The Travelrest takes a different approach to travel pillows. Instead of wrapping around your neck, it’s an inflatable pillow that extends down your side, letting you lean into it for full upper body support.
How It Works
The elongated shape runs from your head down past your shoulder. You inflate it to your preferred firmness, then lean into it like you’re leaning against a window seat – except it works in any seat. Straps let you attach it to headrests or wear it like a messenger bag.
Key Features
- Inflatable: Few breaths to inflate, quick deflation for compact storage
- Adjustable firmness: Control inflation level to suit your preference
- Multiple wearing options: Attach to seat, wear across body, or use as shoulder pillow
- Washable cover: Removable and machine washable
- Compact when deflated: Rolls up small for packing
Pros
- Full lateral upper body support (not just neck)
- Works in aisle seats where you can’t lean on a window
- Very compact when deflated
- Adjustable firmness
- Good for side sleepers
Cons
- Takes some experimentation to find the right position
- May slip if not secured properly
- Less comfortable with glasses or headphones
- Different from traditional pillows – requires adjustment
Travelrest vs Trtl
| Feature | Travelrest | Trtl |
|---|---|---|
| Design | Inflatable body pillow | Scarf with internal frame |
| Support type | Full lateral body | Neck only |
| Best position | Leaning sideways | Upright |
| Portability | Very compact when deflated | Compact, lightweight |
| Price | $30-40 | $48-72 |
Who Should Buy It
The Travelrest suits travellers who:
- Prefer leaning sideways rather than sleeping upright
- Often sit in aisle seats without a window to lean on
- Want adjustable firmness
- Need something that packs very small
It’s less suitable for those who prefer structured neck support or want to sleep fully upright.
Verdict
The Travelrest solves a real problem – how to sleep comfortably when you’re not in a window seat. Its inflatable design and lateral support work well for side sleepers who want to lean rather than sit upright. The compact size when deflated is a genuine advantage for packing.
It requires more setup and experimentation than simpler pillows, but for the right sleeping style, it delivers comfort that traditional neck pillows can’t match.
