Best Neck Pillows

Neck Pillow: 7 Best Pillows for All Types of Seat Sleepers (2023)

Last updated: 24.11.2022 Reading time: 6 Min.

Falling asleep on a plane or in a car is quite difficult unless you're travelling in business class.

Our body is in a higher state of wakefulness when we're travelling. 😳

Even if you get some sleep while travelling, waking up with a stiff neck and headache can ruin your trip.

Neck pillows or travel pillows provide plush reinforcement to help you sleep better while travelling.

Sleep Hero has done the research and found the best neck pillow for all types of seat sleepers.

So, let's get started. 👇

Best Neck Pillow
Miniso offers a neck pillow that ergonomically conforms to the curves of your body.

The pillow is perfect for a nap during leisure or travel.

Miniso offers a neck pillow made of memory foam that optimally supports your neck while travelling. 

This U-shaped pillow is comfortable and has a soft, velvety outer cover.

With the loop on the side, you can easily hang the neck pillow on your bag. ➰

The Miniso neck pillow is small and lightweight, making it portable and travel-friendly.

With the neck pillow's thoughtful and ergonomic design, you can easily adjust it to the curves of your neck. 

It protects your neck while you sleep. 

While the pillow's filling isn't washable, you can easily remove the outer cover of the neck pillow. 

The cover can be machine washed in lukewarm water and dried in a place with shade. 🧺

Criteria Rating
Travelling
Support
Comfort
Overall rating

 

Advantages

Perfectly fits the neck.

Soft memory foam makes it comfortable.

Has a removable cover.

Disadvantages

Head may fall forward while sleeping.

Sun exposure can damage the product.

Samsonite offers an inflatable neck pillow that fits easily into your storage bag.

The pillow is made of high-quality material and is very comfortable.

Samsonite offers an inflatable travel neck pillow that's ergonomically shaped to fit the curves of your neck. 

The pillow's patented valve allows it to be inflated in just two breaths. 💨

You can easily secure the valve to ensure the air doesn't escape while you rest on your neck pillow. 

The pillow deflates in less than two seconds

What's more, this neck pillow is made of fleece, a lightweight fabric that keeps you superior comfort when travelling. 

When you've deflated your neck pillow, you can easily store it in your carry-on bag. 👜

The Samsonite neck pillow supports the lower part of your neck and alleviates any neck or back pain and stress.

However, this neck pillow does not offer any warranty from the manufacturer when buying through third-party retailers like Amazon.

Criteria Rating
Travelling
Support
Comfort
Overall rating

 

Advantages

Can be easily inflated and deflated.

Includes a storage pouch.

The felt texture on the pillow is soft and comfortable.

Disadvantages

Does not offer any manufacturer’s warranty.

The fabric creases while inflating.

The deflation flap is hard to pull open.

Sleepwell Neck Care pillow

Sleepwell offers a neck support pillow that you can use when travelling, resting or reading.

The pillow is made of memory foam, which makes it extremely comfortable.

The Sleepwell Neck Care pillow is designed specially to provide optimal support for your neck muscles.

It is made of memory foam and is extremely soft and plush.

The removable cover is treated with an aloe vera layer, making the pillow hypoallergenic. 🌿

This makes the pillow perfect for allergic sleepers

The aloe vera-protected covers also soothe your skin during a long flight or car journey.

Sleepwell uses Health FreshTM technology to ensure hygiene in manufacturing the neck pillow.

The outer cover is made of poly cotton, giving the neck pillow a soft and luxurious feel. 🧶

Criteria Rating
Travelling
Support
Comfort
Overall rating

 

Advantages

Lightweight and portable.

Memory foam is suited for pain relief.

Outer cover can be machine-washed.

Disadvantages

Does not offer any manufacturer’s warranty.

You need to air out the pillow once every 3 months.

Trajectory offers a super comfortable neck pillow that gives 360° comfort to your neck.

This neck pillow is suitable for travelling by plane, train, or car.

Trajectory offers a comfortable U-shaped neck pillow that adapts to the natural curve of your neck.

This super-comfortable travel pillow has a snap button on the front that ensures the pillow doesn't fall off while you're resting. 

The soft and high-quality Nylex fabric ensures a comfortable, stress-free good night's sleep. 🧵

While you cannot remove the outer cover of the pillow, you can easily wipe it with a damp cloth. 

The U-shape of the neck pillow supports your neck muscles from all sides and ensures that stress and pain are alleviated. 

Trajectory neck pillows aren't only made of premium material, but are also hand-sewn by experienced craftsmen with a durable nylon thread. 

This guarantees their long durability. ⌛

The company also offers a 10-year manufacturer's guarantee on its pillows.

Criteria Rating
Travelling
Support
Comfort
Overall rating

 

Advantages

Offers a 10-year warranty.

Ergonomic design fits perfectly on your neck curves.

Has a universal sizing option.

Nachteile

Not breathable.

Lacks firm support around the edges.

Filled with organic cotton, which can clump together.

Shopopoye offers a memory foam travel neck pillow with premium ergonomic neck support.

This neck pillow fixes the curves of your neck and prevents your head from falling forward.

Shopopoye offers a memory foam neck pillow to help with neck pain caused by stress or travel. 🧽

The headrest's ergonomic design provides comfort and prevents your head from falling forward. 

This memory foam neck pillow provides optimal support for your neck and head while travelling, preventing any shoulder pain. 

The scientific design of the pillow is designed for 360-degree support, making it the best travel pillow.  

With a 100% cotton memory foam filling and a soft outer fabric, it's perfect for all your needs. 👌

The neck pillow also has adjustable buttons on the front to fit different neck sizes. 

With the optimum rebound properties of the memory foam, this neck pillow is designed to support you while you sleep. 

The pillow is covered in a smooth, breathable velvet fabric and comes with a sleep mask as well.

You can easily remove it and get it machine-washed. 🧺

The Shopopoye neck pillow has a revolutionary compact design and is easy to store in your travel bag.

Criteria Rating
Travelling
Support
Comfort
Overall rating

 

Advantages

Features a revolutionary 5D sponge memory foam.

Removable and breathable outer cover.

Easy to carry while travelling.

Disadvantages

The back support might push your neck forward and make you feel uncomfortable.

Does not offer any manufacturer warranty.

Foam used by Shopopoye isn’t durable.

Destinio offers a memory foam neck pillow that's sturdy enough to support your neck and keep it in place.

It offers maximum comfort as it moulds to the shape of your neck and head.

 

Destinio offers a comfortable and stylish neck pillow with ultra-soft memory foam. 🧽

This medium-firm travel pillow ensures a comfortable journey with extra support for your neck and head.

The pillow is filled with a premium memory foam that's firm enough to support your head and soft enough to mould to the shape of your neck. 

Destinio offers extra support and comfort for your neck with the hump on the back of the pillow.

The pillowcase is skin-friendly, soft fabric and designed for long-lasting use. 

The hook on the side makes it easy to hang your pillow on a bag, suitcase, or car window seat. 👜

It also has a snap button in the front to prevent your head from falling forward.

The cushion isn't machine-washable, but you can easily remove the outer cover and wash it in the machine.

Destinio offers a comfortable and stylish neck pillow with ultra-soft memory foam. 🧽

This medium-firm travel pillow ensures a comfortable journey with extra support for your neck and head.

The pillow is filled with a premium memory foam that's firm enough to support your head and soft enough to mould to the shape of your neck. 

Destinio offers extra support and comfort for your neck with the hump on the back of the pillow.

The pillowcase is skin-friendly, soft fabric and designed for long-lasting use. 

The hook on the side makes it easy to hang your pillow on a bag, suitcase, or car window seat. 👜

It also has a snap button in the front to prevent your head from falling forward.

The cushion isn't machine-washable, but you can easily remove the outer cover and wash it in the machine.

Criteria Rating
Travelling
Support
Comfort
Overall rating

 

Advantages

Comes with a complimentary eye mask made of soft material and cotton filling.

Easily moulds to the shape of your neck and head.

Suitable for long-lasting use.

Disadvantages

Does not offer any manufacturer warranty.

You need to air out the pillow once every 3 months.

Travel360 Degree offers a comfortable neck pillow that you can rotate into different positions.

The neck pillow offers chin support and holds up your neck and head as well, so you can sleep without a stiff neck.

Travel360 Degree offers a soft, plush pillow that cradles your neck, that you can gently wrap around your neck.

The ropes at the end of the pillow help you control how tightly the pillow fits around your neck. 

You can use this neck pillow while on road trips or watching TV on your couch. 🖥️

The pillow is super lightweight, so you can readily carry it with you.

You can easily wrap the Travel360 degree pillow around your neck and support your head, neck and chin while sitting upright. 

The neck pillow is filled with virgin fibre, which not only makes the pillow soft and comfortable but also hypoallergenic. 🧶

Travel360 degree has topped their neck pillows with a soft velvet fabric that gives you a luxurious feeling while resting.

Criteria Rating
Travelling
Support
Comfort
Overall rating

 

Advantages

You can adjust the tightness of your pillow.

Offers simultaneous support to the head, neck, and chin.

Lightweight and portable.

Disadvantages

Does not offer any manufacturer warranty.

The outer velvet cover may attract excessive dust.

How much does a neck pillow cost?

The cost of a neck pillow depends on its filling material and the quality of the fabric.

The price of the pillow can also vary depending on the brand. 🏷️

On average, neck pillows cost between ₹299 and ₹3,800.

Inflatable pillows are comparatively cheaper than those made of memory foam.

This is because memory foam pillows are comparatively soft and comfortable.

On the other hand, inflatable pillows are easy to store and carry. 🧳

When buying a neck pillow, you shouldn't only pay attention to the price, but also your area of use.

Types of neck pillows

Neck pillows differ in their filling material and their use.

The right pillow for you depends on your personal preference and how often you use it.

Inflatable neck pillows

Inflatable pillows or air-filled pillows are mainly used for sleeping when travelling.

These neck pillows are made of polyurethane-based [1] material or soft velvet. 💨

You can fill the air manually by pushing it out of your mouth or using an external pump.

You can also adjust the firmness of the pillow by changing the amount of air in the pillow.

Inflatable pillows are slightly cheaper and easier to store. 🤑

You can quickly deflate the pillow and store it in a small pouch.

If you're looking for a high-quality inflatable pillow, you can try the Samsonite neck pillow.

It's more expensive than others, but it guarantees a comfortable sleep.

Non-inflatable neck pillows

Non-inflatable neck pillows can be used at home, in the office or when travelling.

They're made with different materials, such as memory foam [2], microfibre [3], microbeads [4], etc.

If you travel frequently or have a sore neck from watching TV on your couch, investing in a non-inflatable neck pillow is a good idea. 💺

However, non-inflatable pillows are heavier than inflatable ones and take up more space to store.

These neck pillows offer better pressure relief and contour the neck perfectly.

You can choose cotton or microfibre, but memory foam is the most comfortable filling for a neck pillow.

Microfibre neck pillows mould to the shape of your neck and relieve pain and pressure in your neck. 🧽

If you're looking for a high-quality, non-inflatable neck pillow made of memory foam, you can try the Sleepwell neck support pillow.

What to look for when choosing a neck pillow for travel?

The best neck pillow for travel is the one you find most comfortable and supportive.

You should be able to use the travel pillow for a long time.

If the neck pillow you use for travel lets you rest with your back to the seat without your head falling forward; it's what you should be looking for.

Here are a few other things to consider when choosing a neck pillow for travel.

Style

There are usually two types of travel pillows you'll find on the market - rectangular and C-shaped.

A C-shaped pillow is perfect for you if you want to keep your spine straight or support your head from all sides.

These pillow are ideal for travellers who spend a lot of time sitting down.

On the other hand, a rectangular neck pillow is ideal if you lie down in a car, train or plane.

When choosing a rectangular pillow, make sure it's made of a durable material and is adjustable in height.

Sleepwell offers a durable and comfortable neck pillow that's great for long journeys.

Price

You can find a neck pillow for just ₹150, but depending on your use and needs, a ₹400 pillow might be more comfortable.

The price of the pillow should justify the design, features, and support it provides.

If you're looking for a supportive neck pillow, you shouldn't compare them based on price alone.

The Miniso neck pillow, for example, is quite good and comfortable.

However, it's not very supportive for long journeys.

On the other hand, the Destinio neck pillow is a little more expensive but much better for long journeys.

Filling material

You should choose the filling that suits your needs.

If you prefer a firmer pillow, you should choose a memory foam filling that offers more support.

If you're looking for a softer pillow, a microbead filling is much more suitable.

Microbead pillows are just as supportive as memory foam but require a little less structure.

Portability

No matter where you travel, you should always choose a pillow that's easy to carry.

The best neck pillow for travelling is one that can be packed into a small carry bag that you can take with you when you travel.

However, some neck pillows, such as those made of memory foam, cannot be compressed.

In this case, you should choose one that you can easily clip onto your suitcase.

How to wear a neck pillow?

A good and comfortable neck pillow can make a world of difference on long trips.

You can use a neck pillow in different ways to adjust your sleeping position. 😴

Learn how to wear a neck pillow for a comfortable and stress-free journey.

Placing the pillow around the neck

If you're new to the world of neck pillows, you should choose a U-shaped pillow.

These pillows wrap around your neck and have an opening at the front of your neck.

It is perfect while you are sitting or leaning on your back.

Some pillows also have ropes or straps that allow you to button your pillow to keep your head in place. ➰

These neck pillows are designed to fit between your head and shoulders.

Rotate the pillow for different sleeping positions

If you don't want to sleep upright, you can also turn your U-shaped pillow and put it on your shoulder.

This way, you can rest your neck on its side and sleep more comfortably. 😴

It is perfect for side sleepers.

You can also turn your pillow over so that the back of the pillow supports your neck.

By doing this, you can lean your head forward and sleep.

Place the pillow on your tray table

If you're travelling by plane, you can also open your tray table, lean forward and sleep. ✈️

This position is more comfortable for stomach sleepers.

You can place your neck pillow on your table and lean forward to sleep.

The U-shaped neck pillow is perfect because it has a hole where you can put your face while your forehead rests directly on the pillow.

Can you use a neck pillow for car?

If you are driving a car for long periods, you should use a neck pillow for the car to support the head and neck.

You should choose a neck pillow which is made of high density memory foam.

These neck pillows offer a balanced support and comfort.

The pillows are designed to relieve muscle tension and neck pain, when driving for long hours.

A neck pillow for car fills the gap in the headrest to provide more comfort.

By choosing a neck pillow, you not only get comfort but also a better ergonomic posture.

Should you buy a neck pillow?

Whether you're taking a nap on the couch or while travelling, head and neck padding is crucial.

Neck pillows provide a touch of comfort and relief while you rest in an upright position.

The best pillows for neck pain relieve pressure on the lower muscles of your neck, preventing any stress. 😌

When choosing a neck pillow, consider how often you travel and what storage you need for your pillow.

Whether you choose memory foam or latex pillow, you're sure to find a neck pillow that suits your needs.

While the choice of pillow is ultimately personal, we think that some neck pillows are better than others.

Our favourite neck pillows in India

FAQ

  • Which is the best brand for a neck pillow?


    The best neck pillow would depend upon your lifestyle and needs

    Sleepwell and Samsonite are the best memory foam neck pillows that are comfortable and offer you a restful sleep when you're on the go. 😴

     

  • Are travel pillows good for neck pain?


    Travel pillows provide adequate support for your head and neck. 

    They relieve the pain and discomfort of sleeping in an upright position when travelling.

    These pillows are also portable and lightweight, which makes them a good travel accessory. 🧳

  • How can I wash the neck pillow?


    Most neck pillows come with washing instructions on the packaging. 🧺

    Depending on the material of your pillow, you should analyse whether it can be washed or not.

    Most neck pillows made of memory foam or cotton shouldn't be washed.

    Instead, you can remove the outer cover and machine wash it in cold water

    You can also tumble dry the pillowcase on low heat.

    Be careful not to use harsh detergents or soaps when washing your neck pillows. 🧼

  • What type of pillow is best for frequent travellers?


    If you travel regularly, you should choose neck pillows that offer extra support, such as memory foam pillows. 

    You can choose the Sleepwell Neck care pillow, which provides optimal support for your neck muscles and prevents tension.

    It's a little more expensive, but it's worth the investment for long-term use. 💰

  • Sources

Aeman

A huge fan of naps .. being a sleepy head with a busy life is tough! So I decided to write about it.

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