Trying to sleep on a long flight or train ride can be tough, but the perfect travel pillow can help you arrive at your destination feeling rested and ready to explore. Enter the trtl Travel Pillow Plus — a uniquely supportive sleep accessory made for folks on the go.
As an upgraded version of the original trtl, the Plus comes with an internal plastic support system and scarf-like design that make it pretty different from your average U-shaped travel pillow. In this trtl Travel Pillow Plus review, I’ll show you exactly what it’s made of, how it works, and how it compares to the flagship model.
trtl Pillow Plus
The trtl Travel Pillow Plus takes the neck support and comfort of the original trtl Travel Pillow to the next level!
Sleepopolis Score
4.80 / 5
Read Full Review
trtl Travel Pillow Plus Video Review
Brand Snapshot
The idea for the trtl brand first came about in 2010, when a couple of college roommates began experimenting with different ways to sleep on the go. After four years and dozens of prototypes, the original trtl travel pillow was born. It was an instant hit on Amazon (earning record-breaking sales), gained popularity at the MTV European Music Awards, and even took home E-Commerce Exporter of the Year at the Scottish Export Awards.
I’ve already had the pleasure of reviewing the Original trtl Travel Pillow, and after thoroughly testing it, I could see what all the fuss was about. But this review focuses specifically on the trtl Travel Pillow Plus, the “new and improved” model. So follow along as I take you through my personal experience snoozing with it so you can determine whether or not it’s the right fit for you.
What Is the trtl Travel Pillow Plus Made Of?
When I first unpacked the trtl Plus, I immediately noticed how similar it looks to the original model. It’s lightweight, compact, and resembles a scarf crossed with a neck brace. But as I explored it a bit more, I noticed some key differences that make this one a little more advanced.
First, the cover fabric is made from a blend of polyester, spandex, rayon, and fleece, which combine to offer a soft, stretchy, and breathable feel. The original trtl Travel Pillow is covered in 100 percent fleece, which is a little too warming for my taste. So, sleepers who run hot might be most compatible with the trtl Plus.
Second, two velcro patches (instead of one) keep the fabric sleeve wrapped around your neck so the pillow doesn’t slip off mid-slumber. Meanwhile, two pieces of memory foam provide some extra cushion, and two knobs allow you to adjust the height of the plastic insert.
All trtl travel pillows are filled with a hard yet flexible C-shaped plastic apparatus designed to keep your head and neck in a safe position while you travel. But how does it work, and is it comfortable enough for a long haul? Let’s take a closer look.
More: See how the trtl Travel Pillow Plus compares to the Infinity Travel Pillow.
How to Use the trtl Travel Pillow Plus
Like the original trtl pillow, the trtl Plus is designed to promote healthy posture when you’re in the upright position. Essentially, whether you’re on a long plane ride or sitting shotgun on a road trip, the plastic piece inside this pillow is meant to hold your head in neutral alignment with your spine.
To put it on, hold the pillow out in front of you, with the sleeve totally detached from the velcro patches. Then, position the plastic part of the pillow against your neck, with the top of the C-curve supporting your jaw, and the bottom resting on top of your shoulder. Wrap the sleeve around your neck, and affix it to the two velcro patches to keep it secure. Finally, lean your face against the plastic part and allow it to cradle your head until you doze off.
Now, if you’re feeling confused about how to wear this accessory, keep in mind that its entire surface is labeled with instructions. You can remove the labels if you like, but I left them on for a bit of extra guidance.
Once your pillow is securely fastened around your neck, you’ll probably notice that it doesn’t feel like your average travel pillow. It’s not plush or fluffy, and its scarf-like design might take some getting used to. So allow me to detail my personal experience with the trtl Travel Pillow Plus so you can get a better sense of how it performs.
trtl Pillow Plus
The trtl Travel Pillow Plus takes the neck support and comfort of the original trtl Travel Pillow to the next level!
Sleepopolis Score
4.80 / 5
Read Full Review
What Does the trtl Travel Pillow Plus Feel Like?
As I mentioned up top, there is nothing plush about this pillow. Yes, the memory foam pieces provide a nice buffer between you and the plastic insert (which, in my experience, makes this model cozier than the original). But if you’re looking for an especially cushy travel companion, this isn’t it.
That said, this pillow did an excellent job of keeping my posture healthy. The plastic insert comfortably locked my head and neck in place so that my spine didn’t fall out of its neutral alignment. Remember, the concept behind this design is that plastic is less likely to compress as compared to foam, polyester, or a softer material. So no matter how long your trip takes, this pillow was built to maintain its shape and support.
I also found the cover fabric to be very breathable; in fact, this pillow never made me warm. But perhaps the coolest perk the trtl Plus has to offer is its height adjustability. By turning the little toggles on the cover, you can make the plastic insert taller or shorter in order to fit your unique needs.
I’m quite petite, so I only ever used the shortest setting. However, I like that I can lend this pillow to my (much) taller partner, or share it when we take trips together. In my experience, this pillow’s customizable height settings make it great for sleepers of all sizes.
Ultimately, I prefer the trtl Travel Pillow Plus to the original. It’s more breathable, more comfortable, and features an adjustable design. Of course, these added features make the Plus about $35 more expensive, but I think it’s worth the extra dough.
But the thing I love about both trtl pillows is that the plastic insert is unmatched in its ability to support me in the upright position. If you’re looking for a travel pillow that will help you maintain healthy posture, I think the trtl brand is a great way to go.
More: Check out my guide to the Best Pillows for Neck Pain.
Is the trtl Travel Pillow Plus a Good Pillow for You?
Before we wrap up this trtl Travel Pillow Plus review, let’s recap who it is and isn’t a good fit for.
Who Should Try the trtl Travel Pillow Plus
- Light travelers: This pillow weighs less than a pound and can easily fit into a carry-on bag. If you’re tired of dragging a bulky pillow around when you travel, this might be the small and compact accessory you’ve been searching for.
- Hot sleepers: If the idea of wrapping this pillow’s cover fabric around your neck worries you, take comfort in the fact that it’s made from a very breathable material. In my experience, the spandex and nylon promoted a lot of airflow and kept my neck from getting too hot. Plus, it’s easily removable and machine washable.
- Those in need of extra head and neck support: My favorite thing about this pillow is how it cradled my head and neck. Obviously, sitting in an upright position is not ideal when you want to catch some Zzz’s, but the trtl Plus made me feel cozy and supported. Not to mention, the memory foam cushioning prevented the plastic insert from pressing into my skin.
- Couples of different heights: The main difference between this pillow and the original trtl travel pillow is that you can adjust the height. This feature allows you to make the plastic insert taller or shorter in order to meet the unique needs of your (or your partner’s) body.
Who Should Not Try the trtl Travel Pillow Plus
- Traditional pillow lovers: I know I keep saying this, but it’s very important to remember that this is not a plush pillow. Folks looking for a fluffy, traditionally shaped pillow should look elsewhere.
- Anyone who needs music to fall asleep: Sleepers who like to use over-the-ear headphones might find it difficult to wear them with this pillow. In my experience, the plastic part of the pillow kept pushing my headphones up and away from my ear (until I eventually settled on earbuds).
trtl Pillow Plus
The trtl Travel Pillow Plus takes the neck support and comfort of the original trtl Travel Pillow to the next level!
Sleepopolis Score
4.80 / 5
Read Full Review
Trtl Travel Pillow Policies and FAQs
How does the trtl Travel Pillow Plus ship?
Trtl Travel Pillows come with free shipping in the United States.
Does the trtl Travel Pillow Plus come with a sleep trial?
Yes, trtl offers a 100-night sleep trial on their Travel Pillow Plus.
Does the trtl Travel Pillow Plus come with a warranty?
No, it does not appear a warranty is available for the trtl Travel Pillow Plus yet.
Is the trtl Travel Pillow Plus machine washable?
All trtl travel pillows can be washed by machine, but you must remove the plastic insert first. Additionally, use a gentle cycle and mild detergent to prevent any damage to the material. Then, allow it to air-dry, or tumble-dry on low heat before re-inserting the plastic piece.
How do you pack the trtl Travel Pillow Plus?
One of the best things about the trtl travel pillow is that it’s very lightweight, small, and easy to store in a carry-on bag.
Does the trtl Travel Pillow Plus count as a carry on?
Most commercial airlines don’t consider travel pillows, coats, or purses to be carry-on items. But you should check with them first before bringing it along.
Sarah Riccio
Former Senior Writer and Bedding Expert
About Author
Sarah is the former senior writer and bedding expert at Sleepopolis. She received her degree in Creative Writing from Brooklyn College and spends her free time doing stand-up, making pasta, and hanging with her cats.