Talking About Clothing and Accessories

If you are planning on traveling this holiday season to visit friends and family, you might be dreading those long flights or car rides. Fortunately, by packing the right creature comforts, you might be able to stay comfortable or snag a few winks—though maybe not forty. Here are three things you should look for in a travel pillow for flying or land travel and why you won't regret the investment.

1. A Removable Cover

Whether you are on the road or on a crowded flight, your travel pillow might endure its fair share of smudges and spills. Travel pillows can get tremendously dirty, especially if you travel with kids, wear makeup, or plan to use the pillow regularly. Fortunately, some pillow manufacturers have solved this age-old problem by offering travel pillows that have removable, washable covers. These models are typically designed with reinforced stitching and durable fabrics that can handle the stresses of frequent washing and drying. 

In addition to keeping your travel gear looking pristine, washable travel pillows also keep you from trying to fall asleep on a pillow that smells or that is smudged with last week's travel snacks.

2. The Right Fit

Whether you tend to fall forward when you sleep or you like to recline all the way back on that airplane, finding a travel pillow with the right fit is crucial. Before you start shopping for travel accessories, think carefully about how you tend to sleep on airplanes and in cars. Look for a travel pillow designed for that sleeping position, and don't settle for anything less. When you find the right pillow, try it on first to see if it fits well with the contours of your neck. Look for a pillow that is supportive enough to handle the weight of your head but soft enough to cushion your body comfortably. 

3. Built-In Features

These days, you can find travel pillows fitted with all kinds of handy accessories ranging from built-in hoodies to keep your head warm to travel eye masks to block out annoying light. Believe it or not, there are even travel pillows made to support open books so that you can fall asleep enjoying a piece of fine literature. Fabrics made to wick away heat and moisture can help you to stay cool and dry on the road, while cozy plush acrylic covers can keep you toasty on chilly airplanes.

By thinking carefully about your travel sleeping preferences and choosing a pillow that fulfills your needs, you can stay comfortable and truly enjoy the journey.