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Neck pillows for flight and train

So what does everyone use when traveling? I've seen the blowup ones that are sold on this site, microfiber type, some that snap, some that have high side, some that fit in balls and the new Trtl wraps. Since space is an issue the blowup or the trtl wraps look best, however the blowup ones just don't feel terribly comfortable. So I'm looking for suggestions.

Posted by
4088 posts

I use a blow-up to save space in my shoulder bag. Support is an issue: Firm structure under the chin to prevent the head bobbling.

Posted by
7877 posts

I use the Trtl and slept four hours on the afternoon flight from Seattle to Paris.

Posted by
6583 posts

Jean, people seem to love the trtl. In the descriptions I've read, I've wondered if the Trtl which has an internal rigid structure might be susceptible to breakage? Would love your thoughts.

Posted by
11946 posts

So I'm looking for suggestions

Business class?

Posted by
5697 posts

I use the regular squishy ones -- with snaps if possible -- but I buy them at rummage sales, thrift sales, whenever I see them. At $4 - $5 apiece, I don't mind as much when they get left behind.

Posted by
707 posts

I use this one ("Inflatable J-Pillow," if the link does not work):

https://www.amazon.com/J-Pillow-Travel-Pillow-Airplanes-Invention/dp/B019CJSDM6/ref=sr_1_1?gclid=Cj0KCQjwz8bsBRC6ARIsAEyNnvrRTc0k-HuauX8BnEizCDs4YjgRLGeM3F80hy9-hATNmAi4efsVPRYaAuyDEALw_wcB&hvadid=176960573197&hvdev=c&hvlocphy=9011894&hvnetw=g&hvpos=1t1&hvqmt=e&hvrand=12688478093098668739&hvtargid=kwd-61262778536&keywords=j+pillow+inflatable&qid=1569892796&s=gateway&sr=8-1

It looks kind of strange, but I am able to sleep really well with it. Another thing it is very light, only about 4 ounces; also folds up very small when you are not using it. A bit pricey though.

Posted by
11946 posts

but I buy them at rummage sales, thrift sales,

I wish I had not read this so soon after dinner. Please tell me you send them to the local nuclear plant to kill off all the cooties before you use it

Posted by
5697 posts

@joe32F. Sorry about your reaction.
Stuff generally goes straight to the laundry room after purchase -- but everyone has different comfort levels.

Posted by
7877 posts

Ricki, to me it feels like I just have the airplane blanket up near my neck. If you tend to be hot, you probably want to try another option. It just felt cozy to me.

Jules M, I have a mechanical engineering degree, so I enjoyed seeing the internal “bone” of the Trtl when I wash it after each trip (joe32F, I’m removing flight cooties!). The frame is strong but flexible; should hold up well. I bring the LL Bean lightweight day bag, along with my suitcase. It fits nicely in the outside pocket and actually does a great job of keeping my current paper train ticket from slipping out of that pocket. I’ve taken the Trtl on trips to Italy, Cambodia, and France.

Posted by
134 posts

Jean...I do...but Im traveling in winter so it might not be an issue. I might buy one and try it on to see my comfort level, I can always return it before use if need be. Thanks for info...BTW we used to live very close to you on 45th ave SE...we are now in Fl.

Posted by
4657 posts

I give up luggage space for a pillow from home as I generally most hotel nights too. 2 pillowcases.

Posted by
542 posts

I always had the inflatable type and really did not like them. Last trip I managed to lose it along the way and didn't have it for trip home. I decided to use the neck flaps on the seat and really liked them! They kept my head secure and I didn't have to mess with this thing hanging around my neck. I was pleasantly surprised that they worked.

Posted by
32 posts

I used the blow - up type , got tire of carrying the bigger ones around for two week only using it once in the way to Europe usually do not sleep in the way back home.

Posted by
174 posts

I use/love the bucky bead type with a snap. I also use it to supplement hotel pillows. It snaps on to the handle of my rolling carry on.

Posted by
22 posts

I actually went back to my blow-up pillow on the last trip. I do have a Trtl but I cannot always get it to feel comfortable. It sometimes gets way too hot around my neck. It also is too bulky for trying to pack light.

Posted by
134 posts

Thanks everyone...guess there isnt one best...I will try on several.

Posted by
169 posts

I use a 9x12 fabric envelope with zipper and stuff my puffer jacket in it. Makes quite a comfy pillow.

Posted by
131 posts

pandabear, where would I find zippered envelope? I like your recommendation for travel pillow.
Val

Posted by
134 posts

Pandabear...great suggestion...since I'm traveling in winter I have a down jacket that will work great for a bed pillow, might be a little big for the airplane!!!! Val...not so much the 9x12 envelope, but I did find a small zippered pillowcase at Walmart for $2.50...looks like it will work fabulously for a bed pillow.

Posted by
6583 posts

I actually took a full size bed pillow on my last flight to Europe. It was an old one and I left it in the garbage when I left the airport. This time, I'm taking another older bed pillow that I cut in half and sewed shut. On the plane I will place it inside the hood of a lightweight knit jacket so I can lean against the window against a soft pillow and inside the hood, it won't slip!

I love the idea of bringing pillow case on a trip. Occasionally, we run into a crappy pillow. With a pillow envelope or case, we can just stuff it and make our own pillow!