The 10 Best Travel Pillows of 2022, Tested and Reviewed
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Our favorite gives luxury travel pillows a run for their money
People / Marcus Millan
Whether you get there by plane, train, or automobile, traveling can be a taxing experience. But the right head and neck support can make your journey much more enjoyable, especially if you're boarding a long flight. We're talking about travel pillows, of course, which come in a range of styles, sizes, and materials. "There are tons of different types," says award-winning travel host Valerie Joy Wilson of Trusted Travel Girl. "Some will cushion around your neck, and some just go on the side of your neck."
So, what makes some better than others? "Comfort is the number one thing," says travel expert Rana Good, explaining that a high-quality cushion should help you get some sleep and not wake up in pain. "Also, hygiene is a big factor." In other words, an easy-to-clean design is ideal.
We tested 24 top-rated pillows to find the most comfortable, portable, durable, low-maintenance options. After trying them out in real-life settings, including flights, train rides, and road trips, we narrowed it down to options worth buying.
Keep reading for the best travel pillows PEOPLE tested.
Best Overall: Cabeau Evolution Classic Travel Pillow
Pros
Cloud-like memory foam conforms to shape of head and neck
Supportive but not too soft or firm
Conveniently machine-washable cover
Cons
Clasps come undone easily
Clocking perfect scores in all our tests, the Cabeau Evolution Classic is by far our favorite travel pillow. A perfect option for plane travel, we loved how the responsive memory foam conformed to our heads and necks. Not too soft or too firm with excellent support, laying down on it was like dozing off on a cloud. And when you're done using it, it quickly regains its normal shape. Our tester wore this on two ten-hour flights and now packs it every time she travels.
If you're watching an in-flight movie, reading a book, or just relaxing, this cushion will make the experience much more comfortable. It seems well-made too. Though the velour exterior is removable and machine-washable, it doesn't shift around when zipped onto the pillow. There are also handy toggle clasps on the front to ensure it stays in position while allowing you to hook it to your luggage. The clasps come undone kind of easily, but in the end, this is a minor drawback.
"I personally love Cabeau memory foam neck pillows," says Wilson. The Evolution Classic is very reasonably priced and gives higher-end options a run for their money. It did its job and exceeded our expectations for comfort, durability, and portability. We'd recommend it to anyone looking for a high-quality on-the-go neck pillow.
Price at time of publish: $29.99
Dimensions: 10 x 9.5 x 5 inches | Core Material: Memory foam | Cover Material: Velour
People / Daniela Galvez
Best Budget: Cloudz Microbead Travel Neck Pillow
Pros
Comfortable and supportive for long trips
Microbeads conform to the shape of head and neck
Soft, breathable, tear-resistant exterior
Cons
Cover isn't removable for washing
Doesn't compress; not easy to pack in luggage
On a budget? The Cloudz Original Travel Pillow is a solid choice. After trying it out on a six-hour flight and a three-hour train ride, we're happy to report it's exceptionally comfortable and supportive. The ultra-soft fabric seems tear-resistant and breathable too. Though it doesn't compress, it's filled with lightweight microbeads that conform to the shape of your neck and head.
The Cloudz Pillow isn't the best option for packing in a carry-on or backpack, but we liked how the clasp keeps it in place when walking around. You can also attach it to your suitcase or bag. Although this travel pillow doesn't have a removable cover, the exterior is easy to spot-clean. Affordable price aside, we'd recommend this product to anyone going on a long flight, train ride, or road trip.
Price at time of publish: $19.99
Dimensions: 12 x 12 x 4 inches | Core Material: Foam beads | Cover Material: Polyester
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Best Splurge: Ostrich Pillow Go Neck Pillow
Pros
Wrap-around design with plush, marshmallow-like feel
Supports neck and chin while preventing stiffness
Compresses to about half its size
Cons
Can get a little warm after a few hours
If you're willing to pay a little extra for the best of the best, go with Ostrichpillow. The brand's Go Neck Pillow is one of the few options that earned perfect scores in all testing categories. After using it on a short domestic flight and a long international flight, we were sold on the comfortable design. It feels like wrapping a marshmallow around your neck.
This wrap-around neck cushion has a memory foam core, a soft and stretchy machine-washable cover, and adjustable velcro closure for a custom fit. It supported our necks and chins, keeping our heads securely in place while sitting upright and preventing stiffness. Not only that, but the Go Neck Pillow compresses to about half its size for compact packing. And thanks to the modern design, you won't feel dorky wearing it. The only potential downside is that it gets slightly warm after a few hours. Still, we think it's well worth the investment, especially if you travel often.
Price at time of publish: $59.99
Dimensions: 10 x 6.5 x 3 inches | Core Material: Memory foam | Cover Material: Viscose, elastomer
Best Neck Support: J-Pillow Chin-Supporting Neck Pillow
Pros
Unique shape with ear divot supports from the side
Easy to sleep upright almost anywhere
Entire pillow is machine-washable
Cons
Oddly shaped; can't walk with it on neck
Cover isn't removable
If it's neck support you're after, the J-Pillow has your name on it. After using it on a 19-hour car ride, we awarded it perfect scores in all categories. We loved the responsive memory foam core and unique J shape. The clever design is meant to go on one side of your head, almost like you're leaning on someone's shoulder. There's also a little divot for your ear. This makes it easy to take a nap, no matter where you're seated.
Unlike C-shaped pillows, you can't really walk around with it on your neck, but you could attach the included carry bag to your luggage. The exterior is soft and plush, and we didn't notice any loose strings or snags. And while it doesn't have a removable cover, the entire thing is machine-washable.
Price at time of publish: $49.99
Dimensions: 13 x 12 x 8 inches | Core Material: Memory foam | Cover Material: Poly-blend fabric
Best Compact: Aeris Memory Foam Travel Pillow
Pros
Easily compresses into bag half its size
Provides ideal balance of plushness and support
Perfect for naps on road trips and flights
Might be slightly too firm for longer trips
The Aeris Travel Pillow isn't technically the smallest option on our list. However, it's made of compressible memory foam and fits into an included carrying bag half its size. Stuffing it into the bag was a breeze. But that's not the only thing we liked about this neck cushion.
After trying it out on a six-hour road trip and a five-hour flight, we can tell you it provides an ideal balance of softness and support. Since the memory foam is on the firmer side, you may not want to sleep with it for longer periods. Still, it's perfect for in-transit naps. The super-soft velour cover features high-quality stitching and a sturdy zipper, allowing you to remove and wash it as needed. All things considered, this is an excellent travel pillow with a very reasonable price tag.
Price at time of publish: $25.90
Dimensions: 13.5 x 11 x 5 inches | Core Material: Memory foam | Cover Material: Velour
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Most Versatile: Therm-a-Rest Compressible Pillow
Pros
Lofty yet conveniently compressible; packs into itself
Feels almost like real bed pillow
Perfect for flights, camping, and on-the-go naps
Cons
Only comes in patterned designs
Prefer more of a standard shape? This one's for you. We used the Therm-a-Rest Compressible Pillow Cinch round-trip for cross-country air travel, on a camping trip, and even for a few naps at home. We were blown away by how comfortable it is, thanks to the lofty core and soft, breathable exterior. Filled with a blend of shredded foam and poly fibers, it feels almost like a real bed pillow.
What's more, the compressible design packs into itself for compact transport and fluffs back up when you're ready to use it. Besides being immensely comfy and highly portable, we like that this travel cushion is made of upcycled and recycled materials. We wish it came in a few solid, neutral hues, but other than that, no complaints.
Price at time of publish: $29-$61.95
Dimensions: 22 x 15 x 7 inches, 18 x 13 x 6 inches, 15 x 11 x 5 inches | Core Material: Shredded foam, poly fibers | Cover Material: Polyester
Best Silk: Gingerlily Silk Travel Pillow
Pros
Preserves hair and prevents skin creases
Substantial feel that doesn't go flat
Can be used en route or sleeping in bed
Cons
Not compact; may need to be "personal item"
No removable case; laundry bag sold separately
If you want to pull out all the stops in preserving your blowout or keeping skin creases at bay while you nap on the go, it's worth bringing a mini silk pillow. We tried this one from Gingerlily and were immediately impressed by the overall quality — the exterior was sumptuously smooth with no loose threads or fraying. It has a substantial feel that resists going flat. A great option to use on a plane, train, or car ride, it helped us stay comfy for a five-hour excursion and kept our hair sleek and frizz-free. We wish this pillow came with a removable case. While the whole thing is machine-washable, the laundry bag is sold separately.
We like how it's shaped like a regular bed pillow. Although not as big, it's still larger than most travel pillows, so you may need to bring it as your "personal item" for plane travel rather than packing it. However, if you're a silk pillowcase devotee at home, this pillow is substantial enough that you could use it not just en route but also at night at your hotel or vacation rental.
Price at time of publish: $125
Dimensions: 12 x 16 inches | Core Material: Mulberry silk, polyester | Cover Material: Mulberry silk
Best Durable: Cabeau The Neck's Evolution S3 (TNE) Neck Pillow
Pros
Plush yet supportive with soft, cozy exterior
Prevents head bobbing while sleeping upright
Durable design stands up to wear and tear
Cons
Extra-thick design may take getting used to
Cover isn't as soft after washing
The high-quality design of Cabeau's Evolution TNE S3 Pillow was apparent right off the bat. It's plush yet supportive with a super soft and cozy exterior that never makes you feel hot or stuffy. Since it's on the thicker side, it felt a little odd at first while we got into a comfortable position. But once we got used to it, we were sold. The chin and headrest straps keep it secure, but it stays in place and prevents your head from bobbing around even if you don't use them.
We used this travel pillow for the duration of a 12-day trip, including on planes, trains, and buses. By the last day, it looked just as good as when we pulled it out of the packaging. Though it seems bulky at first, it folds into a compact ball and fits easily into the included carrying case. You can also attach it to a carry-on suitcase or bag using the clip. The removable cover lost some softness after washing it, but not much. Backed by a one-year warranty, the TNE S3 Pillow seems like it'll hold up for a long time. The value is undeniable, so it's definitely worth the investment.
Price at time of publish: $49.99
Dimensions: 11 x 7.5 x 6.5 inches | Core Material: Memory foam | Cover Material: Polyester, microsuede
Best Cooling: Cabeau Evolution Cool Pillow
Pros
Prevents heat from getting trapped; good for hot sleepers
Supportive and firm but not too hard
Durable design retains shape through repeated compressing
Cons
Awkward to position at first
Outer fabric isn't as soft as others we tried
We also liked Cabeau's Evolution Cool Pillow. An ideal choice for people who sleep hot or get night sweats, the airy, ventilated design is supposed to prevent heat from getting trapped in the memory foam. After trying it out firsthand, we can tell you it works as promised. We found this neck cushion to be extremely supportive and firm but not too hard. It's slightly awkward to position at first, but rest assured, you'll be able to sleep upright on a plane — even in the middle seat.
Though the exterior is soft, it's not the softest option we tried. Still, we appreciate that the zippered cover is removable and machine-washable. This travel pillow also compresses to fit in its included storage bag and maintains its original shape after being repeatedly rolled and unrolled. It's durable, likely long-lasting, and, most importantly, helps you doze comfortably in a seated position without getting stuffy.
Price at time of publish: $59.99
Dimensions: 13 x 7 x 5 inches | Core Material: Memory foam | Cover Material: Polyester
Best Firm: Cushion Lab Ergonomic Travel Neck Pillow
Pros
Thoughtful ergonomic design with adjustable fit
Supports chin and head to keep neck strain at bay
Continuously comfortable for long hours
Cons
Snug fit takes some getting used to
Carabiner too small to attach to luggage
Cushion Lab's take on the travel pillow is this semi-firm C-shaped number. The ergonomic design is very snug, almost like a neck brace, though the strap allows you to adjust the fit. While the shape may take some getting used to, it's not uncomfortable at all. In fact, it's quite the opposite. Made of high-density foam and memory foam, it supports your chin, prevents your head from bobbing around, and promises to minimize neck strain.
We were able to sleep comfortably on long car rides and train rides, with no neck pain to speak of afterward. This travel pillow has a machine-washable cover and a handy carrying bag with a carabiner clip. It rolls up easily into the bag, but unfortunately, the clip is a little too small to attach to luggage — it should hook to a purse or backpack, though. If you have a hard time getting comfortable enough to doze off on trains, planes, or cars, this portable pillow might be a game-changer.
Price at time of publish: $55
Dimensions: 10 x 9 x 5 inches, 9 x 8 x 4 inches | Core Material: High-density foam, memory foam | Cover Material: Cotton-poly blend
Things to Consider Before Buying a Travel Pillow
Shape
"The most common travel pillow you'll see at the airport is the [C-shaped] neck pillow," says Good. "A lot of people wear them around their necks as they board." The idea is that the curved design props up your chin and prevents your head from bobbing around while you sleep, ultimately preventing neck strain.
You'll also find J-shaped cushions (like the J-Pillow Travel Pillow), which are supposed to go on one side of your head rather than around your neck. Then there are rectangular options that are more like a smaller version of a bed pillow, such as the Therm-a-Rest Compressible Pillow.
Material
Travel pillows designed to conform to the shape of your head and neck are often made out of responsive materials, such as memory foam or foam microbeads. If you prefer a bit more support, go with high-density foam, and if you like a softer feel, look for something with shredded foam or poly fibers.
The exterior matters, too. In addition to being soft against your skin, the best travel pillows have easy-to-clean cases. Ideally, it should be removable, machine-washable, and dryer-friendly (like our best overall pick, the Cabeau Evolution Classic Travel Neck Pillow).
Portability
Lastly, think about portability. Despite the size, Good says the best travel pillows can be "stored neatly in your bag" next to other travel accessories, like your wired earbuds and a blackout sleep mask. This could mean it's small or compresses down into a compact shape. Some come with carrying cases that hook to your luggage, and C-shaped designs can be worn around your neck if they don't fit anywhere else — it probably won't count as your "one personal item." And of course, you can keep it in your bag in a compressed case and pull it out once you're settled into your seat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are expensive travel pillows worth it?
The Ostrichpillow Go Neck Pillow, while the most expensive on the list, was rated 5/5 by our tester. If your budget allows, investing in a more expensive pillow like this one will surely keep your neck and head comfortable during your travels, which we certainly think is worth the price. However, there are still plenty of options we recommend, like the Cloudz Microbead Travel Neck Pillow, that still provide high quality and comfort at a more approachable price point.
Do I need a machine-washable travel pillow?
It certainly adds a layer of convenience if your travel pillow is machine washable, especially if you have access to a washer/dryer during your travels. However, not being machine-washable won’t necessarily affect the travel pillow’s comfort and performance. In some cases, cushions without removable covers can be machine-washed as well. If not, you'll need to hand-wash or spot-clean your pillow. We made sure that any pillow we recommended that wasn't machine washable was easy to spot-clean, such as the Cloudz Microbead Travel Neck Pillow.
How We Tested
After researching today's best travel pillows, we selected 24 options to try firsthand. After taking them out of the packaging, reviewing the instructions, and assessing the designs, we brought them along on actual plane flights, train rides, bus rides, and road trips to see how they'd perform in real-life settings.
We evaluated the softness, sturdiness, and maintenance requirements of the materials, then considered the size and whether the pillows were compressible. We used them for two or more consecutive hours (often much longer) on multiple trips. We noted the support, if we were able to fall asleep, and whether we were left feeling sore. After rating each pillow for quality, comfort, portability, durability, and value, those with the highest scores were chosen for this story.
Why Trust PEOPLE?
Theresa Holland is a commerce writer specializing in travel, lifestyle, and sleep products. To compile this roundup, she combed through our testing insights and ratings for each product. She also interviewed travel expert Rana Good and Valerie Joy Wilson of Trusted Travel Girl for their expertise on what makes a good travel pillow.
What Is PEOPLE Tested?
We created the PEOPLE Tested seal of approval to help you find the very best products for your life. We use our unique methodology to test products in three labs across the country and with our network of home testers to determine their effectiveness, durability, ease of use, and so much more. Based on the results, we rate and recommend products so you can find the right one for your needs.
But we don't stop there: We also regularly re-review the categories in which we've awarded the PEOPLE Tested seal of approval — because the best product of today might not be the best of tomorrow. And by the way, companies can never buy our recommendation: Their products must earn it, fair and square.
In short, PEOPLE Tested provides recommendations you can trust — every day, every purchase.
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