If you use a neck pillow/cushion for long haul flights, what do you recommend? Link to item would be appreciated as well. Thank you!
I use one filled with microbeads bought at Target a few years ago. I like that it's light weight and the beads can be shifted around to the sides of my neck not the back where I don't need it pushing on me. It can also be used in other ways.
Amazon has a Samsonite one similar to it for $20.
The Komfort Kollar inflatable is the only one that has ever worked for us. The wraparound feature secures the head in place and eliminates the head wobble that can disrupt sleep. They shrink down to nothing when not inflated.
https://www.amazon.com/Komfort-Kollar-Support-Inflatable-Pillow/dp/B002TMW23K/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=komfort+kollar&qid=1621521396&sr=8-1
With the Kollar, some soft earplugs and a good eyeshade (and an Ambien) we usually can get a good 5-6 hours of sleep on a redeye ... even back in coach. Been using them for over 15 years and recommend them.
I've been using a Bucky Gusto inflatable neck pillow for several years. The odd shape has a purpose! I put the narrow end behind my neck, and the wider end under my jaw. I haven't noticed any air leakage, and I like that the cover can be removed and washed.
Amazon link
I bought this Trtl pillow a couple of years ago based on a recommendation from someone on this forum. I used it on 2 flights to Europe and was happy to find I could get a few hours of sleep!
https://www.amazon.com/Trtl-Pillow-Scientifically-Support-Washable/dp/B00LB7REBE
We’ve used the Samsonite inflatable pillow. It has a soft cover and inflates to individual comfort. My husband uses his frequently and it’s held up well.
I've used and discarded a bunch. I've used the Bucky as well, and its marginally better than the blow up kind, but I dont like the space it takes up in your luggage after arrival.
I still like the Trtl but my current favorite is the Komfort Kollar because it gives me the most reliable neck support and deflates for stowing.
I have always used an inflatable travel pillow and never really found it comfortable.
On our last trip to France in 2019, I discovered on the way home that I had misplaced my neck pillow. I used the little wings on the back of the seat and discovered it was much more comfortable than my travel pillow had ever been! It kept my neck in place and I didn't have to deal with this thingy wrapped around my neck the entire flight.
It may sound a bit strange, but a neck brace or cervical collar works best for me. It just feels more comfortable than an inflatable pillow and is easy to manage. The one here is not that big either and is very lightweight: cervical collar.
Paul, I think a neck brace with the chair wings might be the answer. But they don’t deflate, or do they?
No, the neck braces are basically foam pillows, but they aren't very thick, just enough to provide some neck support. They work well for me.
I use this one. I swear I must have been strangled in a previous life because I can’t stand anything around my neck.
This is the only travel pillow I have found that I can tolerate and provides support to my head and neck.
But what do you do with it afterwards, lug it around for the rest of your trip? I like the idea but do not want to be messing with it. My friend had one on our last trip and that thing hung from the outside of her suitcase for the rest of our travels. I have a sweater and a Lululemon Vinyassa Scarf, between the two I have a blanket and pillow and I sleep just ok on the plane.
You do have to lug it around, but it isn't that much trouble. Having neck and head support while sleeping sitting up has made all the difference for me in being able to rest on an airplane flight.
I had purchased a camping pillow to bring on my trip but it was a last-minute leave behind because my backpack was already too heavy and large. Decided instead to simply wad up my down feather coat and use that as a pillow on the plane. Worked perfectly because it's one of those kinds that folds into itself and into a zippered bag. Pillows in the hotels were absolutely fine for the Germany Austria Switzerland tour. Bringing my own would have been a waste of space and weight.
Here is a $5 one from a very reputable brand, MUJI.
Even with shipping + handling charges, it's still a steal.
https://www.muji.us/store/clearance/household.html
Most products made by MUJI are of high quality and usability.