Long-haul flights are a necessary evil for global travelers, but trying to sleep upright can feel like a cruel and unusual punishment. For years, I arrived at my destination feeling like a zombie, all because decent airplane sleep remained elusive. Like many, I’ve experimented with countless travel pillows, each promising comfort and neck support, only to be let down by flimsy materials or awkward designs. That was until I discovered the Trtl Pillow.
Initially, the Trtl Pillow’s unconventional design made me skeptical. It looks more like a fleece scarf with a hidden plastic support than a traditional pillow. However, desperate for in-flight rest on a transatlantic journey, I decided to give it a try. The premise is simple: the internal support system cradles your neck, preventing it from flopping sideways and keeping your spine aligned. The soft fleece wraps around, adding a comforting warmth, which is a big plus for someone like me who always feels cold on airplanes.
The first thing I noticed was the significant improvement in neck support. Unlike U-shaped pillows that often push my head forward or deflate mid-flight, the Trtl Pillow held my head in a natural, resting position. This made nodding off considerably easier. I was able to lean to the side and actually fall asleep for a few hours, a feat previously unheard of for me on planes. Waking up, I was surprised to find myself without the usual neck stiffness and shoulder pain that plagued me after attempting to sleep on flights.
However, the Trtl Pillow isn’t without its quirks. My biggest issue is that it’s incompatible with over-ear noise-canceling headphones. The rigid support structure presses against my ear, making it impossible to comfortably wear my headphones. To combat the drone of the airplane engine, I’ve resorted to using Loop earplugs, which fit snugly inside my ear and don’t interfere with the pillow. This workaround is effective, but it’s something to consider if noise-canceling headphones are your go-to for in-flight tranquility.
Another potential drawback is the warmth. While I appreciate the cozy fleece, those who tend to overheat might find it too warm, especially on stuffier flights. Additionally, if you are someone who tosses and turns or nods forward while sleeping upright, this pillow might not be the best fit, as it’s designed for side-leaning support. Finally, let’s address the elephant in the cabin: the aesthetics. The Trtl Pillow does look a bit unusual, and you might feel self-conscious wearing it in public. I certainly did at first. But after experiencing the blissful sleep it provides, I’ve learned to embrace the slightly goofy appearance. Arriving refreshed and ready to explore is far more important to me than looking stylish while sleeping.
Price-wise, the Trtl Pillow sits at the higher end of the travel pillow spectrum. While there are more affordable traditional travel pillows available, like the top pick recommended in some reviews, the unique design and effectiveness of the Trtl Pillow justify the investment, in my opinion. I initially purchased mine for around $40 on sale, but even at its current price of approximately $60, I believe it’s worth it for the difference it makes to long-flight comfort.
In conclusion, despite a few minor drawbacks like headphone incompatibility and its distinctive look, the Trtl Pillow has been a game-changer for my long-flight experiences. For anyone serious about getting restful sleep on airplanes and arriving at their destination feeling refreshed, the Trtl Pillow is undoubtedly a top contender for the Best Travel Pillow For Long Flights. It’s transformed my dread of early-morning departures into a much more pleasant travel experience, and that, for me, is priceless.
