So many pillows and different new ways to lay your head while you fly

By Emily Johnson

With Americans averaging insufficient hours of sleep, we are in desperate need of a good night’s sleep, especially when traveling. These companies have recognized this issue and have launched products to combat sleepless travel.

There are now dozens of different travel pillows and devices made for sleeping on planes. And many of them get sent to our office for review. Here are some of the most recent entries into the in-flight pillow competition.

The NodPod

The NodPod is not just like any other pillow. Using a cord, the pillow ties to the back of your seat, so it is positioned to go under your neck and cradle your neck, almost like a hammock.

The pillow is conveniently small, but still has a large effect: it recreates how you sleep in a bed while in an upright position. It keeps your head from falling forward as well as left or right. So say goodbye to hurting your neck and back and awkwardly falling asleep on another passenger. Not yet on Amazon, the NodPod has a KickStarter campaign to raise the funds for this sleep solution. You can use the NodPod on a plane, or on a train, or a car, but don’t try it on a bike. $25.00

The J-Pillow

J-Pillow Travel Pillow – Head, Chin and Neck Support – British Invention of the Year 2013, a J-shaped pillow, helps maintain good posture for tired travelers. It supports the head, neck, and chin. The extra limb under your chin allows for you to keep your head up.

Invented by former flight attendant Gemma Jensen, the J-Pillow has been endorsed as an orthopedic pillow by medical professionals. In addition, it can compact into a tight ball, so it is convenient for the light packer.

This pillow is different from most and might be a bit harder to pack or hang on the side of your backpack like many travelers do when they’re walking through the airport. $25.95

The On-Hand Pillow

Clöudz On-Hand Microbead Pillow – Navy is unique in its kind, as your hand fits inside to support your head perfectly. For more comfort, the outer shell is your choice of cozy plush or cool spandex. This is so nice that my companion Mary uses it every night at home in her bed!

Its premium “Comforlite” microbeads allow for a relaxing pressure, creating a more calming sleep as they mold to the contours of your face. It easily snaps to your luggage, so you’re not left carrying it through the airport.$14.99

The Jet Comfy

The JetComfy takes a bit more of a technical route to providing traveler comfort. It’s a big padded rectangle attached to a metal arm that affixes to the arm of the airline set, letting you lean against it. You can extend the arm to reach way, way up, as if you’re holding your hand to your face, as many travelers I’m sure have done.

This is a superior solution to the age-old question of how to sleep better on planes but there is one catch. What do you do with it while you’re on your trip?

The inherent problem here is that it’s way too bulky compared to the other pillows, and the metal arm is hard to put back down. Jet Comfy Pillow $49.99

Cabeau Evolution S3 Pillow

The state-of-art Evolution S3 pillow incorporates Cabeau’s patented ergonomic design with high technology features and fabrics. The new patent-pending SEAT STRAP SYSTEM (S3) will keep your head from falling forward by attaching to the plane seat wings.

The body of the pillow is designed with a high-performance quick-dry fabric to keep you cool and dry in almost any climate, so you can rest and relax on your journey. The pillow’s the adjustable clasp will ensure the pillow fits your neck size.

According to a recent study, 77% of travelers say they experience neck pain during a flight, highlighting a need for better head support and in-flight sleep comfort. The Evolution S3 pillow, which comes in five colors, is proven to solve this issue, eliminating travel discomfort connected to head falling forward and sideways, and uneasy sleep. Cabeau Evolution S3 Travel Neck Pillow –  $39.00

These products are not just your typical pillows to add to your carry-on, but actively promote relaxation and a better sleep on your next flight. So, if you’re looking to increase your hours of sleep and serotonin levels for when you step off the airplane, they might just be your next best purchase.