If you haven’t invested in a good travel pillow already then you’ve been flying all wrong. For a short flight into Europe you might be able to get away without this most comfortable of accessories, but for long-haul flights, you’d be daft not to invest just a small amount to make your trip infinitely more pleasurable.

As with all things, it’s true to say that not all travel pillows are created equal. It’s certainly the case that any travel pillow is better than none, but there are also varying degrees of joy these little u-shaped mounds of happiness can bring. 

In this article, we’re going to guide you through what we think are some of the best travel pillows for aeroplanes currently on the market. And of course, if there are any you think we’ve missed then please share your favourites with our readers in the comments below. 

1. CABEAU EVOLUTION MEMORY FOAM NECK TRAVEL PILLOW - £29.99, COOL STUFF

This might look like your standard U-shaped travel pillow but we have two words for you ‘Memory’ and ‘Foam’, which should help to paint a pretty rosy picture of this top-selling pillow. As well as memory foam that adjusts to provide optimum support for your head and neck, the Cabeau Evolution Pillow also features a side pocket for your phone and even some handy earplugs so you can drone out the sound of your fellow passengers snoring as you try to get some sleep.  

Although it’s a little pricier than some of the other travel pillows on the market, little touches like the removable and machine washable velour cover makes this an investment in your future that will stand the test of time.

2. TRTL PILLOW - £19.99, AMAZON

When it comes to your travel pillow priorities, softness has to rank pretty high, in which case, the Trtl Pillow will not let you down. It feels truly wonderful against your skin and as it’s machine washable, there won’t be any nagging odours from your last long-haul flight to give you nightmares.

There’s also a little bit of science behind the Trtl Pillow as it’s designed to hold your neck in an ergonomic position while you rest. That’s more than you can expect from your average u-shaped pillow. At just 200g, it’s also one of the lightest travel pillows for aeroplanes which makes it the perfect choice if you struggle to pack light.

3. J-PILLOW TRAVEL PILLOW - £15.99, LAKELAND

The first thing eagle-eyed readers will point out is that the J-Pillow is a bit of a weird shape. But sometimes weird is better. In fact, the J-Pillow is an award-winning travel pillow that supports the head, neck and chin while preventing your head from falling forwards while you sleep. The result is a pillow that’s great for your posture and can help you avoid bumping your head on the aeroplane window, your foldout tray, or worse still, the stranger sitting next to you. 

The unconventional shape of the J-Pillow means there are multiple ways it can be used. It also comes with an instructional guide so you can achieve the highest level of comfort. As with all of the pillows we have reviewed so far, it’s machine washable so you can keep it in good nick!

4. OSTRICH PILLOW ORIGINAL - £65.95, PROLDEE

If money is no object then this super comfortable but bizarre looking pillow could be your travel companion for the foreseeable future. Filled with polystyrene microbeads, the Ostrich Pillow covers your entire head and neck to provide the support you need while also blocking out noise and light. 

If you don’t mind looking like you have your head stuck in a chicken then this travel pillow is certainly capable of blocking out just any distractions you’re likely to face. The manufacturer also offers a two-year warranty, which gives you some idea of its quality, along with free returns if you find it all a bit too bizarre.

5. TRAVELSTAR HOODIE TRAVEL NECK PILLOW - £10.95, AMAZON

If you like nothing more than hiding away in a hoodie then of all of our travel pillows for aeroplanes, this is the perfect option for you. The hood feature might look a little unnecessary but it can provide extra darkness when you’re trying to drift off and make you feel a little cosier on your flight. The pillow itself is very soft but it is hand wash only, which means if you’re known to dribble while you sleep, you’ll have to spend five minutes giving it a good clean once you land.

6. TRUNKI PILLOW - £12.99, TRUNKI

It’s not only big heads that need to get their rest. If you have a little jet setter between the ages of two and five then this Trunki Pillow will help to keep them rested and supported while they’re on the move. This pillow has a few nice little features including magnets that hold the neck together to keep your child’s neck supported and stop their head rolling forward. It’s also car seat compatible so you can enjoy a little peace and quiet on the journey to the airport. 

Three different variations of the Trunki Pillow are available including Leeroy Lion, Koko Koala and Dudley Dino. Personally, we’d go for Koko every time!

Now you just need to book your flight

There you have it, travel pillows for aeroplanes for every taste and budget. Now all you need to do is book a last minute holiday to give your new pillow a try. Take a look at our destinations or give us a call on 0121 425 6615 for some friendly travel advice.