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The 8 best neck pillows for travel.

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

The Best Neck Pillows for Travel

Courtesy of Cabeau

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

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

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

Best Overall: Cabeau Evolution S3

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

Frequent travelers praise the design of the Cabeau Evolution S3, which is made of a special dual-density memory foam. "My pillow at home is made with memory foam so it's like bringing a piece of home on my travels," says travel blogger Jasmine Cheng of The Wandering Girl . "The sides are also raised, which prevents my head from moving when I'm sleeping." Travelers also appreciate the patented seat strap system that attaches the pillow to a seat or chair headrest as well as the slim flattened back, both of which prevent the head from bobbing.

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

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

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

Price: $29.99 or less Shop now: Amazon

Courtesy of Trtl

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

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

Price: $59.99 or less Shop now: Amazon | Trtl

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Courtesy of Huzi Design

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

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

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

Read:  What to Pack in Your Carry-on Bag

Courtesy of Sunany

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

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

Courtesy of Slip

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

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

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

Price: $13.99 or less Shop now: Amazon

Courtesy of BCOZZY

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

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

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

Price: $44.97 or less Shop now: Amazon

Frequently Asked Questions

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Travel blanket: Look for something lightweight, such as the EverSnug Travel Blanket on Amazon. This blanket comes with a carrying case, which can double as a pillow when the blanket is stored inside.
• Essential or aromatherapy oils: Scents like lavender and peppermint can be especially calming.
• Earplugs: Choose headphones that block some or all external noise. The Bose QuietComfort 45 Wireless Headphones are especially well rated.
• White noise app: There are a variety of free apps, or you can try a paid option like Calm (which offers a free trial).
• Eye mask: An eye mask like this cotton option on Amazon helps to block out the bright light on planes.

You might also be interested in:

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

Tags: Travel , Travel Gear

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The 14 Best Travel Neck Pillows [2023 Buyer’s Guide]

Erin Miller

Content Contributor

188 Published Articles

Countries Visited: 26 U.S. States Visited: 28

Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

34 Published Articles 3158 Edited Articles

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What To Look for in a Travel Neck Pillow

1. the non-traditional “pillow” everyone’s talking about , 2. the most positively-reviewed memory foam pillow, 3. the best design for the hot and sweaty traveler, 4. the chin support you’ve been longing for, 5. a bendy pillow with a customizable shape, 6. the “a bit confusing, but figure it out and you’re golden” pillow, 7. the best comfy-cozy travel pillow we’ve seen, 8. the pillow that looks ridiculous but is pretty comfortable, 9. the low-key inflatable pillow option, 10. the best travel pillow for minimalists, 11. the best tray table sleep of your life (if you can stomach the embarrassment), 12. a versatile option that takes you from plane z’s to hotel z’s, 13. a travel pillow your kiddos will love, 14. the 3-in-1 travel pillow, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

Have you ever nodded off in your seat only to jerk your head up in alarm, wondering if your neighbor saw that drool on your chin? Or been frustrated because you needed that inflight shuteye, but you just couldn’t get comfy as hard as you tried?

Yep — sometimes traveling can be downright uncomfortable. But is there anything you can do to snuggle up a little easier in the air? You bet there is.

Gone are the neck pillows of the past with their uniform U-shape, little to no support, and shoddy quality (well… they’re not literally gone, unfortunately, but you know what we mean!).

Today we’re breaking down 14 of the best travel pillows on the market to help you nab your greatest inflight z’s yet.

Material is one of the most important factors when choosing the right travel neck pillow as it will be cradling your neck, and often, touching your face. Some fleece materials can be super soft and comforting but may cause your neck to get too hot and sweaty, so you’ll want to make sure the material is breathable as well.

Carting your neck pillow through airports and on airplanes can mean that it won’t stay as fresh and clean as it once was, so a machine washable neck pillow is ideal, or at least a removable cover that you can wash regularly.

Support is another vital element of a neck pillow as you’re not always going to have a wall or window to lean against. Choose a pillow that keeps your head in an upright position (with your nose and chin inline) using padding or an internal frame. That way, you won’t arrive at your destination with an achy neck or annoy your neighbor by accidentally resting on their shoulder.

Size and Portability

As your neck pillow will need to fit into or attach to your carry-on, you should look for something that isn’t too bulky or that compresses into a storage pouch. Although sometimes not as comfortable, inflatable neck pillows are still a popular choice as they’re small and lightweight to carry and can be inflated and deflated in seconds.

If you’re a frequent long-haul or red-eye flyer, you’ll want to consider something more cushioned and comfortable, such as a memory foam pillow.

The 14 Best Travel Neck Pillows

Neck pillows can significantly improve your comfort on a long flight, car, or train journey. Here are some of the best neck pillows on the market.

trtl Pillow

The trtl Pillow looks more like a scarf or wrap than an actual pillow. This inventive new design comes from 2 mechanical engineers who were looking to create something superior to the traditional U-shaped pillow.

Simply place the ribs (this device’s hidden, internal support) up against your head and neck, then wrap the fabric portion around and Velcro in place.

The velvety fleece (which is hypo-allergenic and machine washable) creates a type of hammock to cradle your head and neck, so there’s no need to lean against a window… or your unsuspecting neighbor. At 0.29 pounds, it’s extremely lightweight, and it folds up to half the size of a traditional travel pillow.

You can start to see why this product is causing such a stir!

What We Like

• Can be positioned for support on either side of your head

What We Don’t Like

• The material can make your neck warm

Cabeau Evolution S3 Travel Pillow

The Cabeau Evolution is one of the most positively-reviewed travel pillows on the market. You may think it looks a lot like the traditional U-pillow, but we encourage you to dig a little deeper into the design.

This pillow is built with a responsive memory foam core in a patented ergonomic design that provides 360 degrees of support for your head and neck. Whether you tend to bobble sideways, backward, or forward, you’re covered all the way around. The adjustable toggles also help provide the optimal level of support.

Additionally, the pillow’s flat back prevents the shape from pushing your head forward into an uncomfortable position. It’s a bit larger than some others on the list, but it rolls up to a quarter of its full size for transport (carrying bag included).

The soft, washable cover includes a “media pouch” for your device, and Cabeau also throws in a pair of memory foam earplugs to boot. Oh, and it comes with a 2-year satisfaction warranty.

You may remember seeing this item featured on our list of Carry-on Travel Essentials for Short and Long Flights . This pillow certainly tops the list for a couple of bobble-headed sleepers here at Upgraded Points!

• Can be attached to any seat using the strap
• It’s quite large and bulky

Cabeau Evolution Cool Neck Support Pillow

Some people are simply hot-natured by design, so things can get a bit sticky (literally) when you’re on a plane full of people stalled at the gate without A/C for what feels like hours.

Once you’re finally airborne, the air comes on, but it’s too late — by that point, you’re already sweating profusely, and the thought of donning a poly-cotton neck pillow makes you want to cry. Behold the Cabeau Evolution Cool.

This pillow has all the perks of the standard Evolution Pillow (memory foam core, flat back, 360-degree support, adjustable toggles, washable cover) but also includes a center portion of cooling air circulation vents to keep you refreshed.

Additionally, it rolls down to half its full size to fit in its deluxe travel case for convenient packing. You get a pair of memory foam earplugs included with this one, too, as well as the 2-year satisfaction warranty.

• Has breathable vents to keep your neck cool
• Can be too tight for some people

BCOZZY Chin Supporting Travel Pillow

The BCOZZY also garners tons of great reviews on Amazon. This lightweight wrap-around pillow allows for adjustable chin support to prevent drooping.

While BCOZZY doesn’t quite elaborate on what the pillow itself is made of, it boasts a “breathable soft cover” with “bounce-back filling,” advertising a “flexible but solid structure” to use in a variety of seating positions.

The entire pillow is machine washable, and it comes with a small loop and snap on the back to attach it to your travel bags. Plus, it comes in a child-size * with fun, bright patterns and cute character bags.

• Doesn’t push the head forward
• Needs frequent adjustment

Twist Memory Foam Travel Pillow for Neck, Chin, Lumbar and Leg Support

The Twist Travel Pillow has a neat little design that allows you to bend the roll into just about any shape you’d like to cradle your head and lull you into a sweet slumber.

While Dot&Dot doesn’t readily disclose what the main mechanism is that allows for the bend, it does state that there’s a luxury memory foam core that’s covered in a machine washable cotton cover.

It encourages travelers to also try the Twist Pillow as lumbar support or to relieve other pressure points while flying. Additionally, note the snap closure that allows you to secure the pillow around your neck, or attach it to your purse or carry-on while in transit.

This pillow is great for Goldilocks-types — those who can’t sleep until the support is juuuust right.

• Has a removable, machine-washable cover
• The snap closure can sometimes come undone

J-Pillow (Blue) Chin Supporting Travel Pillow

The J-Pillow is another funny-looking pillow that appears as if the standard U-shape has sprouted an arm. It also comes with instructions… for a travel pillow… because apparently, this one can get a bit confusing.

The idea is for the J to support your head from under the chin. However, the alternative uses pictured mean that whichever way you cuddle up to this awkward little guy, it’ll likely make you more comfortable.

The J-Pillow is made from “high-quality 3D filling,” and has a “plush” cover. One downside to the cover is that it’s not removable and therefore is not machine washable. It does have a snap for quick on-the-go travel and compacts into a tight ball.

• Comes with a compression bag for easy transportation
• Doesn’t work as well when not leaning against something

Huzi Infinity Pillow

The Huzi Infinity Pillow is the coziest travel pillow on the market. Just look at it — doesn’t this want to make you snuggle up and snooze for days?

This pillow balances softness and support, with a cutting-edge microfiber fill that expands and intertwines to form air pockets. Its outer cover is a bamboo fabric designed for breathability and temperature regulation, which allows you to stay cool when it’s warm and warm when it’s cool.

Plus, due to its unique shape, you can also use it for lumbar support, tray table sleep, snuggling, etc.

While it’s a bit bulkier than some other options on this list, there’s no denying its cushy nature is worth the space it takes to pack (or wear as a plush “scarf” around the airport). The entire pillow is machine washable — just make sure to line dry.

• It’s adaptable for many positions
• Quite a large travel pillow

TRAVELREST Premium Travel, Neck & Body Pillow

Yes, the TRAVELREST Premium may look strange, but it gets rave reviews. When deflated, this pillow insert (and cover) roll up tight to save loads of space when packing. When you’re ready to snooze, just give it a few puffs to inflate and then secure it with the strap to keep it in place!

The whole thing deflates in a matter of seconds, so you can roll it back up and pop it in your carry-on for a quick getaway. The machine washable cover is a soft microfleece, and it comes with memory foam inserts for added comfort.

Hot Tip: TRAVELREST also sells the original TRAVELREST and the cover separately on Amazon, so be careful when you purchase! If you think you’ve found a major sale, be sure it’s the right selection if you want the 2 pieces to come packaged together. Alternatively, it is nice that you can buy another pillow or cover alone if the need arises.

• Deflates and rolls up for compact transportation
• Can be quite large for an economy seat

AirComfy Ease Inflatable Travel Pillow with Luxuriously Soft Washable Cover

The Ease Inflatable Travel Pillow from AirComfy is a great option for travelers who feel a bit claustrophobic with other pillows that secure around the neck. The Ease’s unique butterfly shape is designed to cradle the arch around the back of your neck to provide support where you need it.

How much support? That’s up to you  — it’s easy to inflate, and you can adjust the level with the valve at the top. There’s also some inner foam to help the pillow feel more substantial with less of that inflatable “bounce.”

The Ease is also nice for those who want something slightly smaller than the traditional U (or any of the larger pillows above). It comes with a soft, removable, machine washable cover, in addition to an elastic band you can use to secure it in place around a headrest.

Lastly, AirComfy encourages travelers to try this pillow out as lumbar support, too, since you can easily adjust the inflation for optimal support in this use as well.

• Very easy to inflate
• Air can sometimes leak out

2 in 1 Travel Pillow and Eye Mask

The 2-in-1 Travel Pillow and Eye Mask is your go-to if you’re more of a minimalist and you want some versatility. If you want something smaller than the traditional U, this little pillow can be worn in several different ways — even doubling as an eye mask when necessary.

The band itself is a poly/spandex blend, and the pillow portion is filled with soft polyester. This allows the pillow to more or less sculpt to your preferred sleeping position so you can sink in and zone out.

While it doesn’t hold your head up completely, it still does a pretty good job of helping you get comfortable. Plus, it’s a lot less eye-catching than several other options on this list.

• Compact and lightweight for your carry-on
• Doesn’t provide any neck support

JefDiee Inflatable Travel Pillow

This inflatable tray table pillow’s design is mirrored after a massage chair — you know, where you sit down and place your head in the cradle. Via the holes in the side, you can slip your arms through to up the comfort level… essentially giving your new pillow a big hug.

JefDiee  claims this pillow can be inflated in seconds with just 5 breaths Plus, you can easily adjust the fill to accommodate your height and firmness preference. In turn, it deflates in seconds and can be folded up to “book-size” for packing.

The PVC flocking material is strong, soft and machine washable, and doesn’t smell of plastic. Yay!

• Quick and easy to inflate and deflate
• Can sit too low for tall people

VISCO LOVE ProComf Travel  Memory Foam Pillow

With the VISCO LOVE ProComf Memory Foam Pillow, you sink into slumber as if you’re resting on a cloud. The material has microcapsules with a special thermic coating to create the optimal temperature for sleeping and to avoid any sweating — so this really isn’t your average memory foam.

Plus, this pillow allows for the perfect balance of soft yet springy support, and it’s guaranteed to last. It can even help alleviate and prevent back and neck pain by proving the right support.

Although slightly bulkier than your average neck pillow, it weighs less than half a liter of water, so it is pretty portable. In addition, it’s certainly better to use if you’ve got a window seat … so you may be starting to wonder why it’s even a contender here.

By bringing it along, you’ll likely catch some sweeter z’s on the flight, and you can bet your bottom dollar it’s better than 99% of the hotel pillows out there. Basically, 2 birds, 1 stone, people (plus, you can also use it as a luxe lumbar support … so more like 3 birds)!

• Great for sleeping in warm environments
• The firm support won’t suit everyone

Cloudz Plush Animal Neck Pillows

Cloudz Plush’s bright, fun pillows are perfect for your little adventurer’s enjoyment! Available in 19 cute animal designs, these soft pillows will support and comfort your child’s head* on journeys short or long.

This traditional U-shape pillow is filled with cushy poly fill, and both this and the soft fleece covering are hypoallergenic. You don’t need to worry about your little one spilling or drooling on the pillow as it’s machine washable and will soon be as good as new.

• Machine washable
• No clasp to attach to your carry-on

Omni Pillow | 3-in-1 Travel Pillow

This pillow feels built for adventurers, but of course, it could be extremely useful for just about any traveler. Whether you need it as a neck pillow, double pillow, or pillow topper, the certified Oeko-Tex Standard 100 Class I Fulfilled memory foam is sure to comfort you.

Those are some big words, but suffice it to say that means it’s serious quality — this pillow is built for compression resistance, durability, and support. Plus, it’s hypoallergenic and CFC/HCFC-free.

The pillowcase is made from material used in high-performance sportswear: it’s machine washable, light, yet durable, and won’t pill over time. It’s also got a built-in sleeve for your device and a cord hole for your headphones.

Also, the outer shell is soft yet sturdy AND it’s waterproof. Go-go-gadget pillow, anyone?

• Folds up into a super-small carry case
• Sits a bit low when used as a neck pillow

Neck pillows now come in all shapes and sizes, so it’s wise to do your research before buying. If portability is your priority, you may want to opt for an inflatable neck pillow that’s easy to carry and ready to use with just a few puffs of air.

If you’re a regular traveler, it’s likely you’ll want to consider something soft and supportive, so that you arrive fresh for your business meeting or ready to sightsee on arrival.

Did we miss your favorite travel pillow?  Give us a shout in the comments and let us know why it should have made the list!

Looking for more fantastic travel products to improve your adventures? Check out these other posts for inspiration!

• The Best Checked Luggage Bags for Any Traveler
• The Best Carry-on Luggage Bags for Any Traveler
• The Best Travel Adapters and Converters You Can Buy
• The Best Noise-Canceling Headphones To Buy for Travel
• The Best Luggage Tags on the Market for Travelers

*Upgraded Points does not recommend any product for use within a child’s car seat without first verifying the product’s safety standards with the original manufacturer. Upgraded Points assumes no responsibility for the improper use of these products. In no event shall Upgraded Points be held liable for any special, direct, indirect, consequential injury or any injury whatsoever related to improper use of the products listed. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most positively-reviewed memory foam travel pillow.

The most positively reviewed memory foam travel pillow is the Cabeau Evolution® Memory Foam Travel Pillow .

What are the benefits of travel neck pillow?

Choose a pillow that keeps your head in an upright position (with your nose and chin inline) using padding or an internal frame. That way, you won’t arrive at your destination with an achy neck or annoy your neighbor by accidentally resting on their shoulder.

Are neck pillows allowed on planes?

Neck pillows can be brought onto an airplane to help you sleep more comfortably. These can be packed inside your carry-on or are usually permitted by many airlines to be hooked to the outside of your carry-on bag.

How do you wear a neck pillow on a plane?

How you wear a neck pillow depends on the type of pillow you have. Some are U-shaped that you hook around your neck, while others wrap completely around your neck for full support or can simply cushion your head against a wall or window.

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About Erin Miller

An experienced points hacker, Erin is Alex’s partner-in-crime and contributes to Upgraded Points with in-depth guides and relationship management. Erin’s work has been cited in multiple major publications.

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The Best Travel Pillows to Get Some Shut-Eye on Your Next Red-Eye

Flying coach? Pack one of these for first-class comfort as well as a stealthy way to pack more clothing.

If you buy something from the links on this page, we may earn a commission. Why Trust Us?

Whether you're catching a red-eye flight , saying "all aboard" to a lengthy train or bus ride, or you're packing for a long car trip , a travel pillow can be that sweet sliver of salvation on dawn-to-dusk or simply slower-than-you’d-like travel days. So don't forget to bring your travel pillow next time you pack your bags—you definitely don't want to get stuck overpaying for an uncomfortable one at a rest stop or airport store.

These travel pillows are the best to have on hand since they're suited to a range of comfort preferences, packing capacities, and traveling styles.

The Best Travel Pillows

Best Overall

Tallgo memory-foam travel pillow.

Best for Stealthy Storage

Dot&dot twist memory foam travel pillow.

Best Splurge

Honeydew scrumptious travel pillow.

Best Support

Trtl original travel pillow.

Cushions and Covers

Ostrich light versatile pillow.

Effortless Inflating

Aircomfy inflatable neck travel pillow.

Cozy Comfort

Wise owl outfitters camping pillow.

Cheap, Yet Effective

World's best feather soft microfiber neck pillow.

Easiest to Transport

Chill-o travel pillow.

For Couch Surfers

Pillow cube sidekick pillow, what to consider, pillow design.

A lot of travel pillows fit around the neck so that you can just tilt your head slightly to feel cushioned by it. You may even be able to wear it from the front, back, or sideways, depending on your comfort level. Some can also be tightened, loosened, or bent into shape for a custom fit. Plus, if you don't already own an eye mask that you love , some travel pillows are sold in a convenient bundle with them.

However, if it seems impossible for you to get good sleep — especially while traveling — you can get a camping-style travel pillow like the Wise Owl Outfitters Camping Pillow or the Pillow Cube Sidekick Pillow . These are essentially smaller and more portable versions of regular bed pillows, and they can offer a little more support and softness, too.

Packing space

If you're a total travel minimalist, the idea of a plush travel pillow dangling off of your carry-on or taking up precious space in your suitcase might be irritating enough to make you want to leave it at home. The best solution is getting an inflatable travel pillow such as the AirComfy Inflatable Neck Travel Pillow that blows up when you need it and rolls up tidily in your suitcase when you don't. If you have slightly more space to spare, some travel pillow designs such as the Chill-o Travel Pillow now give you the best of both worlds with their cushy feel and compressible material that you can squish flat when you're not using it. Many of the picks in this guide even come with their own carrying case to help you transport and stow them a little more easily. There's even a new Tiktok #pillowhack where travelers are now stuffing their travel pillows with clothing to avoid checked bag fees. If you're a chronic overpacker, we recommend the Dot&Dot travel pillow for packing overflow.

How you're traveling

One final consideration that may differ from trip to trip is the seat that you'll be snoozing in. People who prefer the aisle seat — or frequently get stuck in the middle seat — of a train or airplane may not want to get a travel pillow that only works best when leaned against a flat surface. Luckily, there are numerous options in this guide that we (and scores of reviewers) really love.

How We Selected

Many travel pillows today are made with portability in mind, offering both a compact size and clips for hooking onto your backpack or other luggage when you’re on the move. Plus, many clock in with ultra light weights of only a few ounces or so. We logged hours on flights testing some of the pillows ourselves, tapped industry publicists from top travel pillow company brands to find out about the latest and greatest pillows available, and also looked at customer reviews, price, comfort, and other considerations to select the absolute best travel pillows for sale right now.

These travel pillows are soft, supportive, washable, and easy to carry with you from point A to point B. Here are the best travel pillows that'll have you ready for takeoff.

This memory-foam travel pillow combines soft velour with smooth, breathable mesh. And yes, the cover unzips to launder. Its unique contoured shape is meant to give the wearer the most support, no matter which direction their head tilts.

And because it's designed with traveling in mind, it comes with its very own drawstring travel bag. To store, the user can roll it up as tightly as possible, helping it take up less space in a carry-on.

Because of its cushy, supportive form and many versatile ways to wear it, it’s a great choice overall for nearly any traveler, especially if you live with chronic pain. Says one reviewer, “I have several health issues that make sitting up painful ... sitting through a flight seemed impossible. This pillow was so comfy and formed right to me, and I slept during each flight. Totally worth it — I don’t think I would have been able to rest without it.”

More: The Smartest Things to Pack on Your Next Vacation

Dot&Dot Twist Memory Foam Travel Pillow

Look, memory foam is nice and all, but if you're all about utilitarian function, this pillow from Dot&Dot is an excellent choice. Simply remove the machine-washable cotton cover and stuff the neck pillow with shirts, sweaters, socks, and the like to help you avoid checked bag fees. One fan claims the pillow fit 3 days' worth of outfits.

Plus, the actual memory foam it comes with is super comfy so if you want to use it for your outbound travel you can snooze and relax in comfort; for the return trip if your bags are more stuffed to the gills with tchotchkes, you can part with the foam insert or push it down into a crevice in your carry-on and use the neck pillow to store an overflow of clothing.

This upmarket pillow is divinely doughy. Designed with an ergonomic shoulder cutout to lower upper-body strain, we love the compact size of this pillow too. This neck rest is also 100% CertiPUR-US certified and the copper-infused foam fill has naturally antibacterial properties.

It stays nice and cool and you can customize the feel by adding or removing fill to the ideal amount for you. But don’t just take our word for it, consider that Amazon reviewers find it so “amazing” that they use it as their travel pillow and at-home one, and say “I think I have slept better since I got this pillow ... no stiff neck, or red smashed ears.”

Trtl isn’t lying when they say “make the middle seat feel like first class” with their line of comfort-enhancing products and this travel pillow delivers. Fabricated with a patented design geared towards providing maximal neck support, the product is a breeze to adjust to customize to your personal preference.

What’s more, as you nod off while sitting up, the pillow’s internal support system keeps your head and neck in an upright position helping to ward off muscle aches and that dreaded neck-and-shoulder tension when you arise.

The Ostrich Light Versatile Pillow is an interesting hybrid travel pillow — it's both a head pillow and an eye mask. You can use it to block out the surrounding light while cushioning your head against the seat or window.

This travel pillow is one big loop that you wrap around your head, place gently over your eyes, and secure in place. It's covered with stretchy viscose material and filled with lightweight microbeads that feel just a little bit grainier than sand.

The piece is hand-wash-only, and though it doesn't come with its own carrying case, it's light enough to tuck into any suitcase or bag without adding a lot of extra weight.

This travel pillow from AirComfy checks off nearly every box: It's inflatable, soft and fuzzy, contoured, washable, and comes with its own carrying case. To inflate, simply open the air valve and then pump repeatedly on the raised dot. Then, close the air valve when it's inflated to your liking.

Even if the inflated pillow isn't quite as cozy as a memory-foam or fiber-fill pillow, its shape helps keep your neck propped up in a more comfortable way. Plus, you can even wear it upside down or right side up.

It’s also comfy enough to handle multihour trips. One reviewer says, “I had the opportunity to use the pillow on two recent 5-hour flights, and it performed perfectly. It took about 45 seconds to inflate and was easy to adjust. It was comfortable and remained cool throughout my flight. Deflation and storage back in the bag were equally easy. Once packed, it took up very little space in my backpack.”

If you need a travel pillow that looks and feels like a regular bed pillow, this one from Wise Owl Outfitters is a great option. Made of shredded memory foam with a microsuede cover, it feels very snuggly and soft and is sure to keep you snug throughout all of your travels.

It comes in two sizes — 12x16 and 14x18 inches — and three colors. You may want to make your choice depending on how light you prefer to travel. According to one reviewer, “The medium [is best] for a sleeping bag, car, and airplane, and when you need to pack small. The large [is best for] when you have more room.”

It's even bundled with its own drawstring bag, and everything is machine-washable. We think the compressed pillow inside of its carrying case makes an excellent bolster, too.

If all you want is a simple, traditional, and cheap travel pillow — this is it! This velvety-soft neck pillow comes in lots of different colors, and each one is filled with a cushy down-alternative material. It doesn't have a carrying case, but the cover does zip off to wash.

One other feature that reviewers like is that the internal fill is adjustable — you can unzip it to remove excess fiber if it’s too lofty for your liking. Says one reviewer, “I chose this pillow specifically because it has a zipper, which allows the user to remove some of the stuffing if needed ... My neck is now completely happy with this pillow. I recommend it for people who find other neck pillows too thick.”

The Chill-o is another travel pillow that eschews the C-shape for a more traditional pillow silhouette. This pillow is made of one piece of perforated, gel-infused memory foam that helps with head support and airflow while also easily compressing to stow.

Its furry cover is made of a polyester blend that's not only washable, but doubles as the pillow's carrying case. A drawstring and carabiner help it store compactly and attach to your carry-on.

Many reviewers use this for camping and traveling, but they also note that it is firm enough to use as a seat cushion or a back bolster — so it brings the support.

Says one reviewer, “Wow, what a great little pillow! It is very compact, weighing almost nothing, and we know how important weight is on a pack trip. The pillow is very comfortable and provides excellent support for the neck and head.”

You may not be able to sling the Pillow Cube Sidekick Pillow around your neck or compress it completely flat to easily carry, but if you're crashing on someone's couch or trying to get some shut-eye against a car window, it'll give your head a super cushy place to rest while you're away from home.

The Sidekick is recommended for side sleepers, and after trying it ourselves , we can definitely see why. Its reactive bamboo-charcoal memory-foam build has a lot of pushback, effectively cradling the head and neck but pushing a little too hard on the face when it comes to stomach-sleeping.

Its cube shape also slots right between your head and shoulder. You can order it in a 5- or 6-inch height — the taller height is better for those with broad shoulders.

Exped Premium Ultralight & Compact Camping Pillow

20D stretch fabric? Yes, please. To up the ante, The EXPED Ultra Pillow is also super lightweight and made of recycled fabric. Users will appreciate that the pillow's anatomic shape holds your head securely in place throughout your travels.

And, the low-profile FlatValve makes for seamless inflation and deflation, great for when you’re jolted out of counting sheep because your train has pulled into your destination station. Choose from a medium or large based on your pillow preferences.

Cabeau TNE S3: The Neck's Evolution

This recently released neck pillow calls itself the brand’s most comfortable and secure fit yet, and it doesn’t disappoint. For one thing, it’s got a patent pending chin-strap technology for a great fit. What does this mean for you?

A custom-tailored fit to keep the spine in neutral alignment while worn. Along with saving you from dropping your head and pesky neck strain, customers praise this travel accessory for its “nice-to-touch” material and the fact that it’s easy to clean .

Therm-a-Rest Compressible Pillow

We love this versatile pillow that you can take for a camping trip or long-haul flight and be content with your sleeping situation either way. It packs up wonderfully small (hence the “compressible” moniker) and the supremely soft, 60% recycled polyester cover is filled with supportive and compressible upcycled foam from the company’s sleeping pad collections.

Another nice feature? An extra insulation layer at the top of the pillow for a smooth surface and stellar snooze. For something more portable, check out Therm-a-Rest’s Air Head Pillow .

Mulberry Park Silk Travel Pillow

For those who like to travel in style, and to support their skin, silk is the way to go. A 100% pure 19 momme grade 6A silk travel pillowcase from Mulberry gets two thumbs up from us thanks to its high-quality natural silk. Plus, these pillowcases are particularly great for hot sleepers as they have a cool feel and are billed as helpful for regulating body temperature.

What’s more, silk pillowcases are said to help prevent sleep wrinkles, keep your hairstyle in tip-top shape, and keep pesky sleep lines at bay. The optional insert is made in the USA.

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The 12 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

Travel + Leisure / Emily Johnson

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, going camping, 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. 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

Infinity pillow travel pillow.

Infinity 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 this one can contort 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 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. Our only note is that it's not a firm neck pillow like memory foam options, so it's not the most supportive if that's what you're looking for, but it still offers sufficient cushioning for keeping the neck upright. It also comes in a whopping 10 colors.

The Details: Bamboo, nylon | 39.3 x 6.6 inches | Machine washable

Travel + Leisure / Paige VandeWiele

Best With Seat Strap

Cabeau tne s3 travel pillow.

The seat strap system keeps the pillow in place to prevent it from slipping around or falling off.

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. The pillow's exterior fabric is soft and cozy 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 case 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

Most Supportive

Ostrichpillow go neck pillow.

The pillow has an asymmetrical design that can accommodate neck, chin, and head support preferences.

It might warm your neck if you run hot while sleeping.

The Ostrich Pillow 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. The materials appear high-quality and luxurious, and it is easy to roll the pillow up to fit inside its compact drawstring sack. 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 / Susan Brickell

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 that 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

Travel + Leisure / Anna Popp

Pluto Pillow Pod

Pluto Pillow

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

A silk pillow is the way to go to protect your hair and skin throughout your travels.

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 Cooling

Cabeau evolution cool pillow.

The mesh air vents make the pillow breathable to prevent overheating. 

It’s made of firm memory foam.

The Cabeau Evolution Cool Pillow is a great pick for travelers who get warm quickly. The pillow is designed to prevent heat from building up when you wear it as mesh vents in between two layers of cushiony memory foam filter in the air. We liked the breathability feature and moisture-wicking fabric and noticed that we didn’t feel overheated while using it on an airplane or road trip. While it took a moment to get situated, once the pillow was in the most comfortable position, it was extremely supportive and firm without feeling too hard. We especially liked the portability of the already lightweight pillow (thanks to its durable carrying case), as well as the mesh pocket for storing small accessories. Even after being rolled up and stuffed into its carrying case, this pillow quickly unfolds back to its original shape.

The Details: Memory foam | 9 x 7 inches | Machine washable | Carrying case included

Best Adjustability

Buyue travel neck pillow.

One side of the pillow has extra cushioning, and 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.

Sleep Number

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. 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

Best for Camping

Therm-a-rest compressible pillow.

This mini pillow is ultra-durable and fit for rustic adventuring.

It doesn’t offer neck support like a regular travel pillow.

If you’re not a fan of the typical U-shaped travel pillow, the Therm-a-Rest Compressible Pillow is a great alternative. It resembles the rectangular style of a traditional pillow, and you can compress it down to easily transport it to the great outdoors, making sleeping in a tent more comfortable than ever. The recycled polyester fabric is light and breathable, and the foam filling — made from extra polyurethane foam left over after producing REI’s sleeping pads — provides a soft cushion for your head. We also loved how durable it is, especially for various uses like camping, flying, or taking a nap at home. While the pillow doesn’t come with a carrying bag, it has a toggle strap that you can use to compress it into a smaller size and a built-in cover that you fold the pillow into for protection while traveling.

The Details: Recycled polyester, polyurethane foam fill | 15 x 11 x 5 inches | Machine washable

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.

Hest Pillow : This standard pillow is on the softer side yet still provides support and comfort while laying on it, but the fabric is slightly itchy, and it’s bulky to carry around, even when compressed.

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

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.

Our Travel + Leisure 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 testing the pillows on journeys like cross-country road trips and long-haul flights, we 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 that 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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How to choose a travel neck pillow

Travelers have varying opinions on essential carry-on items. However, there's one classic on many lists: a travel neck pillow.

Unfortunately, one of the downsides of exploration is having to deal with some physically uncomfortable situations, like sleeping sitting up. That's why the compact cozy item is so popular. With so many on the market, though, determining the best one for you may take time.

"When you can't lay down on a plane, it's important to try and offer your neck and spine support. Ultimately you want your neck and spine as straight/aligned as possible," Keith Cushner, product expert at the Sleep Foundation , told TPG. "It's important to consider a travel pillow that fits your needs like shape, size and portability."

Here's everything you need to know about choosing a travel neck pillow.

Determine what kind of sleeper you are

To know which travel neck pillow is best, you must decide if you are a forward or backward sleeper. Sitting in a seat, would you place your head on the back of the seat or lean into a pillow on your lap or tray table?

Backward sleepers

"Backward sleepers should look for the c-shaped pillows that can wrap around your neck with little difficulty," chiropractor Dr. Jason Alviene told us.

Seats don't recline much and can cause you to fall forward when you sleep, waking you frequently. Because of this, the pillow's back should be thinner, so it doesn't push your head too far forward, according to Alviene.

The sides of the pillow should also be thicker so they can prop your head up without it falling too far to the side. This will keep the neck in an ideal position with little muscle tension.

Forward sleepers

"Forward sleepers should look for a pillow shaped like a quarter circle," said Alviene. "This will give a rounded side with two straight sides forming a right angle. It should look like a quarter of a pie from the side. The rounded end will be laid towards your face and can easily sit on your lap or the tray as you lean forward. These tend to be larger than the others, so purchasing an inflatable pillow is recommended to make traveling easier."

Related: My new strategy for maximizing sleep on transatlantic flights

Find the optimal neck position

A neutral position is the most optimal neck position for sleeping on a plane when you can't lie down.

"You want your neck to be in the straightest line possible," Alviene explained. "Should muscles on any side of your neck be stretched, you will wake with pain and possible muscle spasms. With any pillow options, you will have a very good neck position for sitting and resting with the muscles in a normal position without having to contract too much to keep your head in position."

Materials should be comfortable

Travel pillows are made from a variety of materials. Ultimately, it boils down to personal preference.

"It's very important that you find the pillow that is comfortable [and] works for you versus being as concerned with fill as you would be for a bed pillow," said Cushner.

Some materials can make a difference, though.

For example, a travel pillow made with a recycled blend of polyester and rayon won't absorb much heat and help keep you cool. One made with microfleece is gentle on your skin, so it can prevent irritation from moving often. Viscose will also help prevent heat retention and limit skin irritation.

Related: We tested 7 of the top neck pillows to save you from waking up stiff and sore

Additionally, a memory foam travel pillow with an ergonomic shape can alleviate common aches and pains. They also tend to offer a good combination of support and softness. However, they can retain more heat and be firmer depending on the brand.

If you opt for a more traditional travel pillow, one with plush down and feather fill will be soft and potentially more versatile if you lean up against a window while sleeping on a plane. Fiber-filled and microbead pillows will also provide a softer feel. Just make sure you have a washable cover.

Alviene added, "Read the materials your pillow is made of because you want to ensure you do not have any allergies before you purchase."

The pros and cons of inflatable pillows

Travel pillows come in all shapes and sizes, including inflatable pillows. Should you choose an inflatable or non-inflatable pillow? There are pros and cons to both.

You can (obviously) deflate an inflatable pillow. That means it's very compact when not in use, which is helpful for saving space in your luggage. You can also adjust the air level in an inflatable pillow to accommodate your firmness preference.

Non-inflatable pillows come in a broader range of materials, making it easier to find one that is the most comfortable for you. However, they tend to be bulkier.

Bottom line

Ultimately, several factors go into determining the best travel pillow for you. Understanding how you sleep, the level of firmness you enjoy, and the traveling you're doing will help guide you in the right direction.

An important thing to remember is the pillow's ease of travel. If it doesn't attach to your bag or fit in your luggage, you likely won't use it, making it a waste of money, according to Alviene.

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How much is the cheapest flight to Elektrostal?

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $610 for one-way flights and $845 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

Find Your Flights to Elektrostal VKO

Cheap flights to Elektrostal ( VKO)

Get started finding a cheap flight to Elektrostal on Expedia by either choosing a deal on this page or entering into the search bar your travel dates, origin airport, and whether you want roundtrip or one-way airfare. You can filter for flexibility, number of stops, airline, and departure/arrival times to find the best flight for you.

We recommend using the ‘Flexible Dates’ calendar at the top of the page to see the price of plane tickets on the surrounding dates. This allows you to pick the cheapest days to fly if your trip allows flexibility and score cheap flight deals to Elektrostal.

Roundtrip prices range from $845 - $1,493, and one-ways to Elektrostal start as low as $610.

Be aware that choosing a non-stop flight can sometimes be more expensive while saving you time. And routes with connections may be available at a cheaper rate.

Airlines that fly to Elektrostal ( VKO)

You have several options for which airline you choose to travel with to Elektrostal. There are 10 airlines flying into VKO: Qatar Airways, Royal Air Maroc, Uzbekistan Airways, American Airlines. 

Cheap plane tickets may be available from different airlines at different times and with unique terms. It’s best to understand the details of each airline’s offer before judging its value.

For example, if you plan to check a bag or bring a carry-on, check whether the cheap airfare deal includes a baggage allowance. If not, verify whether the baggage fee is higher than the difference of other airline plane ticket deals offering free checked/carry-on baggage in exchange for a slightly higher airfare. 

Additionally, your preferred frequent flyer membership programs may influence your choice of cheap airline. Expedia allows you to enter your membership numbers during checkout to earn points from your airline and Expedia Rewards—all while getting a great deal and planning all your travel in one online platform.

Find the best deals

At Expedia, we source many flight deals from multiple providers, so you can easily find the best deals that are right for you. A great strategy for getting the best deals can be to make sure you book and travel at the optimal times. Airfare to Elektrostal (VKO) varies throughout the year based on seasonal demand. You’ll see the lowest rates for roundtrips to VKO in September and in August for one-ways.

Cancellation & flexibility

To change or cancel eligible flights, go to ‘My Trips’ and navigate to your itinerary. If you booked within the last 24-hours, you might be able to cancel your flight for free. Learn more about flight changes or cancellations from our customer service portal . Some plane tickets are available with no change fees, which you can filter for during your search.

Frequently asked questions

• The trick to having an amazing flight experience is to pack ahead. So, let’s start with the essentials: passport, official ID, cash and daily medications. Next, bring items that’ll help keep you entertained, like your laptop or a good book. It’s also smart to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earphones. And of course, be sure to toss in toiletries like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a clean T-shirt.
• While the list of banned items can differ between airlines, the general rule to follow is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, pocket knives, spray paint and flares. Sporting equipment like hockey sticks, and objects that could harm passengers, such as pepper spray and firearms, aren’t allowed in the cabin either.
• The answer to a comfortable flight can be as simple as your choice of clothing. Prepare for changes in temperature by bringing layers. This will keep you nice and warm if the cabin starts to cool down. Shoes like stilettos, flip flops and lace-up boots are best left in your suitcase. Even though they may be your favorites, go for flat, closed-toed footwear like slip-ons. Your feet will thank you for it.
• A condition by the name of DVT (deep vein thrombosis) is a potential risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clotting due to inactivity and poor circulation. Walking up and down the aisle and doing leg and foot exercises in your seat is a great way to prevent this from happening. Wearing a good pair of compression tights or socks can also help.
• Your travel documents and ID will need to be presented to security personnel. Have them close by to avoid fumbling around for them.
• Your coat, belt, keys and other items in your pocket, like your earphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them before your turn.
• For just a few minutes, you’ll have to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, laptop and any other electronic devices also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Remove liquids and gels from your hand luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each product should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• There’s a possibility that you’ll be required to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a clever idea.
• Airlines won’t allow any sharp objects in the cabin. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked luggage.

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Cheap flights from Washington, D.C. Dulles Intl Airport to Moscow Vnukovo Airport from $484

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Moscow Vnukovo is 4863.0 mi away from Washington, D.C. Dulles Intl.

When did momondo last update prices for flights from Washington, D.C. Dulles Intl Airport to Moscow Vnukovo Airport?

Prices for flights from Washington, D.C. Dulles Intl Airport to Moscow Vnukovo Airport are updated daily.

How old do you have to be to fly from Washington, D.C. Dulles Intl Airport to Moscow Vnukovo Airport?

Although the minimum age for a child to fly alone is five, airlines that offer an unaccompanied minor (UMNR) service may have their own age limits, which could be impacted by factors such as flight length, timing, and layovers. It is recommended that you verify with the airline you are booking with for travel from Washington, D.C. Dulles Intl Airport to Moscow Vnukovo Airport.

What documentation or ID do you need to fly to Moscow Vnukovo Airport?

The travel and health documents required for your trip to Moscow Vnukovo Airport can vary based on your itinerary and personal situation. As a rule, consider having multiple documents such as a national ID card or driver’s license, and a passport valid for six-months after you plan to arrive at Moscow Vnukovo Airport. We always recommend checking with your airline or a trusted third party such as IATA to get advice.

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You can take advantage of momondo’s Price Alerts by first searching for your flights to Washington, D.C. Dulles Intl Airport from Moscow Vnukovo Airport . Flight offers will be shown to you in real-time. From there you can create a Price Alert by using our on-site widget.

How can I save money on flights from Washington, D.C. Dulles Intl Airport to Moscow Vnukovo Airport with momondo?

Plan your trips smart with the “Price Forecast” feature, which uses flight data to help you pick the best days to fly for the lowest fares. Our “Price Calendar” helps you get the most for your money by showing you when it’s most advantageous to fly. Curate your own travel experiences for less with “Explore” . Expert travel hacks to fuel your next adventure are a click away with “Discover” by momondo. Set up our “Price Alerts” to track fare changes and book when prices are at their lowest point.

How does momondo find its flight prices?

momondo shows deals across 700+ competitors all at once. momondo is active in 30 international markets, so you can have access to a wide range of options from airlines and OTAs alike.

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Why should i use momondo to find a flight deal from washington, d.c. to moscow.

momondo collates all your flight options in one place and lets you filter them to find the perfect flight from Washington, D.C. to Moscow. momondo saves you time and could save you money on your trip.

Can I find flights from Washington, D.C. to Moscow with flexible booking policies on momondo?

Flights from Washington, D.C. to Moscow with flexible booking policies can be found by using the search form above and then selecting our dedicated flexible booking filter, which will highlight only the flights where this policy is applied.

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Once you have performed a search for Washington, D.C. to Moscow flights, momondo helps you find the right one by offering useful filters to narrow down your flight selection. Flights can be filtered by multiple factors such as airline, airport and price; but also by other criteria like aircraft type and payment method.

I’m not ready to book a flight from Washington, D.C. to Moscow right now. Can momondo alert me if prices change?

If you are simply researching potential flights to Moscow, momondo offers a useful price alert feature which will track prices for flights to Moscow from Washington, D.C. and alert you when they change.

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