Travel Accessories

To wear a travel neck pillow for maximum support, pop it round your neck with the gap at the back. This keeps the firmer sides under your chin, preventing your head from drooping forward - ideal if you're snoozing upright. Some designs twist or fasten in different ways, so have a fiddle to find what feels best. Memory foam models tend to hold their shape well, making long naps a bit more bearable.

The best travel pillow for long-haul flights offers proper neck support and stays comfy for hours. Memory foam ones with sculpted shapes tend to shine here, helping you nod off without waking up stiff as a board. Go for one with a secure fastener to stop it slipping mid-snooze, and a washable cover is always a win. A compact design that packs up neatly earns extra points for practical travellers.

Yes, travel pillows can be taken on the plane as a personal item - though most airlines won’t count it against your allowance. You can usually carry it separately or clip it to your bag. Policies can vary slightly, so it’s worth checking ahead if you’re flying with a stickler. Compressible or clip-on designs make things especially faff-free at the gate.

To clean a travel pillow safely, check if the cover comes off first. Most fabric covers are machine washable on a gentle cycle. For memory foam or inflatable ones, stick to spot cleaning with a mild detergent and damp cloth - no soaking. Let it air dry fully before packing it away. A removable, washable cover is a smart bet for staying fresh between trips. Learn more in our product care hub.

Inflatable travel pillows can be comfortable and durable, if you choose wisely. The best ones have a snug shape, soft-feel cover, and a valve that doesn’t leak at altitude. They’re a top pick for saving space and can easily last for years with a bit of care. Not quite as cushy as memory foam perhaps, but a properly inflated model offers plenty of support. Bonus points if it comes with a repair patch or warranty.

Buy-it-for-life travel accessories are made from strong stuff and built to be repaired, not replaced. Think waxed canvas organisers, stainless steel water bottles, tough padlocks, and travel adaptors with replaceable fuses. Multi-use champions like foldaway bags or long-lasting microfibre towels are also great shouts. Look out for items with lifetime guarantees or repair services attached. Curious how we sort the gems from the gimmicks? Visit our research process page.

To store a travel pillow when not in use, compress it if possible - memory foam types often roll into a little pouch. Inflatable ones? Just deflate and fold flat. If you’ve got a buckwheat or microbead pillow, pop it in a breathable bag so it stays fresh. A dry, dust-free drawer or cupboard will help keep it in good nick until your next escape.