Aviator tests odd-looking travel cushion, reporting it as the sole slumber-inducing device during flights
A Review of the Game-Changing Trtl Pillow Plus
Ever since I disliked the very idea of flying, I've been on a mission to find travel accessories that'd make my journeys bearable, if not enjoyable. Sleep on a flight, though? Never happened, until now.
Meet the Trtl Pillow Plus, a travel accessory unlike any other I've encountered. Frankly, I was hesitant about its neck brace-style design, considering it unsightly and uncomfortable. But trust the science, and it's a game-changer!
Unlike those inflatable travel pillows, this one features a patented support system that adjusts to keep your neck in a comfortable, ergonomic position. You can wear it on either side of your body or in front (essentially under your chin), depending on your preference. And it's held securely in place by soft, hypoallergenic fleece that wraps around your neck and is secured with velcro.
Taking a bit of time to settle it in the right spot was a must, but I eventually found the left side worked best as it seemed to align my head naturally while relaxing.
You can adjust the support system's height using a simple toggle, making it easier to accommodate family members with different needs. I had no need to adjust it from the default setting, but it's comforting to know the option is there.
With the pillow in place, I simply rested my head on top of it. It felt odd initially and looked a tad strange, earning me a few curious sideways glances (I'm sure the person behind me was relieved I stayed seated, though!). But the stability it offered meant I quickly got accustomed to it. Even managed to sleep for four hours during a recent nine-hour flight from Jamaica—something that's never happened to me!
After traveling for nearly 21 hours, this was a lifesaver. Being able to actually sleep while traveling made the hefty price of the Trtl pillow worth every penny.
I will say that the pillow wasn't quite as comfy when in a reclined position. My chair had to remain fully upright for me to wear it comfortably and get the support I needed. It's also warmer than other travel pillows I've used, as the thick fleece material covers your whole neck, making it hard for air to circulate.
However, the size of the Trtl travel pillow is a definite plus over other designs. At roughly the size of a book and lighter than an iPhone, it's a breeze to carry around compared to those bulky inflatable pillows.
The pillow comes with a waterproof carry bag with a clip for secure storage, so I could attach it to my carry-on luggage without any issues. The Trtl pillow is machine washable, but I was wary of damaging the plastic support system or warping it during the washing process. So far, so good, though—the material washes well, and it looks as good as new after a refresh before my next flight!
Other Travel Pillows Worth a Try
- "Affordable Support": Go Travel Memory Foam Travel Pillow – If you're looking for a budget option, this Go Travel pillow receives high praises with almost 300 reviews and an average score of 4.3 out of 5 stars. Users rave about its amazing support and note that it's one of the best travel pillows they've used.
- "Comfortable and Supportive": Cabeau Memory Foam Travel Pillow – With over 5,000 reviews and an average score of 4.1 out of 5 stars on Amazon, this pillow offers comfort and support during travel. While it's larger than other travel pillows on the market, some users claim it's worth the extra room thanks to its excellent performance.
- "Variety of Positions": J-Pillow Travel Pillow – Similar to the Trtl pillow, this option wraps around your neck to provide different sleeping positions. It has over 27K reviews, with an average score of 4.2 out of 5 stars, and users state that it takes some work to find the right fit, but when you do, it's a comfortable and supportive neck pillow.
- The Trtl Pillow Plus has made a significant improvement in my home-and-garden life, enhancing the wellness and lifestyle aspects while traveling.
- I've been considering alternatives for the Trtl Pillow Plus, and one promising option is the J-Pillow Travel Pillow that provides versatility in sleeping positions, much like the Trtl Pillow.
- For those keen on maintaining a health-conscious lifestyle and looking for an affordable travel pillow, the Go Travel Memory Foam Travel Pillow might be a suitable choice, as it comes at a budget-friendly price and offers excellent support.
- My family has started adopting the travel lifestyle more often, and the Cabeau Memory Foam Travel Pillow, praised for its comfort and support, seems like a worthy investment for long trips, ensuring a good night's sleep for everyone.