What Should Be the Size of Travel Pillow? Find Out Here
Posted by Dr. Cannon on Aug 20th 2022
Travel pillows are essential companions for anyone on the go, whether you're taking a long flight, a road trip, or a quick train journey. But with so many sizes and shapes available, how do you know what the ideal size of a travel pillow is? Choosing the right size ensures maximum comfort, neck support, and ease of portability. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the size of travel pillows to help you make the best choice.
Key Highlights
- Size of standard travel pillows (11–12" x 10–11") is the most common travel pillow size and preferable choice for average adults.
- Some travel pillow shapes also come in various sizes like the common size of U-shaped travel pillow is 11–12" x 10–11".
- When choosing a travel pillow size, consider factors like your neck and shoulder width, portability, and trip duration.
Most Common Travel Pillow Size
Standard Size
Standard Travel Pillow Size
- Dimensions: 11-12 inches wide x 10-11 inches tall
- Description: The most common travel pillow size designed to comfortably fit most adults and provide adequate neck support without bulkiness.
- Best for: Average neck sizes and general travel use.
Other Travel Pillow Sizes
Large Size
- Dimensions: 13-14 inches wide x 11-12 inches tall
- Description: Larger pillows offer extra cushioning and support, suitable for travelers with broader shoulders or those who prefer more room around their neck.
- Best for: People needing more neck and shoulder coverage.
Small Size
- Dimensions: 9-10 inches wide x 8-9 inches tall
- Description: Compact and lightweight, small pillows are perfect for those who prioritize portability or have smaller necks.
- Best for: Children, petite adults, or travelers wanting a lightweight option.
Common Sizes of Some Travel Pillow Shapes
U-Shaped Pillows
- Size: Typically 11-12 inches wide x 10-11 inches tall
- Description: The classic “horseshoe” shape wraps around your neck, providing 360° support to prevent your head from falling sideways.
- Best for: Most travelers wanting full neck support.
Rectangular Pillows
- Size: Usually 12 inches wide x 8 inches tall
- Description: Inflatable or compressible, these rectangular pillows offer versatile neck or lumbar support and pack down small.
- Best for: Travelers seeking adjustable firmness and easy storage.
Contoured Pillows
- Size: About 10 inches wide x 8 inches tall
- Description: Ergonomically designed with curves that fit the natural shape of your neck and shoulders for targeted support.
- Best for: Those needing extra neck alignment and comfort.
Square Pillows
- Size: Typically 12 inches x 12 inches
- Description: Compact and plush, square pillows can be used for neck support or as general cushions during travel. They’re less common but great for multi-purpose use.
- Best for: Travelers who want a small pillow that can double as a seat cushion or lumbar support.
Factors to Consider When Choosing the Size of Your Travel Pillow
Choosing the right size travel pillow is more than just picking a shape or a number — several key factors influence your comfort and support. Here’s what you should keep in mind:
- Neck and Shoulder Width
Your travel pillow should comfortably wrap around your neck without feeling too tight or loose. If the pillow is too small, it won’t provide adequate support, causing your head to slump uncomfortably. Conversely, if it’s too large, it may feel bulky or shift around. - Portability and Storage
For frequent travelers, the ability to easily pack and carry a pillow is crucial. Compact or inflatable travel pillows that deflate to a size as small as 6 x 4 inches are ideal for saving luggage space. - Sleeping Position
Your preferred sleeping position plays a big role in the size and firmness of your pillow. Side sleepers generally benefit from larger, firmer pillows that keep the head and neck aligned with the spine, preventing strain.
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Thickness directly affects your neck alignment during sleep or rest. A pillow that is too thick can push your head forward unnaturally, causing neck pain, while one that’s too thin might not offer enough support, allowing your head to tilt backward. - Material and Cushioning
The pillow’s filling and cover material impact both comfort and size perception. Memory foam pillows tend to be denser and maintain their shape, offering firm support even in smaller sizes. Inflatable pillows allow you to adjust firmness but may feel less cushioned. - Travel Duration and Environment
How long you’ll be using the pillow and the environment of your travel can influence your size choice. For long-haul flights or multi-hour bus rides, a larger pillow with extra support and cushioning may be worth the extra bulk.
How to Select a Travel Pillow?
When shopping for your next travel pillow, evaluate a pillow on these standards.
Neck Support
The natural neck position in sleep is straight, which is not the case while traveling.
You will travel sitting on a seat unless you have a super expensive ticket. So, a travel pillow that provides good neck support is necessary.
See how you sleep usually, and buy a travel pillow that can give similar support. You can visit a store and try different pillows to find the one that gives good support for sleeping on a seat.
Pillow Fabric
Polyester may look nice but it is not a great pillow fabric. We recommend using cotton and organic fabrics for hot destinations and fleece pillows for cold destinations.
Pillow Size and Weight
Pillow size should be so small as to fit inside your backpack or hand-carry luggage. Most travel pillows are lightweight but are sure to check the weight and go for the lighter travel pillow.
Size of Travel Pillow Ear Piercing
Traveling with ear pain is challenging. If you have to do it anyway, keep a travel pillow for ear pain with you in case you don’t find a suitable pillow at your destination.
How does a travel pillow for ear pain work?
Travel pillows for ear pain work by creating a cushion between your ear and the pillow.
The travel pillow for ear piercing saves your ears from squeezing or getting crushed. You won’t have to suffer any ear pain and you’ll heal your ear piercing quickly.
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Conclusion
So, what size is a travel pillow? The ideal travel pillow size depends on your neck width, sleeping position, and travel needs, but most people find that a pillow around 11-12 inches wide and 10-11 inches tall offers the best balance of comfort and support. Considering the pillow’s shape, thickness, and portability will help you choose the perfect travel pillow to make your journeys more restful and comfortable.
FAQs
What size is a travel pillow suitable for long flights?
For long flights, larger travel pillows around 13–14 inches wide provide extra support and comfort for extended use.
What are travel size pillows?
Travel size pillows are compact, lightweight pillows designed specifically for easy portability. They usually measure around 9–10 inches wide and can be inflatable or made from compressible materials, perfect for packing in carry-ons.
How do I choose the right travel pillow size for a child?
Smaller travel pillows, typically 9–10 inches wide, are ideal for children, offering comfortable neck support without unnecessary bulk.
Does pillow thickness affect neck support?
Yes, pillow thickness is crucial for maintaining proper neck alignment. A pillow that is too thick or too thin can cause discomfort, so select one that supports your natural neck curve.
Can square pillows be used as travel pillows?
Square pillows (about 12 x 12 inches) can serve as travel pillows for multi-purpose support but may not provide targeted neck support like U-shaped or contoured designs.
