Best Travel Pillows for Pain-Free Adventures: Top 10 Picks for 2025

Traveling is exciting, but trying to sleep upright on a long flight or road trip can be a real pain in the neck – literally! Seasoned travelers know that a great travel pillow can make all the difference between arriving well-rested and with aches. In this friendly guide, we’ll compare the 10 best travel pillows you can buy (all available on Amazon) to help you find your perfect companion for flights, road trips, or any journey. We’ve included a variety of pillow styles – not just the usual U-shaped neck pillows – because every traveler has unique needs. Whether you’re a backpacker tight on space, a side-sleeper who needs extra support, or just someone seeking a little luxury on a red-eye flight, we’ve got you covered.

How We Chose the Best Travel Pillows

To determine our top 10, we evaluated each pillow based on five key criteria and weighted them according to what matters most for sleep on the go. Here’s what we looked at:

• Comfort & Support: How well does the pillow cradle your head and neck? Can it prevent stiffness and head-bobbing? (Weight: 30% – because if it’s not comfy, nothing else matters!)
• Portability: Is it easy to carry? Some pillows compress into tiny bags or attach to luggage, while others are bulkier. We favored pillows that travelers can pack or clip on without hassle (Weight: 20%).
• User Reviews: We considered real user ratings and feedback on Amazon for each pillow. A high average rating with thousands of reviews indicates a tried-and-true product (Weight: 20%).
• Price & Value: Travel pillows range from budget-friendly to splurge-worthy. We weighed cost against quality and features to see if each pillow provides good value (Weight: 15%).
• Uniqueness & Versatility: We gave points for innovative designs or special features that solve specific travel sleep problems (Weight: 15%). For example, some pillows have unique shapes for different sleeping positions or extra uses (like doubling as a lumbar support or eye mask).

Using these factors, we scored each pillow and determined an overall ranking. Comfort was given the highest importance, but a pillow also needed to be portable and well-reviewed to clinch a top spot. Below is a comparison table of our top 10 travel pillows, followed by detailed reviews of each option and why it might be the right choice for you.

Comparison Table: Top 10 Travel Pillows at a Glance

To help you quickly compare, here’s a side-by-side look at how our selected pillows stack up on the key criteria (scores are on a 10-point scale, higher is better):

Rank	Travel Pillow (and Amazon Link)	Comfort	Portability	User Reviews	Price	Uniqueness
1	Cabeau Evolution S3 Memory Foam Pillow	9/10	7/10	8/10	7/10 💲💲	6/10
2	Trtl Travel Pillow	8/10	10/10	7/10	8/10 💲💲	9/10
3	OstrichPillow Go Neck Pillow	9/10	8/10	8/10	4/10 💲💲💲	7/10
4	BCOZZY Chin Supporting Pillow	8/10	7/10	9/10	8/10 💲💲	8/10
5	Huzi Infinity Pillow	8/10	6/10	8/10	6/10 💲💲💲	10/10
6	Napfun Memory Foam Pillow	8/10	8/10	9/10	10/10 💲	5/10
7	Travelrest Ultimate Inflatable Pillow	7/10	9/10	7/10	9/10 💲	10/10
8	Dot & Dot Twist Pillow	7/10	8/10	8/10	9/10 💲	9/10
9	J-Pillow Travel Pillow	7/10	7/10	8/10	8/10 💲💲	9/10
10	Sarisun Head Strap Pillow + Eye Mask	6/10	10/10	8/10	9/10 💲	9/10

Note: Comfort scores reflect our assessment of support and coziness. Portability considers weight, bulk, and how easily the pillow packs or attaches to luggage. User Reviews are based on Amazon ratings (quantity and quality of feedback). Price is rated by value for money (💲 = under ~\$25 budget, 💲💲 = mid-range, 💲💲💲 = premium). Uniqueness indicates if the design offers something special or multi-purpose beyond a standard neck pillow.

Now, let’s dive into the detailed reviews of each pillow, why we ranked it where we did, and what kind of traveler it’s best for.

1. Cabeau Evolution S3 Memory Foam Travel Pillow – Best Overall Comfort and Support

When it comes to the best all-around travel pillow, the Cabeau Evolution S3 takes the crown. This is the classic curved memory foam neck pillow perfected. Its high-density memory foam core is supremely comfortable, molding to your neck and head to prevent soreness and kinks after long flights. The sides are tall and supportive, and importantly, the back is flat, so it won’t push your head forward awkwardly against the airplane seat.

What really sets the Evolution S3 apart is the unique strap system. The “S3” straps allow you to secure the pillow to your airplane seat’s headrest, so your head stays upright instead of lolling forward or sideways. If you’ve ever woken up from a nap with your chin on your chest, you’ll appreciate this feature! The straps make it especially great for those dreaded middle seats, as it keeps you stable even without a window to lean on. Many frequent flyers swear by this pillow for finally getting sleep on redeye flights.

Why we love it: The Cabeau Evolution S3 balances comfort, support, and portability. The memory foam is medium-firm – supportive yet still plush – and the removable velour cover feels soft against the skin. There’s even an adjustable front clasp to hold the pillow snug around your neck and support your chin. Despite its robust support, the Evolution S3 compresses down into a compact travel bag (about half its size) and can attach to your carry-on. With thousands of positive reviews, it’s clear this pillow has helped travelers worldwide catch better z’s on the go. It is a bit pricier than generic pillows, but the durability and features are worth it for regular travelers. If you want one pillow that excels in comfort and keeps your head from bobbing, the Cabeau Evolution S3 is hard to beat.

Ideal for: Long-haul flyers, anyone prone to neck pain, and travelers who want maximum support (the straps are a game-changer). It’s a bit bulkier to carry than an inflatable, but the trade-off in comfort is well worth it, especially if you travel often.

2. Trtl Travel Pillow – Best for Lightweight Portability and Adjustability

The Trtl Travel Pillow isn’t a traditional pillow at all – and that’s why many travelers adore it. The Trtl (pronounced “turtle”) is essentially a fleece scarf with a hidden internal plastic support system. You wrap it around your neck like a cozy scarf, and the built-in brace holds your head in a comfortable ergonomic position. This innovative design provides firm neck support on one side, preventing the head towards your shoulder. It’s a scientifically engineered alternative to bulky U-shaped pillows, focusing support where you need it while eliminating excess material.

Portability is the Trtl’s biggest win: it’s extremely lightweight (only about half the weight of a traditional travel pillow) and lies flat in your bag. You can easily pack it into a purse or backpack, or attach it to a suitcase, and it won’t take up much space at all. This makes it ideal for minimalist travelers and backpackers. Despite its slim profile, the Trtl pillow can be very effective. You can adjust how tight you wrap it and position the internal support to your liking (either side of your neck or even under your chin). Many users find it holds their head upright better than a standard pillow, especially if they tend to lean to one side.

Why we love it: The Trtl is warm and soft, thanks to the fleece material, doubling as a neck warmer – great for chilly airplane cabins. By keeping the design simple (just a wraparound with Velcro), it removes the bulk but still prevents your head from tilting at uncomfortable angles. We also appreciate that the cover is machine washable, so you can keep it fresh trip after trip. It’s worth noting the Trtl comes in a few versions now – including the Trtl Pillow Plus, which has adjustable height – but even the original model provides adjustable support by how you position it.

Because it doesn’t actually cushion both sides of your head, the Trtl can feel different than a traditional pillow – it supports only one side at a time. Some people might miss having something to snuggle into on both sides. It also wraps fairly snugly around the neck, which might take getting used to (especially if you run warm, since the fleece can be toasty). But for many, the trade-off is more than worth it for the portability and support.

Ideal for: Carry-on only travelers or anyone who hates lugging a big pillow. It’s fantastic for flights when you want to pack light. It’s also a top pick if you usually sleep with your head tilted to one side – for example, if you favor a window seat – the Trtl will hold you up. However, if you need forward chin support as well, you might pair it with something or consider another option. Overall, for a lightweight, machine-washable, and highly supportive travel companion, Trtl is a winner.

3. OstrichPillow Go Neck Pillow – Most Luxurious Memory Foam Feel

If you’re looking to treat yourself to the first-class of travel pillows, the OstrichPillow Go is a premium choice that lives up to its reputation. This pillow was described by one travel editor as “like sleeping on a cloud,” and we can see why. It’s made of high-density memory foam that is incredibly plush and supportive, encased in a silky-smooth, breathable cover. The OstrichPillow Go has an ergonomic 360° design: it’s a curved neck pillow that wraps all the way around, with an overlapping Velcro closure at the front. This means complete neck and chin support – it will keep your head upright no matter which way you lean, with no gap in the front.

One of its unique features is an asymmetrical shape: one side of the pillow is slightly taller/thicker than the other. This clever design lets you rotate the pillow to find your perfect fit – for example, if you need more support on one side of your head or if you have a longer neck, you use the taller side. It’s very accommodating to different body types and sleeping positions. The memory foam in the Ostrich is top-notch quality, the kind that feels cushy yet holds its shape over hours of use. When we tested it, it consistently kept our neck at a comfortable angle, preventing any stiffness upon waking.

Why we love it: The OstrichPillow Go is ultra-comfortable and durable. It feels luxurious – the cover fabric (a modal blend) is soft to the touch and easily removable for washing. Even the Velcro is thoughtfully designed to be secure but not scratchy. We were also impressed by its packability for such a thick pillow: it compresses down to 60% of its size and comes with a handy travel bag. Once you learn how to roll it up tightly, you can fit it into a relatively small pouch that’s perfect for tossing in a carry-on. This pillow also has a stylish, modern look (as far as travel pillows go) – you won’t mind being seen wearing it in an airport.

The main downside is the price – it’s one of the more expensive pillows on our list. Also, the OstrichPillow Go is a bit heavier and bulkier to carry than some others (even compressed, it’s larger than an inflatable or the Trtl). But if maximum comfort is your priority, many users say this pillow is “worth every penny” for long flights. It’s particularly great for people who always struggle to sleep on planes – this could be the pillow that finally lets you doze off. Just be aware that in hot climates or warm airplanes, the thick memory foam might feel warm; the cover is breathable, but it still wraps around your neck fully.

Ideal for: Travelers who want the most comfort and don’t mind a splurge. It’s perfect for long-haul flights, international trips, and those who appreciate design and quality. If you have trouble with standard U-shaped pillows not providing enough support or comfort, the OstrichPillow Go could be your dream pillow. It’s also a good choice for side-to-side swayers and those with longer necks, thanks to the taller support option.

4. BCOZZY Chin Supporting Travel Pillow – Best for 360° Head Support (Great for Side Sleepers)

The BCOZZY Travel Pillow takes a different approach to the traditional neck pillow, and it’s a favorite especially among side sleepers and those who tend to nod forward. This pillow has a patented overlapping design that looks a bit like a soft padded pretzel or a horseshoe when worn. Essentially, you wrap it around your neck and overlap the two arms of the pillow under your chin (or off to the side) to create a double layer of support. This way, the BCOZZY provides support in the front (chin), sides, and back of your head – truly 360° support. No more head-bob or “neck snapping” when you doze off and your chin falls forward!

What makes BCOZZY stand out is its flexibility. You can wear it in multiple positions: with the overlap under the chin for full frontal support, slightly to the side if you’re leaning on a window or headrest, or even fold it in half to make one side higher for a custom fit. Unlike memory foam pillows that are one solid piece, the BCOZZY is filled with a soft polyester fiber, so it’s bendable and squishable. The whole pillow is covered in soft microfleece (some versions have a cooler micro-suede on one side) and it feels plush against the skin. It comes in two adult sizes (Regular and Large) so you can get the right fit for your neck, and even a kid size – it’s actually the #1 best seller in kids’ travel pillows, which speaks to how well it supports smaller necks on long car rides or flights.

Why we love it: Comfort and versatility. The BCOZZY is less stiff than memory foam, so you can really snug it to your neck in whatever way feels best. The overlapping ends not only support the chin but also allow you to adjust how tight it is. Because it wraps around fully, it also keeps your head from tilting uncomfortably if you’re stuck in the middle seat – you can lean slightly into the pillow itself. Another bonus: it’s fully machine washable, pillow and all (no separate cover to fuss with). After a long trip, just toss it in the wash to freshen it up. It also has a snap strap, so you can clip it to your carry-on bag when moving through airports.

One thing to note is that the BCOZZY doesn’t compress super small; it kind of springs back to its puffy shape. You can attach it to luggage rather than packing it inside if space is tight. Also, because it’s not memory foam, it’s soft support rather than very firm. Some people with heavier heads or those who prefer a very firm cushion might find they still need to adjust their position occasionally. But for most, the balance of cushion and support is excellent, particularly for side sleepers who want to rest their head to the side and have chin support.

Ideal for: People who want all-around head support, especially if you tend to nod forward or sideways when sleeping. It’s fantastic for side sleepers and those who find that U-shaped pillows don’t support their chin. It’s also kid-friendly and great for road trips (passengers can easily use it in the car). If you often find yourself in the middle or aisle seat, the BCOZZY can give you a little “pillow hug” around the neck to keep you upright. It might not be as packable as an inflatable, but its comfort and flexibility make it worth clipping onto your carry-on.

5. Huzi Infinity Pillow – Most Versatile Design (Great for Multiple Uses)

The Huzi Infinity Pillow is perhaps the most unique-looking option on our list – it’s essentially a plush Möbius strip of pillow! This pillow is a continuous loop (ring-shaped) that you can twist, wrap, and bunch up in countless ways. Unlike structured neck pillows, the Infinity Pillow doesn’t dictate how to use it; you shape it to your needs. Wrap it around your neck twice for a cushy neck pillow, sling it across your shoulder and lean into it, use it as a lean-against-the-window cushion, or even as a lumbar support or regular rectangular pillow – the possibilities are endless, hence the name “Infinity.”

One of the Infinity Pillow’s greatest strengths is its super-soft material. It’s made from a bamboo-derived rayon and microfiber fabric that’s incredibly soft and breathable. Inside, it’s filled with a snuggly microfiber (almost like a plush pillow or comforter fill). This means it’s all machine washable and feels like a cozy pillow from home. It’s not memory foam, so it’s very moldable and squishable. When not in use, you can compact it into a drawstring bag (included) or just scrunch it into your backpack – it’s about the size of a thick scarf when compressed. Many people even use it as a regular pillow at their destination, since it functions like a small pillow when folded.

Why we love it: The Infinity Pillow is the king of versatility and comfort. Because it’s a loop, you can double it up for extra cushioning or extend it to support more of your body. For example, on a flight you could wrap it around your neck and also tuck part of it in the gap between your head and the window for double support. Or use it like a noise-cancelling pillow by wrapping it to cover your ears. You can also use it as an eye mask by pulling a loop over your eyes while a section still supports your head – it’s actually quite effective for blocking light. The fabric is breathable and there are little air pockets when it’s wrapped, so it doesn’t feel stifling. We also appreciate its stylish, modern design – it looks more like a chic infinity scarf than a pillow when worn, so you don’t get the obvious travel pillow look.

Keep in mind, the Infinity Pillow’s soft fill provides gentle support, not rigid neck alignment. If you need very firm support to prevent any neck tilt, this might not be the pillow that keeps you completely upright (it’s better for cushioning and comfort). Also, at full size it is somewhat bulkier to carry than some others – you can compress it, but it’s still a plush pillow so it takes a bit of room. It’s moderate in price (mid-range), and considering it doubles as a standard pillow or even a blanket in a pinch, you get good value out of it.

Ideal for: Multi-purpose travelers and creative snoozers. This is great if you want a travel pillow that you can also use in the hotel, on a hostel bed, or even in the office for naps. It’s also a good choice if traditional neck pillows don’t work for you – with the Infinity Pillow you can experiment to find a position that does. It’s particularly nice for window seat lovers and those who like to hug a pillow or cushion – you can wrap your arms in it or use it as a body pillow segment. If you run hot, you may also like its breathable bamboo fabric which stays fairly cool. In short, the Huzi Infinity Pillow is the best friend of those who value adaptability and comfort over firm, structured support.

6. Napfun Memory Foam Travel Pillow – Best Value Memory Foam (Budget-Friendly Comfort)

Looking for a high-quality memory foam pillow without breaking the bank? The Napfun Travel Pillow is a fantastic budget-friendly pick that doesn’t skimp on comfort. This pillow has surged in popularity (often topping Amazon’s best-seller list) because it offers many of the features of pricier pillows at a very accessible price. The Napfun is a U-shaped memory foam pillow with a clever ergonomic design: it has a somewhat flatter back, raised sides, and a slight curve inward at the front to support the chin. It basically gives you 360° head and neck support by cupping your head and preventing that forward head-fall.

The memory foam in the Napfun is 100% pure (no crumbly foam pieces) and feels medium-firm – supportive enough to hold your head in a better posture, yet soft enough to be comfortable. The outer cover is a soft, sweat-resistant fabric that can be unzipped and washed. Napfun also includes a few extras that frequent travelers will appreciate: a compact travel bag, a snap strap, and even a pair of earplugs and a sleep mask in some sets. The pillow compresses down to about half its size and can be stuffed into the included pouch, making it easy to attach to your carry-on. It weighs only about 11 ounces, so it’s not too heavy to lug around.

Why we love it: Napfun proves that you can get a supportive, well-designed pillow on a budget. In our experience, it kept our neck in a comfortable position, largely thanks to its “raised neck support” at the back and sides. The back part is not too bulky, so your head isn’t pushed forward off the seat (a common issue with cheap bean bag pillows). The sides are firm enough to support your head if you lean either way. And the adjustable buckle on the front allows you to tighten the pillow around your neck to your liking – tightening it gives you more chin support to prevent nodding. This adjustability is a big plus, as everyone’s neck circumference is different. Many users who weren’t satisfied with generic foam pillows found Napfun to be “just right” in balancing softness and support.

Given the affordable price, the materials aren’t luxury – the cover is a plush velour-like material (comfortable, though perhaps less breathable than high-end fabrics), and the stitching is solid but you may not get the same lifespan as a \$60 pillow. That said, plenty of reviewers mention using it on multiple long trips without issue. One thing to note is that Napfun’s design is a one-size-fits-all in terms of foam mold; if you have a very short neck, the pillow’s raised sides might feel a bit high, or if you have a very large neck, it could feel snug. But for the vast majority, it fits well once you adjust the front strap.

Ideal for: Travelers on a budget who still want memory foam comfort. This is a great option for occasional vacation flyers, road trippers, or anyone who doesn’t want to invest too much but also doesn’t want a floppy pillow. It provides a level of support that’s impressive for the price, making it also a good “spare” travel pillow to keep around for guests or family members. If you’re new to travel pillows, Napfun is a low-risk way to see if a memory foam neck pillow improves your travel sleep. It’s also a hit with those who need a bit of everything: some chin support, some side support, and portability – essentially a solid all-rounder at a wallet-friendly price.

7. Travelrest Ultimate Inflatable Travel Pillow – Best for Middle Seats and Full Lateral Support

The Travelrest Ultimate Pillow doesn’t look like any neck pillow you’ve seen – it’s more like a long apostrophe-shaped cushion that runs from your shoulder down to your torso. This inflatable pillow is designed to be worn diagonally across your body, like a shoulder strap, and it provides a resting surface along your head and neck. Imagine leaning sideways into a body pillow that’s strapped to you – that’s the idea here. It gives you something to lean your head against, even in the middle or aisle seat where you have no wall or fixed headrest wing to lean on. Because it supports along the length of your upper body, it can keep your spine more aligned while sleeping upright.

The Travelrest pillow inflates to roughly 3.5 inches thick and extends from your head to about your waist. Inflating it is quick (just a few breaths), and it has a neat valve that makes deflation instant. Once deflated, it rolls up tightly, about the size of a rolled magazine, and you can easily toss it in your bag (it even comes with a carry bag and an attachment cord). It also has a loop at the top and a strap, so you can secure it over the back of your seat or around the wings of a headrest to hold it in place – or you can wear it messenger-bag style with the strap across your chest and pillow over one shoulder.

Why we love it: The Travelrest provides a solution for one of the toughest sleep situations: no window, no recline, stuck in the middle. With this pillow, you can simulate the feeling of leaning against a padded wall or a travel buddy’s shoulder, even when there’s nothing there. It’s surprisingly comfortable once you get it set up; you rest your head on the cushioned top and kind of hug the pillow naturally, which feels cozy. The fact that it’s inflatable means it’s highly adjustable – you can under-inflate it a bit if you want it softer or shape it to angle exactly where you need. We also appreciate its multi-use nature. Some folks use it as a lumbar support (partially inflated behind the back), or as a pillow you can place on your lap or a tray table to lean forward on. It’s quite versatile for an inflatable pillow.

The Travelrest is often either loved or hated by travelers, largely depending on whether they take the time to adjust to it. It’s a different concept, and the first time you use it, you might fiddle with positioning. It certainly doesn’t offer the plush feel of a memory foam neck pillow – it’s more about functional support. Also, while it stays in place reasonably well, if you toss and turn a lot while seated, you might have to reposition occasionally. But for many, once they find the sweet spot, it’s the only way they can sleep sitting fully upright. Another advantage: because it attaches or straps, you won’t accidentally drop it on the airplane floor when you stand up – a common issue with loose pillows.

Ideal for: Aisle or middle-seat flyers, tall travelers, and those who find standard neck pillows ineffective. If you often wake up with a sore neck because your head flops sideways, the Travelrest could be your savior. It’s also fantastic for bus and train travel, where you might only have a window with no padding – strap this up and you’ve got your own portable corner. Also, if packing space is at a premium, the Travelrest’s small rolled-up size is a huge plus. It’s a bit unconventional, but for certain sleep positions (especially if you naturally like to sleep hugging a pillow or leaning to the side), it’s arguably the best support you can get while sitting upright.

8. Dot & Dot Twist Memory Foam Pillow – Best Flexible Pillow (Bends to Any Shape)

Can’t decide if you want a neck pillow, lumbar support, or just a small cushion? The Dot & Dot Twist Pillow might be your answer. This clever travel pillow is basically a bendable rod of memory foam wrapped in soft fabric. It’s cylindrical and “snake-like,” and inside it has a flexible spine that holds whatever shape you bend it into. This means you can twist, curve, or wrap it in endless ways: form it into a traditional U-shape neck pillow, bend it in half for double cushioning, make an S-shape for dual neck and chin support, use it straight as a bolster cushion, or support your lower back… It’s the ultimate customizable pillow.

The Dot & Dot pillow is about 28 inches long. It’s filled with small memory foam pieces (shredded memory foam), which gives it a nice balance of soft and supportive, and allows it to conform when you press into it. The cover is a plush velour that’s removable and washable. Because of its versatile design, this one pillow can serve multiple roles. On a plane, you might twist it around your neck and then curve the ends up to support your chin (sort of like a neck brace shape), or bend one end to cradle the side of your head. In the car, you could use it to cushion a seatbelt or as a kids’ head support (many parents wrap it around the kids’ necks in car seats so their heads don’t flop). At your destination, you could uncoil it and use it under your knees or as a regular pillow.

Why we love it: Versatility and fun! The Dot\&Dot Twist is like the “Swiss Army knife” of travel pillows. It scores high on uniqueness because not many pillows can claim to be a neck pillow and a leg pillow, and a lumbar roll all in one. The ability to target support wherever you personally need it is a big plus – for example, if you know you get neck strain on one side, you can shape this pillow to bolster that side heavily. It’s also pretty compact; you can twist it around the handle of your suitcase or pack it in a curled-up form. Since it’s memory foam (shredded), it’s not as tiny as an inflatable, but it can squish into crevices of a bag easily. We also like that it has a snap closure at the ends, so you can connect the ends together (useful when forming a loop or attaching it to luggage).

One thing to keep in mind is that because it’s segmented foam pieces, the support is medium-firm. The internal spine holds shape well, but if you heavily lean your head on it, it will flex a little (which is usually good for comfort). If you crave super firm support, a solid pillow or something like the Trtl might be better. Also, when used as a neck pillow in the classic way, it doesn’t have the high back some dedicated neck pillows do, though you can compensate by bending it to create a thicker area where you want. In essence, you need to play with it to get the best setup, which some might not have patience for during a quick boarding process. But a few minutes of experimentation can yield a very comfy result tailored to you.

Ideal for: Travelers who want one pillow to do it all. If you have multiple uses for a pillow (neck on the plane, lumbar at the office, etc.), this is extremely handy. It’s great for road trips, since you can pass it around for whoever needs it in various ways. It’s also a solid pick for people who aren’t sure what style of pillow will suit them – the Dot & Dot can be a neck pillow one trip and a different support the next. For kids or anyone with a smaller frame, the ability to bend it to fit is useful (no worry about neck circumference). It’s also worth considering if you experience discomfort in unusual spots while traveling, like maybe you want something to lean your cheek on or cushion a shoulder — you can shape this to help. In short, the Dot & Dot Twist Pillow adapts to you, making it a versatile travel comfort item.

9. J-Pillow Travel Pillow – Best for Window Seats and Side-Leaning Support

The J-Pillow is an award-winning travel pillow that has a rather unconventional shape, like a curvy “J” or hook made of cushion. This pillow was actually invented by a flight attendant and even won a British Invention of the Year award, thanks to its smart design that addresses the problems of standard U-pillows. The J-Pillow’s shape features three main parts: one section goes behind your neck, one supports the side of your head, and the curved hook part tucks under your chin. In practice, it fills the gap between your head and shoulder, while also preventing your chin from dropping forward. It’s excellent for side sleepers in a seated position, especially if you’re in a window seat where you can wedge the pillow a bit against the wall for extra stability.

The pillow is made of a plush polyester fiber filling (no foam here), so it’s soft and cushy. The outer material is a velvety fabric that feels gentle on the skin. It comes with a small loop and snap so you can attach it to luggage when on the move. The J-Pillow recently got an upgrade: it now includes a hidden “anti-slip” scarf strap that you can pull out and wrap around your neck to help keep the pillow in place. This addresses one critique of earlier models – that it could shift if you moved a lot. With the scarf, you effectively secure the pillow so it won’t slip away while you snooze. When not in use, the scarf tucks away in a little pouch in the pillow.

Why we love it: The J-Pillow excels at providing support in those hard-to-get areas – chin, side of head, and neck – simultaneously. If you’ve ever tried to scrunch a regular pillow into the corner of a plane seat to both lean your head and prop up your chin, you’ll appreciate this design. It really shines for window seat sleepers: you lean into the “J” with the pillow’s thicker end under your chin and side, and you can rest against the wall with a feeling of being cradled. The freedom to also use it at different angles is nice – you can rotate it a bit until it fits your personal head-neck alignment. Another plus: the whole pillow is machine washable, so it’s easy to keep clean.

Being a non-inflatable, somewhat bulky shape, the J-Pillow isn’t the most compact for carrying, though it squeezes into its included carry bag reasonably well, compressing it down. It might not flatten as much as a foam pillow, but it’s lightweight. Also, if you’re in a middle or aisle seat, the J-Pillow can still work (you can use the seat’s headrest as a pseudo wall), but it’s definitely best in a situation where you can lean on something or tilt to the side. If you tend to sit completely straight, this pillow might feel like it needs a tad of external support (like your hand or seat wing) to keep it in the optimal spot. With the new scarf strap, that need is reduced, as you can secure it around your neck somewhat like a traditional pillow.

Ideal for: Window seat travelers and those who prefer sleeping with their head tilted to the side. If you often wake up with a sore neck because your head fell sideways off a U-shaped pillow, the J-Pillow could solve that. It’s also a great choice if your chin dropping is a big issue – the J’s hook really does provide a nice chin rest. People who normally travel with a small pillow to hug the side of their head might find this replaces that method effectively. It’s worth noting that some people even use the J-Pillow at home on the couch or in bed for extra head/neck support while sitting up. It’s a specialized pillow, but for the scenario it’s designed for, it’s arguably one of the best at keeping your head, neck, and chin supported in harmony.

10. Sarisun Travel Head Strap Pillow with Eye Mask – Best for Upright Sleeping and Middle Seat “Head Hold”

Rounding out our list is a very innovative solution: the Sarisun Travel Pillow with head strap and built-in eye mask. This device doesn’t look like a typical pillow at all – in fact, it’s more of a support system. It consists of a padded eye mask that covers your eyes and forehead, with an attached elastic strap that goes behind the seat (or behind your head) to hold your head upright. There’s also a lightly padded cervical pillow section that sits at the back of your neck. Essentially, it prevents your head from bobbing forward or sideways by gently strapping it in place, all while blocking out light with the eye mask portion.

This design went viral on TikTok for being a game-changer for those stuck in the middle seat or anyone who finds their head constantly falling. The Sarisun pillow is very compact – it folds up like a small soft band, making it ultra portable. To use it, you put on the comfy eye mask (which has a cushioned ridge to support your head), then attach the adjustable strap either to the seat’s headrest wings or simply tighten it around the back of your own head like a headband. The result is that your head is gently tethered, so even if you fully relax, you won’t jerk awake from your head falling. It also provides a sense of privacy and cocooning because of the eye mask and side coverage.

Why we love it: This is the ultimate minimalist’s travel pillow – it virtually takes up no space in your bag, yet it can deliver a very real solution to neck fatigue. We love that it combines an eye mask and support in one, reducing the number of accessories you need to carry. The mask itself is soft and blocks light effectively, and the strap has a bit of flex so it’s not uncomfortable. If you’ve ever tried the trick of tying a scarf around the seat and your head to keep it still (yes, some travelers do this!), the Sarisun pillow is a much more elegant and comfortable version of that hack. It excels at keeping your head upright without any bulky cushions, which also means if space is tight (think economy class with less elbow room), you’re not occupying extra room with a big pillow.

Of course, it’s not providing cushion in front or the sides of your head, so you don’t get that soft pillow feel on your cheek or chin. It’s more of a head stabilizer than a cushion. Some users pair this strap with a small neck pillow or hoodie for a bit of padding. Also, its effectiveness can depend on seat design: if a seat’s headrest is unusually large or there’s no place to anchor the strap, it might not work as intended. The Sarisun comes with a detachable chin pad as well, which can give a little cushion under the chin if needed. The versatility to use it with or without that pad, and either with a seatback or standalone, is nice.

Ideal for: Those who struggle to sleep upright no matter what pillow they use – if your main issue is your head falling and waking you up, this will likely help immensely. It’s great for middle seats, aisle seats, and even train or bus seats where you have a headrest. Also, if you travel ultra-light or want something you can even slip in a pocket, this is it. Tall travelers whose heads rise above typical headrests might also find this useful since it doesn’t rely on the seat back height. It’s also a good choice if you want to avoid anything bulky around your neck (people who feel claustrophobic in thick neck pillows often prefer a strap system). Consider the Sarisun pillow as your personal “head holder” – a simple concept that can lead to surprisingly restful naps in even the most awkward seating.

With our top 10 picks covered, you can see there’s a travel pillow for every type of traveler and sleep style. The “best” travel pillow ultimately depends on your specific needs: Do you want something super supportive for chronic neck pain? Is packability your top concern? Are you a window leaner or do you need chin support? The good news is that among these options, you’re likely to find a perfect match to make your next journey much more comfortable.

To wrap up, here’s a helpful FAQ section addressing common questions travelers have about choosing and using travel pillows:

FAQ: Choosing and Using Travel Pillows

Safe travels, and here’s to more comfortable naps at 30,000 feet or on the road! With the right travel pillow, you’ll be catching those in-transit z’s and waking up ready to explore your destination. Bon voyage and sweet dreams on your journey!