People who travel over long distances can attest to the fact that sleeping in a car or plane can get pretty tiresome and uncomfortable, more importantly, when you have to take a nap without the best travel pillow.
Travel pillows are smaller pillows while you compare them to standard-size pillows. These pads are easy to stuff around the neck to provide the desired support and comfort while sleeping in an upright position.
However, given that all pillows are not created equally, settling for a low-quality product could result in a worse experience compared to the one you are likely to get without a travel pillow.
Therefore, this guide will help you explore the types of travel pillows available for you, the factors that you must consider when choosing a travel pillow, and later on, provide suggestions of the best travel pillows for long flights available for you to buy.
Table of Contents
Our Top Picks
Self inflation design for excellent convenience, a compact size for good portability, click to buy the AirComfy Neck Travel Pillow for Long Haul Flights
Special J shape to support your chin when taking nap on airplane, easy carry for anywhere, click to buy the J-Pillow for Long Haul Flights
Adjustable thickness to fit for your own need, soft memory foam to support your neck with care, click to buy the Travelmate Pillow for Long Haul Flights
How to Choose the Best Travel Pillow for Long Haul Flights?
1. Seating position
The first and most ideal way of selecting the best travel pillow lies in determining your seating position or the position you assume when sleeping.
A simple means of getting the right pillow lies in getting a model that aligns your nose to the middle of the chin. So, start by determining whether you lean forward or backward while sleeping.
If you lean forward, I would suggest getting a supportive pillow such as the Sunany Inflatable Neck Pillow. On the other hand, people who sleep in an upright position should be good to go with U-shaped or J-shaped pillows to ensure that their necks are in an upright position.
2. Fabric
Second, you will want to consider the fabric of the travel pillow. The reason is that the material has a lot to do with your comfort and ease of maintenance.
Therefore, determine if you are comfortable with cotton, smooth plastic, or fleece fabric pillows. While some people are comfortable with plastic inflatable pillows, some people find these materials irritating to the skin, the reason you might want to avoid them.
Also, the temperatures and season you will be traveling play a significant role in helping you select the right fabric, where you can choose a fleece travel pillow for a chilly flight and cotton travel pillows for hot climates.
3. Size
Next, you must consider the size of the pillow. An ideal travel pillow must not weigh you down, the reason you will want to get one that features a manageable weight and a weight that won’t be too heavy around the neck.
Still, pay attention to the size in relation to the portability. In this case, determine the amount of room that is available to stash the pillow after use.
Also, pay attention to the weight, since different pillows come in different weights. For a lightweight and compact pillow, you might want to get an inflatable model so that you can deflate it for compact carrying.
Also, a memory foam pillow is foldable for easy carrying. Microbead pillows can be bulky and oversized, requiring you to get sufficient area to store them.
4. Shape
Travel pillows come in a variety of shapes, with the U-shaped pillows being the most common type. Other available pillow shapes include J-shaped pillows, wrap-style pillows, hourglass pillows, or rectangular pillows.
- U-shape pillows
These are the most common type of travel pillows. While some people love this shape because of the simple support, others complain that it doesn’t support the neck completely, but most people take pride in their ease of storage when you are not using them.
- J-shape pillows
These pillows try to address the supportive issue that some people complain about while using U-shaped pillows. J-shaped pillows can keep the head propped up higher for better chin support and more versatility. However, they are not as portable while compared to the u-shaped pillows.
- Wrap-style pillows
As the name suggests, this is a pillow that is designed to be used while wrapped around the neck. The pillows are more similar to scarfs and designed to provide better support for travelers with heads that tilt while sleeping.
- Hourglass-shaped pillows
If you are looking for a travel pillow that provides more versatility, this is the best travel pillow shape. Besides providing optimal support for the head and neck, the pillows can support the knees, and back so that you can use them while sleeping on a bed.
5. Durability
Finally, you will want to pay attention to the durability of the travel pillow, more importantly, when you are a frequent traveler.
In this case, ensure that you are getting a travel pillow that is designed to provide years of comfort and reliable support. Not only that, but get a travel pillow that includes a washable zipper cover so that you can maintain the clean and fresh look for years.
Top 8 Best Travel Pillow for Long Haul Flights Reviews
1. Top Rated – Trtl Neck Wrapped Pillow for Long Haul Flight
Pros
- Lots of colors to select from
- Easy to pack away after use
- The cover is easy to clean
Cons
- The fleece material can get pretty warm
The Trtl is a scientifically-proven travel pillow. It is suitable for use by those who sleep in an upright position, thanks to its ability of holding the head in an ergonomic position.
Neck Wrap – The pillow wraps around the head and neck to eliminate the chances of nodding your head while sleeping. It is made using super-soft fleece. The fleece combines a unique internal support that provides extra cushioning for a comfortable resting experience.
Lightweight – You can attach the pillow to the handle of a bag or outside of a backpack for easy portability. Better still, it is lightweight at 148grams for portability.
The travel pillow is machine washable for easy maintenance. And, it comes in a range of colors including coral, red, black, and grey to help you locate one that suits your style.
2. Inflatable – AirComfy Neck Travel Pillow with Compact Size
Pros
- Removable pillow case for easy washing
- Easy to inflate and deflate
- It holds the air perfectly
Cons
- The clip that secures it to the suitcase is quite flimsy
If you are in need of the best inflatable travel pillow, I would love to recommend the AirComfy Inflatable Neck Travel Pillow.
Self Inflation – It features a built-in inflation pump button. You can press the button to have the pillow inflate within 30-60 seconds.
What’s more there is an air release valve. The valve presses smoothly, making it possible to deflate the pillow within seconds.
Ergonomic Design – Featuring a U-shaped design, the pillow rests comfortably around the neck for a countering support. Also it offers an ergonomic neck support, better than that of memory foam or microbeads.
The reason is the ability to adjust the size to your preferred firmness level for more ergonomic support. The travel pillow is easy to clean, thanks to the soft velvet pillow case that removes easily for cleaning.
Plus, it is easy to carry. The reason is the ability to pack down into a small and lightweight pack for easy carrying.
3. Adjustable Thickness – Travelmate Long Haul Flight Pillow with Memory Foam
Pros
- Adjustable thickness for more comfort
- Supportive and soft to the touch
- The cover is easy to wash
Cons
- The pillow doesn’t fold down or compress for storage
The Travelmate Travel Pillow is a memory foam pillow that is suited to meet the needs of individual users.
Desinated Softness – It is designed, taking into consideration that what works for others might not work for you. Therefore, it can provide the right amount of softness to help you sleep comfortably, whether you are resting on a recliner or sitting straight on an airline seat.
The pillow is made using a high-quality and soft memory foam. The foam can mold to the neck for stable and comfortable support. Also, it includes a high-quality velour cover.
The cover is machine washable for easy maintenance. The built-in elastic strap is another plus. It allows you to attach the pillow onto the luggage for secure transportation, and without taking extra space.
4. Versatile Design – Cloudz Travel Pillow with Microbead
Pros
- Plenty and attractive colors to pick from
- Soft and comfortable
- Lightweight and easy to carry
Cons
- No opening to add or remove the beads
The best travel pillow, if you are looking for one that is made using Microbeads, is the Cloudz Patterned Microbead Travel Neck Pillow.
It is filled using exclusive and ultra-premium comforlite microbeads. These are super small polystyrene beads that provide relaxing support while conforming to different positions.
What’s more, the pillow doubles as a lumbar pillow. This means that besides using it to support the neck, you can use it for lumbar support.
Multifunction – The versatile pillow can support use from the frontward direction so that you can use it as a massage pillow. Moreover, you can use it on the couch or bed while at home.
Portability – Because of the lightweight design, the pillow is easy to carry. Also, it includes a snap closure. This feature allows you to secure it around the neck to prevent your head from falling forward.
And, you can use the closure to snap it around the handle of the luggage for comfortable carrying.
5. Best for Kids – BCOZZY Kids Travel Pillow with Chin Support
Pros
- Soft and supportive materials.
- A little snap makes it easy to secure to the backpacks.
- Beautiful color choices.
- The pillow is compressible
Cons
- The sizes are quite small
The best travel pillow for use by kids is the Bcozzy Travel Pillow. If you have a kid who struggles to sleep in the car during long rides, the ergonomic pillow can provide soft and comfortable support to help them sleep comfortably.
Good Support – Ideally, the pillow can support the neck, head, and chin to protect your kids from aches and pains as a result of leaning forward or sideways.
Adjustable – It features soft overlapping arms with a closure feature. This feature enables you to achieve an accurate adjustment so that you can select the best fit for your child.
You can acquire this pillow as one of the best choices for a travel pillow that is easy to clean, given that the entire pillow is machine washable.
Moreover, it is an excellent choice for a travel pillow that is easy to carry. The reason is the built-in snap strap that clips to the handbag and elastic band that attaches it to a trolley’s handle.
6. Fully Supportive – Sunany Inflatable Neck Pillow for Long Haul Flight Trip
Pros
- Easy to inflate and deflate
- Collapsible for easy carrying
- Quality craftsmanship
- Easy to fit into the carry bag
Cons
- Not machine washable
Whether you need a travel pillow for use in the train, airplane, bus, or in the office, you can expect to get the support you need using the Sunany Inflatable Neck Pillow.
Hollow Front Design – It features a hollow front design and a 60-degree design. The hollow shape conforms to the curve of the abdomen so that you can sleep comfortably and breathe smoothly.
On the other hand, the 60-degree tilt allows the cervical spine to remain comfortable for a stress-free user experience.
The pillow is hollow on both sides. This design allows you to put in your arms so that you can use your smartphone or listen to music. Also, it is made using environmentally friendly PVC for a durable and comfortable user experience.
The pillow includes an upper black air valve for easy inflation and a bottom transparent air valve for easy deflation. Plus, it comes with earplugs and a free eye mask to help you sleep faster and soundly.
7. Chin Support – J-Pillow Travel Pillow for Long Haul Flight with Good Portablility
Pros
- Machine washable design for easy cleaning
- Super comfortable plush material
- Snap loop faster for secure attachment to the luggage
- Easy to fit into the compression sack
Cons
- The pillow is large and bulky
One of the best traveling companions is the J-Pillow Chin-Supporting Travel Pillow. If you would like more support to help you sleep in an upright position, it is one of the best helpers.
Special J Shape – The pillow features a J-shape design. This design enables it to provide a 3-way support system so that it can support the chin, neck, and head. Part of the pillow curls under the chin to protect your head from falling forward while sleeping.
On the other hand, there is a part that fills the gap between the head and shoulders for optimal support of the neck. Fitted with a handy snap-loop fastener, you can attach the pillow to a suitcase for secure carrying when traveling.
Besides, the pillow is easy to care for and maintain. The reason is its durable and machine-washable construction. The pillow is crafted from soft and supportive material for comfortable use while traveling and at home.
8. Best Budget – SAIREIDER Neck Pillow for Long Term Flight
Pros
- Soft and plush design
- Lightweight and compact for secure transportation
Cons
- A little bit challenging to fold compactly
Are you on a budget and looking for the best travel pillow for long haul flights? If yes, the Saireider Travel Neck Pillow is the best choice for you.
Cheap but Good Quality – It is availed at an affordable cost with a design that doesn’t compromise the performance for the best value for money. The pillow is made using 100% pure memory foam.
This material is certified by the international authoritative SGS to guarantee safety. What’s more, the pillow doesn’t emit any chemical smell for a toxic-free performance.
The travel pillow adopts a 3-second shape-restore technology so that it can retain its shape after being squeezed. Also, it includes a zippered cover.
The cover is easy to remove for effortless cleaning. The contoured shape of the pillow is another plus that allows it to ensure user comfort.
Also, there is a buckle that allows you to adjust the size of the pillow for comfortable use. On purchasing this product, you can expect it to come along with earplugs, eye-mask, and storage bag for secure storage.
What Filling Type of Pillow is Best for Your Long Haul Flights?
Inflatable travel pillows
As the name suggests, an inflatable pillow is a cushion that works upon inflation. This pillow is U-shaped and designed to provide room for inflation or deflation.
These pillows can provide the desired level of comfort and support because of the ability to let you inflate them to the desired level.
Also, they are suitable for those on a budget and frequent travelers, given the ability to deflate them into small, compact, and lightweight products.
Microbead travel pillows
Microbead pillows are travel pillows that incorporate tiny polystyrene beads. These beads are packed into a soft cloth material for user comfort.
The pillows are U-shaped and lightweight for easy travel. However, they are not an ideal choice when the storage or packing space is limited since they occupy a lot of space while compared to the other types.
Memory foam travel pillows
If you are looking for a travel pillow that combines comfort, portability, style, and proper support, you will want to invest in memory foam travel pillows.
These are the firmest pillows available on the market today. They can provide consistent support for the neck to ensure comfort. Also, the pilows can be compressed or clipped onto luggage for portability.
The downside of memory foam cushions is their high prices. However, for their durability, comfort, support, and ease of maintenance, they are worth purchasing.
Why Do You Need A Travel Pillow For Airline?
You need the best travel pillow for airplanes due to these reasons:
Maximum Comfort
You definitely want maximum comfort while traveling, don’t you? How possible is it for you to accrue this comfort if you do not make use of an item that is similarly able to provide in the first place?
A pillow of this kind will definitely go a long way in supporting your head as you sleep on the seat.
Excellent Head Support
Maintaining your head high for a prolonged duration of time is never really easy. This is something you can only do if you pick and incorporate a great pillow that is optimized for the head support in your travel regime.
Such a pillow is appropriately equipped for the purpose of providing such support.
Minimal Fatigue
It is not uncommon to be fatigued excessively while traveling for a longer duration of time. It is only by incorporating a travel pillow that you will be able to now stay ahead of the game. The pillow gives your head the support it needs to be able to stay focused for longer.
Benefits of Travl Pillows for Airplanes
Apart from the passengers, the airplanes and the airlines themselves also stand to gain some advantages by allowing the use of these items while on board. Examples of these benefits are:
Reduced Operational Expenses
By letting the passengers carry these items on board, the airline is freed from the obligation to purchase them. That of course translates to reduced operational expenses on the part of the airline concerned. In that way, the profit margins of the airlines are increased considerably.
Minimal Clutter
These items definitely take up some space. If airlines have to provide them, they will generally have to clutter their cabins.
That reduces the free space available and also impedes the free movements of the passengers who get into and out of the cabin. Letting the passengers carry the items themselves declutters the cabin.
Freer Circulation of Air
With the decluttered interior of the cabin comes the added benefit of freer circulation of air especially at those times when these gadgets are not really necessary.
Many benefits come along with freer circulation of air, ranging from comfortable flights to reduced incidences of suffocation.
FAQs
Which is the Best Travel Pillow for Long Flights?
The best travel pillow for long hauls is a pillow that provides optimal support to the chin and neck. Such a pillow should feature a bearable weight depending on the user since you do not want it to weigh you down.
Moreover, the pillow should feature plush and comfortable fabrics for a comfortable user experience.
Better still, this pillow should be easy to store and carry after use, which means that it should be inflatable, foldable, or fitted with a clip that will allow you to attach it to the luggage.
Do Travel Pillows Really Work for Kids?
Yes, travel pillows can work with kids, but you must ensure that your kid is old enough to use it comfortably. That said, be sure that you perform the required research to ensure that you are getting the right travel pillow for use by a kid.
Always ensure that the pillow is not way too tight around the neck to guarantee the safety and comfort of the toddler. Moreover, get a pillow that is made using toxic-free materials for the safety of your baby.
How Do You Sleep Comfortably on a Long Haul Flight?
First, start by selecting a travel pillow that will suit your sleeping posture or position and carry it along. More so, do not forget to choose your seat wisely.
Preferably, try booking a window seat if you can. To ensure that you have adequate room to stretch your legs, avoid lots of carry-ons when boarding the planes.
Plus, you could bring along noise-canceling headphones to tune out distractions likely to interfere with your sleep.
Can You Take a Pillow and Blanket on an Airplane?
THEORETICALLY, yes!
It is possible for you to take these pillows and blankets on a plane. Many airlines consider them as a carry-on. They are also smaller and compact enough to carry around easily.
Thus, they are unlikely to impose any adverse strains on those who opt to make good use of them.
In reality, though, each airline has the leeway to determine what constitutes a carry-on and what not.
Also, each airline decides the weight limit of the carry-on. It may not always be hence that the airline you pick at random will allow you to carry these items with you.
Conclusion
Maintaining the wrong posture when sleeping can result in effects such as arm pain, neck pain, neck stiffness, as well as headaches that originate from the neck.
To avoid such outcomes, supporting your neck and head is necessary when you want to take a nap while traveling, the reason I would recommend that you purchase the best travel pillows for long haul flights.
These pillows can provide a comfortable and supportive backing to reduce the pain levels and improve the quality of your sleep.