Getting the Best out of Your Inflatable Neck Pillow
When you travel with your family the most difficult thing is to maintain the luggage capacity, from clothes to essentials, it becomes really difficult to carry a big giant pillow with yourself. But did you know that there is a pillow that can fit into a small pouch and doesn't take up much space? Yes, I am talking about inflatable neck pillows. Out of all the forms of neck pillows today, inflatable neck pillows are increasing in popularity due to their comfort, mobility, and convenience. Whether you are taking a long international flight or a road trip, the inflatable neck pillow can be your travel best friend.
In this blog, we will talk about how you can optimize the use of your inflatable neck pillow, compare it to memory foam neck pillows, and provide tips on how to select the right neck pillow for your traveling needs.
Why Choose an Inflatable Neck Pillow?
An inflatable neck pillow is unique because it can be inflated and deflated easily for compact storage. This feature makes them effortless to store and carry. It is lightweight, means that travelers won’t have to worry about excess luggage weight and ensures easy portability.
These pillows are primarily constructed from soft and durable materials like PVC or nylon, which cannot only withstand the pressure of inflation, but also give a cozy, cushioned surface for your neck. Different shapes are available with inflatable neck pillows, and the most popular is the U-shape with an opening in the middle, which encircles and supports your neck from all sides.
Inflatable Neck Pillow VS Memory Foam Neck Pillo
While inflatable neck pillows are extremely portable and highly customizable, memory foam neck pillows are an equally great option when it comes to comfort while traveling. Memory foam neck pillows are renowned for their ability to contour, which is their most impressive feature, as these travel pillows provide extra support to your neck and head. Ideal for sleepers who prefer a more firm supportive nest around their neck for sleeping so that it can keep their neck in proper alignment.
Key Differences:
Inflatable Neck Pillow |
Memory Foam Neck Pillow |
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inflatable neck pillows are more portable and convenient. You can deflate and store them easily, and they take up very little space in your luggage. |
Compared to inflatable neck pillows, memory foam pillows are more bulky and demand more space in your luggage. |
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You can adjust an inflatable pillow to make them firmer, but compared to memory foam, they don’t provide as much contouring. |
Memory foam pillows are great for those people who regularly require neck support. |
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As a hygienic option, inflatable neck pillows are the best choice. Inflatable neck pillows require less maintenance. |
Memory foam pillows absorb dust, dirt, and oils from the skin. |
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inflatable neck pillows are cheaper than memory foam pillows. |
Memory foam pillows are quite expensive. |
Tips for getting the most out of your inflatable neck pillow
To use your inflatable travel neck pillow to its maximum effect, here are some tips:
Inflate to the Desired Setting
Travel pillows are great because they allow you to fully inflate and deflate it very easily. You can adjust how firm you want it to be, so you can mold it to your needs using air. You can also make the pillow softer by filling it up until it supports but doesn't feel hard.
To make it fit more comfortably, only fill it up to where you can support your neck adequately. Again, the priority here is comfort, so keep your neck in mind when adjusting the height and position of your armrests.
The ideal setting
The ideal setting is always a common miss when using an inflatable travel pillow, especially for the neck. Make sure to set it to a medium level so that neither side is too firm or too loose. If too firm, it could make it uncomfortable to use, and if to lose, the fill might make it difficult to rest on.
The Most Important Detail in Support Design is the Structure Positioning
Make sure to position your inflatable pillow properly so as to maximize its benefits.
While some inflatable neck pillows that come with additional side supports or headrests might be more comfortable for you, most neck pillows come with a held pillow design feature and automatic support features.
Take Care of Your Pillow
Unlike traditional foldable neck pillows, inflatable neck ones are easier to wash and more durable. Make sure that you do not have any tears or cuts because even the tiniest gaps can escape air. When not in use, shape the inflatable neck pillow by keeping it in its case. If you find yourself in a more rugged dirtier environment, consider purchasing a model that is more durable and resistant to punctures.
Why Covers Are Important
While some covers for these inflatable neck pillows are washable, others are not, and thus a travel size pillow will be required. A regular pillow will do. Use a soft cloth cover for the regular pillow so that the cover can keep oil and dirt from soiling the pillow, particularly if you are traveling to outdoor areas.
Sleep on Comfort
Materials used to inflate the neck pillow matters to comfort just as much as the fabric of the pillow itself. An odor and bite resistant material is also a great plus, especially if you have a lot of travel plans in the near future.
Final Thoughts
An inflatable neck pillow makes traveling more comfortable, especially for a traveler with a busy flight itinerary. When traveling across the globe or locally, this adjustable pillow is comfortable and easy to pack, making it a true game-changer. Undoubtedly, memory foam pillows provide the most comfort and support. That said, for light short excursions, inflatable neck pillows take the crown as the best travel backup pillow due to their lightweight and budget-friendly nature.
Hopefully by following the travel tips above and choosing the right neck pillow, you’ll improve the quality of rest during your trip, ensuring that when you arrive at your final destination, you’re refreshed and energized. As a general rule, learn to find the balance between the support, position, and stiffness you need, and then you’re good to go. Happy Travels!
FAQs
What is the proper way to inflate my inflatable neck pillow?
Use the valve to blow air into the pillow until the desired firmness is obtained. Just don’t blow a shellacking into it, and make sure not to overinflate for your comfort, and then securely close the valve.
How to clean inflatable neck pillow?
Most inflatable pillows are wipeable with a damp cloth. If the pillow is removable, wash it according to the directions provided by the manufacturer or wash it with a gentle soap.
Can I bring an inflatable neck pillow on a flight?
Yes, you can bring an inflatable neck pillows for long flights, since you can adjust the firmness and deflate them so that they won't take up any space in your pack when not in use.
How to Make an Inflatable Neck Pillow More Comfortable
Elevate your neck to a supporting level and add a pillowcase to reduce stiffness and maintain hygiene
Is an inflatable neck pillow or memory foam neck pillow more comfortable?
Memory foam pillows naturally provide soft, even support that molds to your neck, while inflatable pillows let you tailor firmness to suit your comfort level.