideal for long flights. For example, a pillow that can serve as neck, chin, and back support might keep you feeling cozier for longer. Additionally, we suggest aiming for pillows that are filled with more firmly supportive materials, as they’re less likely to compress over time.

Final Thoughts

Well, sleepers, you’ve seen my top five favorite travel pillows and you’re well on your way to picking the perfect one. And as you carefully consider every last detail, don’t forget to keep a close eye on size, shape, and materials in order to find the best fit. Oh, and be sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the answers to all your sleep needs.

Lauren Hapgood

5 Best Travel Pillows for 2024

Last Updated on May 14, 2024

Written by Julia Forbes

Written by Julia Forbes, Lead Product Tester

Our testing process.

Here at Sleep Advisor, our Sleep Certified experts use a refined mattress and product testing process to give you unbiased product suggestions… Read our full product review process .

.st0{clip-path:url(#SVGID_00000046340743257271907690000000964648354283835324_);} In This Article

To ensure an exceptional travel experience, it’s essential to have the finest travel pillow. Discover the top 5 products to enhance your journey.

Travel opens up new horizons and shows you the beauties of the world, but the process itself can be quite stressful and uncomfortable. This is especially true if you’re stuck on a plane for six to eight hours. However, sleeping can help pass the time on a long journey.

Of course, sleeping upright on a plane isn’t ideal—but bringing along a great travel pillow could make things easier for you.

That’s where I come in. I’ll share some top travel pillow picks so you can find something to take on your next trip and sleep with ease.

The Best Travel Pillows: My Top 5 Picks

Editor’s Pick – Cabeau Evolution S3
Best Travel Pillow for Long Flights – BCOZZY Neck Pillow
Best Travel Neck Pillow – trtl Travel Pillow
Best Inflatable Travel Pillow – TRAVELREST Ultimate Travel Pillow
Best Memory Foam Travel Pillow – TravelMate Memory Foam Neck Pillow

My Video Review of The Best Travel Pillows

The Best Travel Pillows, Reviewed

Editor’s pick.

Cabeau Evolution S3 Travel Pillow

A fresh take on the classic wraparound travel pillow, the Cabeau Evolution S3 supports your head and neck from all sides.

Sleep Advisor Score

Why the cabeau evolution s3 earned editor’s pick.

The Cabeau Evolution S3 has an appropriate name, as this is a highly evolved neck pillow with all the right stuff for comfortable travel. At first blush, it has the same horseshoe shape that you’ve seen many times before. But it’s the subtle upgrades—like the raised side cushions, the headrest straps, and the sturdy feel of the foam—that earned it the title of best travel pillow overall.

What I Liked

No lolling to the side – The Cabeau’s chunky design is intentional: it gives you 360-degree head support. When I tilted my head to the side, it didn’t lean very far at all. Instead, it was supported by the raised cushions on the left and right.
Headrest straps – The straps on the back of this pillow enable you to attach it to the headrest of your seat, so it shouldn’t slip down as you snooze.

Potential Drawbacks

Shrinks to half its size but no more – Because this is a memory foam travel pillow, it won’t shrink down for storage as much as an inflatable one. It compresses quite a bit to fit in a convenient carrying case, though.

Best Travel Pillow for Long Flights

BCOZZY Neck Pillow

A flexible travel pillow that can be wrapped and bent into cozy shapes that accommodate different sleeping positions.

Why BCOZZY Neck Pillow Earned Best Travel Pillow for Long Flights

If you’re going to spend hours on a plane, you’ll want a travel pillow that can support your neck in a variety of positions. The BCOZZY is a super flexible option that looks almost like a warm scarf, but has lots of built-in support.

You can wrap it fully around your neck if you’re going to be leaning forward, or pile it on top of itself if you’d like to lean on it to your left or right. I had a lot of fun testing all the possible variations with this one!

Flexible – You can modify the BCOZZY depending on where you need the most support (your chin, your neck, or the side of your head). This comes in handy if you’re a restless sleeper on planes, or if you have multiple flights with different kinds of seats on each.
Lots of colors and sizes – There’s a full rainbow of colors to choose from with this travel pillow, as well as both kid and adult sizes to fit a wide range of necks.
May need lots of adjusting – If you struggle to find just the right position when you sleep, you may need to work a bit to arrange the BCOZZY around your neck. The velcro that keeps it closed and stable also limits how tight or loose it can be.

Best Travel Neck Pillow

trtl Pillow

A scarf-like travel pillow with pleasantly bracing neck and head support.

Why the trtl Travel Pillow Earned Best Travel Neck Pillow

A sore neck can definitely put a damper on your vacation. For awesome neck support during travel, I recommend the trtl—a travel pillow with some of the best neck support I’ve encountered so far. The support comes from a specially designed “flipper” inside the pillow’s fabric, which should hold your chin up and bolster your head, keeping your airway clear and your spinal alignment ideal.

Really reliable neck support – Because this pillow has a more robust support system than most, it felt like it would hold my neck and head up securely for long periods of time.
Extremely lightweight – The trtl is easy to fold up and store once you take the support flipper out of it, and it weighs next to nothing.
A bit more costly – At around $60, this travel pillow is one of the more expensive options on this list. But its design is so different—and so effective—that I think it’s priced pretty fairly.

Best Inflatable Travel Pillow

Travelrest Ultimate Travel Pillow

A long inflatable travel pillow that enables users to “side sleep” even when they don’t have a window seat or ledge to rest on.

Why the TRAVELREST Ultimate Travel Pillow Earned Best Inflatable Travel Pillow

Compared to the other travel pillows on this list, the TRAVELREST Ultimate Travel Pillow looks quite unique. It has a long, tapering design that can go across or next to your entire upper body, allowing you to lean to one side even if you didn’t get the window seat on your flight. (You can also hug it for an extra feeling of security!)

Lots of coverage – This pillow almost felt like it was holding me while it was also supporting my head and neck. It’s the only pillow I tried that extended all the way across my torso.
Big when inflated, tiny when stored – Even though it inflates to an impressive height, when it’s deflated, this travel pillow rolls up neatly and discreetly.
You have to inflate it yourself – Before you can use this travel pillow, you’ll have to inflate it. But I found that it only took a few hearty breaths before it was ready to go.

Best Memory Foam Travel Pillow

TravelMate Neck Support Travel Pillow

A memory foam travel pillow with a removable insert that adjusts its thickness and feel.

Why the TravelMate Memory Foam Neck Pillow Earned Best Memory Foam Travel Pillow

If you like the luxurious feel of memory foam, TravelMate has a portable pillow that should feel indulgent while you’re on a plane or in the car. Although it looks like a classic travel pillow, it has a bonus customization feature: a removable foam insert that changes its thickness and feel. I enjoyed the soft feel of its washable cover almost as much my neck and head appreciated the plush foam inside.

Budget-friendly for memory foam – This travel pillow is often on sale and costs a bit less than most of the others I tested for this roundup. That said, its foam still feels soft and luxurious.
Elastic strap – A small elastic strap on the side of the pillow means it’s easy to clip it to your luggage or backpack.
No bells and whistles – With the exception of its removable insert, this travel pillow doesn’t have any features that break the mold. If you’re looking for a more innovative model, revisit the travel pillows above.

Who Should Consider Buying a Travel Pillow?

A travel pillow is a small pillow you can take with you on trips to help you sleep during the journey. Travel pillows help support the head and neck for those times when you have to sleep upright. Because they’re designed specifically for traveling, they often have a unique shape or design that works for this purpose.

Travel pillows are excellent for those who travel often, as well as anyone who likes to sleep while en route to their destination.

How to Choose a Travel Pillow

An airplane pillow could make the difference between a relaxed sleep throughout your flight and an uncomfortable struggle that leaves you tired and with a strained neck.

If you’re unsure of what to look for in a travel pillow, I’ll guide you through specific features and qualities you need to know in the selection process.

Inflatable or Not?

Inflatable travel pillows tend to be far more convenient in terms of portability as they take up little to no space in your luggage or backpack. This is the main reason why a lot of people prefer them. At the same time, though, they tend to allow air to get out and flatten out quickly upon applying continuous pressure.

Noninflatable pillows, on the other hand, tend to be bulkier and more challenging to carry as they take up more space. However, the upside to these ones is that many of them are made of conforming memory foam , which is particularly comfortable and supportive.

In other words – it’s a trade-off based on your preferences. If you want to get something portable and you’re willing to sacrifice some of the stability, go for an inflated unit and vice versa.

This would depend on the neck pillow that you’d want to get. Inflatable travel pillows are usually made of polyurethane-based materials, which are easily folded and packaged. They are soft and very comfortable.

On the other hand, the wide majority of non-inflated airplane travel pillows are made out of conforming memory foam. They deliver better comfort and support to your neck, and most of them are going to capture the unintentional tilting of your head in every direction when you sleep in a sitting position.

Neck Support

This is the single, most important thing that you would have to take into account when you are purchasing an airplane pillow. Unless you have the luxury that comes with expensive first-class exclusive tickets to have a bed on board, you would have to sleep in a sitting position.

This is going to make your head tilt with the natural movements of the plane or any other type of transportation method. As such, the most pressure throughout your sleep would be forced on your neck. That’s why you should be looking for a pillow that’s going to deliver enhanced neck support.

If you also need this at home, check out our top-quality pillows for neck pain .

Airplane Sleep Position

Your sleeping position is going to be determined by the type of travel pillow you decide on. Some people prefer to rest their head on the back headrest, and they would benefit the most from a regular, u-shaped neck pillow.

Others tend to tilt their head quite a lot and could be better off with a pillow that’s capable of capturing forward tilting motions as well.

Long or Short Flight?

If you’re going on a longer flight, you might benefit more from an inflated neck travel pillow as it would take little to no space in your baggage. The assumption is that you’d have to take quite a lot of personal items, and the last thing you’d want is to get half of your suitcase filled with a pillow.

On the other hand, if the flight’s shorter and you can afford to take less luggage, you might consider a non-inflated and bulkier neck pillow.

Some people also opt to wear their noninflatable pillow around their neck to save space in their luggage.

Feel & Comfort

Comfort is always important when traveling, especially if you plan on sleeping during the ride. If you need a firm pillow for optimal comfort, then you want to make sure your pillow has this quality.

Along with overall comfort, you should also consider the pillow’s feel. Do you usually prefer softer pillows with more sinkage or firmer models that offer more support? Think about the materials and how they might feel on the skin.

Having a set budget helps narrow down the options because there are many travel pillows out there. Some are more expensive than others, so having an idea of how much you’re willing to spend can make it easier to choose. Luckily, the market is also packed with affordable options, so you don’t have to break the bank to have a comfortable travel pillow for your traveling.

Trial, Warranty, & Return Policy

Many travel pillows come with a trial, allowing you to test how they fit your needs and preferences for a certain period. This can be anywhere between 30 and 90 days, depending on the particular pillow and brand.

However, you should also read the fine print in case you need to return the item. Some companies allow free returns, while others require you to pay a return fee.

Generally, travel pillows come with a warranty that usually lasts at least a year. Again, you should verify this before purchasing anything in the event of a product defect.

Cleaning & Care

How you’ll clean your new travel pillow depends on the particular pillow you buy. In other words, not all travel pillows require the same cleaning and care because they’re not made from the same materials.

Some models have a removable, machine-washable cover, while others allow spot-cleaning only. Nonetheless, most models are easy to clean.

Types of Pillows for Travel

Inflatable pillow – This pillow is available in various shapes, but the fact that it’s inflatable makes it extra convenient. You can inflate it within minutes, and it takes up minimal space when deflated.
U-shaped pillow – U-shaped pillows are the traditional, most commonly used option. This is a versatile pillow that works for leaning against the window or sleeping on the tray table.
Foam pillow – This pillow comes in various shapes but has a foam filling that makes it firmer and gives you more support for those bumpy rides.
Bead pillow – A bead pillow has microbeads that give it a softer structure. It’s available in many shapes, including a U shape.
Ergonomic pillow – An ergonomic pillow is designed for maximum support and comfort, especially around the neck area. These are excellent for long trips.

Best Travel Pillow FAQs

Yes, travel pillows can be helpful for kids, who should get great neck support from them to prevent strain or injury. There are even some travel pillows specially designed for kids.

People who sit next to the window have the advantage of something to lean their head on, even though the window isn’t exactly the most comfortable choice. However, if you’re in the middle or aisle seat, you should definitely get a pillow to support your neck since the head has nothing else to lean on.

Yes, you could experience neck pain if you purchase an inappropriate or low-quality travel pillow for your flight. Ideally, whichever pillow you choose should at least give you adequate neck support.

My Final Thoughts

Failing to get the most appropriate travel pillow for you might result in strain and stiffness. With this in mind, if you pay attention to what’s been mentioned above, you shouldn’t have any issues.

Most importantly, your travel pillow should be able to support your head enough to prevent neck strain, but it’s also helpful to look at other qualities, such as whether or not it’s inflatable and the materials it’s made of.

A great travel pillow can be a lifesaver for those long flights when you have nothing to rest your head against, and it gives you a better shot of actually sleeping through the trip.

Julia Forbes

Lead Product Tester

About Author

Julia is the Lead Reviewer at Sleep Advisor, specializing in testing out mattresses and sleep accessories – she’s in the right line of work, because she loves to sleep.

Stomach Sleeper

Sources & References:

How To Travel the World Without Jet lag – ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

10 Best Travel Pillows of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Feel comfy and supported whether you're sitting in a window, middle or aisle seat.

the 10 best travel pillows of 2023, tested and reviewed

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

Our top picks:

Best Overall Travel Neck Pillow

Cabeau evolution s3.

Best Value Travel Pillow

Cabeau evolution classic.

Best Organic Travel Pillow

Avocado organic toddler pillow.

Depending on the airline and type of flight, you may be given a travel pillow. But these aren't always the best pillows to rest your head on while you close your eyes. If you are a frequent traveler, investing in your own travel pillow may be worth it, especially for flights when you are in the middle or aisle. That said, shopping for a new pillow isn't always the easiest, which is why we've rounded up the best pillows for travel , including organic pillows , neck pillows and budget-friendly options, based on extensive research and our own expert testing in the Good Housekeeping Institute .

After browsing our recommendations, we suggest checking out our favorite travel gear on Amazon and consulting our guide to washing pillows , just in case you spill your coffee or juice mid-flight.

This isn't your typical travel neck pillow, as its memory foam fill holds its shape better than similar neck pillow styles.

Our pros found that the pillow really does keep your neck from tilting too far to the side. You can attach the adjustable straps to any headrest, whether it's on an airplane or in the car. We appreciate its more substantial size compared to other options on the market, although this means it's a bit bulkier.

However, it comes with a travel bag the manufacturer claims compresses the pillow down to half its size. Plus, you can attach the bag to your suitcase so you can save room for souvenirs. Although this is our top-rated pick for a travel neck pillow, it isn't the most versatile.

Fill material: Memory foam | Machine washable cover: Yes | Features: Adjustable straps; travel bag

For a less expensive option also by popular brand Cabeau, try its Evolution Classic for under $30. Similar to the S3, this model has a memory foam fill — but doesn't have straps for attaching it to a headrest.

Adjustable front clasps, however, lend support to the head and neck. You'll appreciate the machine washable cover for quick cleaning, and a hidden storage compartment for earbuds or earplugs . The pillow has a 4.3-star rating on Amazon and over 1.9k online customer reviews praising how comfortable it is. Some comment they have bought it for other frequent travelers in their lives.

A few reviews note that the pillow can be too big depending on how tall you are. Still, for the price and support provided, it's a winner.

Fill materials: Memory foam, polyester, cotton | Machine washable cover: Yes | Features: Adjustable front clasps; hidden storage compartment

You may be surprised to learn that a toddler-sized pillow is typically the same size as a travel one. We tested Avocado's Toddler Pillow which is the same as their travel pillow. Avocado uses organic and high quality materials, which is one reason we love the brand and have included its Green Mattress in a roundup of the best organic mattresses .

Like its popular mattress, Avocado's travel pillow is GOTS certified organic . It's also made with latex rather than memory foam, a synthetic material often used in travel pillows. Latex is made from natural resources and tends to be more resilient than foam. The fill is a blend of latex and kapok fiber, a natural material that has a silky feel.

Bedding expert Lexie Sachs , the executive director of the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab, says this pillow is indeed super comfy, and an almost perfect five-star rating online suggests customers agree. Numerous reviews note the high quality; one customer writes, "this pillow is really nice, soft, comfortable and the perfect size for using as an extra pillow for legs or whatever is needed."

Fill material: Latex, kapok fiber | Machine washable cover: Yes | Features: GOTS certified organic material

Trtl Travel Pillow

The design of this travel pillow may give infinity scarf vibes, but its unique design is meant for neck support. Available in four colors and weighing the same as an apple , according to the brand, this pillow is made from soft fleece and has an internal support system that helps keep your head and neck in an upright position.

We appreciate how lightweight it is, as you can easily pack it in your carry-on luggage . To wash, simply remove the support system and toss the wrap in the wash — no need to remove the cover first like some u-shaped travel pillows.

It has over 32K Amazon reviews, including one customer writing they used it on a recent 22-hour flight and were able to fall asleep for the first time sitting up. They add that while the fleece material keeps you warm in oftentimes cold flights, it may be too warm for those who run hot.

Fill material: N/A | Machine washable: Yes | Features: Soft fleece material

Ostrich Original Travel Pillow

What sets this pillow apart from others is its light-blocking capability that proved to be effective in our testing . Its design may look kind of silly at a first glance, but the full-head structure with a mouth opening is meant to reduce ambient light and sound while letting you breath easy.

There are openings for your hands to rest on top of your head when leaning over. The pillow creates a cozy cocoon you can escape to whether you are at the office or on the plane in a middle seat. A caveat is the manufacturer recommends you spot clean the pillow with mild soap and water and then dry thoroughly, rather than tossing it in the washer and dryer.

It definitely has a strange design, but hundreds of online reviews say it does what it is meant to do. One happy reviewer writes, "I love pillows, and this does fall into that category. Although it's a bit awkward, it is very soft. For long car rides it would be a very good choice."

Fill material: Microbeads | Machine washable: No | Features: Blocks light; openings for hands

Honeydew Scrumptious Side Pillow

A GH Family Travel Awards winner in 2023, our testers raved about this pick, and even continued using the pillow after their travels.

It's substantial in size while still being compact enough to take on a trip, and comes with its own storage bag and pillowcase. The fill is a memory foam blend that is not only comfortable but also helps the pillow keep its shape.

Its curved shape maintains proper alignment while you snooze. It does come at a higher price but Sachs says that she uses her pillow at home too, not just while traveling, meaning the splurge may be worth it if you travel often for work and find hotel pillows to be uncomfortable.

Fill material: Memory foam blend | Machine washable cover: Yes| Features: Storage bag and pillowcase; curved shape

BCOZZY Kids Travel Pillow

If you have one or more little ones traveling with you, then you may be looking for a kid-friendly travel pillow to help them nap better on long car rides or flights.

This popular pillow by Bcozzy has a 4.5-star rating on Amazon and is available in five colors with adorable travel bags in the shape of animals. You can adjust the pillow using the velcro strips that attach to the overlapping arms, which combined with a flat back help keep your kid's head from falling forward.

Sachs owns these cute pillows for her kids and confirms they stay in place well and roll up nice and easy to fit inside the carrying kit. "We used them on a long road trip and bring them whenever we have a long car ride. They love them!" she notes. You can also machine wash this pillow, which is great for any spills in the car. The drawback? It's pricier than some of our travel pillow picks for adults.

Fill material: Polyester | Machine washable: Yes | Features: Animal-themed travel bag; adjustable Velcro arms

Tuft & Needle Anywhere Travel Pillow

Limited on space? Try this travel pillow by popular bedding brand Tuft & Needle. We've included the brand's Original Mattress in our roundup of best mattresses and GH editors who have brought this pillow on long-haul flights say it's a game changer.

It's made from the brand's adaptive foam, which is designed to be breathable. It comes with a pack you can stuff the pillow into — making the pillow even more compact. Its versatile shape lends itself to a variety of uses including long trips or even camping. There is also a metal carabiner for attaching it to your bag or suitcase.

Sachs adds that this pillow is a solid choice for adding some cushion between your neck and shoulder when snoozing or even using it as something to lean on up against a car window.

Fill material: Foam | Machine washable cover: Yes | Features: Stuff sack and carabiner; breathable

BCOZZY Neck Pillow for Travel

When you think of travel pillows, something like this classic U-shaped pillow may come to mind. This popular pick has over 27K Amazon reviews, with one customer saying they bought the pillow for a long flight but found it also helped with their sleeping at home: "My neck is supported and my head is propped in just the right position to sleep comfortably."

The pillow has a multi-purpose design for all sleeping positions. You can position the arms of the pillow to support your head whether it tends to fall forward or sideways. The soft fleece material makes it cozy to snuggle with and the pillow comes with a travel case for easy storage.

Fill material: Polyester | Machine washable cover: Yes | Features: Front and side positions; soft fleece material

J-Pillow Travel Pillow

J-Pillow's travel pillow features an innovative, patented three-way design that supports your head, neck and chin. You tuck the "trunk" of the pillow under your chin and then lean back into the pillow for a restful sleep. Even if you're buying it for a long flight, you can continue using it while relaxing on your sofa at home to lend support to your head and neck as you nap or read.

It also comes with a travel bag for easy transport and has a snap loop so you can hang it on a hook when not in use. You can pop this pillow into the washer and dryer for easy cleaning post-traveling.

One five-star reviewer says, "I love this travel pillow; it's very soft and very good for sitting next to window side of the airplane." Its unique design and setup does require some getting used to though.

Fill material: Foam | Machine washable: Yes | Features: Three-way design; snap loop

How we chose the best travel pillows

In the Good Housekeeping Institute, our textiles experts test every kind of pillow, from the best cooling , down alternative , latex and buckwheat pillows to the best pillows for side sleepers and back sleepers . We also test useful travel gear and accessories from luggage brands to packing cubes .

When looking at travel pillows, we consider comfort and support, as well as ease of use from carrying to cleaning. We also consider durability and performance of materials, as well as packability and price. For this roundup we relied on tester and expert feedback as well as insights from online customer reviews and ratings.

What to look for when shopping for travel pillows

If you are looking for a travel pillow for your next trip, here are some things to consider:

✔️ Shape: U-shaped neck pillows are great for airplanes as they can stay put while you're sitting up in a middle or aisle seat. Small rectangle pillows are good for car rides as you can lean them against a window. You can also use a rectangular travel pillow at your final destination, whether that's a hotel room or camp site, and even at home after your trip. There are also unique shapes, like the Ostrich travel pillow that covers your eyes, or super compact pillows. Note: Travel-size pillows are the same as toddler-size pillows.

✔️ Fill: Foam keeps its shape under pressure, which is why it's a popular material for neck travel pillows. Other travel pillows will have a fiberfill or blend that makes them feel more similar to a regular pillow.

✔️ Portability: Almost all of our picks come with a travel case for easy packing. Sometimes the carrying bag will even compress the pillow down to a smaller size so you'll have more room in your suitcase. A bag will also protect the pillow and keep it clean when not in use. Other pillows will be super lightweight or have a clip.

✔️ Cleaning: Some pillows on this list are entirely machine washable, meaning you can toss the whole pillow in your washing machine . Others have machine washable covers or require you to remove a part of the pillow before washing. However, some can only be spot-cleaned. Since you are bringing your pillow on-the-go and it will be exposed to different germs, it's important to keep it clean.

✔️ Price: Our testing and research suggests you can find a great travel pillow for around $50, with some less expensive options that are just as good. There are also splurge-worthy travel pillows that can ring in at over $100.

Are travel pillows worth it?

Yes , especially if you are an avid traveler or find it hard to get comfortable on the plane. While there are some more expensive pillows on the market, there are also budget-friendly options that can improve your travel experience.

Even though airline pillows are free, they are not always the most comfortable. Plus, if you take the train to work or often go on road trips with the family (where pillows aren't handed out), buying a travel pillow will quickly pay off.

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

Elizabeth Berry is the updates editor at the Good Housekeeping Institute, where she ensures our product reviews reflect accurate pricing, information and product details. She is an avid traveler who is known to pop on under eye patches halfway through her flight and values comfort when it comes to traveling near and far.

To write this guide, she collaborated with Lexie Sachs , the executive director of the Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab at the GH Institute, where she leads research and testing of fabric-based products. Lexie always has her eye on new travel gear and is a huge fan of her Honeydew pillow.

Elizabeth Berry (she/her) is the Updates Editor at the Good Housekeeping Institute where she optimizes lifestyle content across verticals. Prior to this role, she was an Editorial Assistant for Woman’s Day where she covered everything from gift guides to recipes. She also has experience fact checking commerce articles and holds a B.A. in English and Italian Studies from Connecticut College.

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The best travel pillows that'll keep your relaxed — even in the middle seat

Tired businessman with neck pillow sleeping on passenger train

Between crowded seats, crying babies and limited legroom, traveling on long flights can be exhausting and uncomfortable. A perfect pillow makes the trek slightly easier to bear and can help you get some sleep during those travel periods. To help you narrow down which travel pillow is right for you, we consulted sleep and travel experts about what to know before shopping, plus we compiled highly rated options to consider.

SKIP AHEAD What are the benefits of travel pillows? | How we picked the best travel pillows | The best travel pillows to consider in 2024 | How to shop for travel pillows

Selected. Our top picks

select Minimize chaos on your next trip with these expert-approved accessories

The best travel pillows in 2024.

Below, we rounded up a selection of the best travel pillows based on NBC Select staff recommendations, ratings and expert advice.

Best overall travel pillow: Cabeau

Cabeau evolution s3 sleep pillow.

Straps allow for attachment to headrests
Adjustable drawstrings
Comes with carrying case
Large size may be uncomfortable to some

Former NBC Select editor Christina Colizza says she loves this travel pillow from Cabeau because it prevents slouching by attaching to the plane’s headrest. “As someone who is [very tall], I’ll take all the help I can in getting some sleep while flying, and this pillow makes a huge difference,” she says. “Plus, it compresses down into a small pouch, which makes it convenient enough to schlep around airports.” The headrest attachment also makes this an ideal option for long road trips. This travel pillow comes in five colors and patterns including indigo and galaxy.

Fill material : Memory foam | Machine-washable cover : Yes | Portable features : Travel bag | Rating : 4.3-star average rating from 7,652 reviews on Amazon

Best splurge travel pillow: Ostrichpillow

Ostrichpillow go neck pillow.

Full 360-degree neck support
Compresses for easy packing
Fit around neck may vary

Ostrichpillow offers a variety of unique pillow alternatives, from a napping option to a mini hand pillow . This memory foam one has raised edges for neck support and comes with a velcro strap that allows you to customize its fit. The travel pillow can also compress down to snugly fit inside the included travel bag.

Fill material : Memory foam | Machine-washable cover : Yes | Portable features : Travel bag | Rating : 4-star average rating from 1,876 reviews on Amazon

Best versatile travel pillow: Huzi

Huzi infinity travel pillow.

Very versatile
Bulky: can be hard to carry
May be difficult to store

If you’re looking for a pillow with versatility, this option from Huzi may be just what you need. It’s made from a soft, anti-bacterial nylon bamboo that keeps you cool and airy as you sleep, according to the brand. The best part, however, is its scarf-like, 360-degree design — you can move and adjust the pillow however you’d like to target specific areas like your neck, back, chin and more. It can also be wrapped around your head to help muffle noise, or used as support when resting against a plane or car window.

Fill material : Microfiber | Machine-washable cover : Yes | Portable features : None | Rating : 4.3-star average rating from 6,307 reviews on Amazon

Best travel pillow for chin support: Bcozzy

Bcozzy chin supporting travel pillow.

Stops your head from falling forward
Good value for price
Full wrap around can feel constrictive

Few things can jolt you awake faster than your head falling forward while you’re seated. This ergonomic neck pillow offers an adjustable front loop for chin support and a flat back to avoid pushing your head forward. It includes a snap strap that you can hook to your luggage or hang up in your car. The pillow comes in multiple colors and you can choose between various sizes ranging from kids small to extra-large .

Fill material : Polyester | Machine-washable cover : Yes | Portable features : Snap closure | Rating : 4.2-star average rating from 29,016 reviews on Amazon

Best travel pillow for back support: SmartTravel

Smarttravel inflatable lumbar travel pillow.

Easily inflates and deflates
Can be used on back as well as neck
Hand-wash only

NBC Select managing editor Leah Ginsberg says she likes a lumbar pillow for added back support during long flights. This inflatable pillow serves as both a neck and back pillow, and is designed to fit your body’s natural curves and reduce pressure on the spine and neck, according to the brand. It also comes with an expandable mounting band to easily fasten it to headrests.

Fill material : Inflatable | Machine-washable cover : No | Portable features : Travel bag | Rating : 4.3-star average rating from 1,262 reviews on Amazon

Best inflatable travel pillow: Sunany

Sunany inflatable neck pillow.

Comes with accessories
Quickly inflates and deflates
Not very soft

Designed to follow the natural curve of your neck and body, this travel pillow’s ergonomic shape can soothe discomfort and reduce pressure points around your head and neck, according to the brand. You can also place your arms and head inside one of the four holes to support a sleeping position that’s most comfortable for you. It comes with a pouch for storage, along with a matching eye mask and earplugs.

Fill material : Inflatable | Machine-washable cover : No | Portable features : Travel bag | Rating : 4.2-star average rating from 6,696 reviews on Amazon

Best travel pillow for single-side sleepers: Trtl

Trtl travel pillow.

Soft, cozy exterior
Lightweight and easy to pack
Only supports one side at a time

For those who don’t find enough support from traditional U-shaped travel pillows, this uniquely-shaped option comes with a hidden inner support that can hold your head and neck at any position that’s comfortable for you. You can adjust the support to contour your neck, shoulder or jaw, while the fleece exterior is soft and machine-washable.

Fill material: Mesh fabric | Machine-washable cover : Yes | Portable features : Flat design for easy packing | Rating : 4.0-star average rating from 35,371 reviews on Amazon

Best budget travel pillow: Wolf Essentials

Wolf essentials microfiber neck pillow.

World's Best Feather Soft Microfiber Neck Pillow

Wolf Essentials Microfiber Travel Pillow

Very affordable option
Machine-washable
Thickness may cause fit issues

This neck pillow’s fleece cover provides soft, thermal comfort, which is perfect for when the plane or vehicle gets cold. It’s entirely machine-washable (not just the cover) and comes with a snap closure to keep it from sliding off of your neck or to connect it to your luggage.

Fill material : Polyester blend | Machine-washable cover : Yes | Portable features : Snap closure | Rating : 4.4-star average rating from 10,911 reviews on Amazon

Other travel pillows we love

Crafty world travel neck pillow.

No on-neck fastener

This option comes with a removable and machine-washable cover, so you can easily wash it. It’s made with a memory foam interior and a velour fabric exterior for a soft and comfortable feel, according to the brand. The pillow also has an elastic strap to help you connect it to your suitcase for extra portability. It comes in four colors — black, blue, gray and purple.

Fill material : Memory foam | Machine-washable cover : Yes | Portable features : Elastic strap | Rating : 4.3-star average rating from 5,558 reviews on Amazon

Mlvoc Travel Pillow

Includes eye masks, earplugs and carrying bag
Affordably priced
Bulky; may have issues with fit

With its ergonomic, curved design for neck and head support, this travel pillow comes wrapped in a cover that is both machine-washable and sweat-resistant. The travel pillow comes with a contoured eye mask and earplugs, and can fold down to half its size to fit neatly into the included travel bag. Plus, the built-in snap strap can also latch onto your suitcase for easy portability.

Fill material : Memory foam | Machine-washable cover : Yes | Portable features : Travel bag | Rating : 4.3-star average rating from 33,692 reviews on Amazon

select Whether you’re going away for a week or a weekend, there’s a highly-rated bag on Amazon for you.

How we picked the best travel pillows.

The best travel pillows are ones that are comfortable, supportive and easy to carry around, according to our experts. When shopping for a quality travel pillow, they recommend considering the following factors:

Inflatable vs. non-inflatable : You can adjust inflatable pillows to your desired firmness, and easily store them away when deflated. With non-inflatable pillows, on the other hand, you can fill them with more cushioned materials to promote comfort including memory foam and poly-fiber fill.
Portability : Look for features like straps (that you can attach to your luggage ) or an accompanying pouch (that you can pack it down into) for ease while on the go.

What are the benefits of travel pillows?

Whether your airplane seat is too small or your bus ride endures several bumps, it may be difficult to relax on a long trip. Add noisy conversations and frequent overhead announcements and you have multiple barriers in your way to getting a good nap.

One of the main reasons people struggle to sleep while traveling — especially on international flights with time changes — is because they’re trying to sleep at a time with “low circadian and homeostatic drive” (a time when they would not normally sleep, so they’re not as tired), says Dr. Andrew Varga, a board-certified physician at The Mount Sinai Integrative Sleep Center . The other factor, according to Varga, is the sleeping space, which is usually cramped and doesn’t let you lie recumbent or change positions, except in typically pricey business- and first-class cabins.

“Not everyone is an equally deep sleeper, and people with any sleep issues at baseline will often have a harder time sleeping in a louder and less comfortable environment — such as an airplane,” says board-certified psychiatrist and sleep medicine specialist Dr. Alex Dimitriu . He noted that posture plays a big role in the discomfort we feel — and as anyone who has slept on a plane knows, “the head tends to fall off to the side or forward, which is both uncomfortable and can cause neck pain, and [can] even make breathing less efficient.”

“Sleeping upright is not at all a natural position,” says Dr. Mayank Shukla , a board-certified pulmonologist and sleep medicine specialist in New York City. “Our head weighs almost 10 pounds and flops around the neck when sleeping upright, leading to aches and pain with all that muscle strain.”

Experts noted that travel pillows can provide support for the neck and head, alleviating some pain and discomfort when combating an upright sleeping position while traveling. They’re typically portable, lightweight, ergonomically designed and come in different sizes to fit every type of person, plus some have additional high-tech features like temperature regulation. This is an ideal tool for frequent flyers who hope to maintain a semi-regular sleeping schedule.

How to shop for a travel pillow

The best travel pillow is one that you find the most comfortable to use for extended periods of time. Ideally, Dimitriu recommends testing out the pillow beforehand to see whether it’s comfortable and how it changes shape.

“The emphasis for most users should be to see how comfortably the pillow lets you rest with your back to the seat and without your head falling forward,” he says. And while larger pillows tend to provide more cushioning, he noted “airplane seats are tight, and there is such a thing as too much pillow.”

Below, we highlighted two of the most important considerations when shopping for travel pillows: inflatability and portability.

Inflatable vs. non-inflatable

When going on a long-haul trip, most travelers don’t want another thing to lug around. “Inflatable pillows may allow for more cushion and can fold to a smaller size,” Dimitriu says, adding that they won’t take up too much space in your luggage. They’re also typically more adjustable — you can change the amount of air to get more or less firmness, depending on your comfort level.

Non-inflatable travel pillows include various types of filling material including memory foam, polyester fiberfill and microbeads. While the different materials can make it easier to find a more comfortable fit, non-inflatable pillows tend to be bulkier than inflatable ones. When it comes to cleaning, both inflatable and non-inflatable pillows typically have removable covers that you can machine wash or spot clean.

Portability

If you’re on a multipart journey or backpacking through Europe, for example, the size and portability of your travel pillow may be just as important off a plane as it is on it. Some travel pillows have straps that you can attach to your luggage, while with others you can fold to fit inside a small bag.

Meet our experts

At NBC Select, we work with experts who have specialized knowledge and authority based on relevant training and/or experience. We also take steps to ensure all expert advice and recommendations are made independently and without undisclosed financial conflicts of interest.

Dr. Andrew Varga is a board-certified physician at The Mount Sinai Integrative Sleep Center .
Dr. Alex Dimitriu is a board-certified psychiatrist, sleep medicine specialist and founder of Menlo Park Psychiatry & Sleep Medicine in Menlo Park, California.
Dr. Mayank Shukla is a board-certified pulmonologist and sleep medicine specialist in New York City.

Why trust NBC Select?

Mili Godio is an updates editor at Select and covers a range of sleep topics including weighted blankets , sunrise alarm clocks and blackout curtains . Ashley Morris is an associate SEO reporter for NBC Select covering skin care, lifestyle and more. For this story, Godio spoke to three sleep medicine experts to get their recommendations on how to shop for travel pillows and their benefits. She also researched dozens of travel pillows on the market that are in line with experts’ guidance.

Catch up on NBC Select’s in-depth coverage of personal finance , tech and tools , wellness and more, and follow us on Facebook , Instagram , Twitter and TikTok to stay up to date.

Mili Godio is an updates editor for Select on NBC News.

These are the best travel pillows available today.

The Best Travel Pillows of 2024

Products are chosen independently by our editors. Purchases made through our links may earn us a commission.

Why trust Reviewed?

Reviewed's mission is to help you buy the best stuff and get the most out of what you already own. Our team of product experts thoroughly vet every product we recommend to help you cut through the clutter and find what you need.

Cabeau Evolution Classic Travel Pillow

Incredibly supportive

Adjustable clasp

Difficult to wear with over-ear headphones

No carrying case included

J-Pillow Travel Pillow

Innovative design

Snuggle-friendly material

Ideal for side sleepers

Not intuitive to use

Not very compact

Infinity Pillow Travel Pillow

Ultra-soft fabric

Very versatile

Keeps you warm

A bit bulky

Annoying to roll up for storage

Trtl Travel Pillow

Lightweight

Easy to pack

Only provides one-sided support

Fleece can be overly warm

Bcozzy Travel Pillow

Perfect for sleepers who nod forward

Has both a microfleece and microsuede side

Doesn’t offer much side support

Awkward to store away

Updated February 5, 2024

One of the most obvious downsides to traveling is how uncomfortable flights, bus rides, and rail journeys are. Being crammed like a sardine into a seat that’s half the size it should be just isn’t enjoyable for anyone, especially for those who suffer from sore neck pain. To make those long-haul trips a bit more enjoyable, consider bringing a travel pillow.

Whether you are looking for the best airplane pillow or travel pillow for long car rides, here are the best ones you can get online right now.

The Cabeau Neck Pillow offers the perfect amount of support in the areas you need it.

For the best all-around comfort and neck support, we found that the Cabeau Evolution Classic Pillow cannot be beaten. It’s an elevated take on a classic U-shape pillow with a contoured memory foam design that keeps your head upright and offers the perfect amount of support in the areas you need it. The sides are tall and thick enough that the pillow rests comfortably just below your earlobes, which prevents your head from flopping in any one direction.

We also loved its adjustable clasp which allows you to bring the front sections closer together or further apart, depending on how tight of a fit you prefer. This toggle can also be unclipped so the pillow is easy to remove from your neck, and can be attached to your luggage for no-fuss transportation.

We were also thoroughly impressed by the Cabeau’s high-quality materials, from its plush, cushioned memory foam down to its ultra-cozy velour cover that can be unzipped and popped in the wash after each trip. To test its durability, we even poked and prodded the Cabeau with scissors, pens, and keys—common items that it may come into contact with within a bag—and as we suspected, it was not damaged in the slightest.

Thanks to the supple memory foam, the Cabeau also compresses down to a fraction of its normal size if you ever need to squeeze it into a carry-on. We also found that even with a 15 lb. weight stacked on top of it for several hours, the pillow sprang back to its full 5-inch height within seconds after removing the weight. Still, it’s a larger pillow than most, so if you’re trying to travel light, you may want to opt for one that’s easier to pack.

As an added bonus, the Cabeau Evolution can be found inside most airport gift shops and newsstands, making it not only the best pillow you can buy online but also in any airport store. Based on our testing, we’d venture to say this pillow could last you countless trips, and make each one just as relaxing as the last.

Made from velour-like material, the J-Pillow is snuggle-friendly and looks a bit like a stuffed elephant.

For side sleepers, finding a great travel pillow that offers ample chin and neck support can be a challenge, especially as traditional U-shaped pillows often work best for those who rest with their heads tilted back. But the J-Pillow—which was designed by a former flight attendant—excels here because of its innovative J-shaped design.

In testing, the J-Pillow scored highest of all the travel pillows we used in terms of comfort and portability. It cradles your chin and keeps your head from sliding all the way forward, while the curved end delivers a supple cushioning effect that we loved.

Made from soft velour-like material, the J-Pillow is snuggle-friendly and looks a bit like a stuffed elephant—hence why we’ve dubbed it “Harry Elephante'' around the office. While part of the appeal of the J-Pillow is that it isn’t a U-shaped pillow, it can be adjusted to be worn in a U-shape style, which adds to its overall versatility.

The J-Pillow does come with a few notable downsides, however. With its large trunk-shaped front, the pillow’s design isn’t naturally intuitive and several of our testers needed to pull up a picture for reference before using it. Additionally, while it’s not large, the fact that the J-Pillow doesn’t deflate or easily compress into a backpack or purse means it might be more cumbersome to travel with than some other travel pillows we’ve tested. However, it does come with a carrying case and snap-loop fastener, which makes it easy to attach to luggage or backpacks. All in all, for side sleepers, this unique pillow seems like a great option.

The Huzi can be maneuvered any which way to add comfort.

The Huzi Design Infinity Pillow is actually not technically a pillow at all. It’s more of a fluffy infinity scarf with very plush stuffing on the inside. That said, we were surprised at how much we loved the Huzi in our testing. Something about it, perhaps its luxuriously soft fabric or cocoon-like feeling, kept drawing us back in.

The beauty of the Huzi lies in its versatility. You can configure it a million ways and make it as firm or as soft as you want it by twisting and looping it. During testing, I found my preferred method was to wrap it twice around my neck, and stick an arm in the bottom loop like a sling, so it's pulled taut and remains snug. While I like the support this position offers, others may not.

However, the Huzi essentially conforms however you want to use it, and can be maneuvered any which way to add comfort. You can ball it up and stuff it behind your back, lean against it in the window seat, or create a supportive cradle by laying it across the back of your neck and placing your hands in the loops. You can even use it as a makeshift eye mask to block light out or wrap it around your head to cover your ears and muffle sounds. The options are virtually endless, making it the only truly multipurpose pillow on our list.

While there’s plenty to appreciate about the Huzi, it’s not the easiest contraption to store away. The instructions state you’re supposed to roll it up like a yoga mat and use the Velcro binding to secure it, but we found this process a bit cumbersome and tedious. Regardless, for the versatility aspect alone, the Huzi was a winner in our eyes.

Although a bit unconventional, the Trtl Travel Pillow has gained a cult-like following for its ingenious, minimalist design. It’s less of a pillow in the strictest sense of the word and more of a neck brace that offers support thanks to a flexible plastic frame that’s tucked inside a fleece wrap. It’s also the smallest and lightest pillow of the models we tested.

While we liked how the Trtl contoured to the neck and were impressed by how strong the Velcro tab was to secure the pillow in place, we found that it did take some maneuvering before finding just the right spot to sleep in. As someone with a shorter neck, I also felt as though the plastic insert jabbed my collarbone, and also applied a bit too much pressure on my ear for my liking.

That being said, Reviewed’s executive editor of growth, Megan McCarthy, is a huge fan of the Trtl: "It's the only thing I've used that lets me have semi-decent sleep on a flight. It holds my head up better than any of those puffy donut-shaped pillows you see in airport stores, and it takes up so much less space in my bag."

Despite my personal gripes with the Trtl, I still think it’s a great pick for the more low-profile traveler who wants something they can easily stash in their bag. After all, since it’s basically just a fleece scarf, it’ll take up much less luggage space than a traditional U-shaped pillow. Keep in mind though that the Trtl is only designed for one-sided support, so it might not be the best choice for those who tend to toss and turn mid-flight. Having said that, it’s also a pillow that offers a much-needed surface to lean on in both middle seat and aisle seats.

Throughout our testing of travel pillows, we came to the realization that very few are designed for those who nod forward when they fall asleep. Except for the Bcozzy, that is. This pillow is essentially shaped like a giant worm, for lack of a better analogy, with ends that overlap to provide ample chin support when leaning forward. With its open-ended, circular design, the pillow can be worn as tight or as loose as you want it, allowing each user to adjust it based on how much overlap and support they crave.

While it’s great to nestle your head in and stabilize your chin, it doesn’t offer much in the way of side support for your neck, unless you continuously move the area that stacks to the side you are resting on. For that reason, we don’t think the Bcozzy is a great choice for fidgety sleepers, as it’d need to be readjusted each time your head changes positions mid-snooze. We also noticed that it can slowly unravel a bit over the course of a nap, which could easily be solved if the company added Velcro between the two overlapping pieces to make it stay in place, but alas.

The Bcozzy features a button-clasp loop that clips to the outside of your luggage, so while it’s not the easiest to stow away, it’s still relatively portable. It’s also one of the few pillows that didn’t interfere with me wearing my Bose over-ear headphones, which I appreciated.

Product image of Cloudz Original Microbead Travel Pillow

If you’re looking for a simple and affordable pillow, the Clöudz is a straightforward choice that you can’t go wrong with. It’s pretty much exactly what you’d expect in terms of a standard U-shaped pillow, offering firm support that holds its shape even with the full weight of your head pressed against it. What elevates the Clöudz over other pillows in its price range are the handy snaps at the ends, which keep the pillow snugly in place around your neck. They’re also perfect for attaching the pillow to your luggage when you’re not using it. We also thought it stood out for its dual-sided comfort, with one side featuring a warm, cozy fabric and the other a smooth spandex. These small details on the Clöudz actually make a big difference and place it a cut above the rest of its cheap microbead competitors.

Holds its shape

Snap closures

Dual-sided comfort

Doesn’t fold up

Minimal give

Product image of TravelMate Neck Support Travel Pillow

The Travelmate pillow was a solid, middle-of-the-pack performer in our tests. While we found the memory foam to be soft and well-cushioned, there wasn’t much that made it stand out in a crowd of worthy competitors. One feature that we did enjoy was the removable foam insert, which lets you adjust the thickness of the pillow from behind, and also allows it to better conform to the back of your airplane seat so it doesn't push your head forward.

We also took notice of the built-in elastic strap. While we assumed it was intended to place over your headrest for a no-slip hold, it’s actually meant for attaching the pillow to luggage according to the instructions. This seems like an odd, time-consuming method of attachment, as you’d have to find something to loop or tie it around as opposed to an easy-to-use clip or snap closure. We also think this pillow could seriously benefit from a front clasp, as we found ourselves all too aware of the open-U design that fails to offer any support in the front.

Removable foam insert

Machine-washable velour cover

Insufficient support in the front

Inefficient elastic strap to attach to luggage

Product image of Sunany Inflatable Neck Pillow

We didn’t expect to like the Sunany as much as we did. This innovative pillow is designed to be inflated and rested on top of your lap (or tray table, depending on your height), so you’re able to lean forward and place your head in an opening, not unlike a massage table. It features holes on the front and sides as well, so you're able to flip the pillow around, hug it as you fall asleep, and also have the ability to place your phone, kindle, or other devices inside for entertainment as you rest your head.

When we tested the Sunany, we were impressed by the design of the inflation valve, which makes it super easy to inflate in about ten breaths or less. To deflate, all you have to do is open the valve and squeeze gently. Another highlight was how easy it was to roll up and fold away in its storage bag. And as an added bonus, the pillow comes with a set of earplugs and a surprisingly comfortable eye mask. All in all, our experience with the Sunany was one of the more unforgettable ones.

Inflates/deflates quickly

Comes with eye mask and earplugs

Some complain pillow has odor

PVC material isn't the softest

Product image of AirComfy Daydreamer Neck Pillow

If you’re looking to go the inflatable route, we’d recommend the AirComfy as the way to go. This inflatable U-shaped pillow, which comes with a built-in inflation pump, consistently ranked well with our testers in terms of comfort, design, and portability.

Designed with a micro-velvet pillowcase, this pillow is soft to the touch and easy to clean, since the liner itself is machine-washable. While it took us longer than 30 to 60 seconds to inflate the pillow—for our testers, the estimated time was about 120 seconds (2 minutes)—the ability to easily inflate or deflate it makes this pillow ideal for travelers who want more control over their pillow’s firmness level. It also comes with contoured neck support, which looks like two cat ears are jutting out from the pillow when it’s not in use.

For portability, the AirComfy excels because it can be packed down into the plush, lightweight packsack that it comes in, which features a carabiner clip that’s easy to attach to luggage. Because it’s a U-shaped pillow, it may not be the preferred choice for side sleepers, but for those who want good neck support, this travel pillow is a solid mid-range option.

Easy to inflate and deflate

Soft machine-washable cover

Easy to stow in storage bag

May be too stiff for some when fully inflated

Product image of Therm-a-Rest Trekker Pillow Case

Ideal for those who only want the bare essentials when they travel, Therm-a-Rest’s stuffable pillowcase is best-suited for campers, backpackers, or simply those who can’t be bothered to carry a travel pillow around with them. It’s essentially just a sack that you’re meant to stuff a sweater or jacket into, eliminating the need for a travel pillow entirely.

While we found the material to be soft and breathable, and we certainly recognize how a space-saving sack could be useful for some, ultimately there’s nothing really special about this mini pillowcase. If traveling light is your biggest concern, you should probably opt for the Trtl instead.

Easy to wash

Takes up relatively no space

Uneven when stuffed

No neck support

How We Chose the Best Travel Pillows

Our team of expert product reviewers chose the best travel pillows in this review based on support, travel-friendliness, durability, and of course, comfort. The picks are based on thorough product research, and in some cases, our own experience with specific products listed. The best travel pillows will keep you comfortable for hours on flight and offer a good night’s sleep.

What You Should Know About Travel Pillows

Simply put, travel pillows are one of the cheapest luxuries to have on a flight, or basically in any travel situation where you’re trying to sleep or sit upright. They provide much-needed support to your head, neck, and chin, lowering the chances that you’ll fall asleep in an awkward position, and wake up with an annoying crick or muscle ache. There are plenty of things to consider before deciding on one though, namely your sleeping patterns on flights (i.e., which direction your head tends to droop when you fall asleep) if you prefer more plush or firm support, and how compact you’d like it to be.

While no two travel pillows are the same, there are a few general rules of thumb in terms of what sets certain pillows apart from others that you’ll want to keep in mind. First and foremost, high-quality pillows should offer plenty of support and be able to keep your head nice and stable, even on those bumpier flights. Next, you’ll want your pillow to be easy to carry, whether it folds up or features a clip that attaches to the outside of your suitcase so that it doesn’t take up too much space in your bag. You’ll also want the outside of the pillow to feel soft against your skin but not too insulated or fleecy, so you won’t overheat. Finally, as we all know how germ-ridden planes can be, your pillow should either be easy to wash or have a removable cover that’s machine-washable.

Different Types of Travel Pillows

A traditional travel pillow is usually shaped like a giant U that’s designed to fit snugly around the circumference of your neck. Generally speaking, there are three main types that one can choose from: microbead, memory foam, and inflatable. This excludes, of course, some of the stranger designs and unique innovations that we put to the test. There are both pros and cons to each type of pillow, so in the end, much of the buying process comes down to personal preference.

For instance, while many people find that memory foam pillows are more comfortable and cushioned than their bead-filled counterparts, their velour exterior can provide too much warmth for some. In that case, a microbead pillow might be a better option due to its more breathable materials. If saving space is a priority for you when traveling, an inflatable pillow may be your best bet because of its ability to be compressed into a small size when not in use. However, their airtight design does not offer much give, not to mention you run the risk of springing a leak and ruining the pillow if you puncture the fabric. The bottom line is that before buying a travel pillow, figure out what you value most highly—whether it’s comfort, support, ease of use, or portability—and go from there.

Meet the writer

Isabelle Kagan

Senior Editor, Commerce

Isabelle Kagan is currently a Senior Commerce Editor at Reviewed, part of the USA Today network.

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Travel & Lifestyle Products

The Best Travel Pillows for Quality Sleep Whenever, Wherever

The comfiest options for catching shut eye wherever the adventure takes you.

In This Article

Our Top Picks

Final Verdict

How to Shop
Why Take Our Word for It?

Real Simple / Alli Waataja

Whether you’re traveling by train, plane, or automobile, chances are you’ll find yourself nodding off to sleep during a long-distance journey. Unless you’re the type that can fall asleep anywhere, finding a comfortable position can be a literal pain in the neck if you’re not lucky enough to be in a lie-flat business- or first-class seat. When the head and neck are left unsupported, you might wake up with aches and pains, or worse—you may not be able to sleep at all.

To remedy this, seasoned travelers often rely on a travel pillow to provide the support crucial for a more restful slumber. Once limited to an inflatable horseshoe-shaped plastic cushion design, the latest iterations of this handy travel accessory feature more comfortable materials and ergonomic shapes. For expert insight on how to shop for travel pillows, we spoke with Julia Forbes , sleep product expert at Sleep Advisor. If you’re in the market for a travel pillow, read on to see our top recommendations and tips on what to look for when buying.

Best Overall

Ostrichpillow go neck pillow.

It’s lightweight, easily adjustable, and has a washable cover.

It’s expensive.

The simple design of the Ostrichpillow Go makes it a lightweight, cozy choice and our top pick for comfort on the go. This travel pillow is made from high-density BASF memory foam and can be adjusted to a variety of neck sizes, thanks to a Velcro closure. The asymmetrical sides let you find the perfect height to support your chin as you sleep while leaving your ears unencumbered for use with smaller headphones or earbuds.

The Ostrichpillow comes in four calming colors and features a modal cover that can be removed and machine washed. When not in use, it can be compressed to 60% of its size and tucked into its travel bag for easy storage.

Material: Memory foam with modal cover | Size: 10.5 by 9.5 inches | Care: Cover is machine washable

Best Budget

Napfun neck pillow for traveling.

It packs well, is inexpensive, and comes in many colors.

It only comes in one size and might not work well with large headphones.

If you’re looking for a travel pillow with big value, this inexpensive option from Napfun delivers. It has a traditional semicircle shape made of memory foam that keeps your head supported while preventing strain on the neck and shoulders. An adjustable toggle allows you to fit the pillow as snugly as you prefer, and its contoured shape offers chin support while making room for your ears. This is particularly useful if you’re planning to use earbuds.

While it only comes in one size, it can accommodate a wide range of necks and is available in several colors. It also has a carrying case and a removable cover that can be machine washed for easy maintenance.

Material: Memory foam with removable cover | Size: Not specified | Care: Cover is machine washable

Best Splurge

Pluto pillow pod.

It’s adjustable and has a built-in eye mask and hood.

It’s bulky and may give you hat hair.

This luxe model from Pluto is designed to act as your own sensory deprivation pod, equipped with a built-in eye mask and hood to keep lights and sounds at bay. The hood has a bit of structure and padding to keep you comfortable when leaning against the wall in a window seat, while the wrap-around design of the neck cradles your head no matter which way you tend to tilt while sleeping.

The hood can be adjusted for size, and it’s also roomy enough to fit over most over-the-ear headphones. It can be used without the hood like a more traditional neck pillow and can be rolled up and packed away for storage (though it is one of the bulkier models on this list). The cover can be removed, machine washed, and line dried for easy cleaning.

Material: Memory foam, Alcantara, Spandura, WPS mesh | Size: 12 by 6 by 4 inches (closed), 31 by 15 inches (open) | Care: Cover is machine washable

Best for Airplanes

J pillow travel pillow.

If you want to switch which side you’re tilting your head to, you have to take it off and readjust it.

This award-winning travel pillow was designed by Gemma Jensen, a former flight attendant from Virgin Atlantic, who created over 200 prototypes before landing on its final design. The J-shaped trunk curls under and supports the chin and neck while you rest your head against a cushion, mimicking the wall of a plane’s window seat.

With a soft fleece exterior and foam core, it’s extra comfortable for short and long-haul flights, and it packs into an included carrying case that attaches to your luggage with a snap. It’s also machine washable to get rid of any debris, stains, or other airport germs you may have come in contact with during your travels.

Material: Memory foam, poly fleece | Size: 10 by 6 by 8 inches | Care: Cover is machine washable

Best for Cars

Cabeau evolution s3 travel pillow.

It’s supportive, compressible, and comes with a washable cover.

The height of the pillow may be too high for some.

This traditionally styled travel pillow uses a horseshoe-shaped cushion to provide support for the head and neck. The adjustable front clasp makes it great for those who don’t love having their neck completely encased, and the raised sides are contoured to keep your head supported and jaw comfortable. What makes this great for the car is the seat strap system, which lets you secure the pillow in the center of your headrest to prevent slouching.

It comes with a machine-washable cover and a carrying case to store the compressed pillow when it’s not in use. One caveat is that the height of the pillow might be too high for some, so you’ll have to try it to ensure it fits correctly. Other than that, it’s an affordable and supportive option for long car trips and any other activity where you’ll remain seated for an extended period of time.

Material: Memory foam with microsuede cover | Size: 10 by 9.5 inches | Care: Cover is machine washable

Best Inflatable

Sea to summit aeros premium traveller pillow.

It’s lightweight, compact, and durable.

It’s not machine washable.

This durable inflatable pillow is perfect for all types of travelers, whether you’re catching a transcontinental flight or backpacking up a mountain. It folds flat and packs to just 4.3 by 2.7 by 1.8 inches in its carrying case, ideal for anyone concerned about space in their luggage. A mini valve allows you to inflate the pillow with just a few breaths or deflate quickly for storage.

The classic horseshoe shape of this pillow supports the neck and head, and the front clasp has three snap options for optimal fit. The fabric is a soft but durable polyester knit that is stain resistant and can be hand washed as needed.

Material: TPU Polyurethane and 50D polyester knit | Size: 15.3 by 11.4 by 4.3 inches (inflated), 15.3 by 11.4 by 4.3 inches (deflated) | Care: Hand wash only

Best Versatile

Bcozzy neck pillow.

It comes in a variety of sizes and is fully washable.

The microfiber tends to attract dust and lint.

Regardless of how you sleep while seated, this neck pillow from Bcozzy is designed to support you: It can be adjusted in three ways to accommodate the way you lean when sitting in window, middle, or aisle seats on a plane. The double-loop design helps keep the chin propped up and supported to prevent neck pain and achy shoulders by encouraging better posture when seated.

This microfiber pillow is fully machine washable, making it very easy to keep clean. It has an attached snap strap that clips to luggage, and it comes in a variety of sizes for both kids and adults.

Material: Microfiber | Size: 10 by 10 by 4 inches | Care: Cover is machine washable

Best for Kids

Niuniu daddy kids neck pillow.

It’s inexpensive and comes in fun designs.

The memory foam is soft and may not be supportive enough for larger kids.

These kid-specific travel pillows come in several fun designs, including sharks, dragons, penguins, and unicorns. Made of soft memory foam in a semi-circle design, they provide just enough ergonomic support to prevent head rolling while sleeping. A snap closure helps add chin support and doesn’t push your little one’s head forward, ensuring proper posture while seated.

Each pillow’s cover is removable and machine washable, and the entire pillow is soft enough to double as a plush toy for your kid to snuggle with.

Material: Memory foam | Size: 9.8 by 10.2 inches (ages 3 to 8), 12 by 13 inches (ages 9 to 12) | Care: Cover is machine washable

Best Cooling

Trtl pillow cool.

It’s extra lightweight, attractive, and has a washable cover.

If you tend to run hot while sleeping, this cooling version of the popular Trtl Pillow might be just the trick for waking up refreshed after an in-flight snooze session. This model has Trtl’s patented internal support system hidden in a cushioned, cooling Tencel sleeve that wraps around like a scarf. The fabric keeps the head from bobbing or drooping and allows for an ergonomic, restful position, and the Airmesh venting panel keeps air circulating around the neck. The Tencel cover is anti-odor and anti-bacterial, and easy to care for since it’s both removable and machine washable.

The design of this travel pillow is much more compact than traditional horseshoe-shaped cushions, making it very easy to transport. It also comes with a waterproof carrying case that keeps it protected while traveling.

Material: Plastic, Tencel, memory foam | Size: 10.5 x 9.5 inches | Care: Cover is machine washable

If you’re searching for a high-quality travel pillow to keep you supported in transit, the Ostrichpillow Go Neck Pillow is our top choice. We like its simple design, adjustability, and lighter weight for easy portability. For a more affordable option, the Napfun Neck Pillow for Traveling offers plenty of comfort and support at an easy price point.

How to Shop for Travel Pillows Like a Pro

The classic horseshoe or semicircle used to be the only shape for a travel pillow, but these days, there are a few more options. The overall design of the travel pillow you choose should align with your specific sleep style. If you tend to lean to one side, you’ll want a pillow that provides lateral neck support. If you tend to drop your head forward, you may want a pillow with good chin support. If you want a travel pillow to use while you’re sporting headphones or earbuds, you want to also be mindful of how much clearance you have around your ears.

Portability

When picking out a travel pillow, portability is a big consideration—with space being at a premium in many situations, the best travel pillows are easy to tote in addition to any other luggage you may have. Look for travel pillows that compress and come with some sort of carrying case to contain your cushion when not in use. If you’re extremely limited on space, an inflatable pillow might be your best bet.

Fill Material

The fill material of your travel pillow can greatly affect its performance, so be sure to pick a cushion made from something dense enough to support the weight of your head. Memory foam is a very popular choice here, as it tends to be supportive while also molding to the contour of your head and neck.

Traveling can expose your pillow to germs, dirt, dust, and grime, so you’ll want to be able to clean it every so often. While spot cleaning and wiping down your travel pillow can be fairly efficient, the best pillows can either be put right into the wash or have some sort of removable cover that can be washed by machine or hand.

Questions You Might Ask

What kind of travel pillow is best for long-distance flights.

“You'll want to pick up a memory foam travel pillow for those lengthy flights,” Forbes says. “These pillows adjust to fit your neck and head, making them great for extra support so you can actually get some rest while you’re up in the air.”

Are memory foam travel pillows better than inflatable ones?

“Yes,” Forbes says. “They're more comfortable since they mold to your body, they last longer without losing shape, and they’re ready to go without needing inflation.”

Can travel pillows be washed?

It depends on the model. Some feature covers that can be taken off for washing while others are spot-clean only (and a rare few can be tossed in their entirety into the washing machine). Be sure to check the manufacturer’s instructions to confirm how to clean your pillow properly.

Are travel pillows worth it?

Simply put: yes. “A good travel pillow prevents neck pain and discomfort by keeping your neck aligned,” Forbes says. “Thinking about the better sleep and comfort you get [with a travel pillow], it’s definitely a smart choice for regular travelers.”

Why Take Our Word for It?

Bernadette Machard de Gramont is a Los Angeles-based writer specializing in global food, wine, and lifestyle content. A frequent flier to Hawaii, Europe, and various food and drink meccas across the country, she is always on the lookout for gear and accessories that make traveling easier and more comfortable. For this roundup, she spent hours researching top travel pillows you can buy online and tapped Julia Forbes , sleep product expert at Sleep Advisor.

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The 9 Best Travel Pillows of 2024, Tested on Flights, Train Rides, and Road Trips

Our favorite gives luxury travel pillows a run for their money

In This Article

Our Top Picks
What to Know

Behind the Scenes

Why trust people, what is people tested.

People / Marcus Millan

Whether you get there by plane, train, or automobile, traveling can be a taxing experience. But the right head and neck support can make your journey much more enjoyable, especially if you're boarding a long flight. We're talking about travel pillows, of course, which come in a range of styles, sizes, and materials.

So, what makes some better than others? "Comfort is the number one thing," says travel expert Rana Good , explaining that a high-quality cushion should help you get some sleep and not wake up in pain. "Also, hygiene is a big factor." In other words, an easy-to-clean design is ideal.

We tested 24 top-rated travel pillows to find the most comfortable, portable, durable, and low-maintenance options. After trying them out in real-life settings, including flights, train rides, and road trips, we narrowed it down to the nine options worth buying.

Keep reading for the best travel pillows that PEOPLE tested.

Best Overall

Cabeau evolution classic travel pillow.

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

Cloud-like memory foam conforms to shape of head and neck

Supportive but not too soft or firm

Cover is easy to clean

Clasps come undone easily

Clocking perfect scores in all our tests, the Cabeau Evolution Classic is by far our favorite travel pillow. A perfect option for plane travel, we loved how the responsive memory foam conformed to our heads and necks. Not too soft or too firm with excellent support, laying down on it was like dozing off on a cloud. And when you're done using it, it quickly regains its normal shape. Our tester wore this on two 10-hour flights and now packs it every time she travels.

If you're watching an in-flight movie, reading a book, or just relaxing, this cushion will make the experience much more comfortable. Though the velour exterior is removable and machine-washable, it doesn't shift around when zipped onto the pillow. There are also handy toggle clasps on the front to ensure it stays in position while allowing you to hook it to your luggage. The clasps come undone kind of easily, but in the end, this is a minor drawback. Dimensions: 10 x 9.5 x 5 inches | Core Material: Memory foam | Cover Material: Velour

People / Daniela Galvez

Best Budget

Cloudz microbead travel neck pillow.

Quality 4 /5

Comfortable and supportive for long trips

Microbeads conform well to the shape of the head and neck

Soft, breathable, tear-resistant exterior

Cover isn't removable for washing

Doesn't compress, so it's not easily packable

On a budget? The Cloudz Original Travel Pillow is a solid choice. After trying it out on a six-hour flight and a three-hour train ride, we're happy to report it's exceptionally comfortable and supportive. The ultra-soft fabric seems tear-resistant and breathable too. Though it doesn't compress, it's filled with lightweight microbeads that conform to the shape of your neck and head.

The Cloudz Pillow isn't the best option for packing in a carry-on or backpack, but we liked how the clasp keeps it in place when walking around. You can also attach it to your suitcase or underseat luggage . Although this travel pillow doesn't have a removable cover, the exterior is easy to spot-clean. Dimensions: 12 x 12 x 4 inches | Core Material: Foam beads | Cover Material: Polyester

Best Splurge

Ostrichpillow go neck pillow.

Quality 5 /5

Wrap-around design with plush, marshmallow-like feel

Supports neck and chin to prevent stiffness

Compresses to about half its size

Can get a little warm after a few hours

If you're willing to pay a little extra for the best of the best, go with Ostrichpillow. The brand's Go Neck Pillow is one of the few options that earned perfect scores in all testing categories. After using it on a short domestic flight and a long international flight, we were sold on the comfortable design. It feels like wrapping a marshmallow around your neck.

This wrap-around neck cushion has a memory foam core, a soft and stretchy machine-washable cover, and an adjustable Velcro closure for a custom fit. It supported our necks and chins, keeping our heads securely in place while sitting upright and preventing stiffness. Not only that, but the Go Neck Pillow compresses to about half its size for compact packing. And thanks to the modern design, you won't feel dorky wearing it. The only potential downside is that it gets slightly warm after a few hours. Dimensions: 10 x 6.5 x 3 inches | Core Material: Memory foam | Cover Material: Viscose, elastomer

People / Susan Brickell

Best Neck Support

J-pillow chin-supporting neck pillow.

Unique shape supports from the side

Easy to sleep upright

Entire pillow is machine-washable

Odd shape means you can't walk with it on

If it's neck support you're after, the J-Pillow has your name on it. After using it on a 19-hour car ride, we awarded it perfect scores in all categories. We loved the responsive memory foam core and unique J shape. The clever design is meant to go on one side of your head, almost like you're leaning on someone's shoulder. There's also a little divot for your ear. This makes it easy to take a nap, no matter where you're seated.

Unlike C-shaped pillows, you can't really walk around with it on your neck, but you could attach the included carry bag to your suitcase. The exterior is soft and plush, and we didn't notice any loose strings or snags. And while it doesn't have a removable cover, the entire thing is machine-washable. Dimensions: 13 x 12 x 8 inches | Core Material: Memory foam | Cover Material: Poly-blend fabric

People / Jennifer May

Most Versatile

Therm-a-rest compressible pillow.

Portability 4 /5

Packs into itself

Feels almost like a real bed pillow

Perfect for flights, camping, and on-the-go naps

Only comes in patterned designs

If you prefer a more standard shape, this one's for you. We used the Therm-a-Rest Compressible Pillow round-trip for cross-country air travel, on a camping trip, and even for a few naps at home. We were blown away by how comfortable it is, thanks to the lofty core and soft, breathable exterior. Filled with a blend of shredded foam and poly fibers, it feels almost like a real bed pillow.

What's more, the compressible design packs into itself for compact transport and fluffs back up when you're ready to use it. Besides being immensely comfy and highly portable, we like that this travel cushion is made of upcycled and recycled materials. We wish it came in a few solid, neutral hues, but that's our only complaint. Dimensions: 22 x 15 x 7 inches, 18 x 13 x 6 inches, 15 x 11 x 5 inches | Core Material: Shredded foam, poly fibers | Cover Material: Polyester

Gingerlily Silk Travel Pillow

Portability 3 /5
Value 3.5 /5
Durability 4.5 /5

Preserves hair and prevents skin creases

Substantial feel that doesn't go flat

Can be used on the go or in bed

Laundry bag sold separately

If you want to pull out all the stops in preserving your blowout or keeping skin creases at bay while you nap on the go, it's worth bringing a mini silk pillow. We tried this one from Gingerlily and were immediately impressed by the overall quality — the exterior was sumptuously smooth with no loose threads or fraying, and it has a substantial feel that resists going flat. This pillow helped us stay comfy for a five-hour excursion and kept our hair sleek and frizz-free. We wish this pillow came with a removable case. While the whole thing is machine-washable, the suggested laundry bag is sold separately.

We like the petite bed pillow shape, although it is larger than most travel pillows, so you may need to bring it as your personal item for plane travel rather than packing it. However, if you're a silk pillowcase devotee at home, this pillow is substantial enough to use at your hotel or vacation rental. Dimensions: 12 x 16 inches | Core Material: Mulberry silk, polyester | Cover Material: Mulberry silk

Most Durable

Cabeau tne s3 travel pillow.

Comfort 4.5 /5
Quality 4.8 /5

Plush yet supportive

Prevents head bobbing

Stands up to wear and tear

Extra-thick design may take getting used to

The high-quality design of Cabeau's Evolution TNE S3 Pillow was apparent immediately. It's plush yet supportive with a super soft and cozy exterior that never makes you feel hot or stuffy. Since it's on the thicker side, it felt a little odd while we got into a comfortable position. But once we got used to it, we were sold. The chin and headrest straps keep the pillow secure, plus it stays in place and prevents your head from bobbing around even if you don't use the straps.

We used this travel pillow for a 12-day trip, including on planes, trains, and buses. By the last day, it looked just as good as when we pulled it out of the packaging. Though it seems bulky at first, it folds into a compact ball and fits easily into the included carrying case. You can also attach it to a carry-on suitcase or bag using the clip. The removable cover lost some softness after washing it, but not much. Backed by a one-year warranty, the TNE S3 Pillow seems like it'll hold up for a long time. The value is undeniable, so it's definitely worth the investment. Dimensions: 11 x 7.5 x 6.5 inches | Core Material: Memory foam | Cover Material: Polyester, microsuede

People / Anna Popp

Best Cooling

Cabeau evolution cool pillow.

Good for hot sleepers

Supportive and firm

Retains shape through repeated compressing

Awkward to position at first

Cabeau's Evolution Cool Pillow is an ideal choice for people who sleep hot or get night sweats and regularly use cooling pillows at home. The airy, ventilated design is made to prevent heat from getting trapped in the memory foam. After trying it firsthand, we can tell you it works as promised. We found this neck cushion to be extremely supportive and firm but not too hard. It's slightly awkward to position initially but rest assured, you'll be able to sleep upright on a plane — even in the middle seat.

Though the exterior is soft, it's not the softest option we tried. Still, we appreciate that the zippered cover is removable and machine-washable. This travel pillow also compresses to fit in its included storage bag and maintains its original shape after being repeatedly rolled and unrolled. It's durable, likely long-lasting, and helps you doze comfortably in a seated position without getting stuffy. Dimensions: 13 x 7 x 5 inches | Core Material: Memory foam | Cover Material: Polyester

Cushion Lab Ergonomic Travel Neck Pillow

Comfort 4 /5

Ergonomic with adjustable fit

Prevents neck strain

Comfortable for long hours

Snug fit takes some getting used to

Cushion Lab's take on the travel pillow is this semi-firm C-shaped number. The ergonomic design is very snug, almost like a neck brace, though the strap allows you to adjust the fit. While the shape may take some getting used to, it's not uncomfortable at all. Made of high-density foam and memory foam, it supports your chin, prevents your head from bobbing, and promises to minimize neck strain.

We were able to sleep comfortably on long car rides and train rides, with no neck pain to speak of afterward. This travel pillow has a machine-washable cover and a handy carrying bag with a carabiner clip. It rolls up easily into the bag, but unfortunately, the clip is a little too small to attach to a luggage handle. However, it should easily hook to a purse, backpack, or weekender bag . If you have a hard time getting comfortable enough to doze off on trains, planes, or cars, this portable pillow might be a game-changer. Dimensions: 10 x 9 x 5 inches, 9 x 8 x 4 inches | Core Material: High-density foam, memory foam | Cover Material: Cotton-poly blend

People / Alessandra Amodio

What to Know About Travel Pillows

"The most common travel pillow you'll see at the airport is the [C-shaped] neck pillow," says Good. "A lot of people wear them around their necks as they board." The idea is that the curved design props up your chin and prevents your head from bobbing around while you sleep, ultimately preventing neck strain.

You'll also find J-shaped cushions (like the J-Pillow Travel Pillow ), which are supposed to go on one side of your head rather than around your neck. Then there are rectangular options that are more like a smaller version of a bed pillow, such as the Therm-a-Rest Compressible Pillow .

Travel pillows designed to conform to the shape of your head and neck are often made out of responsive materials, such as memory foam or foam microbeads. Similar to full-sized foam pillows , you can go with high-density foam if you prefer more support and something with shredded foam or poly fibers if you like a softer feel.

The exterior matters, too. In addition to being soft against your skin, the best travel pillows have easy-to-clean cases. Ideally, the cover should be removable, machine-washable, and dryer-friendly, like our best overall pick, the Cabeau Evolution Classic Travel Neck Pillow .

Portability

Despite the size, Good says the best travel pillows can be "stored neatly in your bag" next to other travel accessories, like your wired earbuds and a blackout sleep mask. This could mean it's small or that it compresses down into a compact shape. Some come with carrying cases that hook to your luggage, and C-shaped designs can be worn around your neck if they don't fit anywhere else — that way, it probably won't count as your one personal item. And of course, you can keep it in your bag in a compressed case and pull it out once you're settled into your seat.

After researching today's best travel pillows, we selected 24 options to try firsthand.

Setup: After taking them out of the packaging, reviewing the instructions, and assessing the designs, we brought them along on actual plane flights, train rides, bus rides, and road trips to see how they'd perform in real-life settings.
Evaluation: We evaluated the softness, sturdiness, and maintenance requirements of the materials, then considered the size and whether the pillows were compressible. We used them for two or more consecutive hours (often much longer) on multiple trips. We noted how much support they had, if we were able to fall asleep, and whether we were left feeling sore.
Ratings: After rating each pillow for quality, comfort, portability, durability, and value, those with the highest scores were chosen for this story.

Theresa Holland is a contributing commerce writer for PEOPLE, specializing in travel, lifestyle, and sleep products. To compile this roundup, she combed through our testing insights and ratings for each product. She also interviewed travel experts for their expertise on what makes a good travel pillow.

Meet Our Expert

Rana Good is a travel expert and lifestyle creator.

We created the PEOPLE Tested seal of approval to help you find the very best products for your life. We use our unique methodology to test products in three labs across the country and with our network of home testers to determine their effectiveness, durability, ease of use, and so much more. Based on the results, we rate and recommend products so you can find the right one for your needs.

But we don't stop there: We also regularly re-review the categories in which we've awarded the PEOPLE Tested seal of approval — because the best product of today might not be the best of tomorrow. And by the way, companies can never buy our recommendation: Their products must earn it, fair and square.

In short, PEOPLE Tested provides recommendations you can trust — every day, every purchase.

11 Best Travel Pillows for Long Flights, Train Rides, and Road Trips

Middle-seat naps are possible—without the neck pain.

Our editors handpick the products that we feature. We may earn commission from the links on this page.

If you don't already have a neck pillow, now's the time to add it to your list of travel accessories , right up there with your go-to carry-on bag and healthy snacks . You may be most familiar with the ubiquitous U-shape, but travel neck pillows have come a long way.

From memory foam pillows that alleviate neck pain to inflatable crossbody cushions, these are the best travel pillows to help you wake up feeling refreshed after a long-haul trip.

What to consider

Size and shape.

If you only need to support your head, a smaller wrap-around travel pillow should do the job of letting you relax enough to take a nap. However, if you need more support, there are larger crossbody options, as well as travel pillows that you can roll up and use on your tray table. You'll also need to consider how easy it is to carry around or pack away. Fortunately, most travel pillows pack down and have snaps or straps to attach to your luggage.

Fabric and care

All travel pillows will have some kind of soft outer shell that's easy to spot clean, but many also have a removable cover that you can put in the washer and dryer. If machine-washing the pillow itself is important to you, you don't want a memory foam pillow. Instead, look for one with a polyester or down-alternative filling.

How we chose

In addition to including a pillow from Oprah's Favorite Things , we also considered travel pillows with excellent online reviews. Our picks fill a variety of needs, whether you want memory foam, a washable cover, or something with full-body support.

MLVOC Travel Pillow

Reviewers love this travel pillow because it's made with comfortable memory foam that's super supportive and features breathable, sweat-resistant fabric. Its ergonomic shape cradles the back of your head and your neck. The icing on the cake? It comes with ear plugs and an eye mask to help you stay asleep longer.

Huzi Infinity Pillow

If you have trouble sleeping in those small, stiff airplane seats, this soft pillow will revolutionize your travels. For superior support no matter which way you turn, simply wrap it around your neck like a scarf and snuggle in, or you can roll it up and use it on your tray table like a traditional pillow. It's a little larger than most travel pillows, but the versatility you get is worth it.

Ostrich Pillow Go Neck Pillow

This travel pillow is much more practical than the original Ostrich Pillow but still offers many of the perks, like a snug fit and soft, breathable fabric. High-density memory foam makes this a favorite neck pillow among travelers because no matter how you position it, it offers exceptional support every time.

BCOZZY Chin-Supporting Travel Pillow

A great wraparound option, this travel pillow will give you the neck and head support to sleep comfortably during long-haul flights because it also supports your chin. We like that it comes in several sizes, from a smaller kids' size to an extra large. Plus, the whole pillow is hypoallergenic and machine-washable.

Trtl Travel Pillow

The Trtl neck pillow has an internal frame designed to cradle your head and neck, but it's wrapped in a plush cushion and soft fleece. The result is some seriously comfortable support. It weighs only 4.5 ounces, too, so it's perfect for air travel where weight is a concern.

Travelon Deluxe Wrap-n-Rest Pillow

If you've ever fallen asleep on a plane, chances are you're all too familiar with the head bob. This travel pillow has interlocking ends that wrap all the way around your neck to prevent your head from falling forward while you snooze. Because it gently supports your chin, it also saves you from neck pain. Reviewers like that there are no snaps to worry about; you just wrap it into place.

J-Pillow Travel Pillow

This travel pillow has a unique shape that might not look like it works, but it definitely does. The three sides each cradle a different part of your head—the back, the side, and the chin—to provide ample neck support and keep your head from falling forward. It has a medium firmness and a soft fleece cover, and the entire pillow can go in the washing machine.

Dot&Dot Bendable Memory Foam Travel Pillow

If you have trouble getting comfortable, try this adjustable neck pillow. The memory foam pillow has a flexible core that bends and twists every which way to offer extra support wherever you need it most. This is also what makes it easy to pack in your suitcase! Even if you don't use it for travel, many reviewers love it as a neck pillow at home, too.

Travelrest Ultimate Travel Pillow

It may look unusual, but the long design of this travel pillow makes it one of the only to offer ample support for side sleepers, and you can wear it as a crossbody. Don't let the size deter you: It inflates and deflates quickly and easily, and packs down small. It comes with a soft outer shell, but you can buy a separate cover for it if you like.

Pillow Bar Jetsetter Mini Travel Pillow

We love that you can choose to get this travel pillow filled with down or a down alternative and that you can get it monogrammed for free. When Oprah chose the Jetsetter Mini as one of her Favorite Things , she said, "These hypoallergenic neck pillows with a washable cover make circling Detroit just another opportunity to nap." We couldn't agree more!

TravelMate Memory Foam Neck Pillow

This inexpensive travel pillow is shaped like the classic neck pillow you see everywhere but offers one important upgrade: It features a removable insert that allows you to adjust the thickness of the pillow based on your personal preference and sitting position. The pillow is made of memory foam, and its velour cover is removable and machine-washable.

Brigitt is a writer, editor and craft stylist with nearly 15 years of experience. She specializes in lifestyle topics, including home, health, parenting, beauty, style, food, entertaining, travel and weddings. She has written for Glamour, People, Good Housekeeping, Women's Health, Real Simple, Martha Stewart, Apartment Therapy, The Spruce, and more.

Jess is a Commerce Editor, covering best-selling products for Hearst Magazines. She lives in New Jersey with her husband and two kids.

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Vibecession

We tested four (more) travel pillows. One ruled them all.

Inflatable, squishy, bendy and scarf-like: We took more neck pillows on the road to find the best

Unless you’re in business or first class, transit sleep is never going to be your most restful snooze. The atmosphere is too disruptive, and the neighbors too loud. The seats? Not your bed — not even close.

To help make your bad sleep better, there’s the humble travel pillow — or, rather, countless humble travel pillows. The internet is overloaded with options to choose from, from the old-school models with beanbag fillings to the avant-garde . A few years ago, we put four to the test to see which were worth your money and carry-on space, and now we’re running it back with four more.

For this round, I polled my social media followers for their favorites and picked a few of the highest-rated on Amazon (whose founder, Jeff Bezos, owns The Washington Post). I gave them a spin on cross-country flights in economy, an hour-long ride to the airport and the way-back seat of a minivan on a six-hour road trip . (Prices listed are from our time of purchase.)

Snugl travel pillow, $42.95

The Snugl came highly recommended by a frequent-flying photographer friend. It’s robust, plush and silky, like a hybrid of the Cabeau Evolution Classic neck pillow and the Cushion Lab ergonomic travel pillow , but shapelier.

It wasn’t an immediate hit, although I did nap a little wearing the Snugl on a car ride. I could have used some more support, and I found it bulky. (One plus is the memory-foam material smushes down for more compact carrying.) Then I got home, and discovered I was missing out on a better way to wear it.

You naturally gravitate toward leaning your head against the Snugl’s higher, rounded side — that way the logo faces up, so it seems right, plus it looks like a little cup for your cheek. But you can actually wear it four different ways, according to its website: conventional, front position, reversed and over the shoulder. Three of those four have the pillow flipped, logo down, with that rounded side against your chest, back or shoulder. That flip is critical to reducing neck bend. It was a whole new pillow.

I was ready to write the Snugl off, and will now give it another chance; it has the potential to be truly great. The lesson is true for many neck pillows: There’s probably another way you could be wearing it that’s more comfortable. We actually often wear neck pillows backward; the fasteners are supposed to go in the back, usually.

Dot & Dot bendable memory-foam travel pillow, $19.99

The Dot & Dot bendable memory-foam travel pillow , which is kind of like a pool noodle with its malleable spine, is the cheapest of our roundup. You can remove its cotton cover to wash it, just in case you nap too hard and drool a little.

I packed the Dot & Dot for my six-hour trip in the back of the minivan that called for a 5:30 a.m. wake-up but spent most of the ride feeling uncompelled to use it. It was just ... fine. Not big enough to add much value, no matter which way I wrangled it.

But I was confused; I chose it for its high ratings on Amazon. So when I got back from the trip, I pulled up the reviews. It turns out, a lot of people also felt “meh” about the pillow but still gave it high ratings anyway. Many people rated the pillow highly for using it in a hotel bed , not upright on a plane or car. Lesson learned: Star ratings do not tell the whole story.

Sunany inflatable neck pillow, $23.99

On the glowing recommendations of a few travelers on social media, I ordered the Sunany inflatable neck pillow . Unlike the others, this one promises comfort by way of leaning forward onto a blowup head rest that you place on your lap or tray table, complete with a face hole like a massage table. On a backbreaking long-haul flight, I can see the appeal.

On a medium-haul, however, I felt highly silly inflating my ginormous flotation device. I got a lot of curious looks as the gray mass ballooned. It was too big for me (I’m 5-foot-4), so my head kept creeping deeper into the face hole, leading to some discomfort.

If I were taking a red-eye or international adventure and could find a smaller model, I would be bullish on this pillow. It inflates fast and packs down tiny, and give you a place to lean forward and tuck your arms, blocks out light and relieves back pain.

Trtl, $49.99

The most expensive of the bunch, the Trtl has a loyal following of passionate fans. I know this because whenever I’ve mentioned the words “neck pillow” in real life or on social media, people sing its praises. I ignored their hype for years. Made of a bendable piece of plastic stuffed in a fleece cloth that wraps around your neck, the “pillow” is supposed to look like a discreet scarf but reminded me too much of the boho chic vibe of music-festivalgoers in 2013.

Then I put on a Trtl in the back seat of an hour-long Uber ride to the airport and slept for 55 minutes straight. Then I slept again wearing it on a flight. Best yet: It takes up a fraction of the space in my carry-on compared with the other cushiony options.

In our last pillow test, the Cabeau Evolution Classic neck pillow was the winner. However, I found myself taking the Cushion Lab ergonomic travel pillow , which we also tested, on 90 percent of my trips instead. But the Trtl beats them both. It’s simply the smallest option with the best support, period. And if I’m flying to faraway continents, I may throw in a smaller Sunany dupe as well.

Best overall

Best budget, best down-alternative, best memory foam, best organic, best for neck pain, best for combination sleepers, best body pillow.

What to look for
How we tested

The best cooling pillows in 2024: Sweet dreams for hot sleepers

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For those who tend to run hot at night, a cooling pillow can make all the difference between a night of tossing and turning or rejuvenating rest. As with any of the best pillows , you'd want to prioritize your sleep position and consider breathable materials with advanced cooling features that can help regulate sleep temperature. The best cooling pillows offer much-needed relief from nighttime overheating and sleep disruptions.

We tested over a dozen top-rated pillows and consulted with sleep experts to find the very best cooling pillows available. Our top choice, the Coop Sleep Goods Eden Cool+ Pillow , met every criterion for the best cooling pillow — not only is it specially designed for hot sleepers, but its advanced Cool+ technology provides exceptional comfort, plus, it's fully adjustable, making it stand out as the best solution for those seeking relief from nighttime heat. The latex Purple Harmony Pillow has exceptional airflow with its unique cooling technology, complemented by a range of lofts to accommodate any type of sleeper.

Our picks of the best cooling pillows

Best overall: Coop Sleep Goods The Eden Cool+ Adjustable Pillow - See at Amazon

Best budget: Beckham Hotel Collection Gel Pillow - See at Amazon

Best down alternative: Slumber Cloud Ultra Cool Pillow - See at Slumber Cloud

Best latex: Purple Harmony Pillow - See at Amazon

Best memory foam: Brooklyn Bedding Luxury Cooling Memory Foam Pillow - See at Brooklyn Bedding

Best organic: Birch Organic Pillow - See at Birch

Best silk: Cozy Earth Silk Pillow - See at Cozy Earth

Best for neck pain: TEMPUR-Cloud Breeze Dual Cooling Pillow - See at Amazon

Best combination sleepers: Nest Easy Breather Pillow - See at Nest Bedding

Best body pillow: Pluto Puff Body Pillow - See at Pluto

The Coop Eden Cool+ Pillow keeps you cool with its gel-infused foam, offers two sides for different feels, and adjusts to your liking.

Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Infused with cooling gel designed to regulate temperature effectively
Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Dual-sided design features one side with a cooling and plush feel and a firmer side phase change gel
Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Adjustable for personalized support
con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Adjusting the fill can lead to lightweight microfibers floating around and sticking to nearby surfaces
con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Sleek pillow surface may cause it to slide around in pillowcase
con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Only pillow cover is machine-washable

The Eden Cool+ Pillow has become my ultimate choice for achieving a refreshing and restful night's sleep. From the moment I first laid my head on it, I could feel the difference that Coop's innovative Cool+ foam fill makes. Crafted specifically for individuals who sleep hot, this pillow blends cooling gel-infused memory foam and recycled polyester fibers to create a heavenly combination of comfort and breathability.

What I love most about this pillow is its dual-sided design. One side features a cooling and firmer phase change gel layer, perfect for those warm nights, while the other side offers a softer, plush feel for when I need a little extra coziness. During testing, I didn't notice any significant heat build-up, and any warmth dissipated quickly, I also found myself experiencing unparalleled support and maintaining ideal spinal alignment, waking up each morning feeling refreshed and rejuvenated, without any hint of shoulder tension or headaches.

While this pillow is mostly perfect, there is one minor inconvenience I encountered: adjusting the fill can sometimes lead to a bit of a mess, with lightweight microfibers floating around and sticking to nearby surfaces. However, this is a small price to pay for the overall comfort and quality that this pillow provides.

Coop offers various ergonomic options, like the Cool+ Cut-Out Pillow, which I also tested and loved. It is made with the same cooling technology and designed specifically for side sleepers. As someone who has long trusted Coop's products for a good night's sleep, I appreciate their dedication to crafting pillows that not only meet but exceed expectations.

The Beckham Hotel Collection Gel Pillow is a budget-friendly option with a plush, premium feel and breathable cotton fabric.

Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Sleeps relatively cool
Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Soft and stackable
Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Good for stomach and back sleepers
Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. 30-day return window
Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Machine washable
Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Hypoallergenic, breathable, gel fiber down alternative fill
con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Side sleepers will likely need two or more of these pillows
con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Pillows are not adjustable

The best cooling pillows often come with a higher price tag, finding options under $60 can be a challenge due to the cost of cooling materials. However, the Beckham Hotel Collection Gel Pillow offers a budget-friendly alternative. Despite the "Gel pillow" label, these pillows don't contain liquid or cooling gel; instead, they're filled with hypoallergenic polyester gel fiber, similar to down alternative in feel and performance.

Deputy editor, Lauren Savoie, spent months sleeping with these pillows, consistently noting the breathable cotton and down alt fill's ability to maintain a comfortable temperature. The plush, premium feel of these pillows, combined with their soft and breathable fabric, ensures a cool and restful night's sleep, even on warmer nights. While they may not deliver the most intense cooling sensation, they excel in breathability and offer exceptional value. Unlike denser materials like memory foam, these pillows provide a cool sleeping experience without stretching your budget.

That said, side sleepers may find that they'll need two or more of these pillows for optimal comfort, it's also worth noting that they are not adjustable. Even though these pillows aren't necessarily actively cooling, their relatively cool nature makes them a comfortable and budget-friendly choice.

The Slumber Cloud Ultra Cool pillow offers a soft, down-like fill wrapped in cool-to-the-touch Outlast® fabric designed to resist heat build-up.

Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Down-like, soft and flexible interior
Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Comes in 2 firmness levels
Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Excellent cooling technology
con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Can become lumpy after washing, requiring frequent fluffing
con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Might not provide sufficient loft for larger frames who prefer to sleep on their back or side
con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. The texture of the outer shell is not as soft as others

The Slumber Cloud Ultra Cool features a soft and flexible interior reminiscent of down, offering just the right level of comfort, available in soft/medium and medium/firm firmnesses. Meanwhile, the outer shell boasts a cool-to-the-touch sensation, courtesy of its NASA-engineered Outlast® fabric. I must admit that the pillow shell's texture isn't as smooth as I'd hoped; it has a slight grittiness that requires a well-fitted pillowcase to prevent slipping. Even with a pillowcase, its technology consistently maintained a refreshing coolness throughout the night, preventing any moisture buildup. It kept me cool during testing, maintaining a consistently comfortable feel without ever getting hot.

With its medium loft, the pillow perfectly suited my needs as a side sleeper, offering optimal support for my head and neck. Yet, my taller and heavier husband found the loft insufficient, especially as a back and side sleeper. It appears best suited for individuals with smaller to medium frames or larger-framed stomach sleepers who don't require as much loft.

One downside worth noting is the maintenance. After machine washing, the pillow tends to become lumpy and needs reshaping, which could be a hassle, especially considering the recommended wash frequency. Overall, the combination of its down-like interior feel, cooling technology, and customizable firmness levels makes the Slumber Cloud Ultra Cool pillow a standout option for those seeking a high-quality alternative to traditional down pillows.

The innovative Purple Harmony incorporates a honeycomb-patterned Grid (the same material as in its mattresses) that surrounds a supportive inner core of hypoallergenic ventilated latex for an extremely comfortable and supportive pillow that sleeps cool.

Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Exceptionally cooling and breathable
Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Durable and supportive
Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Offered in three loft heights: low (5.5") , medium (6.5"), high (7.5"
con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Not a traditional pillow feel
con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Heavy
con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Washing can be time-consuming

The Purple Harmony Pillow is a great choice for hot sleepers seeking a latex option. Its exceptional airflow kept me cool all night long, eliminating the need to constantly flip it over. The temperature-neutral, airy honeycomb grid and ventilated Talalay latex with aerated structures work wonders in drawing away heat, while the moisture-wicking mesh cover adds to its cooling effect. Plus, the fact that it features a machine washable cover is a huge convenience. What's more, the pillow comes in various lofts and sizes, offering options in both standard and king, as well as preferred loft levels of low, medium, or tall.

My husband has quickly become a fan of the Purple Harmony. He loves its soft, bouncy, and airy feel, finding it perfectly supportive for his head and neck as a side and back sleeper. Its relatively heavy weight ensures it stays in place all night, and its high-quality build and durable materials will prevent it from going flat or lumpy over time.

That said, I don't recommend this pillow to individuals seeking a plush feel, as it lacks the flexibility and moldability of a traditional pillow. Overall, the Purple Harmony Pillow offers unparalleled cooling and support, making it a top choice for hot sleepers.

Though memory foam can often feel stifling for hot sleepers, the Luxury Cooling Pillow from Brooklyn Bedding is designed to give you the best of both worlds: a silly cool-to-the-touch shell and copper-infused foam for contouring support.

Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Naturally cooling properties such as copper-infused foam
Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Can choose between two lofts: low or high
Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. No need to fluff
con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Slick cover, pillow cases can slide off easily
con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Initial odor that dissipated within 2-3 days days

I was excited to test out the Brooklyn Bedding Luxury Cooling Memory Foam Pillow, especially since we love the latex pillow that we tested for our guide to the best pillows for side sleepers for its bouncy and responsive design, with airways that dissipate heat, enhancing temperature regulation even more. I received the king-size, high-loft version with a shell that is silky, smooth, and cool-to-the-touch. Sleeping on this pillow was incredibly satisfying; it kept me cool even during warmer nights. The naturally copper-infused memory foam enhances breathability and comfort. The cooling effect also comes from the infusion of cooling gel that pulls excess body heat away from the surface.

The Brooklyn Bedding Luxury Cooling pillow provided excellent support for my head and kept my spine aligned as a side sleeper. It adapts well to the head and neck and is very responsive. It's great that it comes in low or high profiles to accommodate all sleeping positions.

The pillow is medium-firm, a bit thick, but balances softness well. Thanks to its memory foam construction, it retained its shape during and after testing, and knowing Brooklyn Bedding products, I expect it will hold its shape long-term. My husband and I found it equally comfortable despite our different shapes and sizes. This pillow is a fantastic choice for anyone seeking cooling comfort and reliable support with solid memory foam.

The Birch Organic pillow combines premium organic materials like wool and cotton for a comfortable, temperature-balanced sleep experience, featuring GREENGUARD Gold & GOTS certifications for eco-friendly assurance.

Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Made with premium organic and naturally breathable materials
Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Effective temperature-regulating properties GREENGUARD Gold, Eco-Institut, and GOTS-certified
Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Requires frequent fluffing and kneading
con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Requires frequent fluffing and kneading
con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. May not be suitable for stomach sleepers

The Birch Organic pillow proved to be a great choice for those seeking natural materials and eco-friendly options. It maintains a comfortable temperature throughout the night, striking a balance between warmth and coolness. Despite not being cool-to-the-touch or as cold as other pillows I tested, I never experienced any significant heat buildup or discomfort during testing. The pillow is made with premium organic and naturally breathable wool and cotton, and is also GREENGUARD Gold & GOTS-certified, ensuring peace of mind by avoiding polyurethane-based foams and adhering to sustainable and ethical manufacturing practices.

The pillow offers substantial support for back and side sleepers, though some may find it too firm for stomach sleeping due to its medium loft. While not machine washable, the super soft 100% organic cotton pillow case can be easily removed and washed.

Over time, I noticed that the pillow tends to decompress and bunch, requiring frequent fluffing and kneading. Despite this minor challenge, I recommend this organic pillow for environmentally conscious individuals seeking a comfortable, breathable sleep solution with the assurance of eco-friendly and ethical environmental values.

For those seeking a pillow that’s exceptionally soft, breathable, and promises a fresh start every morning, the Cozy Earth Silk pillow is definitely worth considering.

Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Made with luxurious 100% long-strand mulberry silk
Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Naturally breathable silk helps maintain a comfortable temperature
Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Exceptionally soft, comfortable, and supportive
con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Does not come with a removable pillowcase
con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Requires constant fluffing
con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. One of the most expensive options

The Cozy Earth Silk Pillow has been an absolute luxury to sleep on. From the moment it arrived in its beautifully designed reusable packaging; an elegant canvas bag with leather-like straps, I knew it was going to be a remarkable sleep experience. Filled with 100% long-strand mulberry silk and encased in premium bamboo viscose, it is as sumptuous as it sounds. The natural breathability of silk and bamboo viscose made it ideal for maintaining a comfortable temperature throughout the night, leaving me feeling refreshed every morning during my testing period. It truly stands out as one of the best, softest pillows I've tested.

Currently, in my first few weeks of testing, I am happy with the luxurious, high-quality materials and the undeniable comfort it provides.

There are a couple of things to consider before purchasing, the pillow doesn't come with a removable case, so using a protective cover is a must. It also requires frequent fluffing to maintain its plush feel. Jaclyn Turner, our senior home editor, has been regularly sleeping with the Cozy Earth Silk pillow and expressed concerns to me about its longevity, noting that the outer cover started pilling, which is not ideal given the price point, but admittedly still continues to reach for it despite this pain point because of the comfort, appreciating its breathable, soft, and moldable design. Pilling is also covered under Cozy Earth's lengthy 10-year warranty. We both love this pillow but we will have to test it further to see how durable it proves to be long-term.

The cool-to-the-touch TEMPUR-Cloud Breeze pillow is perfect for hot summer nights, offering substantial support that effectively relieves neck and shoulder tension

Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Dual gel layers provide effective temperature regulation
Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Excellent support for neck pain
Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Durable and resilient
con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Not suitable for stomach sleepers
con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Initial off-gassing odor that dissipates within 2-3 days
con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. No trial period and not returnable

The TEMPUR-Cloud Breeze Dual Cooling Pillow quickly became my go-to choice, especially during hot summer days when its cooling properties shine. Featuring dual gel layers and a cool-to-the-touch quilted cover, it effectively regulates temperature throughout the night, ensuring a consistently cool sleep experience that also helps alleviate discomfort. Throughout testing, I never experienced significant heat buildup, and any warmth dissipated quickly.

As a medium-firm pillow, it offers substantial support for side and back sleepers, ideal for maintaining proper spinal alignment and reducing pressure points around the neck. This pillow's density and somewhat heavy composition ensure that my head stays securely in place through the night, providing relief and comfort where needed the most.

Despite being made of dense TEMPUR material, it maintains a soft and plush feel. The high-quality construction ensures durability without clumping or flattening over time; even after a year of use, it still bounces back like new.

Personally, I'm not usually a fan of foam pillows, there are only a handful that I like, but I find the TEMPUR-Cloud Breeze very comfortable, especially in alleviating neck pain and keeping me cool. However, its thickness, firmness, and weight may not suit everyone's needs. One downside to this pillow is that TEMPUR does not offer any trial period, and it cannot be returned once purchased. However, they do offer a 5-year warranty.

The Easy Breather Pillow’s luxurious feel and durable construction, combined with its cooling properties, make it a great option for anyone seeking personalized comfort and reliable temperature regulation.

Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Adjustable loft and firmness
Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Effective temperature regulation with unique cooling properties
con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Slightly denser than other options
con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Requires regular fluffing

I've been using the Nest Bedding Easy Breather Pillow on and off for about a year now, and I've really enjoyed it. The pillow's cover is luxuriously silky and cool-to-the-touch, specifically crafted with Nest Bedding's Icecore material to actively regulate temperature throughout the night. It is filled with breathable shredded gel foam, and I found the cooling fabric to be great at dissipating heat and wicking away moisture.

One stand-out feature of this pillow is its adjustability to accommodate any sleeping position. I was able to easily customize the firmness and loft by adding or removing filling, making it perfect for combination sleepers who need versatility from time to time. However, the pillow's density does make it slightly heavier compared to others, which may be something to consider for those who prefer a lighter pillow. Nest recommends regularly kneading the pillow to maintain its shape and loft over time, which I've found to be helpful in preventing lumps or clumps from forming. After using this pillow for about a year, I'm impressed by how well it has retained its shape.

Pluto Puff is built with side sleepers in mind, it’s flexible, soft, and durable.

Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Extremely supportive for side and back sleepers
Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Soft and comforting feel
Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Stays cool
con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Might be too big for someone with limited space
con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Shorter warranty

I've been pretty impressed with the Pluto Puff Body Pillow ever since I tested it for our best body pillows guide. Not only is it our top recommendation for side sleepers, but it has quickly become a personal favorite because of its cool-to-the-touch and silky quilted microfiber case that I personally love for its soft and smooth feel. The quilted cover is also removable for those who prefer the feel of smooth 300-thread count cotton feel.

The breathable quilted cover keeps me feeling refreshed throughout the night, while the fiber fill, which mimics the plushness of 600-fill European down, adds to its overall comfort. Despite its size, the Pluto Puff maintains exceptional temperature regulation, ensuring it stays cool without overheating, which is perfect for warm sleepers. It provides robust support ideal for both side and back sleepers, and it has retained its loft well over time.

The COOP body pillow has been my favorite for years, but Pluto Puff is a strong contender. While not adjustable like the COOP, which might be a downside for those who prefer a customizable option, its consistent performance and luxurious, cool feel make the Pluto Puff a standout choice among cooling body pillows.

What to look for in a cooling pillow

With many cooling pillow options on the market, selecting the right one depends on your individual needs and preferences. Here are some important factors to consider during your search for the best cooling pillow:

Sleeping Position and Loft: Look for a pillow that fits your sleeping style:

Side Sleepers: Opt for medium to high loft for neck support.
Back Sleepers: Choose a medium loft for spinal alignment.
Stomach Sleepers: Prefer lower loft to prevent neck strain.

Materials and Fill: Avoid heat-retaining materials like down or wool; choose cooling options like latex, silk, or memory foam pillows with ventilated designs that allow for better airflow. Opt for hypoallergenic fills and check for CertiPUR-US certification for foam quality. Use covers made with breathable materials such as cotton, linen, bamboo, and tencel.

Cooling Technologies: Look for pillows with innovative cooling features like Gel-infused fills, breathable covers, and moisture-wicking materials that enhance heat dissipation.

Return Policy and Trial Period: Prioritize pillows with flexible return and trial periods to ensure you can exchange or return them if they don't meet expectations. Allow time to adjust to your pillow as well.

Ease of Cleaning: Consider maintenance needs, especially for hot sleepers. Look for designs with removable, washable covers, and we recommend using a pillowcase that is washed regularly.

How we tested cooling pillows

As a certified sleep science consultant with extensive experience in sleep research and product reviews, I understand the importance of a well-equipped bedroom for a comfortable and healthy night's sleep. To identify the best cooling pillows, I consulted experts like Nishi Bhopal , MD, a board-certified psychiatrist and sleep specialist, and Alex Dimitriu , MD, dual board-certified in psychiatry and sleep medicine. With their guidance, I conducted a thorough assessment by testing over 12 top-rated pillows on the market, focusing on the following critical factors:

Sleep Quality Testing: I personally slept on each pillow for seven consecutive nights, evaluating factors such as comfort, support, and, most importantly, temperature regulation and breathability in a climate ranging from 75 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. To broaden our perspective, I also enlisted my husband, who has a larger frame, experiences sleep apnea, and primarily sleeps on his back and side to provide additional insights into each pillow's performance from his perspective.
Materials and Certifications: I scrutinized each pillow's cooling properties, looking for features like breathability, CertiPUR-US certifications for foam quality, innovative cooling technologies, and specific maintenance requirements.
Cleaning: Recognizing the accumulation of body oils and sweat, especially for hot sleepers, I followed cleaning instructions for each pillow. I assessed ease of washing and drying, durability, and noted which pillows came with removable and washable covers.
Shape Retention: I examined post-use pillows for any signs of lumps or clumping, noting how well they maintained their shape and loft over time and how frequently they required fluffing.
Return Policy/Trial Period: I thoroughly investigated the return policies and warranties for each pillow, understanding that individual preferences vary and ensuring flexibility in exchange or return options.

Cooling pillow FAQs

What are the best pillows for hot sleepers.

Hot sleepers benefit most from pillows equipped with advanced cooling technologies or materials that effectively regulate temperature and dissipate heat. These include cooling gel foam fills, latex, and silk, which are known for maintaining a cool sensation throughout the night.

What makes a pillow cooling? Or How do cooling pillows work?

According to Dr. Dimitriu, depending on the materials, cooling pillows can improve comfort. Cooling pillows work to help manage temperature and promote a cooler sleeping environment. They generally use materials to absorb and pull away heat from the body, like a gel layer or memory foam.

Can cooling pillows help with night sweats?

Dr. Nishi emphasizes that while cooling pillows may not entirely prevent night sweats or hot flashes, they can offer a soothing cool-to-the-touch sensation that promotes easier falling asleep and staying asleep.

Are cooling pillows machine washable?

Most cooling pillows in this guide come with a machine-washable cover, although the pillow itself should not be washed as the fill or cooling technology could be damaged. It's important to follow the care instructions carefully. Using an extra protective pillowcase can also help keep the pillow clean and extend its lifespan.

Can I use a pillowcase with a cooling pillow?

Yes, you should always use a pillowcase to keep your cooling pillow in top shape. Most cooling technologies work effectively even with a pillowcase, but it's important to choose the right materials. According to Dr. Nishi, natural fibers such as cotton, linen, bamboo, and Tencel make up the best cooling fabrics for sheets , and are excellent choices due to their breathability and cooling properties. These materials offer a comfortable, cool-to-the-touch experience while maintaining the pillow's cooling benefits.

You can purchase logo and accolade licensing to this story here . Disclosure: Written and researched by the Insider Reviews team. We highlight products and services you might find interesting. If you buy them, we may get a small share of the revenue from the sale from our partners. We may receive products free of charge from manufacturers to test. This does not drive our decision as to whether or not a product is featured or recommended. We operate independently from our advertising team. We welcome your feedback. Email us at [email protected] .

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5 travel pillows to take with you on your next flight

I f you’ve ever woken up during a flight and found your neck lolling to the side at an uncomfortable angle, then you need to invest in a travel pillow.

Sleeping on a plane isn’t particularly comfortable, and while they’re perfect for your bed, the best pillows don’t make the best travel companions. The last thing you want when you arrive at your holiday destination is to have a sore neck and head from sleeping in an unsupported position, so before you board a plane this summer, here are five travel pillows you should take with you on your next flight.

1. Cabeau Evolution S3 Travel Neck Pillow

The best travel pillow overall

The best travel pillow you can buy today is the Cabeau Evolution S3 Travel Neck Pillow (£39.99). Made from ergonomic memory foam, the Cabeau Evolution S3 provides comfortable 360° support that protects and aligns your neck and back while reducing any strains and kinks. What makes the Cabeau Evolution S3 perfect for plane or train travel is its many different straps, including a chinstrap for supporting your head and seat traps to attach to your chair.

2. Trtl Travel Neck Pillow

The best travel pillow for neck support

If you prefer a travel pillow that’s less inflated or poofy, the Trtl Travel Neck Pillow (£49.99) is the best choice for neck support while travelling. It looks more like a scarf than a pillow, but the Trtl Travel Neck Pillow offers complete head and neck support in the form of a soft and breathable fabric. Available in a range of colours, the Trtl Travel Neck Pillow is great for people sitting in the middle seat, and it’s incredibly lightweight and easy to tuck away into your best carry-on luggage .

3. Ostrichpillow Original Travel Pillow

The best travel pillow for blocking out everything

The Ostrichpillow Original Travel Pillow (£99) is probably the weirdest looking pillow on the market, but it blocks out absolutely everything so you can have a long sleep or a quick power nap from anyone. It fits completely over your head to block out light and noise, and it has two holes at the top for you to fit your arms through. You might get some strange looks when you wear it but you’ll be blissfully asleep by then and probably won’t care!

4. BCOZZY Neck Pillow

The best travel pillow for head support

The BCOZZY Neck Pillow (£39.97) is a super cosy pillow that offers double support to the head, neck and chin. It can be used in multiple ways by placing the overlapping pillow arms in different positions around the neck for front, side and front-and-side support. It’s great for side sleepers and helps prevent your head from hanging and lolling while you sleep upright in a seat.

5. flintronic Inflatable Travel Pillow

The best inflatable travel pillow

Designed for travelling and camping, the flintronic Inflatable Travel Pillow (£8.99) has a curved ergonomic design that fits to the curves of your head and neck for extra support. It’s ideal for all types of sleepers, and as it can inflate and deflate, it takes up hardly any space in your luggage – it’s even smaller than a water bottle when deflated. At £8.99, the flintronic Inflatable Travel Pillow is incredibly affordable and the cheapest option in this guide.

5 travel pillows to take with you on your next flight

Best memory foam pillows for back, side and stomach sleepers

You've heard the adage that you spend one third of your life in bed, but mattresses get so much attention that pillows usually become a mere afterthought. If you want to optimize your sleep health and spend your waking hours well-rested and pain-free, finding the right pillow for your body's needs is paramount. In this article, I'll compare the best memory foam pillows for every sleep style and share expert advice on what to look for when shopping.

What to consider when buying a memory foam pillow

Selecting a memory foam pillow is a personal choice that depends on your body’s needs and your preferred sleep position. I asked several experts to weigh in on what to look for when purchasing a pillow:

“Memory foam pillows work by conforming to the shape of your head and neck, providing support and alleviating pressure points due to the viscoelastic properties of the foam,” explains Dr. Chester Wu, double board-certified psychiatrist and sleep therapist and advisor at RISE Science . “The advantages of memory foam pillows include their ability to help maintain proper spinal alignment, and evenly distribute the weight of your head to potentially reduce neck and back pain.”

The type of fill in a memory foam pillow can also determine its shape. Julia Forbes , a certified sleep science coach at Sleep Advisor who specializes in reviewing mattresses and sleep accessories, explains that, “before buying a memory foam pillow, you should consider factors such as internal fill, whether you want a solid fill, shredded foam or a blend of both, depending on your preferences and sleeping position.”

Firmness is a key factor in determining the effectiveness of a memory foam pillow, and it all depends on your body. According to Wu, memory foam pillows tend to be firmer and more supportive the denser they’re constructed. Because this is such a personal decision, you might find it beneficial to try a few pillows of varying density before making a final selection.

Sleep position

This factor is perhaps the most critical and the easiest to overlook, since not all memory foam pillows suit all sleep styles. “Side sleepers may benefit from a higher pillow to keep their head aligned with their spine, back sleepers can use a more medium-height pillow and stomach sleepers should use a very low pillow to avoid excessive neck extension,” Wu explains.

Our picks for the best memory foam pillows

Best memory foam pillow for side sleepers: saatva cloud memory foam pillow.

Saatva Cloud Memory Foam Pillow

Marten Carlson , certified sleep science coach and reviewer at Mattress Clarity, recommends this pillow for side sleepers because of its high and supportive seven-inch loft. While it lacks cooling gel construction, it features a comfy machine-washable, knit cotton cover to maintain breathability and neutral temperatures. Like many of the best memory foam pillows, it’s also CertiPUR-US® certified, which means that it emits very few volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and lacks formaldehyde or ozone depleters.

Specifications:

Size: 28 inches wide x 16 inches tall.
Care: Machine wash cover, spot clean inner.
Cover material: Knit cotton.
Fill: Gel-infused memory foam and latex foam.
Cooling feature: Neutral temperature.
Certifications: CertiPUR-US®.
Loft: Seven inches.
Warranty: One-year limited.
Price on publish: $135.

What we like:

Very high loft.
Great at retaining shape.

What we don’t like:

Some customers find this pillow too firm.

The AP Buyline takeaway:

A reliably supportive and high-loft pillow for side sleepers with neck pain.

Get it here: Saatva Cloud Memory Foam Pillow

Best memory foam pillow for stomach sleepers: Nest Easy Breather Pillow

Nest Easy Breather Pillow

Carlson’s pick for stomach sleepers features removable shredded fill for fine-tuning the pillow’s level of support. Its removable polyester and spandex cover is easy to clean in a washing machine and keeps sleepers comfortable without overheating. It’s not the smallest pillow, and some customers note that it still feels too firm despite its adjustable fill. If you’re a stomach sleeper, removing as much fill as possible is the most likely ticket to comfortable results.

Size: 26 inches wide x 18 inches tall.
Care: Machine wash cover.
Cover material: Polyester and spandex.
Fill: Foam and polyester fiber.
Cooling feature: Cooling cover.
Loft: Not published.
Warranty: Two-year limited.
Price on publish: $107.10.
Adjustable fill level.
Cooling cover.
Some reviewers complain about the density of this pillow.

Stomach sleepers will appreciate the fine-tuned support that this adjustable pillow offers.

Get it here: Nest Easy Breather Pillow

Best memory foam pillow for back sleepers: Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Cloud Breeze Dual Cooling Pillow

Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Cloud Breeze Dual Cooling Pillow

Forbes recommends this pillow for back sleepers because of its medium loft and firmness. It features a single contoured piece of memory foam — in place of the shredded fill of other designs — and a breathable, machine-washable cotton cover. “This pillow also has cooling gel pads which will keep you cool and cozy throughout the night,” she adds.

Size: 27 inches wide x 19 inches tall.
Care: Machine wash and air dry cover.
Cover material: Cotton.
Fill: TEMPUR-Material with gel layer.
Cooling feature: Cooling gel.
Loft: 6.4 inches.
Warranty: Five-year limited.
Price on publish: $151.
Cooling gel layer helps hot sleepers.
Medium contour and loft for good all-around support.
Great warranty.
Not adjustable.

A pleasantly cooling and all-around comfortable pillow with a five-year warranty.

Get it here:

Best memory foam pillow for neck pain: Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Neck Pillow

Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Neck Pillow

This pain relief-focused design from Tempur-Pedic is incredibly firm and geared toward back and side sleepers who require extra neck support while sleeping. It comes in several sizes to support a variety of users and features a non-irritating hypoallergenic cover. While its exceeding firmness might put off stomach sleepers and other users looking for a plushy pillow option, the TEMPUR-Neck is one of the best supportive pillows for no-nonsense neck pain relief.

Size: 20 inches wide x 12.5 inches tall.
Care: Machine wash cover, air dry.
Cover material: Polyester.
Fill: TEMPUR-Material.
Cooling feature: None.
Loft: Four inches.
Price on publish: $129.
Hypoallergenic cover.
Comes in four sizes, including a travel option.
Ergonomic design.
Not suitable for stomach sleepers.

A very firm and supportive pillow for back and side sleepers.

Get it here: Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Cloud Breeze Dual Cooling Pillow

Best cooling memory foam pillow: Marlow Pillow

Marlow Pillow

Forbes recommends the Marlow Pillow for hot sleepers because of its combination of a breathable cotton cover and a cooling, gel-infused shredded fill. It also stands out on this list for its unique adjustable design, which uses zippers to control the pillow’s firmness. While the Marlow isn’t machine washable — and lacks the ability to remove filling — it’s more affordable than most and sleeps cool, making it an appealing option for every type of sleeper.

Size: 26 inches wide x 17.5 inches tall.
Care: Spot clean.
Fill: Memory foam and polyester.
Cooling feature: Gel-infused foam fill.
Price on publish: $55.25.
Adjustable firmness.
Good value.
Cooling fill.
Not machine washable.

A cool and comfortable adjustable pillow at a price point you won’t regret.

Get it here: Marlow Pillow

Best shredded memory foam pillow: Coop Sleep Goods The Original Adjustable Pillow

Coop Sleep Goods The Original Adjustable Pillow

While there are many great shredded memory foam pillows on the market, this pillow takes the cake thanks to its non-toxic design and generous five-year warranty. It’s adjustable, allowing users to remove or add filling as needed — it even includes an extra bag of filling for sleepers who want more loft and support. While its polyester and rayon cover scores highly in comfort and breathability, it still doesn’t sleep as cool as gel-infused designs. If you’re a hot sleeper but love this design, Coop Sleep’s EdenCool+ pillow is an appealing alternative.

Size: 29 inches wide x 19 inches tall.
Cover material: Polyester and bamboo rayon.
Fill: Memory foam and microfiber.
Certifications: CertiPUR-US®, GREENGUARD Gold.
Price on publish: $75.
Comes with an extra bag of filling.
Firm despite adjustable shredded fill.
Doesn’t sleep as cool as some other designs.
Might be too firm for lovers of soft pillows.

A certified eco-friendly shredded foam pillow with a fantastic warranty.

Get it here: Coop Sleep Goods The Original Adjustable Pillow

Best memory foam travel pillow: Crystal Cove Mini Charcoal Pillow

Mini Charcoal Pillow

According to Carlson, this comfy memory foam pillow is an appealing travel companion. It features removable and adjustable cooling gel fill, with a conveniently truncated shape that allows stowage in carry-on or personal bags without sacrificing too much surface area. The Crystal Cove Mini Pillow is also manufactured according to strict CertiPUR-US® and GREENGUARD Gold VOC emission standards, making it a safe and healthy option.

Size: 20 inches wide x 13 inches tall.
Fill: Charcoal-graphite memory foam, polyester gel.
Cooling feature: Cooling gel fiber.
Certifications: CertiPUR-US®, Climate Neutral, GREENGUARD Gold.
Price on publish: $53.
Eco-friendly manufacturing.
Travel-friendly silhouette.
Odd dimensions make this pillow less appealing for use on a bed.

If you’re going to travel with a pillow, this affordable and eco-friendly option is one of the best.

Get it here: Crystal Cove Mini Charcoal Pillow

Read article: Best travel pillows to keep your neck supported and comfy

Best gel memory foam pillow: Brooklyn Bedding Luxury Cooling Memory Foam Pillow

Brooklyn Bedding Luxury Cooling Memory Foam Pillow

Carlson’s pick for the best gel memory foam pillow contains naturally antimicrobial and hypoallergenic latex with a cooling gel layer. It’s softer than traditional memory foam pillows, making it a particularly appealing option for stomach sleepers, but this trade-off in comfort comes at a slight cost to neck support. To mitigate this factor, Brooklyn Bedding offers this luxury pillow in two loft sizes to accommodate different sleepers’ needs. Still, it’s best to look elsewhere if you’re looking for a higher loft, with anywhere from six to eight inches being advisable.

Size: 29 inches wide x 16 inches tall.
Cover material: Not published.
Fill: Latex.
Cooling feature: Gel layer.
Loft: Four or five inches.
Warranty: Three-year limited.
Price on publish: $96.80.
Multiple loft options.
Some customers report wishing for a higher loft.
Hypoallergenic, but not suitable for those allergic to latex.

A soft and cooling pillow option with a modest amount of neck support.

Get it here: Brooklyn Bedding Luxury Cooling Memory Foam Pillow

Best value memory foam pillow: Layla Memory Foam Pillow

Layla Memory Foam Pillow

If you’re looking to save some money — but don’t want to sacrifice your sleep health — Carlson recommends Layla’s basic memory foam pillow for the perfect balance between quality and price. Like many of the best bedroom pillows on this list, it features a machine-washable cover, adjustable loft and CertiPUR-US® certification so you can breathe easy knowing you aren’t filling your space with VOCs. Despite its breathable cover, some users report that the Layla sleeps hotter than other pillows. If you tend to overheat while sleeping, you might have to spring for a real gel pillow (and spend a bit more in the process).

Size: 28 inches wide x 18 inches tall.
Care: Machine wash cover cold, tumble dry low.
Fill: Shredded memory foam and polyester fiber.
Cooling feature: Breathable cover.
Price on publish: $59.
Adjustable fill.
Affordable.
Breathable, but doesn’t cool enough for hot sleepers.

This back-to-basics pillow offers comfortable and adjustable support at a wallet-friendly price point.

Get it here: Layla Memory Foam Pillow

Best adjustable memory foam pillow: Luxome LAYR Customizable Pillow

Luxome LAYR Customizable Pillow

This unique pillow consists of several inserts encased in an outer cover, allowing users to mix, match and rearrange to their hearts’ content until they reach the perfect height and firmness. Each insert itself is further customizable, making this the ideal pillow for sleepers who want complete control over every aspect of their comfort. While Luxome offers a 30-day trial period, the LAYR doesn’t come with a warranty, which is disappointing at this price point. Still, this pillow might be worth a shot if you’ve had trouble with other memory foam pillows in the past.

Size: 24 inches wide x 17 inches tall.
Care: Machine wash outer and inner covers.
Cover material: Bamboo viscose.
Fill: Gel-infused memory foam.
Cooling feature: Breathable cover, gel foam.
Loft: Variable.
Warranty: None.
Price on publish: $120.
Highly customizable for a variety of postures and needs.
Breathable, comfortable materials.
No warranty.

This premium pillow is really several in one, offering discerning sleepers a way to optimize their experience.

Get it here: Luxome LAYR Customizable Pillow

How we selected the best memory foam pillows

I assembled this list of the best memory foam pillows using expert advice and customer reviews. I also considered features, design and price to ensure this list has options for every type of sleeper.

Benefits of using a memory foam pillow

Memory foam pillows differ from traditional pillows in many ways and offer benefits unique to their construction. “Memory foam pillows are known for their slow-moving feel and conforming design,” Carlson explains. “They contour to the neck, shoulders and head, relieving pressure and reducing muscle and joint tension. Memory foam pillows also provide a balance of softness and firmness for the perfect amount of support throughout the night, plus, they tend to be more durable and long-lasting.”

How to maintain and care for a memory foam pillow

When learning how to wash pillows , and specifically memory foam pillows, it’s not so much what you do as what you don’t, explains Carlson. “Most memory foam pillows come with a removable outer cover that can be machine-washed at home,” he says. “However, the foam itself should not be submerged in water or machine-washed, as this can damage the material. Instead, spot cleaning with a mild detergent is recommended for spills or stains. I’d also recommend letting the pillow air out in a well-ventilated area to help prevent odors and to prolong its lifespan. Finally, make sure to read the care instructions for your pillow, as every pillow is a bit different when it comes to care.”

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Are memory foam pillows suitable for all sleep positions.

Memory foam pillows, as a category, are generally suitable for all sleep positions, but it’s loft height that determines sleep style compatibility. “Side sleepers typically benefit from a taller loft to keep the head and neck aligned with the shoulders, while back sleepers may prefer a medium loft for a balance of comfort and support,” advises Carlson. “Stomach sleepers generally need a lower loft to prevent excessive neck extension.”

Do memory foam pillows retain heat?

Heat retention can be a big issue with memory foam pillows, but some designs use different materials to mitigate this fact. “Memory foam pillows are known for retaining heat, which can cause discomfort for some, especially during warmer months,” Carlson warns. “However, advancements in foam technology, such as gel-infused layers or perforated foam, promote airflow and draw heat away from the body. Shredded foam pillows also offer more breathability compared to solid pieces of foam, further reducing the risk of overheating.”

How often should I replace my memory foam pillow?

There’s no universal lifespan for memory foam pillows — replacement timing depends on several variables. “When you should replace a memory foam pillow depends on its quality, how much you’ve used it and how well you’ve cared for it,” Carlson details. “On average, memory foam pillows can last anywhere from 18 months to three years before needing replacement. Signs that show that it's time to replace your memory foam pillow include visible wear and tear, loss of shape or support, unpleasant odors or an increase in allergy symptoms despite regular cleaning.”

How much does a memory foam pillow cost?

You don’t have to spend a fortune on a memory foam pillow, but spending more will generally give you access to higher tiers of comfort. “Memory foam pillows come in a wide range of prices depending on brand, quality and other features like cooling properties,” explains Forbes. “Depending on your preferences, a memory foam pillow can typically cost anywhere from $20 to $150 or more, depending on the quality of the pillow that you’re looking for.”

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Every product is independently selected by (obsessive) editors. Things you buy through our links may earn us a commission.

The 8 Very Best Latex Pillows

Cards on the table: I love latex pillows. I like how latex is springy, rather than dense and slow-sinking like memory foam (though I can still appreciate a good memory-foam pillow ). And I like how it tends to stay cooler than memory foam. Latex does run more expensive than many other pillow styles, however — I’d expect to spend around $100 on a quality one. Having primarily slept on a latex pillow for the better part of the last year, I can confidently say they just work for me — and they can work for a lot of other people too. Dr. Thomas Pontinen, co-founder of MAPS Centers for Pain Control , told me he finds latex pillows much more accommodating to a variety of body types than memory foam and frequently recommends them to patients who struggle with sleep because they are both supportive and cooling.

Latex pillows are made from latex foam — broadly speaking, a type of foam made from the sap of rubber trees. It’s essentially the same stuff that rubber and other latex products (like gloves or makeup prosthetics) are made of, but processed differently to produce a foam.

Latex foam is often touted as an ecofriendly alternative to memory foam, since memory foam is, at the end of the day, basically made from plastic. If that ecofriendliness is important to you, you’ll want to pay extra attention to whether or not your pillow is made from natural or organic latex — there are synthetic latexes that, like memory foam, are made from petrochemicals. All the pillows on this list are made from natural latex, but there are synthetic ones out there.

To find the best latex pillows, I consulted three physical-health experts for their recommendations, as well as asking the Strategist staff for their favorites. I also tested ten pillows myself, taking loft and firmness into consideration — as I do when trying any style of pillow — because these two factors determine a lot about how comfortable a pillow is and what kinds of sleepers might like it best. I also looked at what type of latex each pillow is made from, whether the latex is solid or shredded, and whether it has any certifications that confirm it has been sustainably and ethically produced. I’ve listed my resulting picks for the best latex pillows below — or, if you think you might prefer another pillow type, take a look at our guide to the all-around best pillows .

What we’re looking for:

Type of latex.

Broadly speaking, latex can be natural, synthetic, or blended. Natural latex is derived from rubber-tree sap, while synthetic latex is derived from petroleum by-products. Blended latex is a mix of the two. It’s unlikely you’ll notice a big difference in feel and performance between natural, synthetic, and blended latex. However, many people prefer natural latex as a way to be more environmentally friendly, since it comes from a renewable source.

Additionally, there are two primary methods of latex-foam production: Dunlop and Talalay. The primary difference between the results of these two methods is that Dunlop latex tends to be firmer and denser than Talalay latex, which tends to be fairly soft. I’ve noted what type of latex each pillow is made with when the brand has provided the information.

Certifications

If you want to be sure your latex pillow is made of natural latex and manufactured in as environmentally friendly a way as possible, there are a few certifications to look for. The first is the Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS), which means the sap used to make the latex is sourced from organically grown trees. It also requires the final product to be 95 percent natural latex, with a maximum of 5 percent processing chemicals and fillers (something all latex foams have). Another important one is issued by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). Since rubber comes from trees, latex foams can be FSC certified, meaning the trees are grown and harvested responsibly and workers are treated fairly. Additionally, latex foams can be eco-INSTITUT certified to be low-pollutant and low-emission. There are other certifications that apply to latex as well, such as Greenguard Gold (which covers emissions), Fair for Life (fair trade), and so on. Many latex pillows have additional certifications for their other components (like a cover or additional filling), but to keep it simple, I’ve only listed the latex-specific certifications for each pillow in this guide. How much do these certifications matter? It kind of depends on your priorities. If you are buying latex for the purpose of buying a “natural” or more ecofriendly product, then I would pay close attention to certifications (though it’s important to keep in mind that all latex foams are made with foaming agents and additives to make the liquid sap into foam, even if they are made with natural or organic latex). However, I don’t think a pillow is necessarily low-quality because it lacks organic/natural certifications, as they pertain more to the production process than the end product. If you are concerned about health/safety of the final product, the certifications covering emissions and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) will be most important.

Solid vs shredded

Latex generally comes in two formats for pillows: slab or shredded. Neither is necessarily better or worse — it just depends on your preferences for firmness and feel. The biggest difference will be that a shredded-latex pillow is more moldable, since the filling is a bunch of small pieces. You’ll be able to squish and squash it around the way you can with a down pillow , whereas a single slab of latex is a uniform block of foam that holds its shape.

Loft is pillow terminology for the height of a pillow, and it plays a big role in how well any given pillow will support your neck. A pillow that’s too lofty might cause neck pain, but a pillow that’s too low might not provide enough support. The right loft for you will depend on your primary sleeping position, as well as your body size — people who are more petite or who have narrower shoulders will need a lower loft and people with larger bodies or broader shoulders may need a higher loft. Generally, side sleepers need a high loft, back sleepers need a medium loft, and stomach sleepers need a low loft to properly support their neck and keep their head, neck, and spine in a neutral position. For each pillow in this guide, I’ve listed whether the loft is low, medium, or high (or if it comes in multiple heights). I generally think of two to three inches as low loft, four to five inches as medium loft, and six inches or more as high loft.

Similar to loft, firmness will play a big role in how well a pillow works for you. Personal preference is definitely important, but as a general rule, I always recommend firmer pillows for side sleepers, medium-firm pillows for back sleepers, and softer pillows for stomach sleepers to help keep their necks properly aligned. Latex foam can range from soft to firm — just keep in mind that it will almost never be as soft as materials like down or fiberfill, since it is still foam.

Best latex pillow overall

Latex type: Slab of Talalay latex | Certifications: Clean Air Gold | Loft: Low, medium, or high | Firmness: Medium

When I first started reporting this story, I was on a bit of a mission to see if I could find a latex pillow that topped the Purple Harmony. I’ve written about this pillow quite a bit, including naming it our best pillow for back sleepers . The Purple Harmony has been my primary pillow — meaning the one I sleep with when I’m not testing other ones — for over a year, and I still love it. It has a Talalay latex core and a thin layer of Purple’s proprietary GelFlex grid with a mesh cover. The combo of Talalay latex and the Purple grid gives this pillow a really bouncy and springy feel. It is soft and flexible, but still offers plenty of neck support. It also comes in three lofts, which is part of why I picked it for the top spot. You can choose between low (5.5 inches), medium (6.5 inches), and tall (7.5 inches). I have the low-loft version, and it’s ideal for me — I mostly sleep on my back and side, and I tend to prefer a not-too-lofty pillow. Arguably, I’d say 5.5 inches is more of a medium loft than truly low , but because the foam is soft and pliant, it compresses slightly beneath my head when I’m lying on it, so the loft gets slightly lower. In addition to the three loft options, the Purple Harmony also comes in both a standard and a king size.

The Purple Harmony also seems to have a bit of a cult following. Two experts I spoke to recommended this pillow by name, and anecdotally, I know quite a few people in my life who love it. My partner sleeps on this pillow and loves it — as does his mom, who bought it based on my recommendation. I even recently spoke to a salesperson at a brick-and-mortar mattress store who told me this was her favorite pillow.

No doubt this pillow is expensive. But I decided it deserved the top spot after I tested all the other pillows in this guide and many of them were in a similar price range, if not more expensive. Latex is a more expensive material than, say, memory foam, so the prices generally are higher for the entire product category. And for what it’s worth, I think the Purple Harmony is a very durable, long-lasting pillow. My partner and I have had ours for over a year and they are still in great shape — no real signs of wear and just as springy as ever. The Purple Harmony is also lacking in certifications compared to most of the other pillows on this list. It’s definitely not the most natural or ecofriendly pillow (the GelFlex grid is essentially plastic), so if that’s your priority as a latex-pillow shopper, it may not work for you. But I don’t think ecofriendliness is the sole reason to buy a latex pillow (the material offers a unique feel compared to polyurethane foams), and because this one stands out in feel, cooling, and versatility, it stands as my top pick.

Best (less expensive) latex pillow

Latex type: Slab of molded Dunlop latex | Certifications: GOLS and FSC | Loft: Medium | Firmness: Medium

This pillow from Naturepedic is a really close runner-up to the Purple Harmony. It feels pretty similar, with a medium firmness, a good bit of bounce, and a nice balance of cushioning and neck support. The latex has enough give that my head could sink in a little bit — which I prefer, as opposed to just resting atop the pillow — but it had enough resistance to keep my neck neutral. Particularly as a back-and-side sleeper, I liked how I could easily switch between the two positions and feel comfortable in both, which was not always the case with some of the other latex pillows I tested for this story. This pillow also stayed fairly cool while I was sleeping on it, as I would expect with a latex pillow, but it wasn’t quite as cool as my Purple Harmony — I think the GelFlex grid gives the Purple Harmony that little something extra to feel chillier overall. As far as the actual sleeping experience, I still think the Purple Harmony wins out, thanks to sleeping cooler and offering multiple loft options. But one thing the Naturepedic does have over the Purple Harmony is certifications: Naturepedic says its pillows are made with GOLS- and FSC-certified latex, as well as a Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) certified organic-cotton cover. So if you’re shopping for a latex pillow because natural materials are a priority for you, this one is probably a better choice than the Purple Harmony. It’s also a good bit cheaper, though it only comes in standard and queen sizes (no king!). Both sizes have a mediumish loft (5.5 inches for the standard, 5.75 for the queen), which is close to my “low” loft Purple Harmony (which has a 5.5-inch loft).

Best (even less expensive) latex pillow

Latex type: Slab of Talalay latex | Certifications: GOLS and Fair for Life | Loft: High | Firmness: Medium-firm

Another really close runner-up that’s quite affordable is the Earthfoam Organic pillow. My experience with this one was almost on par with the Purple Harmony and Naturepedic: The latex feels similar and offers a good mix of support and cushioning, but the pillow is slightly firmer than both of the pillows above and a bit taller. Those might not necessarily be cons for everyone — if you’re a side sleeper with broad shoulders, this pillow be ideal for you — but my neck felt slightly strained while lying on my back because of the firmness and higher loft. Because it may not work for many back sleepers, it’s not quite as versatile as the very middle-of-the-road Naturepedic or the choice of loft you get with the Purple Harmony. It also only comes in a queen size, which is a bit of a limitation if you prefer a king-size pillow. Like the Naturepedic, the Earthfoam pillow has an organic-cotton cover and more certifications than the Purple Harmony, so it’s a solid choice for people who want natural materials. It’s also under $100 — a very good price for a latex pillow made with certified latex. This pillow has a slightly higher loft than the Naturepedic and the “low”-loft version of the Purple Harmony I sleep on, at 6.5 inches tall.

Best firm latex pillow

Latex type: Slab of charcoal-infused molded Dunlop latex | Certifications: FSC and eco-INSTITUT | Loft: Medium | Firmness: Firm

The Earthfoam pillow above is just slightly firm, but this one from Avocado is truly firm — it’s definitely the firmest latex pillow I tested for this story. If you find most pillows really lacking in neck support, particularly if you sleep on your side or if you have a larger body, this pillow could be a good match for you. The foam has a lot of resistance and doesn’t compress much at all; even though the pillow is close in height to the “low” Purple Harmony and Naturepedic, it ends up feeling much loftier. I’m about five-foot-five, and this pillow was not only too firm-feeling for me — I prefer a softer pillow — it was also too lofty and lifted my head and neck too high. However, former Strategist writer Latifah Miles, who is about five inches taller than me at five foot, ten inches, says it worked really well for keeping her neck supported while sleeping on her side.

Like most of Avocado’s products, this pillow boasts a fair number of materials certifications. It also has charcoal infusions in the latex, which are supposed to eliminate odors and help regulate temperature. It comes in three sizes (standard, queen, and king), all of which are under $150.

Best soft latex pillow

Latex type: Slab of Talalay latex | Certifications: Greenguard Gold and eco-INSTITUT | Loft: High on paper, medium in practice | Firmness: Medium-soft

If you prefer a softer pillow, this “luxury plush” latex pillow from Avocado is a personal favorite that I discovered while testing pillows for this story. It’s made from Talalay latex and has a much softer, squishier, and more flexible feel than the molded Avocado pillow above. It feels extremely comfortable while lying on my back and stomach, pleasantly cradling my head and neck without cranking my neck into an awkward position. Technically, it has a pretty high loft — seven inches — but the latex is so pliant that it compresses a lot under my head. It’s basically the opposite situation of the molded Avocado pillow, which feels loftier because it is firmer. I’d rank it as just a bit softer than the Purple Harmony, though they feel very similar to me. Compared to most of the other pillows I tried, this one is pretty expensive at over $200 for a queen size. That’s definitely its biggest drawback. But if you really want something that feels “plush” — which can be somewhat challenging to find in a latex pillow — I think this pillow will be your best bet.

Best “customizable” latex pillow

Latex type: Slab of latex | Certifications: Not specified | Loft: Four numbered “levels” | Firmness: Soft, medium, or firm

The Oxygen pillow comes recommended by Strategist senior editor Winnie Yang, who has used this pillow for over eight years and even bought the travel-size version so she can take it on vacation, too. Made from three layers of latex slabs, its construction is unique compared to most other latex pillows I tried. All three slabs are perforated to encourage airflow, and the middle slab has a rectangular cutout in the center, so that it’s kind of a picture frame shape. This design lets the pillow dip slightly in the middle and is meant to cradle your head and support your neck while positioning your head to keep your airways open, hence the “Oxygen Pillow” name. You can also “customize” this pillow quite a bit by mixing and matching between three firmness levels (soft, medium, or firm) and four numbered loft options (0, 1, 1.5, or 2) for a total of 12 possible firmness and loft combinations — the brand even provides a guide on which combination is probably best for you. Strategist senior editor Jen Trolio has tested a few variations of the Oxygen Pillow based on Yang’s recommendation, and as a back-and-side sleeper who is five feet, two inches tall and likes a softer pillow, settled on the soft density with the one-loft height. According to Trolio, the Oxygen Pillow is supportive without feeling too firm (high praise, as feeling too firm is usually her most common complaint about pillows). Like other latex pillows on this list, including the Purple Harmony, its latex is quite springy, but the cutout in the middle layer helps soften the overall feel of the pillow and allows your head to sink in a bit more.

Best adjustable latex pillow

Latex type: Shredded latex | Certifications: GOLS, eco-INSTITUT, and Greenguard Gold | Loft: Adjustable | Firmness: Adjustable

Shredded latex offers a completely different feel than a slab of latex: It’s more moldable, less stiff, and, as is the case with this Avocado pillow, can often be used to make an adjustable pillow. The Avocado Green pillow is filled with a mix of shredded latex and kapok fibers (a seed fiber that’s similar to cotton). You can remove fill to lower the loft and reduce the firmness of the pillow, or add more to beef it up — Avocado sells additional filling for $21 per half-pound . This pillow came recommended to me by Dr. Laura Purdy , M.D. and board-certified family-medicine physician, who likes that it’s adjustable and says it provides great support for spinal alignment, thanks to the way it can contour around your neck.

Before any adjustments, the Avocado Green pillow has a medium firmness and high loft. When I tested it, I removed some filling to lower the loft, since I don’t like a super-lofty pillow. Compared to all the other pillows on this list, I also liked that I could “settle” into this pillow a bit more, since the shredded fill is much more malleable than a slab of latex. This makes it feel a little more similar to a down pillow or a down-alternative pillow. Because it’s adjustable, I think the Avocado Green pillow can work for just about anyone. It also sleeps really cool — so much so that I named it our top cooling pillow . The shredded fill allows for lots of airflow, on top of latex being a cool material anyway.

Best contoured latex pillow

Latex type: Solid molded latex | Certifications: eco-INSTITUT certified | Loft: Medium | Firmness: Medium or firm

One of the best options for neck support is a contour pillow that’s molded into a curvy wave shape. This pillow from Turmerry has two bolsters that make up its “wave” — one four-inch bolster and one five-inch bolster — so you can choose what level of neck support you want. For a lower loft, place the four-inch bolster under your neck, or for a little extra lift, flip it 180 degrees and place the five-inch bolster under your neck. Turmerry offers this pillow in two firmness levels: medium or firm. I tried the medium, and I would call it medium-firm — it’s a bit firmer than some of the other pillows on this list, including the Naturepedic and the Earthfoam, but not quite as firm as the Avocado Molded Latex pillow. I like how the curved shape of this pillow is able to provide additional support for my neck, without the whole thing having to be super-lofty or firm. The shape works really well for sleeping on my side or my back, though I definitely wouldn’t recommend it for stomach sleeping (for most people, it’s too lofty and firm for that, and the contoured shape isn’t conducive to a neutral neck while on your stomach). It’s also reasonably priced at under $90. But it does only come in one size, and contour pillows can often look a little wonky in a pillowcase, if that kind of thing bothers you.

Our experts

• Latifah Miles , former Strategist sleep writer • Dr. Thomas Pontinen, M.D., LCP-C, double board-certified anesthesiologist and interventional pain-management specialist, and co-founder of MAPS Centers for Pain Control • Dr. Laura Purdy , M.D. and board-certified family-medicine physician • Palak Shah, physical therapist and co-founder of Luna Physical Therapy • Jen Trolio , Strategist senior editor • Winnie Yang , Strategist senior editor

The Strategist is designed to surface useful, expert recommendations for things to buy across the vast e-commerce landscape. Every product is independently selected by our team of editors, whom you can read about here . We update links when possible, but note that deals can expire and all prices are subject to change.

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The Best Travel Pillows of 2024

Travelrest Nest Ultimate Memory Foam Travel Pillow

Cloudz Microbead Travel Neck Pillow

TRLT Travel Pillow

Blabok Inflatable Travel Pillow

J-Pillow Travel Pillow

Cabeau The Neck’s Evolution S3 Neck Pillow

Cushion Lab Ergonomic Travel Pillow

Ostrich Go Neck Pillow

BCOZZY Neck Pillow

Honeydew Sleep Company Scrumptious Travel Pillow

Sea To Summit Aeros Premium Traveller Pillow

Hest Travel Pillow

Travel Pillow Comparison Chart

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Best Travel Pillow for You

Memory Foam

Down and Synthetic Fill

Inflated Air

Packed Size

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Bring an Eye Mask

Keep the Essentials at Hand

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The 10 Best Travel Pillows of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Our Testing Process

Best Overall

Most Comfortable

Best Infinity-style

Aeris Memory Foam Travel Pillow

Best Hooded

Gingerlily Silk Travel Pillow

Best Adjustability

Samsonite 2-in-1 Magic Travel Pillow

Best Splurge

Best Breathable

Other Travel Pillows We Liked

Tips for Buying a Travel Pillow

Portability is key

Consider the filling material

Think about how you plan to use it

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

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The Best Travel Pillow

Everything we recommend

Travelrest Nest Ultimate Memory Foam Travel Pillow

Buying Options

Cabeau Evolution Classic Pillow

Trtl Pillow

Bcozzy Pillow

The research

How the Travelrest has held up

Flaws but not dealbreakers

Meet your guide

Further reading

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The Best Pillow for Side Sleepers

The 9 Best Travel Pillows of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Final Verdict

Why Trust TripSavvy

Best Overall, Runner-Up

Best Budget

Therm-a-Rest Compressible Pillow

Best Splurge

Best Cooling

Best Memory Foam

Gingerlily Silk Travel Pillow

Best Support

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