This article is for you if you have a weak neck or your neck bends often while traveling. Travel neck pillows prevent your neck from bending and reduce the burden. They save you from neck cramps or muscle agony. And in this post, we’re going to talk about them.
Imagine this: you have finally taken some time off of your work and decided to travel to your favorite place.
This is the day you have always dreamt of. You have planned it for way too long, and now it’s happening. You took everything – your camera, clothes, shoes, and your favorite rucksack.
You boarded on a flight, and it’d take more than 8 hours to reach. You know that and think it’ll pass like swoosh; after all, you’re going to your favorite destination.
After a long 8 hours journey of uncomfortable sleep and postures, you wake up with neck pain.
What you did wrong? You forgot to address the fact that the flight is long & you might get neck pain.
It’s irritating, I know. This pain might even destroy the first day of your trip. That’s why it’s important to know, be aware, and ready by all measures.
A stiff neck, numb-ish lower back, or a mild headache is definitely not what you’d want.
Travel neck pillows may look goofy and strange but they are there for a reason; to support your neck. If you have a weak neck or a habit of bending your neck, travel neck pillows are definitely for you.
There are many types of neck pillows and I’d help you to choose the best with our 9 best picks. I’d also explain things that you should keep in mind while buying these.
So, without further ado, let’s roll on the carpet.
Types of Neck Pillows
Common types of travel neck pillows include:
Inflatable
These are generally U-shaped and inflatable to the size of your wish. They are easy to carry as you can deflate them to fit into your backpack.
Horseshoe-Shaped
If you are planning to doze on a plane or on a road trip, try a horseshoe-shaped pillow.
Generally, they’re made up of memory foam, cotton, and synthetics that absorb heat and sweat. The material you opt for matters, especially if you’re a frequent traveler like me.
Beads or Foam Filled
Bead travel pillows have microbeads and are lightweight. They change their shape to provide neck space and comfort. These are the best travel neck pillows for long haul flights.
But, memory foam-filled travel neck pillows offer firm support. I recommend you to go with them if you have a fragile neck.
The Hooded
This type of neck pillow comes with the hoodie attached. The hood comes over the eyes to provide extra comfort and warmth around the neck.
Things To Consider Before Buying A Neck Pillow
For comfort and a restful night’s sleep, make sure your neck pillow is allergy tested and washable. Make the right decision by keeping these things in mind while buying a neck pillow.
Neck Support
It can depend on how you tend to lean while sleeping – backward or in front? Ensure your neck pillow has good Foam on both the backside and the side brace for complete support.
Comfort
Comfort is the key priority to look for in a travel neck pillow.
Usually, when we’re using these pillows, we’ll be in an upright seat for when on a long haul flight or a bus ride. So make sure your neck pillow checks the box of comfort. Read reviews and see what other people are saying about comfort before you buy one.
Durability
Durability of neck pillows are often tough to predict. After few uses, they become less firm, and wears down as time passes.
Durability also depends on how you use an item. This means, spending more money on your travel pillow doesn’t guarantee its longevity.
Portability
Make sure your travel neck pillow is easy to carry, not bloated too much, and if possible, deflates. For the ones which aren’t deflating, make sure you carry an extra bag or have some space in your rucksack. This prevents the dirt, wear off and increases durability.
Price
It doesn’t matter. Yes, I included this metric to tell you the same. If your investment brings you peace and comfort, it’s worth it. But, don’t burn your pockets or drool over too much.
9 Best Travel Neck Pillows (Available on Amazon)
I’ve made a list of 9 best travel neck pillows that’s gonna make your next travel easy. Assess them based on your preferences and then you can buy via Amazon link.
1. JSB Travel Neck Pillow
Worth noting:
- U-Shaped,
- memory foam,
- soft fabric feel,
- friendly on skin and
- comes with button closure facilitating.
2. ProQ Neck Pillow
Worth noting:
- U-Shaped,
- memory foam,
- cooling gel (to give your neck and shoulder region the right contour),
- soft fabric feel,
- sweat absorbance,
- comes with button closure facilitating.
3. AmazonBasics Travel Neck Pillow
Worth noting:
- U-shaped,
- memory foam,
- molds itself according to individual body shape,
- comes with a soft plush cover, and zipper closure,
- soft fabric feel,
- built-in elastic strap for easy attachment to the outside of bags,
- 1-year limited warranty (which is worth the money you are spending).
4. travel360° Travel Pillow
Worth noting:
- soft fabric feel,
- twistable nature,
- multipurpose neck pillow.
5. Trajectory SuperCozy Hoodie Neck Pillow
Worth noting:
- made from virgin fiber filling,
- horse-shoe shaped,
- neck buttons,
- attached hoodie,
6. SHOPOPOYE Neck Pillow
Worth noting:
- 100% pure memory foam,
- comes in 3 in 1 combo (travel neck pillow, eye mask, and car neck pillow),
- the neck pillow for the car comes with earplugs.
7. Cloudz Travel Neck Pillow
Worth noting:
- U-shaped pillow,
- made up of nylon fabric on one side and soft wool on the other side,
- neck buttons.
8. TONY STARK Fabric Travel Pillows
Worth noting:
- made up of memory foam,
- soft fabric zip cover (the pillow cover is removable with a zipper and is washable),
- comes with an eye mask (made up of breathable soft fabric with two ear elastic straps to provide proper grip).
9. Store2508 Spungee Travel Neck Pillow
Worth noting:
- soft and comfortable neck travel pillow comes with microbeads.
- has comfy fleece on one side and refreshing spandex on the other which allows you to choose the side appropriate for your comfort needs.
- it has two loops with buttons to allow you to hang the pillow.
- package includes eye masks and a pair of foam earplugs.
Summing It Up
For sure, neck pillows solve a crucial problem for frequent travelers. But note, if you often get neck pain even after using neck pillows, I urge you to go to a doctor & seek medical care. Your problem might be serious, don’t ignore symptoms like these.
All in all, I hope the best for you.
If this article has been helpful, consider leaving your thoughts in the comment box. I’d love to hear you.
Happy travels and sweet dreams!
