Travel Pillow Buying Guide: Choosing The Best One

When it comes to travel pillows, there are a variety of options to choose from, each with its own unique features and benefits. From memory foam pillows that mould to your neck for maximum comfort, to inflatable pillows that are easy to carry and store, the options are endless. Some travel pillows even come with additional features like eye masks, earplugs, and travel bags, ensuring that you have everything you need for a comfortable journey. With so many options available, it's important to consider your specific needs and preferences to make the best choice for your next trip.

Memory foam vs. inflatable

When it comes to travel pillows, memory foam and inflatable are two of the most common types. Both have their pros and cons, and the best option for you will depend on your personal preferences and travel habits.

Memory foam travel pillows are known for their comfort and support. They are usually designed with a dense foam that conforms to the shape of your neck and head, providing a high level of support and comfort during travel. Many memory foam pillows have an adjustable strap that allows you to customise the fit and tighten or loosen the grip. Additionally, memory foam pillows often come with a carrying case, making them easy to transport and store when not in use. However, one of the drawbacks of memory foam pillows is that they are typically designed for upright sleeping and may not provide adequate support when lying down across seats or propping up against the cabin wall.

On the other hand, inflatable travel pillows offer versatility and convenience. They are typically easy to inflate and deflate, making them quick to set up and store away. Inflatable pillows are also adjustable, allowing you to customise the firmness by adding or releasing air. One of the standout features of inflatable pillows is their ability to provide comfort in various positions. Whether you're in a window, aisle, or middle seat, an inflatable pillow can bridge the gap between the headrest and your head, or even be propped on the armrest when lying down flat. Inflatable pillows are often compact and easy to carry, making them a good choice for travellers who want to minimise luggage bulk.

In summary, memory foam travel pillows offer superior comfort and support, especially for those who tend to bob their heads during sleep. They are easy to pack and transport, but may be bulkier than inflatable pillows. Inflatable pillows, on the other hand, provide versatility and convenience, allowing you to adjust the firmness and use them in different seating positions. They are typically more compact and ideal for travellers who want to save space. Ultimately, the decision between memory foam and inflatable travel pillows depends on your specific needs and preferences as a traveller.

Price

The price of a travel pillow varies depending on the brand, features, and quality. Basic travel pillows can be found at affordable prices, with some options available for as low as $3.92 at Walmart. These pillows typically offer a simple design and may not include additional features. On the other hand, more advanced travel pillows with memory foam, ergonomic designs, and accessory sets are priced higher. For example, the Cabeau Evolution S3 Memory Foam Travel Neck Pillow retails for $39.99, while the Trtl Travel Pillow, which offers height adjustability and a unique design, has prices ranging from $39.99 to $55.99.

Memory foam travel pillows are generally more expensive than their inflatable or polyester counterparts. For instance, the SwissTech Ergonomic Memory Foam Pillow Travel Set is priced at $18.98, while the BODIPEDIC Lumbar Back Support Memory Foam Accessory Travel Pillow from Home Depot falls into a higher price range.

When considering the price of a travel pillow, it's important to keep in mind the additional features and accessories that may be included. Some travel pillows come with eye masks, earplugs, travel bags, or adjustable height options, which can influence the overall cost. It's worth noting that certain brands or retailers may offer discounts or bundles, providing an opportunity to save money when purchasing multiple items or taking advantage of promotional deals.

In summary, the price of a travel pillow can range from a few dollars to several dozen dollars, depending on the specific features, materials, and brand reputation. It's always a good idea to compare prices and read reviews before making a purchase decision to ensure you're getting the best value for your needs.

Size

When it comes to travel pillows, size is an important consideration, as you want something that will be comfortable and provide adequate support for your head and neck. There are a few factors to keep in mind when thinking about the size of a travel pillow:

First is the size of the pillow in relation to your body. You want a pillow that is proportional to your body size. If you have a larger frame, a smaller travel pillow may not provide enough support, while a larger pillow may be too bulky for someone with a smaller frame. The pillow should comfortably fill the space between your neck and the headrest of your seat to provide the best support.

Second is the size of the pillow in relation to your luggage. Travel pillows come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and you'll want to choose one that packs easily and doesn't take up too much space in your luggage. Some travel pillows are designed to be compact and easy to carry, such as inflatable pillows or those with a unique, space-saving design. For example, the Trtl travel pillow has a unique design that allows it to fit comfortably in your luggage without taking up too much space.

Third is the firmness of the pillow. A firmer pillow will provide more support and may be better for those with neck or back pain, but it might also be bulkier. A softer, more malleable pillow may be more comfortable for long periods and can often be scrunched up to save space when not in use. Memory foam pillows are a good option if you want something that can be compressed for easy packing but still provides firm support when in use.

Finally, it's important to consider the adjustability of the pillow. Some travel pillows have adjustable features, such as straps or height adjustments, which allow you to customise the fit to your specific body and comfort preferences. This can be especially useful if you plan to use the pillow in multiple situations, such as on an airplane and in a car, where the angle of your head in relation to the headrest may vary.

In conclusion, when choosing a travel pillow, consider your body size, your luggage space, the firmness of the pillow, and the adjustability of the pillow to ensure you get a product that is comfortable and provides the right level of support for you.

Ergonomics

When considering the ergonomics of a travel pillow, it is important to think about the design and how it will support your neck and head. The pillow should be designed to keep your head and neck in a comfortable, natural position. This is especially important if you plan to sleep while sitting up, as improper support can lead to neck pain and headaches.

The Trtl Pillow, for example, has an internal support system that provides premium comfort by keeping your head and neck in an ergonomic position. This is scientifically proven to offer better neck support than a traditional U-shaped pillow, which can often lead to discomfort. The Cabeau Evolution S3 Memory Foam Travel Neck Pillow also has specific ergonomic features, including a seat strap to keep the pillow in place and provide support.

The shape of the pillow is also an important ergonomic consideration. U-shaped pillows are a popular choice for travel as they offer support to the sides of the head and neck, preventing the head from rolling too far forward or backward. They are also often made from memory foam, which moulds to the shape of your neck for added comfort. However, some people may find this shape restrictive, and so other designs are available, such as the Trtl Pillow's hammock-like design, which offers a different type of support.

When choosing a travel pillow, it is important to consider the adjustability and whether it can be customised to your body and preferences. For example, the Trtl Pillow is height adjustable, allowing you to find the most comfortable position for your neck. The Cabeau Evolution S3 also comes in different sizes, allowing you to choose the best fit for your body.

Customer reviews

The Cabeau Evolution S3 Memory Foam Travel Neck Pillow with Seat Strap has received positive reviews, with an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars on Walmart. One customer, Alicia Nagel, claims that it is the "BEST TRAVEL PILLOW EVER!!!!" She adds that she can now fall asleep without the problem of her "head bouncing around".

Another highly reviewed product is the Trtl travel pillow, which has received numerous 5-star reviews and positive testimonials. One Amazon customer, JS Newman, describes it as a "Game changer/Best travel pillow". They add that they "hated those around-the-neck pillows and the head bobbing, and this erased that". Similarly, Madeline, another Amazon customer, states that she "usually can't sleep for long on international flights, but with this product, earplugs and an eye mask, I slept for the majority of my flights to and from India".

The HKEEY Travel Pillow, Memory Foam Neck Pillow has also received positive reviews, with 4.9 out of 5 stars and over 1400 reviews on Walmart. This product comes with a 3D contoured eye mask, earplugs, and a travel bag.

Additionally, the 100% Pure Memory Foam Neck Pillow has received 4.7 out of 5 stars on Walmart, with customers praising its comfort and breathability. This product also comes with eye masks, earplugs, and a luxury bag.

When deciding which travel pillow to buy, it is essential to consider your personal preferences, the type of travel you will be doing, and the features that are most important to you. Reading customer reviews can help you make an informed decision and ensure you choose a product that will provide comfort and support during your travels.

Frequently asked questions