For years, red-eye flights meant arriving at my destination feeling less than refreshed. Sleep was a distant dream, replaced by neck craning and the general discomfort of trying to nap upright. That was until I discovered the Trtl Pillow, which some might affectionately call a Turtle Travel Pillow due to its unique, supportive design. While it might look a little unusual, this travel pillow has been a game-changer for my travel sleep routine.
My biggest initial concern with the Trtl Pillow was whether I could still use my beloved over-ear noise-canceling headphones. Unfortunately, the answer is no. The pillow features a plastic ledge designed to support your neck, and it simply doesn’t accommodate the padded earcups. It’s a trade-off, but for me, a worthwhile one. To combat airplane noise, I’ve switched to Loop earplugs, which fit snugly in my ears and don’t interfere with the pillow’s functionality when I finally drift off.
One of the things I appreciate most, especially on chilly flights, is the Trtl Pillow’s cozy fleece scarf. It adds a welcome layer of warmth and comfort. However, if you tend to overheat easily, this might be something to consider – the warmth could be a drawback. Additionally, it’s worth noting that the Trtl Pillow is most effective for those who primarily nod their head forward while sleeping upright. If you are a side-to-side head mover during sleep, this pillow might not be the ideal solution.
Price-wise, the Trtl Pillow sits at the higher end of the travel pillow spectrum. While our top overall pick, a more traditional travel pillow, is available for around $40, the Trtl Pillow typically retails around $60. I initially purchased mine for $40 (and even less with a Prime Day deal!), and while the price has increased, my personal experience has been so positive that I would still happily pay the current full price. It’s always wise to keep an eye out for deals, though!
Let’s address the elephant in the cabin: yes, the Trtl Pillow does look a bit funny. You might feel a little self-conscious wearing what resembles a neck brace in public. I certainly did at first. However, after consistent use over the past year and a half, I can confidently say that the sleep I get is worth any curious glances from fellow passengers. Before discovering the Trtl Pillow, early morning flights were something I dreaded, knowing sleep would be impossible, leading to arrival feeling irritable and exhausted. Now, I’m a much happier traveler, knowing I can actually get some rest and arrive at my destination feeling refreshed. And honestly, that feeling is priceless, even if it means looking a little bit quirky while achieving it.
In conclusion, while the Trtl Pillow, or turtle travel pillow, might have a slightly unconventional appearance and isn’t compatible with over-ear headphones, its comfort and effectiveness in enabling sleep on flights are undeniable. If you value restful travel and are looking for a solution to uncomfortable upright sleeping, the Trtl Pillow is definitely worth considering, even at its slightly higher price point. It has transformed my travel experience, making those early morning flights something I no longer dread.
