Everyone knows the pain of having to sleep in the car on long rides. You may wake up with an achy neck or sore back. That’s where car pillows come in.
These handy car accessories can support your neck and head while your sleep or drive.
Don’t confuse car pillows with regular travel pillows that you can wear around your neck. Car pillows attach to the seat of the car. It will be just like sleeping on your bed.
There are many different types and shapes or car pillows consumers can consider. To learn about the best products available, go ahead and read our reviews.
- Features to Consider in Good Car Pillows
- Top 10 Best Car Pillows 2024
- 1. CHELIYOU Car Pillow
- 2. TravelMate Car Neck Pillow (Soft Version)
- 3. AERIS Car Neck Pillow
- 4. SSAWcasa AUS Seatbelt Pillow
- 5. LANGRIA Infinity-Shape Car Neck Pillow
- 6. Dreamer Car Headrest Pillow
- 7. CAMTOA 2PCS Car Neck Pillow (Soft Version)
- 8. ALIBO Memory Foam Car Neck Pillow With Adjustable Strap
- 9. JELEGANT Car Neck Pillow
- 10. ZATOOTO Memory Foam Car Neck Pillow
- Guide to Buying the Best Car Pillows
Features to Consider in Good Car Pillows
Before you start, pay attention to the following when buying a car pillow:
- Support Area — Does the car pillow support the head, the neck, or both? Make sure you know which part of the body the pillow is supposed to offer support to before buying.
- Attachment — Do you want the car pillow to attach to the headrest, the seat, or the seatbelt? This is an important consideration when shopping.
- Size — Obviously, you would want a car pillow that is not too small or is too big. Find the right size by paying attention to the dimensions of the product.
The above are the three main considerations. To learn more about what to look for in a great car pillow, scroll to the bottom of this article for an informative buyer’s guide. Read on for our reviews of the best car pillows products you can buy online now.
Top 10 Best Car Pillows 2024
1. CHELIYOU Car Pillow
Editor’s Rating:
Design
One of the best car neck pillows we found, this Cheliyou is stuffed with memory form. The material can naturally adjust to the exact contour of your head and neck.
There were several reasons why we liked this car pillow. First, it’s affordable. The price is amazingly low, we could go on to buy two and three sets without going over budget.
Plus, this car pillow fits the seat headrest in the most ergonomic manner. This is one of the most popular car pillows online for very good reasons.
Design
This car pillow is made from memory foam covered with a Fibre Velvet cover. The fabric material is synthetic, but it’s also highly breathable. Plus, the machine-washable fabric is hypoallergenic.
The car pillow is available in two colors: black and red. Both versions come with an adjustable elastic strap to suit the wearer’s height.
The seat pillow is shaped much like a regular pillow. But it’s much smaller and has a depression in the middle to prevent the head from falling off on the ride.
Performance
We can say right away that this car pillow is amazingly comfortable. The memory foam naturally bends and shapes to support the natural curve of the neck. That definitely protects the neck and the back from all-too-familiar ache and fatigues.
The elastic strap is very stretchy and can fit just about any type of seat, even the big ones in trucks. This car pillow is even suitable for flying. We were impressed by not just how comfortable this pillow was, but how versatile its application is as well.
We also loved the material, which is hypoallergenic and is suitable for people with sensitive skin. Plus, the fabric won’t attract dust or debris during long hours of travel. The exterior cover is removable and washable too.
But we have to say not everyone may love this car pillow. If your car has a thick seat, this pillow would push your head out more, making your position uncomfortable. Also, the memory foam goes out of shape with constant use.
Overall
We were extremely satisfied with this car pillow. It’s the perfect accessory for long road trips. It’s well made with top-notch material and the price is quite affordable. There are only minor downsides (really none at all).
Pros
- Perfectly takes shape to fit the neck
- Washable
- Hypoallergenic
- Suitable for any type of seat
- Memory foam filling
Cons
- Not suitable for thick car headrests
- Not as durable as it should be
2. TravelMate Car Neck Pillow (Soft Version)
Editor’s Rating:
The TravelMate is a car neck support pillow with headrest strap. It’s one of those products that you will either love or hate. We really liked this rather plushy car pillow.
It should be noted from the start that this is a compact neck pillow. It’s only about 10 inches in length and 4 inches in height. While the compact nature makes the car pillow easy to carry and store, it may not suit some people.
Design
This car pillow is mainly designed to support the neck while the user sleeps or rides. The pillow is filled with memory foam, which will easily take the shape of your neck.
The exterior of the pillow has a velour cover, which is very plush and velvety soft. The cover is machine washable.
Performance
This car pillow is really soft, like a comfy and well-worn bed pillow you still love to use. It’s uniquely designed to support the neck—that part of the body most prone to soreness and achiness after sleeping in the car. Whether this pillow can prevent fatigue and make sleeping in a moving car more comfortable would depend on your size.
This car pillow should be attached to the headrest. Because it supports the neck, your head should be able to reach the top of the headrest. That is to say, if you are too short or too tall, this pillow may not support your neck.
Other factors also include the type of model of the car and the type of headrests installed. We recommend trying different placements if the pillow doesn’t align with your neck on the first try.
We found this car pillow to be wonderfully supportive. Once the right placement is found by adjusting the headrest and the pillow, it wouldn’t feel much different from sleeping in your own bed.
In addition, the cover of the pillow has a zipper on the side. It can be removed and washed whenever needed to keep it clean.
Overall
This car pillow is uniquely made with memory foam to support the neck while travelling. How well it performs would depend on the height of the user, the type of headrest, and the model of the car. We found this car pillow to be very useful and comfortable, once the right placement is found.
Pros
- Supportive memory foam
- Uniquely designed to support the neck
- Washable
- Compact size
Cons
- Not suited for all users
- Not hypoallergenic
3. AERIS Car Neck Pillow
Editor’s Rating:
This very stylish car pillow has many things going for it. We loved the velvety texture and the comfy looking exterior. This is another memory foam pillow, a favorite material for car pillows. This car pillow is definitely affordable but offers many perks too.
Design
This car pillow is made from high-quality, responsive memory foam. This is the grade of memory foam that responds to heat. When it’s generally hot, the pillow would be soft. But in winter the pillow would be hard until it absorbs your body heat.
We found this car pillow to be thoughtfully designed. It comes with two covers. One inside cover is for the memory foam. Over it, there’s a black, plush velour cover. The material has a lovely velvety feel, but not without feeling as thick and scratchy as actual velvet.
The pillow comes with a portable travel bag. The pillow can be squeezed to fit inside the bag. When squeezed, the whole pillow package is very compact.
Performance
This memory foam pillow offers just the right amount of head and neck support, in our opinion. It’s washable and can be folded into a compact form. When in the travel bag, this pillow can be shoved into a glove box or a backpack.
We found this neck pillow to be might comfortable. However, it can take a while to find the most comfortable position. The pillow, when attached to the headrest, can sink in between the space between the seat and the headrest.
If you can find the right position, then this pillow would feel heavenly. The exterior is wonderfully soft and relaxing. Despite the low price tag, the quality dazzled us.
Unfortunately, this car pillow is not hypoallergenic. Also, it’s has a rather flat cushion shape, so it will not prevent the head falling off to the side.
Overall
This car pillow may not offer much side support, but we were very impressed by how comfortable it is when supporting the neck. The pillow is made from high-quality material and is easy to maintain. We’d say it’s worth every penny.
Pros
- Contains high-quality memory foam
- Can be folded into half its size
- Comes with travel bag
- Washable cover
- Affordable
Cons
- Requires proper placement to feel comfortable
- May not suit all cars or users
4. SSAWcasa AUS Seatbelt Pillow
Editor’s Rating:
Not all car pillows fit on the headrest. This is definitely one of the best seatbelt pillows for those who like sleeping with their sides supported when travelling.
This is an authentic AUS seatbelt pillow, one of the best brands for this type of pillow. The pillow is made for kids, but some adults would be able to use it as well.
Design
The car pillow is square-shaped and should be attached to the seatbelt. The pillow is filled with PP cotton. It’s not true cotton but is a highly popular material for filling things like pillows and cushions. PP cotton is very sinkable, but it is not hypoallergenic.
The exterior cover is made from a cotton velvet mix and is removable. It can be washed too. We recommend handwashing to prevent the cover from getting out of shape in the spinner.
Performance
This seatbelt cushion is best-suited for children. Since kids are too short to reach the headrest of the seat, this seatbelt pillow can step it. It can comfortably support a child’s neck while sleeping against the seatbelt.
Though the cover is intended for children, adults of a short stature can benefit from this as well. If you are used to sleeping on your side against the seatbelt rather than the headrest, this seatbelt car pillow can provide the support you need.
Be aware that this seatbelt pillow will not secure your head in place. It will not prevent the head from bobbing from side to side on bumpy rides. However, it can provide support when none exists. If you sleep against the seatbelt, you will fell way less achy when using this pillow.
The seatbelt pillow is really easy to install and remove. It’s easy to maintain as well. The cover is perfectly washable. The cushion stuffing is comfortable and soft no matter the temperature.
Overall
While we agree that seatbelt car pillows are not for everyone, they can be immensely useful. The AUS brand is top-notch and trustworthy. This seatbelt pillow is designed for kids, and if you have youngsters under the age of 12, they will certainly love it.
Pros
- Supports neck while leaning on the seatbelt
- Washable cover
- Soft stuffing
- Affordable
- Made for kids
Cons
- Not suitable for all adults
- Not hypoallergenic
5. LANGRIA Infinity-Shape Car Neck Pillow
Editor’s Rating:
This may be just the pillow you need to support your neck while on long car rides. This car pillow is specifically designed to reduce neck-aches. It’s also made from high-quality material and is one of the best products money can buy in our opinion.
Design
This pillow sports what the brand calls an “infinity” design. That is to say, it is very longish, compared to the square-ish shape of most car pillows. The pillow has a bow-like cinch in the middle, which is really what supports the neck.
The ergonomic design naturally supports the curve of any neck. The pillow is made from material certified safe from CertiPUR-US. You won’t have to worry about the stuffing inside containing any harmful materials. The pillow is very environmentally friendly.
The pillow has an elastic strap to secure it to the headrest or the seat. The stuffing of the pillow is memory foam. The navy blue cover of the pillow is machine-washable.
Performance
We are very pleased with the performance of this pillow. It feels so wonderfully soft underneath the head and provides just the right support for the neck. This car pillow can prevent the head bobbing from side to side. Even if it does, the pillow can cushion any impact that might cause pain later.
If you already suffer from neck pain, we highly recommend this pillow. The elastic strap of very sturdy and secures the pillow in place, so your head doesn’t have to. The texture of the pillow is very velvety and doesn’t feel synthetic at all.
Plus, this pillow is hypoallergenic and anti-bacterial, according to the brand. We could use it safely without fearing toxic vapors.
This car pillow should fit just about any headrest unless it is abnormally large. The only drawback is the price, which is a bit expensive.
Overall
This is truly an excellent product made from high-quality material. The neck support this car pillow provided was truly exceptional.
Pros
- Ergonomic design
- Hypoallergenic
- Washable cover
- Memory foam stuffing
- Made from certified-safe material
Cons
- Can be expensive
6. Dreamer Car Headrest Pillow
Editor’s Rating:
Most car pillows offer neck support. Some may offer head or back support. Dreamer Car pillow offers both neck and upper back support for passengers and drivers. If you are looking for a more holistic car pillow that offers extra support, this may be what you need.
Design
This car pillow is made from odor-free memory foam, which is hypoallergenic. This car pillow is, in fact, recommended for people with asthma and rhinitis. This pillow is designed to provide support to the head, neck, and the shoulder area.
The pillow is made from high-quality material. The pillow cover is made from polyester, which is also hypoallergenic. Polyester is also highly breathable, meaning it won’t cause your head to sweat.
The elastic strap is also polyester and secures with a high-grade buckle. The car pillow has two covers—an inner cover made from cotton, and an external cover made from polyester. The external cover and the elastic strap are washable.
Performance
We really liked the dense quality of the cushioning this car pillow provided. The memory foam is not too soft and offers truly excellent support. Not only can this relieve pain when sleeping, it can also improve driving posture.
This car pillow is really good at offering support from the shoulder area to the neck. It isn’t focused on just one area such as the neck, as most car pillows do. The memory foam, once you get used to it, really allows the body to sink in. It bounces back right away without a problem.
The polyester material doesn’t absorb sweat and remains odor-free. It’s easy enough to wash and dry too. This car pillow should fit just about any headrest unless it is abnormally large. The only drawback is the price, which is a bit expensive.
Our only gripe is with the elastic strap. While it’s sturdy and secures well, it can be too short for some car seat headrests.
Overall
There are many things we liked about this car pillow—mainly the triple support it provides to head, neck, and shoulders. It’s really great for those worried about shoulder pain or back pain after falling asleep on a car ride. Plus, this car pillow comes with a money-back, 1-year guarantee.
Pros
- High-grade memory foam
- Made from breathable fabrics
- Washable covers
- Security buckle for elastic strap
- Supports head, neck, and shoulders
- Guarantee included
Cons
- Elastic strap may be too short for some vehicles
7. CAMTOA 2PCS Car Neck Pillow (Soft Version)
Editor’s Rating:
From the outset, this car pillow doesn’t look much different from the TravelMate or Aeris mentioned above. However, it is available for purchase in packages of two. And the price for two is very affordable compared to similar products on the market. Plus, this car pillow has some features that certain potential customers might really like.
Design
The Camtoa is another car pillow made from memory foam. It can remain rather firm and dense without resulting in deformations. The pillow is stitched in high-strength elastic. The stitching won’t come off as you toss and turn in your sleep.
The pillow covers are made from PU leather. The material is very breathable, much like a natural fabric. Each external cover has a hidden zipper for removal and washing.
This pillow is made from what’s called perforating design, which increases airflow between the material and your skin. The leather material is quite permeable. This car pillow is available in four colors: black, gray, beige, and brown.
Performance
What was most interesting to us about this car pillow is the external fabric. In that, the pillow cover is not made from a fabric at all, but a synthetic form of breathable leather. The material is nevertheless soft because it’s perforated.
The pillow won’t feel uncomfortable even if though it’s made of leather. It’s a bit rough but does feel soft and pillowy. Besides, the leather is waterproof and won’t stain easily. We could remove the car pillow covers for washing as well.
As for the support, this car pillow offers standard head and neck support. The pillow is rather compact, which makes it easy to store. On the other hand, people who are a lot taller may find these car pillows inadequate.
The memory foam does its job to support the natural contours of the head and the neck to relieve tension. The pillow will attach easily to car headrest too.
We do have one complaint: the “soft” version of the pillow. The memory foam isn’t as dense in this one. It can feel very soft in the sense of being airy, so it may not provide enough support for some people.
Overall
In general, we were more than satisfied with this product. It’s easy to attach, maintain, and clean. While it’s not made from a fabric, it still felt like a comfy pillow. While the softness may not be for everyone, this product is well worth the money.
Pros
- Leathery external cover
- Washable
- Breathable car pillow cover
- Supports head and neck
- Elastic stitching
Cons
- May feel too soft
- May not suit tall people
8. ALIBO Memory Foam Car Neck Pillow With Adjustable Strap
Editor’s Rating:
If the headrest in your car seat is perpetually uncomfortable, then this car pillow exclusively for neck support may help. This roll-shaped pillow is slightly more expensive than most car pillows, but the price is worth the support it offers. Even people with medical conditions have found this neck pillow very helpful on long car rides.
Design
This car pillow is round-roll shaped, much like a neck pillow you might use on the bed. It doesn’t come with a head area support structure because it only supports the neck.
The car pillow roll is made from memory foam. Overall, the design is very compact. The roll has its own pillowcase made from satin. The pillow has an adjustable strap that will fit on to any headrest.
Performance
This neck pillow offers the exact amount of neck and back support one needs. It perfectly adapts the shape of the neck and offers excellent support.
The advantage and the disadvantage of this neck pillow are that it has no head support section. If you have car seat headrests that jut forward, this a roll car pillow like this can offer excellent neck support. If you are bothered by your neck jerking forward when the car brakes suddenly, this car pillow can cushion a blow like that.
The satin pillowcase feels quite wonderful. The material is breathable and washable. It’s understandably not as comfortable as cotton, but it won’t feel uncomfortable under normal circumstances.
In the summer, however, the satin can get hot and make the neck feel heated. But this isn’t an issue when the air conditioning is on.
Overall
We were impressed by the exact type of neck support this car pillow offers. It cradles the neck gently and firmly for sleeping as well as rough car rides. While we are not a fan of the satin pillowcase, we still like this car pillow for the neck support it offers.
Pros
- Truly excellent neck support
- Unique shape to support the natural curve of the neck
- Great for use with thick headrests
- Washable pillowcase
- Compact design
Cons
- Slightly expensive
- No head support
9. JELEGANT Car Neck Pillow
Editor’s Rating:
This car neck pillow set of two is very much like the Camtoa neck pillows we reviewed above. This set also comes in 2-pieces at an affordable price. The sizes are slightly different, so these car pillows might appeal to those who may prefer a slightly smaller size.
Design
Each of these car pillows is made from PU leather. The filling material isn’t disclosed by the manufacturer. The leather covers are removable and washable. PU leather is, of course, very breathable.
These pillows have a compact shape, but these are quite long compared to similar designs mentioned above. There’s plenty of neck support for those who wish for more. The pillows are available in two colors: black and khaki.
Performance
While the shape of these neck supporting car pillows aren’t particularly innovative, we liked these for their generous size. These pillows can cover the top of shoulders up to the base of the skull. That is a very comfortable fit in our opinion.
The material isn’t specified, but it isn’t memory foam. However, the pillows have a very cushion-like feeling. It’s very soft and feels good under the head. If you use this pillow when driving, you will barely notice it. But it will support your neck when you need a rest.
For some, these pillows may feel a bit too soft. They can collapse nearly onto themselves. Regardless, there is enough support. If you want a particularly thick neck pillow, this might not be it.
The pillows are long-lasting. They are very durable. The leathery exterior looks beautiful inside any car and doesn’t wear out that easily.
Overall
All in all, we were very satisfied with these car pillows. They provide excellent support and don’t cost much. While the softness may be too much for some, we nevertheless felt well supported by these car pillows.
Pros
- Easily washable covers
- Bargain price for two
- Available in multiple colors
- Slightly larger than usual
Cons
- May feel too soft
10. ZATOOTO Memory Foam Car Neck Pillow
Editor’s Rating:
This car pillow, in our opinion, could either be a hit or a miss. It has a unique shape that supports the head, neck, and the upper back area. Not everyone will be comfortable with it, but for some, this would be exactly the product they have been looking for.
Design
This is a strangely-shaped neck pillow stuffed with memory foam. It’s very thick and has a shape that covers the headrest up to the top of the seat. The pillow has to be attached to the headrest.
There are multiple elastic bands to secure the thick car pillow to the headrest. The pillow has a removable and washable cover. It is made from 100 percent nontoxic material, according to the manufacturer.
Performance
The brand name aside, this car pillow intimidated us at first. Note that this car pillow is really thick. The thickest part is 5.1 inches. However, once each of us sunk into it, it felt quite comfortable to most.
One of the biggest perks of this car pillow is that it doesn’t slide around. It has more than one elastic strap. Once secured to the headrest, which can be done quickly enough, it would stay still. People who move a lot when sleeping would love this.
We feared that the thickness would push the head forward. But that wasn’t quite an issue. This car pillow covers that space between the headrest and the seat, so it’s really supportive.
That being said, some people will just not like the shape, like a few of our reviewers. The thick and unique shape isn’t for everyone.
But if you suffer from chronic neck and back problems while driving or riding in a car, then this car pillow just might be the solution. It’s affordable and feels heavenly.
The pillowcase is made from a synthetic material. It’s very airy and adds to the overall comfort of this car pillow.
Overall
Those who like this car pillow loved the head and neck support it provides. Those who don’t like it at least admired the innovative shape. You will really have to try it out to know whether you love it or hate it.
Pros
- Unique shape that supports the neck and upper back
- Breathable fabric cover
- Washable pillowcase
Cons
- Shape is not for everyone
Guide to Buying the Best Car Pillows
There are many different types of car pillows you can buy just about anywhere online. Here is a useful guide that will help you distinguish the good products from the not-so-good:
Understand the Support Offered
Car pillows are designed differently depending on the brand. However, there are certain standard designs that offer support to a particular area of the body. Here are the most common types of car pillows you will see for sale:
- Neck support car pillows—These are rectangular or roll-shaped car pillows that exclusively support the neck.
- Head support car pillows—These car pillows are shaped like mini pillows that can cradle your head while you sleep or drive. These car pillows also offer some neck support.
- Triple support—These are unique designs brands have come up with to support your head, neck, and the shoulder area. These designs are non-standard and vary between different brands.
Look for car pillows depending on the type of support you require. Most buyers want top-notch neck support. In that case, you can directly browse car neck support pillows.
Most products offer neck support and indirectly some back support as well. You should look at the product pictures carefully to determine if you like the shape. Of course, you will have to test the products first-hand to truly find out if you like the car pillow you buy.
Different Types of Stuffing Material
Car pillows are stuffed with different materials. Do these matter to your purchase?
If you have sensitive skin or have eco-friendly sensibilities, you might want to stay away from potentially toxic materials. Most car pillows are stuffed with memory foam, a highly popular material that offers excellent support. However, some may be stuffed with synthetic cotton or a similar material.
If you want a hypoallergenic car pillow, always look for the hypoallergenic label. Don’t assume the product is suitable for people with sensitive skin.
What is Memory Foam?
When you browse for car pillow products, you will notice that most are stuffed with memory foam. You may have come across this material before, but what exactly is it?
Memory foam is a trade name for polyurethane, also known as viscoelastic. It was originally developed by NASA to be used in airplane seats. Memory foam is very popular because it can take shape of the body when it presses into the material.
Memory foam is sensitive to pressure and heat. When your head rests on a memory foam pillow, it will naturally take the shape of your head, thus supporting the natural contours of your body. It’s better than a cotton pillow, which only dents.
This material responds to heat as well. In warm or hot conditions, memory foam softens like cotton. But in cold weather, it’s hard and only softens under body heat.
Some people praise the benefits of memory foam, claiming they can’t sleep without it. There are some disadvantages, too. The foam can feel hot in warm weather. It’s also known to give off a smell, especially when new.
Always Check the Size
When buying any type of car pillow, always check the size. You would want a car pillow that can match your height and body shape. No one wants to find out that the product they ordered is tiny compared to how it looked in the photo. You can eliminate this confusion by inspecting the dimensions of the product before purchasing.
Vehicle Model Compatibility
You don’t necessarily need to find a car pillow that is compatible with your vehicle model. Nearly all products are made to universally fit any car.
However, if you have a car seat or a headrest that is bigger or smaller than usual, you might want to check whether the straps of the pillow would fit. If the straps are elastic, it should fit. But if it comes with a buckle, make sure the strap is long enough for your car’s headrests.
See Attachment Type
There are two main ways car pillows fit on to seats:
- By the headrest
- By the seatbelt
The vast majority of car pillows attach to the headrest of the seat. A few attach to the seatbelt, so you can sleep against the seatbelt.
The seatbelt car pillows are mainly designed for kids. But if you are short and your head doesn’t really reach the headrest, you can try using a seatbelt car pillow.
Seatbelt pillows can complement a headrest pillow for a more comfortable ride if you prefer.
Pay Attention to the Car Pillow Cover or Case
The car pillow must have a removable cover or a pillowcase. Otherwise, you won’t be able to regularly wash the pillow. It’s not possible to wash memory foam or other stuffing, obviously.
The manufacturer must specify what type of material the pillow cover is made from. You can determine how comfortable and hypoallergenic the pillow is depending on the material.
Most car pillow covers are made from synthetic, breathable material. Synthetic fabrics, unlike natural fabrics such as cotton, don’t retain water, That means the pillow won’t get soaked if you perspire during the drive.
Breathable means the material doesn’t retain heat. So you can rest your head on the pillow for a prolonged period without feeling very hot on one side.
Some pillow covers are made from a synthetic leather with enough holes (perforation) to make it feel like fabric. These leather covers are comfortable, and may even be easier to maintain than the fabric variety.
Hypoallergenic fabrics should be listed as such. You can determine what type of material you like the best.
Does a Warranty Matter?
Car pillows don’t usually come with a warranty. However, some brands rarely offer money-back guarantees. As car pillows are not very expensive, don’t make the warranty a big issue. If it’s available, then great. Even if a warranty isn’t available, a refund policy should apply to your purchase.
