Whether you’re someone who regularly travels for work, you’re planning a jet-setting vacation, or you simply want a better way to support your neck while sleeping in transit, there are plenty of travel neck pillows to choose from.

Even if you think that all travel pillows for flying are the same, the design, materials and portability can vary between options and have a big impact on your sleep quality while traveling.

Ultimately, the best neck pillow for travel will depend on your own needs and preferences. However, there are some common features to look for, which we’ll discuss in more detail in this guide.

Why a Good Travel Pillow Matters

Do you really need the best travel neck pillow? Can it really impact how much sleep you get while traveling? Should you really even travel with a pillow at all?

There are many factors at play when it comes to sleeping on a plane, in the car, or on a train. But, having a quality neck pillow can make it much easier to fall and stay asleep outside of your typical sleep environment.

The best neck pillows for travel can improve your posture, helping your neck and head stay in proper alignment. This support helps improve your comfort and may help you get better quality rest as you can avoid restlessness and constant readjustments from discomfort.

Types of Travel Pillows: Which Style Is Right for You?

Travel pillows come in many different shapes and designs. The ideal type for you depends on factors such as your firmness preference and travel needs.

Let’s take a closer look at the main types of neck support travel pillows:

U-Shaped Travel Pillows

If you think of the typical airplane pillow, you’re probably imagining an option with the classic U-shaped design. U-shaped travel pillows are highly popular and generally easy to come by if you’re looking to purchase one ahead of your travels.

As the name might suggest, the main characteristic of this pillow type is the shape of the design. It can be filled with a few different materials, including memory foam, polyester fiber or plastic microbeads.

These pillows are ergonomically designed to wrap around the neck and help keep the head from bobbing from one side to the other while sleeping in a car, train, or airplane seat.

Pros

• Good for supporting the head in an upright sleeping position

• Widely available and easy to find in department stores, train terminals or airports
• Available with a number of different fillings, so you can find one that matches your firmness preferences

Cons

• Known for their bulky design; they are not very compact or easy to pack
• The U-shaped design leaves the chin unsupported, which can lead to head slouching and neck strain
• The padding on the back of the neck can push the head forward and cause strain when seated in a car or airplane seat

Who is it best for?

U-shaped travel pillows are best for those who will be sitting upright to sleep, like on a plane, car, or train.

The traditional U-shape offers more flexibility in how snug you want the pillow to fit your neck, making it a highly versatile option for travelers of different sizes.

Wrap-Around Travel Pillows

Wrap-around travel pillows are exactly as they sound. While U-shaped travel pillows offer three-sided support, wrap-around options offer support on all sides of the neck and head.

These pillows are designed to wrap around the head like a scarf, keeping the head in an upright position.

Wrap-around pillows often have a slimmer profile than the bulky U-shaped travel pillows you might be familiar with. They come in a number of different colors, styles, and materials, so you can select the option that best suits your preferences.

Pros

• Offers all-around neck and chin support, helping to keep the head from falling forward
• Sleeker design than traditional U-shaped travel pillows, making them easier to pack and transport
• The snug fit offers better stability and less chance of slipping compared to other pillow options

Cons

• They’re designed to sit more snugly than U-shaped pillows, which may not be a comfortable feel for all passengers
• Not as soft or as cushioning as other travel pillow options, which some travelers may prefer
• Doesn’t offer the same side-to-side support that a U-shaped travel pillow does

Who is it best for?

Wrap-around travel pillows are best for those who like a more snug fit than what a traditional U-shaped travel pillow offers.

They might be a better choice for long-haul travel when you expect to sleep for longer durations. Plus, they can be a solid option if you’re not traveling in a seat that reclines and you need a bit more chin support to keep the head from falling forward.

Inflatable Travel Pillows

Inflatable travel pillows are portable, lightweight options that travelers can inflate when needed and deflate to store easily between travels. They are a good alternative to travel pillows with permanent filling like memory foam or plastic beads.

The trademark feature of these pillows is their inflatable design. However, they can be made from a wide variety of materials and come in many different shapes and sizes. This includes a standard rectangle pillow design, U-shaped neck pillows, and even innovative designs that you’re meant to hug and sit on your lap.

Pros

• Customizable firmness levels depending on how much you inflate the pillow
• Compact size when deflated and easy to store
• Tend to be more budget-friendly than other options

Cons

• May not offer the same comfort and support as more durable models

• There’s a risk of the pillow being damaged or punctured, making it unusable
• Takes time to inflate; not immediately usable when needed

Who is it best for?

Given their compact and versatile nature, inflatable travel pillows are best for those who have limited luggage space or like to travel light, like backpackers. When not in use, it’s easy to deflate the pillows and store them away without taking up too much space.

The added bonus of these pillows is that the firmness level is very customizable, as you can inflate them as much or as little as you would like to reach your desired comfort level. So, this pillow adapts with you depending on your circumstances or changing preferences.

Memory Foam Travel Pillows

Memory foam travel pillows are made with memory foam material that contours to the shape of your neck, head and jaw. It offers personalized support that other types may lack.

With a firmer feel, these pillows are known for offering consistent support without losing their shape. This is especially true for pillows made with dense, high-quality memory foam.

Most memory foam neck pillows have a wrap-around or U-shaped design. Many also come with a removable cover that can be washed in between travels.

Pros

• Personalized support from memory foam that contours to each person’s unique anatomy
• Helps maintain a neutral head and neck alignment to reduce pain and discomfort while sleeping on the go
• Versatile design that can support a number of sleep styles and positions while traveling 

Cons

• Can be on the more expensive side compared to travel pillows with other types of filling
• Memory foam is not always breathable and can contribute to overheating
• They tend to be bulkier than other travel pillow options, which can be tricky to stow and haul when not in use

Who is it best for?

Memory foam travel pillows are best for those who need a bit more support in the neck area. Travelers who already suffer from neck pain or discomfort might like the stiffer feel of these pillows that keeps their head from moving around.

Key Features to Look For in a Travel Pillow

Regardless of your personal preferences, there are a few must-haves when it comes to picking out the best plane pillow, including:

Ergonomic Support

Like any pillow, the key feature to look for in a travel pillow is comfort and support. Travel pillows are unique in that they’re often meant to help you sleep comfortably in an upright position. So, they need to have an ergonomic design that supports the neck and head, helping you stay comfortable and avoid strain or discomfort while resting.

Portability

The best travel pillows are also easy to transport and store away when not in use. Traveling can already be a handful, so it helps if you have a travel pillow with features that make it easy to bring with you.

This might include a pillow that comes with a storage bag, a strap that allows you to clip the pillow onto your luggage, or an inflatable design.

Machine-Washable Covers

It’s no secret that buses, trains and planes are full of germs from all the passengers who are converging in one location. After taking your travel pillow on a trip, it would be nice if you could remove and wash the cover to keep it clean and hygienic.

Even if the pillow itself doesn’t come with a machine-washable cover, you may look for a removable sleeve or cover that you can add to help protect the pillow.

Breathability

Planes, trains and cars can already feel stuffy during long travels. The last thing you need is a travel pillow that adds to the problem.

Travel pillows that are breathable and promote proper airflow will help you stay cool and avoid overheating while trying to get some rest. It helps to look for options made with natural materials or covers.

Adjustable Firmness

Unlike your pillow at home, travel pillows should be able to accommodate different environments and positions you don’t normally use to sleep. As such, you may want to look for a pillow that has adjustable firmness levels that you can adapt depending on your circumstances.

Expert Tips for Sleeping Better While Traveling

Once you have the right neck pillow for travel, there are plenty of other travel sleep aids that can help you get some much-needed rest while traveling.

Wear an Eye Mask

Having a quality travel pillow that supports your neck isn’t the only key to getting good sleep on the go. An eye mask that blocks light can make it easier for you to drift off to sleep even when you’re not in your typical sleep environment.

Look for options with an adjustable strap, soft fabric and ergonomic design for maximum comfort, like the Tempur-Pedic Sleep Mask, available here at Mattress Firm.

Put on Noise-Cancelling Headphones

Sleeping in transit is far from the calm and quiet environment of your bedroom. With just a travel pillow, you may struggle to shut out the noise to the point where you can relax and fall asleep.

A pair of noise-cancelling headphones can be a game-changer when it comes to getting good rest while traveling. They’re a good upgrade from simple earplugs, which can’t block out the ambient, low-frequency noise that may surround you on your travels.

Position the Seat Comfortably

You may be limited as to how far you can recline your airplane seat or how you’re able to position yourself on the train while on your daily commute. However, if possible, take advantage of the seat’s reclining position to make it easier to relax and ease tension from your neck and shoulders.

Depending on where you’re seated, make any adjustments that could make your environment more comfortable and sleep-friendly, such as turning on the air, closing the window shade, and cozying up with a blanket.

Frequently Asked Questions