trtl Pillow Plus Review — Adjustable, Breathable Neck Support
Overview: The trtl Pillow Plus is a travel neck pillow adjustable to fit all heights, made with breathable mesh fabric and high-density foam. Twist the toggles on its internal ribs to customize ergonomic head and neck support for airplanes, cars, and trains—ideal for frequent flyers seeking better sleep on the go.
Key Features & Benefits:
- Get an adjustable fit for all heights with twistable toggles on the pillow ribs.
- Enjoy breathable mesh fabric and high-density foam for cool, supportive comfort.
- Store in the included waterproof travel bag for compact, hygienic portability.
- Attach easily to luggage to save carry-on space during transit.
- Sleep comfortably on long flights thanks to the ergonomic internal neck support.
- Keep it clean with machine-washable, quick-drying construction for easy maintenance.
$84.99
Introduction
The trtl Pillow Plus is a travel neck pillow that takes a different approach from the usual U-shaped cushion. Instead of a continuous horseshoe design, it uses an internal ribbed support system with adjustable toggles and a combination of breathable mesh, soft fleece, and high-density foam to hold your head in a stable, ergonomic position. It’s made for people who want more customizable neck support on planes, trains, cars, and long commutes.
Who it’s for: frequent flyers, road-trippers, and anyone who has struggled with neck strain on long trips and wants a compact, washable option. Quick verdict: The trtl Pillow Plus is a thoughtful upgrade over basic travel pillows if you want adjustable, structured support and easy-care materials.
What’s in the Box
- trtl Pillow Plus travel pillow (internal ribbed support + fleece/mesh cover)
- Waterproof travel bag for carrying and attaching to luggage
- Care tag / instructions (Not specified)
- Warranty or registration card (Not specified)
If you need a full accessories list beyond those items, the manufacturer’s packaging details are Not specified in the listing.
Design & Build
The trtl Pillow Plus departs from foam horseshoes by using an internal neck support structure—described as ribs with toggles you twist to lengthen or shorten the support. That mechanism lets you fine-tune how much lift and forward support your head receives, which helps accommodate a wider range of body heights and head positions than fixed-shape pillows.
Materials
- Outer layer: a breathable mesh fabric paired with a super-soft fleece face for comfort against the skin.
- Core: high-density foam stretched over the internal ribs to provide cushioning and shape retention.
- Extras: a waterproof travel bag for storage and transport.
Fit and ergonomics
- The adjustable ribs make this pillow particularly versatile: you can tailor the profile for a petite neck or extend support for taller users. The internal structure aims to prevent the head from falling forward or to the side—a common source of travel stiffness.
- Because the support is structural rather than purely plush, the feel leans toward firm and supportive rather than sink-in softness. That’s better for posture but may not satisfy someone who prefers a pillow that’s more cloud-like.
Size and portability
- The trtl Pillow Plus is designed to be compact and easy to carry. The travel bag is waterproof and has attachment options so you can secure it to your luggage externally—useful when you don’t want it taking up limited carry-on space. Exact dimensions and weight are Not specified in the listing.
Careability
- The cover and construction are described as machine-washable and quick-drying, which is a practical benefit for frequent travelers who want a pillow that stays fresh.
Key Features
Adjustable internal rib support (twist-to-fit toggles)
Why it matters: Many travel pillows are one-size-fits-all and leave some people with poor alignment. The trtl Pillow Plus lets you change the amount of support by twisting toggles on the ribs to extend or shorten the support rails. This flexibility helps you find a more ergonomic head position, whether seated upright on a plane or reclining in a car seat.
Real-life use: On long-haul flights where you want to sleep without your chin falling forward, or on a train with variable seat recline, being able to increase forward support can reduce neck strain and morning stiffness.
Ergonomic neck positioning (internal structure)
Why it matters: A structured support system holds the neck in a neutral alignment better than a flat cushion. That reduces the tendency for your head to lean sideways or drop forward—common causes of sore necks after travel.
Real-life use: If you often wake up with a crick in the neck after sleeping in a window seat, a pillow that maintains alignment can make you feel significantly more refreshed upon arrival.
Breathable mesh + soft fleece face
Why it matters: Breathability is important in warm cabins or conditioned cars. A mesh outer layer helps airflow while a fleece face keeps the surface comfortable against your skin.
Real-life use: On long flights or hot-weather travel, the combined fabrics reduce the likelihood of sweating and the discomfort that comes with a hot, clammy pillow surface.
High-density foam cushioning
Why it matters: High-density foam provides lasting shape and support compared with low-density foams that compress quickly. It helps the pillow keep its functional profile over time.
Real-life use: If you use a travel pillow frequently, the denser foam is less likely to flatten out, maintaining the ergonomic lift you set with the toggles.
Machine-washable and quick-drying
Why it matters: Road dust, spilled drinks, and body oils can make travel pillows smell or look worn. Being able to toss the pillow (or its cover) in a machine reduces maintenance hassle.
Real-life use: After a long trip, wash the cover so the pillow is fresh for the next journey. Quick-drying material means less downtime between uses.
Waterproof travel bag and attachment option
Why it matters: A waterproof bag protects the pillow in inclement weather and when stowed on the outside of luggage. It also makes it easy to clip the pillow to baggage without taking up internal carry-on room.
Real-life use: Attach the bag to the outside of a checked or carry luggage handle while waiting in airport lines. The waterproofing is helpful if you encounter rain while traveling between taxi and terminal.
Performance & Use
Setup and first-time adjustment
- Start with the pillow in its neutral position. Twist the toggles on the ribs to slowly extend the support until your head feels aligned—not pushed too far forward. Small adjustments matter; give yourself a few minutes to find the sweet spot.
- The pillow is meant to be used with the fleece side against your jaw/chin area for comfortable skin contact and the mesh toward the outside for airflow.
Daily use tips
- If you’re switching between upright and reclined seats, recalibrate the toggles. Upright seats typically require slightly more forward support to keep your chin from dropping.
- Use the waterproof travel bag to store the pillow between uses. If you don’t want it in your carry-on, attach the bag to your luggage handle to free up space.
Cleaning and maintenance
- The listing says the pillow is machine-washable and quick-drying. If the manufacturer’s label recommends removing the internal structure before washing, follow those instructions; if not stated, wash on a gentle cycle and air-dry or use a low-heat setting if permitted (specific care steps are Not specified).
- Keep the toggles and ribs clean and free from sand or debris; these mechanical parts can be vulnerable if dirt accumulates.
Limitations to be aware of
- If you prefer a very soft, cloud-like pillow, the structured, high-density foam design will feel firmer and more supportive. That’s intentional for alignment, but it’s a textural preference.
- Exact dimensions, weight, and full materials breakdown are Not specified in the listing, so if compact size in centimeters/inches or exact weight is a strict requirement, confirm details with the seller before purchase.
Pros vs Cons
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Adjustable ribbed support lets you tailor neck lift for different heights and positions (listing description). | Feels firmer and more structured than soft, plush alternatives—may not suit pillow-first sleepers. |
Breathable mesh with soft fleece face reduces heat buildup and improves comfort (listing description). | Exact dimensions and weight are Not specified, so fit for small seats is uncertain. |
High-density foam and internal structure maintain shape and alignment over time. | Mechanical toggles/ribs add moving parts that could be susceptible to wear or debris. |
Machine-washable and quick-drying for easy maintenance (listing description). | Not all care details (e.g., whether internal frame must be removed before washing) are specified. |
Waterproof travel bag with attachment options keeps the pillow protected and easy to carry. | If you prefer extremely pliant memory foam, this firmer design won’t match that “hug” sensation. |
Who Should Buy
- Frequent flyers and long-haul travelers who need consistent neck alignment and want an adjustable solution.
- Commuters who nap on trains or buses and prefer a structured support that prevents head slumping.
- Travelers who value easy-care gear—machine-washable materials and a quick-dry design.
- People who want a compact, attachable option for luggage storage (waterproof travel bag included).
Who Shouldn’t Buy
- Users who want a very soft, cloud-like memory foam pillow rather than a firm, supportive structure.
- Buyers who need exact size/weight specifications before purchasing—those details are Not specified in the listing.
- Travelers who dislike mechanical components; the adjustable toggles are useful but do add complexity and potential points of failure for extremely rough handling.
Specs
Specification | Details |
---|---|
Product name | trtl Pillow Plus (from listing) |
Core material | High-density foam (from listing) |
Outer fabrics | Breathable mesh and super soft fleece (from listing) |
Adjustable support | Internal rib structure with twist toggles (from listing) |
Machine-washable | Yes (listed as machine-washable and quick-drying) |
Carry/storage | Waterproof travel bag included (from listing) |
Dimensions | Not listed |
Weight | Not listed |
Exact cleaning instructions | Not specified |
Warranty | Not listed |
Closing — Should You Buy?
If your priority is better neck alignment during travel and you want an adjustable, easy-to-clean pillow that can be attached to your luggage, the trtl Pillow Plus is a solid choice. It trades plushness for structured support, so expect a firmer, more posture-focused feel. For travelers who wake stiff after naps or who need a customizable fit for different seat types, this pillow is worth considering.
If you decide to proceed, check the seller listing for any size or weight specifics that matter to you and for precise care instructions. The trtl Pillow Plus aims to deliver reliable support and easier upkeep for frequent travelers who prefer functionality over fluff.
(trtl Pillow Plus mentioned per listing; use “airplane neck pillow” when comparing to standard U-shaped options.)
Amazon Customer –
Long review, tl;dr at the bottom. I’m an original TRTL owner who has used this item on many transpacific flights. I purchased the new TRTL Pillow Plus and I already feel and see the new improvements are great upgrades!
First big improvement, height adjustment for different length necks. I purchased this updated model because I had the same issues as others users with the original design, my neck would be sore after extended periods of rest. I’m 5′ 10″ and maybe it’s because I’ve got a big head that I need more support! I have noticed greatly improved support with the adjustable height feature. Much more comfortable rest because the support gets right under my chin! The toggle mechanism to adjust the height is very easy to use, a clever design!
Second improvement, addition of soft foam padding where the head and chin rest against the support. Feels like I’m using an normal neck pillow. The padding is a great little upgrade.
Third improvement, the neck wrap is a little longer and wider than the original. The breathable mesh sewn into the neck wrap is slightly stretchable and does feel a little cooler to wear.
A little bonus, the water resistant bag included with the pillow is of better quality than I expected. The bag is made of a heavier nylon and does not feel like a thin cheap shoe bag. It also has a sewn in loop and a removable carabiner so you can hook it onto a loop on your bag. The bag was an unexpected and nice accessory!
tl;dr Adjustable neck height is a big improvement! Foam padding is a nice addition. Longer and wider neck wrap is great. The carry bag for the pillow is of a higher quality than expected. Overall, very happy with the improved TRTL Plus!
Martina D. –
Bid farewell to the discomfort and stiff necks often associated with long journeys, as the trtl Travel Pillow Plus promises to revolutionize the way you sleep on the go. With its innovative design and ergonomic features, this pillow aims to become your trusty companion for relaxing travel experiences.
One of the key highlights is the adjustable internal support system, which allows you to customize the pillow’s height to your preference, ensuring a comfortable fit regardless of whether you’re petite or tall. 📏 This level of personalization is a game-changer, as it helps to keep your neck in an optimal ergonomic position, preventing the dreaded head nodding and reducing strain on your spine, muscles, and shoulders.
The unique scarf-like design not only looks stylish but also cleverly conceals the supportive internal structure, which is comfortably padded and wraps around your neck for maximum cradling. 🧣 This innovative approach has been scientifically proven to be superior to traditional U-shaped pillows, offering a more effective solution for achieving restful sleep during your travels.
Portability is another winning factor for the trtl Travel Pillow Plus. Unlike bulky traditional pillows, this compact and lightweight design saves valuable space in your luggage or carry-on. 🧳 You can easily wrap it around your bag strap or attach it to the outside of your luggage, making it a convenient companion for any journey.
Maintaining cleanliness and freshness is also a breeze, thanks to the machine-washable soft hypoallergenic fleece cover. 🧼 This feature ensures that your travel pillow remains fresh and ready for your next adventure, making it a reliable and long-lasting investment in your comfort.
While the pillow’s unique design and ergonomic features are undeniably impressive, it’s worth noting that some users may require an adjustment period to get accustomed to the unconventional shape and support system. 🤔 However, for those seeking a truly restful and rejuvenating travel experience, the trtl Travel Pillow Plus could be a worthwhile investment that pays dividends in comfort and well-being.
Overall, the trtl Travel Pillow Plus presents a compelling solution for travelers seeking a comfortable and ergonomic sleep experience on the go. 🌟 With its adjustable support, innovative design, and space-saving portability, this pillow aims to revolutionize the way you approach long journeys, ensuring you arrive at your destination refreshed and ready to embrace your adventures.
denndes –
comfortable
REVIEW GOD –
Bid farewell to the discomfort and stiff necks often associated with long journeys, as the trtl Travel Pillow Plus promises to revolutionize the way you sleep on the go. With its innovative design and ergonomic features, this pillow aims to become your trusty companion for relaxing travel experiences.
One of the key highlights is the adjustable internal support system, which allows you to customize the pillow’s height to your preference, ensuring a comfortable fit regardless of whether you’re petite or tall. 📏 This level of personalization is a game-changer, as it helps to keep your neck in an optimal ergonomic position, preventing the dreaded head nodding and reducing strain on your spine, muscles, and shoulders.
The unique scarf-like design not only looks stylish but also cleverly conceals the supportive internal structure, which is comfortably padded and wraps around your neck for maximum cradling. 🧣 This innovative approach has been scientifically proven to be superior to traditional U-shaped pillows, offering a more effective solution for achieving restful sleep during your travels.
Portability is another winning factor for the trtl Travel Pillow Plus. Unlike bulky traditional pillows, this compact and lightweight design saves valuable space in your luggage or carry-on. 🧳 You can easily wrap it around your bag strap or attach it to the outside of your luggage, making it a convenient companion for any journey.
Maintaining cleanliness and freshness is also a breeze, thanks to the machine-washable soft hypoallergenic fleece cover. 🧼 This feature ensures that your travel pillow remains fresh and ready for your next adventure, making it a reliable and long-lasting investment in your comfort.
While the pillow’s unique design and ergonomic features are undeniably impressive, it’s worth noting that some users may require an adjustment period to get accustomed to the unconventional shape and support system. 🤔 However, for those seeking a truly restful and rejuvenating travel experience, the trtl Travel Pillow Plus could be a worthwhile investment that pays dividends in comfort and well-being.
Overall, the trtl Travel Pillow Plus presents a compelling solution for travelers seeking a comfortable and ergonomic sleep experience on the go. 🌟 With its adjustable support, innovative design, and space-saving portability, this pillow aims to revolutionize the way you approach long journeys, ensuring you arrive at your destination refreshed and ready to embrace your adventures.
Amazon Customer –
It provides head and neck support as it claims, but the seams are very uneven and sloppy. For a pillow that is almost $100, I would expect better quality control. For this reason I will be returning. But if you only care about functionality, then it might be a good product for you.
The pictures show it on the highest and lowest settings. The padding is sewn into the fabric so there is no way to adjust it to make it look more even.
On a positive note, their customer service is great!
Kevin Luke –
The pillow is pretty pricey. However, for long flights, comfort is priceless. I am a side sleeper, and this pillow gives a lot more support than most of the U shaped travel pillows around. The insert in it fixed it a firm support compared to others. It’s not as hot as I thought it would be with the neck wrap. Unfortunately you will only benefit from the adjustability if your neck is long. If your neck is not that long, you will always keep the pillow in the smallest position(I believe the Plus version you pay a bit extra for the adjustability). The pillow is compact and comes with a bag that you can hook into the carryon. It’s great that the material is washable.
REVIEW GOD –
It doesn’t work for me. For one thing, the pressure is not distributed on the skull, but centred behind the ear, and the rounding at the shoulder is too little to distribute pressure. This leaves you with a point-like sensation. In addition, the rotation also creates extra pressure on the cervical vertebrae and carotid artery.
Foxtrot –
I wanted to love this. It was very helpful on my recent long haul overseas, but wasn’t perfect – even with adjustments. It does keep you head mostly erect/semi-erect and is soft. Nice bag you can clip on to your carry-on. Overall did work much better for me than the standard neck pillows sold everywhere.
JM –
comfortable
denndes –
It doesn’t work for me. For one thing, the pressure is not distributed on the skull, but centred behind the ear, and the rounding at the shoulder is too little to distribute pressure. This leaves you with a point-like sensation. In addition, the rotation also creates extra pressure on the cervical vertebrae and carotid artery.
Harry –
Long review, tl;dr at the bottom. I’m an original TRTL owner who has used this item on many transpacific flights. I purchased the new TRTL Pillow Plus and I already feel and see the new improvements are great upgrades!
First big improvement, height adjustment for different length necks. I purchased this updated model because I had the same issues as others users with the original design, my neck would be sore after extended periods of rest. I’m 5′ 10″ and maybe it’s because I’ve got a big head that I need more support! I have noticed greatly improved support with the adjustable height feature. Much more comfortable rest because the support gets right under my chin! The toggle mechanism to adjust the height is very easy to use, a clever design!
Second improvement, addition of soft foam padding where the head and chin rest against the support. Feels like I’m using an normal neck pillow. The padding is a great little upgrade.
Third improvement, the neck wrap is a little longer and wider than the original. The breathable mesh sewn into the neck wrap is slightly stretchable and does feel a little cooler to wear.
A little bonus, the water resistant bag included with the pillow is of better quality than I expected. The bag is made of a heavier nylon and does not feel like a thin cheap shoe bag. It also has a sewn in loop and a removable carabiner so you can hook it onto a loop on your bag. The bag was an unexpected and nice accessory!
tl;dr Adjustable neck height is a big improvement! Foam padding is a nice addition. Longer and wider neck wrap is great. The carry bag for the pillow is of a higher quality than expected. Overall, very happy with the improved TRTL Plus!
Harry –
This is the absolute best travel pillow! I fell asleep instantly with the way I was able to rest my neck and adjust it specifically to my liking! It was easy to transport and will be using it on every flight!
Adrian B. –
As a stomach sleeper in bed all the other travel pillows didn’t work for me. This one finally did the trick!!! I actually slept through my flight to Europe with this. I’m a light sleeper but I actually feel refreshed unlike how I usually do when I fly in economy class. I was able to adjust the pillow to my liking with the knobs and how taught I wrapped my neck. I was also able to wear my AirPod max without a problem but some people may have issues with this. Overall I’m delight with my purchase and love how small it packs too!
Lustwandersoul –
Loved the idea behind this but it did not work out. Maybe i have too short of a neck but felt at its lowest setting i still could not get comfortable. I really wanted it to work out because sleeping on planes is horrible so wanted something i could bring everywhere to get some decent shut eye in.
Kris W. –
Mi ha cambiato la vita durante i viaggi lunghi! Dormo! Devi trovare la posizione giusta altrimenti è scomodo ma se la trovi, è davvero il miglior cuscino per viaggiare
Simon B. –
The trtl Plus Flight Pillow is a practical choice for frequent travelers. The internal frame offers adjustable neck support, which is a step up from conventional U-shaped pillows. The fabric is breathable and machine washable, adding a layer of convenience.The compact design makes it easy to pack, saving valuable luggage space. While it may take a moment to find the most comfortable position, once adjusted, it provides a stable resting position for your head and neck.
JM –
The trtl Plus Flight Pillow is a practical choice for frequent travelers. The internal frame offers adjustable neck support, which is a step up from conventional U-shaped pillows. The fabric is breathable and machine washable, adding a layer of convenience.The compact design makes it easy to pack, saving valuable luggage space. While it may take a moment to find the most comfortable position, once adjusted, it provides a stable resting position for your head and neck.
Erin –
The best neck pillow I have ever used! Usually with a standard neck pillow I might catch a few hours at the most. The Trtl pillow is not as good as laying flat in a bed, but it is a massive improvement to a standard neck pillow. I slept for the majority of a 9 hour international red-eye, and woke with only minimal discomfort in my neck and shoulders. The neck support is the best part of the design. Well worth the cost!
Kris W. –
This is the absolute best travel pillow! I fell asleep instantly with the way I was able to rest my neck and adjust it specifically to my liking! It was easy to transport and will be using it on every flight!
Martina D. –
Mi ha cambiato la vita durante i viaggi lunghi! Dormo! Devi trovare la posizione giusta altrimenti è scomodo ma se la trovi, è davvero il miglior cuscino per viaggiare
Natalie –
Completely HONEST review. I am a 5’4 female heavier set and my husband is 6’2 heavier set. This did NOT work for either of us and we tried this on the airplane for 8 hours trying to figure out a way to get comfortable. Completely unachievable and caused extreme neck pain afterwards for the both of us!!
Cons:
– Worse than traditional neck pillow if you have headphones on. In order to be comfortable with this Turtle neck pillow, you cannot have headphones on, you will find yourself constantly adjusting to TRY to get comfortable, which more than likely will NOT happen
– Not made for short fat necks even when adjusted into the lowest setting (I am 5’4 and my husband is 6’2 this did NOT work for either of our fat necks!!)
– This is essentially a Velcro version of a neck brace that is really expensive
– I do NOT recommend this at all, unless you plan to use this without headphones on and your neck is built specifically for this type of “neck pillow”, although it is more of a “neck brace” that will actually give you intense neck pain after usage, try it and you will quickly regret it.
– Price $$$— Super expensive for something non functional I wish I had known these before purchasing!! Because trying it out in the house is drastically different than trying it on an actual airplane, trust me on that.
Pros:
– I guess you can say it is “more cooling” than traditional neck pillows because it’s just fabric rather than a cushion bracing your entire neck (this braces only ONE side of the neck)
– Because it is essentially a neck brace wrapped with fabric, your head will be braced but let me tell you, you’ll have extreme neck pain after usage because your head “rests” on ONE side, and it is completely uncomfortable
Last but not least, you more than likely need to have an average sized MALE neck or LONG NECK. If you are heavier set or have a short neck do not purchase this and waste your money!! Most importantly, do NOT cause yourself unnecessary neck pain and wallet pain!!