There is nothing like being stuck in an airplane or on a train for hours on end. Even a road trip can seem to drag on forever when you are low on sleep and feeling exhausted. Sleeping is not always an option, either, when you are caught in a middle seat -- unless you have a travel pillow. It can provide the right kind of support, so you can rest easy, no matter where you are.   

When sleep begins to take hold, these are the best travel pillows for your trip.

Trtl Pillow

Best travel pillow overall

Pros & Cons Pros

• Extremely lightweight
• Machine washable
• Scientifically proven

Cons

• Can be confusing at first
• Too warm for some users

More Details

Features

• Cost:$44.99
• Material: Polyester 
• Shape: Semi-circular
• Machine-washable: Yes

The Trtl Pillow is all about ergonomics, using a polyester filling for internal neck support that is designed to support your head while you sleep. This semi-circular pillow is meant to fit like a scarf and is lightweight at just half a pound. Its fleece cover is soft to the touch and machine-washable to keep it fresh for each trip, plus it is available in four colors, including red and coral, so you can personalize it to your taste. A 100-day money-back guarantee accompanies your purchase.

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Cabeau Evolution Classic Pillow

Best cooling travel pillow

Pros & Cons Pros

• Excellent breathability
• Soft cover
• Machine-washable

Cons

• Heavy
• May be too soft for some users

More Details

Features

• Cost:$29.99
• Material: Polyester
• Shape: Semi-circular
• Machine-washable: Yes

The Cabeau Evolution Classic Pillow offers convenient side vents that are excellent for cooling, helping you avoid heat while you sleep. Its semi-circular shape has a thin, flat back with raised sides to cradle your head and neck for a more comfortable fit. The cover is made of plush polyester and cloaked in a washable cover that you can easily refresh before you travel. This pillow is designed to help eliminate the number of times you wake up from discomfort. Made of memory foam, it provides head and chin support with 360-degree coverage to help you stay asleep longer.

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Everlasting Comfort Memory Foam Airplane Travel Pillow Kit

Best memory foam travel pillow

Pros & Cons Pros

• Memory foam construction
• Hypoallergenic
• Easy to pack

Cons

• Heavy
• May be too large for smaller users

More Details

Features

• Cost:$22.95
• Material: Memory foam
• Shape: Semi-circular
• Machine-washable: Yes

As the name suggests, the Everlasting Comfort Memory Foam Airplane Travel Pillow Kit is made of memory foam that molds itself to your body, cradling your neck and shoulders. With a soft velour cover, you can use the drawstring to tighten or loosen the pillow for an ideal fit. One unique feature about this pillow is its convenient side pocket that you can use to hold a number of items, such as your cell phone or eyeglasses. An entire kit of airplane accessories is included as a bonus and contains memory foam earplugs, a sleeping mask, and a carrying bag for easier, more enjoyable travel. 

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Ostrich Pillow Go

Best splurge travel pillow

Pros & Cons Pros

• Super soft
• Memory foam construction
• Stable

Cons

• Expensive
• Not for head-down sleeping

More Details

Features

• Cost:$60.00
• Material: Memory foam
• Shape: Oval
• Machine-washable: Yes

The Ostrich Pillow Go is more expensive than many other travel pillows, including the best travel pillows chosen here, but it is big on quality, using plush, luxurious materials to create a soft, supportive fit not found with cheaper travel pillows. Stuffed with soft, high-density memory foam, it provides 360-degree ergonomic support to keep you comfortable while you rest. The cover uses a Velcro-brand closure and is machine-washable for more hygienic use. A travel bag is included for easier carry.

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Sea To Summit Aeros Premium Travel Pillow

Best lightweight travel pillow

Pros & Cons Pros

• Incredibly lightweight
• Comfortable knit cover
• Ergonomic design

Cons

• No memory foam
• Can be a little noisy

More Details

Features

• Cost:$42.95
• Material: Polyester
• Shape: Semi-circular
• Machine-washable: No

The Sea To Summit Aeros Premium Travel Pillow is shockingly lightweight at just three ounces, making it the perfect travel partner when you are on the go. Made of polyester, its shape includes narrow sides to better accommodate when there is limited space, such as on a plane or a train. The neck is adjustable, so you can enjoy a custom fit for greater comfort. Designed to provide soft support, the memory foam pillow is covered in a cozy polyester knit to help lull you to sleep. 

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What is the best travel pillow?

The Trtl Pillow is the best travel pillow, thanks to a lightweight, comfortable build. We also love that it is machine-washable for greater durability that is guaranteed for 100 days. 

Travel pillow	Cost	Weight	Machine-washable
Trtl Pillow	$44.99	4.5 oz	Yes
Cabeau Evolution Classic Pillow	$29.99	11.6 oz	Yes
Everlasting Comfort Memory Foam Airplane Travel Pillow Kit	$22.95	0.6 lbs	Yes
Ostrich Pillow Go	$60.00	0.93 lbs	No
Sea To Summit Aeros Premium Travel Pillow	$42.95	3 oz	Yes

Which is the right travel pillow for you?

To help you find the best travel pillow for your needs, consider our expert recommendations. 

Choose this travel pillow...	If you...
Trtl Pillow	Want a versatile travel pillow
Cabeau Evolution Classic Pillow	Want a travel pillow available at airports
Everlasting Comfort Memory Foam Airplane Travel Pillow Kit	Want a memory foam pillow
Ostrich Pillow Go	Luxury is your priority
Sea To Summit Aeros Premium Travel Pillow	Have neck problems

How did we choose these best travel pillows?

There are several factors we considered when choosing the best travel pillows.

• Portability: The best travel pillows are lightweight and easy to transport, with many sporting an inflatable design to save you space. 

• Support: Many of the best travel pillows are made of memory foam that cradles your head and neck while you sleep, helping to provide a more enjoyable, supportive sleep.

• Comfort: The best travel pillows have covers made of plush, comfortable materials like velour or brushed polyester to keep you snug and secure while you sleep.

• Budget: Cost is always a concern, so we look for travel pillows that suit a variety of budgets. 

What is a travel pillow?

A travel pillow is one that is worn around the neck to provide greater support for your neck and head. It can help alleviate neck pain while providing a better, more comfortable sleep even in the most trying of circumstances.

How much does a travel pillow cost?

A travel pillow can range in price significantly, with some even available for free at some airports. The best travel pillows on our list range from less than$25 to$60, giving you a wider range for your budgetary needs.

Can you wash a travel pillow?

Most of the best travel pillows have covers that are machine-washable, but not all of them do. If a travel pillow does not have a washable cover, you will need to hand-wash it to clean. 

Are there alternative travel pillows worth considering?

While searching for the best travel pillows, we also found these great picks that may also be worth your consideration.

AirComfy Ease Pillow: A great space saver

$23.99 at Amazon

BCozzy Kids Chin-Supporting Travel Pillow: Best for Kids

$39.97 at Amazon

Huzi Infinity Pillow: Helpful for a variety of medical conditions

$39.9 at Amazon

Before your next trip, be sure to also check out our picks for the best trip planner apps, the best mobile tech, and the best travel credit cards.  

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