The Best Travel Pillows

Getting comfortable while traveling isn’t always easy. Long flights, road trips, and bus rides can make sleeping difficult, and choosing the wrong travel pillow only adds to the discomfort. That’s why finding the right pillow is essential for a restful journey.

Louryn Strampe, a dedicated side sleeper, tested multiple travel pillows in various settings—including planes, buses, and cars—to determine which ones offer the best comfort, support, and convenience. Her analysis focused on factors such as neck support, portability, durability, and ease of use.

The Top Travel Pillows to Consider

Best for Most People: Travelrest Nest Ultimate Travel Pillow

For travelers seeking a balance of comfort and portability, the Travelrest Nest Ultimate Travel Pillow is a top pick. Made from memory foam, it provides excellent neck support with its ergonomic shape, featuring a flat back and high sides that are especially beneficial for side sleepers. A hook-and-loop fastener offers additional chin support, keeping the head in place while resting.

This pillow also has a removable and washable microfiber cover, making it easy to clean. While it includes a stuff sack for storage, it lacks an attached loop for carrying. Despite this minor drawback, its overall comfort and compact design make it a highly recommended option.

Most Luxurious: Honeydew Sleep Scrumptious Travel Pillow

For travelers who prioritize luxury, the Honeydew Sleep Scrumptious Travel Pillow is worth considering. Unlike most travel pillows, this one resembles a high-end bedroom pillow with its copper foam filling and soft, removable pillowcase.

A notable feature is its customizable firmness, thanks to a zipper that allows foam removal to adjust thickness and support. However, it is bulkier than traditional travel pillows, making it less ideal for compact travel. This pillow is best suited for road trips or hotel stays where packing space is not a concern.

Best for Neck Support: Trtl Neck Pillow

If maintaining proper neck support is your main concern, the Trtl Neck Pillow is a standout choice. Unlike standard U-shaped pillows, this design includes a structured internal frame wrapped in soft fleece, keeping the head in an upright, comfortable position.

Although the Trtl pillow provides excellent stability, it does come with some drawbacks. It is not very compressible, making it somewhat bulky to carry. Additionally, the wrap-around design may not be ideal for those who prefer using over-ear headphones. Despite these minor inconveniences, its unmatched neck support makes it a strong contender.

Best Blanket-Pillow Combo: Coalatree Puffy Kachula Adventure Blanket

For multi-purpose travelers, the Coalatree Puffy Kachula Adventure Blanket offers versatility beyond a traditional pillow. This water-resistant blanket doubles as a travel pillow, making it an excellent choice for camping, road trips, or long-haul flights where extra warmth is needed.

While it provides great flexibility, some users may find it slightly lumpy when used as a pillow until properly adjusted. This option is best for those who enjoy outdoor adventures and need a pillow that serves multiple functions.

Best Budget Pick: Cabeau Evolution Earth Neck Pillow

For travelers looking for affordability without sacrificing comfort, the Cabeau Evolution Earth Neck Pillow is a great budget-friendly choice. Made of memory foam, it features high, firm sides and a chin strap to prevent the head from falling forward, ensuring reliable neck support.

One downside is that it does not always pair well with over-ear headphones. Additionally, while a travel case is available, it must be purchased separately. However, considering its reasonable price of around $30, it remains an excellent option for budget-conscious travelers.

Choosing the Right Travel Pillow

Not all travel pillows are created equal, and the perfect pillow depends on individual needs. For travelers looking for a well-rounded combination of comfort and portability, the Travelrest Nest Ultimate Travel Pillow is a top recommendation. Those who prefer a luxurious feel will appreciate the Honeydew Sleep Pillow, while individuals needing strong neck support should consider the Trtl Neck Pillow.

For outdoor enthusiasts, the Coalatree Adventure Blanket offers multifunctional use, and budget-conscious travelers will find the Cabeau Evolution Earth Neck Pillow both affordable and comfortable.

Whatever your travel preferences, the right pillow can make your journey significantly more restful. Happy travels!