Eliminate the "I can't sleep!" problem when traveling long distances. How to choose a travel pillow (neck pillow)

Many people who travel long distances by plane, Shinkansen, bus, or car have probably experienced not being able to sleep well, or having neck, shoulder, or back pain, due to sitting for long periods. In such cases, a neck pillow is highly recommended.

While neck pillows are often associated with travel, recently, items that can be used for daily life beyond travel have been released, such as those that can be used for naps during work breaks, or as a cushion placed between the seat and your body during work.

In this article, we will introduce how to choose a neck pillow and recommended items.

What is a travel pillow (neck pillow)?

A neck pillow is, in Japanese, "neck" + "pillow," and refers to a pillow worn around the neck.

By using it when traveling by plane, Shinkansen, bus, or car, you can efficiently get sleep during travel, which can help resolve sleep deprivation and improve daytime performance.

Furthermore, it not only improves sleep quality but also supports your neck and head, making your travel time more comfortable.

Benefits of using a travel pillow

Long journeys can strain your neck and back. Using a neck pillow that fits your body can help alleviate neck stiffness and shoulder pain, and improve sleep quality.

Reduces physical strain such as neck and shoulder stiffness

When you sleep for long periods in a sitting position, such as on a plane or bus, your neck and shoulders can become sore when you wake up. This is because in a sitting posture, your head isn't stable and can tilt, putting strain on your neck and shoulders. Using a neck pillow can stabilize your head's position even when sitting, reducing the burden on your body.

Sleep support during travel

By stabilizing the position of your head, your sleeping posture becomes more secure, leading to improved sleep quality. It also helps dampen the impact of vehicle vibrations, allowing for deeper sleep.

Differences and features by type

Neck pillows come in different types, such as air-filled and cushion types, which vary in their internal materials, as well as in shapes like U-shaped and J-shaped. First, let's introduce the features and benefits of each.

Air type

Air-type pillows, which are inflated for use, can be folded compactly and stored when not in use, making them lightweight and convenient for carrying. Additionally, by adjusting the amount of air, you can achieve a customized fit.

There are also types that have a built-in pump that allows you to inflate them by pressing, without needing to blow air in with your mouth. These are recommended for travel on airplanes, long-distance buses, and other modes of transport.

Cushion type

Cushion-type pillows are filled like regular pillows. Their advantage is that they can be used immediately as there is no need to inflate them. Also, the feel of the pillow varies depending on the material inside.

While they cannot be folded compactly, models with straps that can be attached to bags or suitcases won't be too much of a bother when you're on the go.

How to carry a travel pillow

Since it's an item you use for sleep during travel, here are convenient ways to carry it when not in use.

Use a storage pouch

Putting it in a perfectly sized storage pouch makes it convenient and less bulky to carry. Choose a pouch size that fits your pillow, whether it's an air-release type or one that shrinks to a small size.

Attach it to a backpack or suitcase using a carabiner

If you have a carabiner with a spring on one part of the loop, or a product with a strap, you can attach it to your backpack or carry-on. Even if the product itself doesn't have one, if there's a loop-shaped tag, you can attach a carabiner to the tag to use it.

Differences and features by filling material

Cushion-type neck pillows primarily use materials such as "low-resilience urethane," "microbeads," and "cotton." Many of these products offer excellent comfort, making them ideal for those who want a good rest.

While they cannot be folded compactly, models with straps that can be attached to bags or suitcases won't be too much of a bother when you're on the go.

Low-resilience urethane

Low-resilience urethane is characterized by its moderate firmness and elasticity. It also has shape-memory properties, allowing it to maintain a comfortable shape and firmly support the neck. However, it tends to be heavy and less compact, making it suitable for those who don't need to carry it much, such as for use at home or in the car.

Microbeads

Microbeads are characterized by their smooth feel and ability to change shape freely. The type of beads varies by product, so choose based on firmness and fit. They are recommended for those who desire a soft, enveloping feel.

Cotton

Its soft touch makes it excellent for minimal skin irritation and cushioning.

Differences and features by shape

Next, we will introduce the differences and features by shape. By choosing a neck pillow that suits you, you can expect benefits such as reduced shoulder stiffness and improved sleep quality.

U-shaped

This is the most popular shape among neck pillows. It wraps around the entire neck, preventing the head and neck from tilting, thus offering strong stability. It fits well even when you can't recline your seat. Since most general neck pillows are U-shaped, you'll have a wide range of choices in materials, sizes, and prices, making it easier to find a neck pillow that suits your preferences.

J-shaped

This shape supports the head, one side of the face, and the chin, preventing the head from falling forward. Since the head tilts to one side, the posture remains stable, reducing impact from shaking and making it ideal for long journeys. It is especially recommended for those whose heads tend to fall forward when sleeping in a sitting position, or who experience neck pain when sleeping while seated.

While it is highly praised for its stability and comfortable sleep, the options for this type of product might be limited as fewer models are available.

I-shaped

The I-shaped pillow offers a wider range of uses compared to U-shaped and J-shaped pillows, allowing you to choose how you want to use it. It can be used not only when sitting but also when lying face down as a pillow.

Pillow type

It can be used in a variety of ways, such as placing it to support the head or putting it between the seat and the body as a cushion. There are also types designed so that your hands don't get numb when placed under the neck pillow, and types that can be applied to the neck, shoulders, or lower back to relieve stiffness and pain.

Are there differences based on price?

Generally, price can indicate differences in fit, comfort, and the presence of additional features.

Difference in fit

Inexpensive products may not fit the head and neck well, leading to discomfort. However, well-designed neck pillows fit snugly around the head and neck, supporting a comfortable sleeping posture. Some products allow adjustment to your specific size, so if you've found that standard-sized neck pillows don't fit, you might want to try one of these.

Difference in sleeping comfort due to internal material

Be aware that some neck pillows, at a lower price point, can trap heat easily and quickly lose their shape. While it's a matter of preference, choose a product with elasticity that firmly supports the head and neck, and offers a comfortable, enveloping sensation for your head.

Furthermore, since neck pillows are often used outdoors, check before purchasing whether the cover and main body can be washed, as this affects hygiene.

Differences in additional features, such as the presence of a hood or storage bag

Since they are often used for sleeping in bright environments, some products come with hoods. These are recommended for those who want to relax without worrying about their surroundings.

Also, some products come with additional features such as a storage bag or straps that can be attached to a bag or suitcase, so choose one according to the scene in which you will use it.

How to choose a travel pillow

Based on the differences in types and shapes, and their features introduced so far, here are the key points for choosing.

①Type

Choose between an air type, which is inflated for use, or a cushion type, which is filled like a regular pillow, according to your intended use.

Air types are convenient for portability as they can be folded compactly when not in use. Cushion types can be used immediately, and you can choose your preferred feel based on the material.

②Shape

Choose a shape that matches your sleeping posture, such as U-shaped, J-shaped, I-shaped, or pillow-shaped.

The U-shaped pillow wraps around the entire neck, providing excellent stability. The J-shaped pillow allows you to rest your head on one side to stabilize your posture, making it ideal for long journeys. The I-shaped pillow can be used not only when sitting but also when sleeping face down. The pillow-shaped one can be widely used, for example, as a cushion placed between the seat and your body.

③Material

Choose a material that suits your preference, such as low-rebound urethane or beads, based on hardness, elasticity, and fit.

Low-rebound urethane is characterized by its moderate hardness and elasticity. Beads are characterized by their supple feel and ability to change shape freely.

Introducing 'Brain Sleep Pillow Portable'!

Pursuing the comfortable sleep unique to "Brain Sleep," which is particular about sleep quality, we have incorporated many desired features for a neck pillow, while maintaining its functions and comfort.

1: Space-saving design

The space-saving design folds compactly, is lightweight, and can be smartly attached to a suitcase for easy travel. It can also be folded small, weighing approximately 210g, about 1/3 of the "Brain Sleep Pillow," making it ultra-light. It won't get in the way even when you have a lot of luggage, making it easy to carry. You can get comfortable sleep during travel or at your destination.

2: Firmly supports the neck to promote optimal sleeping posture

The high-rebound three-dimensional fiber material is structured to firmly support the neck's curve in the correct position, preventing the head from sinking. With two different densities, it can maintain a sleeping posture that reduces strain on the body even during prolonged sleep.

Furthermore, due to its unique three-dimensional structure, over 90% of its volume is air, allowing heat and moisture around the head and neck to escape. This prevents stuffiness, ensuring you remain comfortably cool even after long periods of use.

3: Adjust fit with the neck adjuster belt

The neck adjuster belt allows you to adjust the fit of the neck pillow. The excess belt can be stored in a pocket to keep it out of the way.

4: Completely washable for hygiene

Both the cover and the inner material are completely washable, so you don't have to worry if it gets dirty while traveling. You can always use it in a clean condition.

5: Can also be used by stacking it on hotel pillows or your usual pillow at your destination.

You can update the comfort of hotel pillows at your destination to your liking by stacking this pillow on top. In addition to using it with your usual pillow, it's also recommended for those who prefer low pillows to use it on its own.

6: Also useful at work!

Comes with an adjuster that allows it to be installed on a chair's backrest. The high-rebound three-dimensional fiber supports the burden on your lower back from long hours of desk work. By simply placing it along the curve of your lower back, it helps to straighten your sit bones and guide the lumbar curve to its correct state.

The snap buttons on the back allow for free shape fixation, enabling smooth and easy deformation even with the high-rebound material. It can also be used by placing your arms through it, making it ideal for taking a short break at your desk during lunch. Even a short nap during the day can clear your head and improve work efficiency.

Choose a travel pillow to enjoy your trip more

A neck pillow can transform travel time into quality sleep time. By dedicating even a short period to recovery, you can improve your performance at your destination. Find a neck pillow that fits you and enjoy comfortable travel.