Why do you need a pillow for traveling by car?

04/05/2020 Category: Pillows

• 1 Features
• 2 Models
• 3 Varieties
• 4 What filling is used for pillows
• 5 Tips for choosing
• 6 How to make it yourself

Manufacturers offer various variations of practical orthopedic bedding. Comfortable sleep is guaranteed if there is a comfortable neck pillow under your head that follows the contours of the body and does not create tension in the cervical spine. For long trips by car or plane, there are inflatable analogues of various shapes. Children prefer toy pillows that support their head in the correct position. How to choose the right orthopedic products is worth discussing separately.

Collar pillows with memory effect are made to fit, tightly wrap around the neck, fix it, and perfectly relax the muscles.

Peculiarities

Medical bedding models for sleeping and the simplest pillows for cars under the neck have much in common; they are created for comfort and relief of the spine during rest hours. During the day, the muscles are in constant tension; if the pillow is uncomfortable, the muscle tissue does not relax, spasms and inflammation occur, the position of the bones changes, and the cartilage tissue is deformed. The ergonomic shape of the pillows completely follows the curved shape of the neck, the springy filler relieves the muscles, and improves blood circulation in the cervical region. The beneficial effects of the horseshoe pillow have been proven in experiments; for osteochondrosis, migraine attacks, problems with the musculoskeletal system, joints, doctors recommend purchasing orthopedic bedding under the head for preventive and therapeutic purposes.

For reference. After sleeping on an ergonomic pillow, your mood improves, you feel more energetic, you feel a surge of strength, aches in your shoulders go away, and muscle tension is eliminated.

Models

Several types of head support pillows have been developed. These are classic ones with a special filling, in the form of a roller or a chicken bone with expanded edges, in the form of a collar. Companies, in pursuit of consumers, are constantly improving their products. The most popular neck pillows for the Comfort Master car, which follow the contour of a horseshoe, are the most popular. Thanks to polyurethane foam, a comfortable position of the spine is ensured. “Horseshoes” vary in size; there are car versions for children and adults with different neck sizes.

The original and universal “TravelRest” bolsters in the form of a seat belt ensure a sound sleep for the whole family while traveling; the unusual shape takes up little space and can be used while sitting and in a horizontal position of the body, for example, in a tent.

J Pillow models are also designed for cars or airplanes. They are somewhat similar to the previous ones, only in shape they repeat the letter “J”, and are comfortably held on the shoulder when turning the head and body in a dream. The upper part rests on the chair, the long part is located along the sleeper’s body.

Deluxe Neck Rest pillows will help you forget about a stiff neck, reduce pressure on your muscles, and relieve stress on your spine. It’s easy to take this model with you on the road; the pillow will help you out in a hotel, replacing a soft, standard one.

Note! A new development is surprising - a butterfly pillow with a massage function. Before bed, it’s so nice to relieve back pain and muscle spasms. You can choose a mode that will help you fall into deep sleep.

The crescent-shaped pillow collar with soft filling fits comfortably and does not move if the sleeper moves involuntarily.

Features of choosing a pillow for a flight

Let's take a look at what you should pay attention to when you go looking.

Varieties

The variety of sleep accessories is simply huge. I will tell you about those forms that are most popular.

• Bagel (collar)

The most common configuration. It is a headrest curved in the shape of a horseshoe. It securely secures the head from the back and sides. By the way, you can turn it over and put the back part under the chin.

The sides of the pillow should have a suitable height for you. Too high ones put too much strain on the neck, and low ones don’t provide the necessary support.

There are many variations of this solution. An H-shaped version with a cutout at the back so you can throw your head back is popular. Some models have an uneven top side with protrusions that follow the anatomy of the skull.

Objects with a hood are also common now. They are suitable for those who do not like to wear an eye mask.

• Headrest

This is a small support in the form of a square or rectangle, perhaps with a notch in the middle. It is comfortable to sleep on your side or with it under your head. But it’s not fixed in any way either to the seat or to the body, and therefore slides off.

• Scarf

Looks like a regular fleece scarf. The whole secret is in a special plastic frame. It can be used as you please: on the left and right sides, behind or in front under the chin.

The accessory provides good support, weighs little and does not take up much space in your luggage.

• Transformer

The pillow is flexible and can change shape to suit the owner's needs. Outwardly it resembles a flower with a hole in the middle. You can give the product the desired look if you simply roll it along the petals. It turns out to be a familiar collar, a comfortable cushion under the back or an armrest.

• Retainer

A semicircle with a wide edge that fits over the shoulder and rests against the back of the seat. The narrower edge extends to the seat.

The inconvenience is that if you want to lean on the other side, you will have to move the pillow to the other side. This accessory is quite large, so it is usually made inflatable.

There are very unusual solutions. Among them is a vest-like support, on which you should sleep leaning forward. There are special recesses for the face and hands.

The spacesuit pillow also looks interesting. It is put on the head and covers it from all sides. In some specimens, the cutout is made only for the nose and mouth, while in others the entire face is left open.

But still, you should initially try classic forms, and only if they don’t suit you, try something exotic. Such designs are too specific.

Children's products constitute a separate category. They differ from adults in their reduced size and design. To win the hearts of little travelers, they are made in the shape of cute little animals or have images of their favorite cartoon characters printed on them.

Also, such models fit more tightly to the head to protect the child during sudden traffic movements.

Please note that most pillows are intended for children over 3 years old. Be sure to check the age label on the packaging.

Read what other things you need to take on a plane when traveling with a child.

Filler

The pillow can be without filler at all - inflatable. The surface of such products is covered with a special coating reminiscent of velor.

At first glance, this solution has only advantages:

• saves space in your suitcase;
• light;
• you can adjust the degree of softness by adjusting the volume of air inside;
• cheap.

But if you take a closer look, you can find many shortcomings:

• often deflates during sleep;
• easy to accidentally puncture with a sharp object;
• the seams are quite noticeable and rub;
• The rubber surface does not allow the skin to breathe, which causes sweating and itching.

Padded headrests are available as an alternative. Their contents may vary:

1. Holofiber - budget stuffing. This product is soft and elastic when new, but then lumps form. If you rarely use the item, then this option is quite appropriate.
2. Polystyrene beads are small granules. They hold their shape well and are inexpensive. Anti-stress pillows are made with this filling.
3. Latex is very comfortable. Takes on the contours of the body and quickly restores its position. It also tolerates machine washing well and does not cause allergies.
4. Buckwheat husk is for those who love natural things. It is often used in orthopedic products. Buckwheat does not require special care, but not everyone likes it.
5. Foamed polyurethane (Memory Foam) is an expensive material with memory properties. This means that it perfectly follows all the contours of your body and, after pressing, slowly straightens out. Combines softness and the necessary level of support.

Case

The cover is in direct contact with the skin, which means it should be pleasant to the touch.

Choose models with a removable cover so that it can be removed and washed when dirty or replaced with a new one.

There are three possible fabric options: natural, semi-synthetic and synthetic. Experienced travelers do not recommend buying pure synthetics. Such accessories are cheap, easy to wash and dry quickly. But they are not the most comfortable for a long rest: the skin does not breathe and itching may occur.

Natural materials do not cause allergies and are more tactilely pleasant. But their performance properties are worse: they don’t stretch, cotton can “shrink” after washing, linen wrinkles a lot.

Therefore, it is better to settle on the “golden mean” and buy a semi-synthetic pillowcase.

Other details

The seams deserve special attention. Where there is contact with the skin, the seam should be flat and invisible. Check that it does not press, scratch or prick. Otherwise, you can forget about a relaxing holiday.

For inflatable pillows, the valve must be hidden inside, otherwise it will cling to surrounding objects.

In addition to a headrest, the list of things needed for a flight includes a foot pillow. With it, you won't even notice the long flight.

The main purpose of the pillow is clear - to provide a comfortable sleep, but, in addition, modern products can have a number of options:

• massager – the design includes massage rollers that rotate and massage the cervical-collar area;
• pocket - needed for a phone or MP3 player;
• sealing cover – provides compact storage of stuffed specimens;
• strap – for attaching to a bag or suitcase.

Manufacturer

A reliable brand guarantees that the product actually meets the properties stated in the specifications. You can also rest assured that the product is made from high-quality safe materials.

Although there are many worthy brands on the market now, I would like to note the following:

• Samsonite - products from the world famous manufacturer of suitcases;
• Benbat – accessories for young travelers;
• Trelax – premium quality orthopedic products;
• Cabeau – patented innovative production and ergonomic technologies;
• “Things that people reach for” - anti-stress products from Ivanovo;
• Mettle – huge selection, including non-standard shapes;
• Routemark – comfortable pillows for flights with interesting colors.

Varieties

It is difficult to describe the entire range of neck sleeping accessories in a short review. On websites and in shopping centers you can see:

• a hiking option, lightweight, durable, and does not lose its shape in any weather conditions;

• A travel pillow for the neck can be soft, hard, inflatable, fastened, large or small, or in the form of a children's toy.

• models for beds that completely follow the contours of the cervical region or with a recess for the shoulder, providing the desired tilt of the head in a lateral position.

All possible modifications differ in design, type of fabric for the cover, and filling composition. You can find cervical headboards for car drivers and bus passengers, pregnant mothers and babies.

Important! Sometimes you have to change several pillows to choose a model that provides comfortable sleep and restful rest in any position.

The density and comfort of sleep accessories depends on the type of filler. When they sag too much, the head will feel uncomfortable.

How does the Ostio pillow work?

The manufacturer reports that the inflatable product is made of PVC and flannelette fabric, which makes it safe to use. The design is adjustable in size, so it fits your neck regardless of your girth. The Osteo traction orthopedic pillow has a triple structure and is equipped with Velcro that securely fixes the device.

A hand pump is included. After inflation, the product secures the cervical spine in the correct position. Achieved effects:

• Relaxation of muscle tissue.
• Gradual stretching of the vertebrae.
• Prevention of pinched nerve endings.
• Creating a comfortable position while sleeping.

According to the manufacturer, the effect will be especially noticeable with long-term use (at least 2.5-3 months).

What filling is used for pillows?

Traditional down has long gone by the wayside. Manufacturers use all kinds of synthetic and natural fillers for neck collar pillows.

First about synthetics. For stuffing, padding polyester, holofiber, and comforter are often used. Hypoallergenic fillers are recommended for babies; they dry quickly and retain volume for a long time.

Expanded polystyrene is present in therapeutic pillows and anti-stress products. Foamed polyurethane foam, due to its porous structure, ensures the correct position of the head in any position.

Natural fillers often have healing properties, these are:

• natural fiber (silk, cotton, bamboo);

• wool (most often used sheep, less often camel);

• horsehair;

• seaweed;

• coconut fibers;

• dry medicinal herb;

• seed husks or cereal husks.

Each of the fillers has unique characteristics and special physical properties. Everyone can choose products to suit their taste.

Note! Latex and foamed polymers have “memory” and gradually return to their original shape after being crushed. Cooling gel is recommended for people with high blood pressure and migraine attacks.

Inflatable collar-pillows are easy to use, take up little space even when inflated, and look aesthetically pleasing.

Tips for choosing

Preference should be given to reputable brands and high-quality materials. The well-being of the vacationer depends on the correct choice. If you have to choose an inflatable option, you should check how the travel pillow is inflated and whether there is a safety valve that prevents the pillow from deflating under load. It is better to avoid models that are easily inflated, like a balloon.

Some manufacturers provide pillows with small travel pumps with needles.

Samples with filler should be checked with your hands; if the product quickly takes its previous shape, a relaxing sleep is guaranteed. Only polyurethane retains a dent for some time. When choosing a sleeping accessory, the physiological characteristics of a person are taken into account:

• for people who prefer to sleep on the floor, measure the width of the shoulder to determine the maximum possible height of the orthopedic cushion;

• the distance from the shoulders to the head should slightly exceed the height of the collar pillow;

• for those who like to sleep on their side, it is better to choose a horseshoe pillow or one with a central recess for the back of the head;

• For those who like to toss and turn in their sleep, it is advisable to choose the classic form of latex pillows.

Important! The ideal shape of a neck pillow is considered to be a bolster, followed by a “bone” or a butterfly, with which you can choose a comfortable position.

A few important points:

• For back pain, soft orthopedic bolster pillows are recommended, which are comfortable to lean on when lying on your back or side.

• When your neck is tense or you suffer from migraines, it is advisable to choose medium-hard latex pillows or with organic dry fillings. It is better to abandon padding polyester completely.

• Pillows with husks and husks make rustling sounds when you move your head and have a specific smell. The first drawback is eliminated by a porous pad, the second - by the contents of the sachet pads; petals, pieces of bark, and fragrant blades of grass are evenly distributed inside the cushion.

• Some horseshoe pillows are equipped with additional pockets for a player, headphones, and regulating the volume of the cutout with laces or straps.

• If there is a lack of filler, the corners sag; if you lift the model up, voids are formed.

By the way, be sure to check the quality of the stitching, the location of the seams, they should not interfere during rest.

Craftswomen, when creating pillow masterpieces, take into account the anatomical features of the body, the shape of the back of the chair, and the taste preferences of the future owners of the accessory.

Massage pillows for the back and neck - how to choose

So, you need a massage pillow for your neck and shoulders, it won’t be difficult to buy one. But how to choose? If you are planning to purchase a massage pillow for both your back and neck, pay attention to the functionality of the massager. What types of massage can it perform - kneading roller or vibration massage, are there additional functions, for example, infrared heating.

The simplest models that will help relieve muscle tension and relax are Relax 7, OTO RM-920 and Maxiwell New. The Maxiwell II device is excellent for vibration massage, which has a positive effect on blood vessels.

What you should pay attention to when choosing a pillow first:

• Ergonomics and form . It is worth considering that each person has individual anatomical features, so choose a pillow shape that makes it as comfortable to use as possible. Also check what maximum weight it can withstand during exercise, for example, a possible buttock massage.
• Functionality . The presence of additional functions such as infrared heating, adjustable rotation speed of massage rollers and changing the massage strength makes the device more expensive, but more effective.
• Technical specifications . Massagers can have a different number of massage heads from four to eight. The size of the heads also matters - the larger they are, the better the muscles can be worked and the massage will be more enjoyable.
• Availability of warranty from the manufacturer . It may give the right not only to repair, but also to replace the device. Casada and Beurer massage pillows from German companies are considered to be of the highest quality. The quality of Chinese manufacturers is suitable for less demanding buyers, although they are almost not inferior to products from world brands.
• Additional accessories . The kit may include a bag for transportation and a car cigarette lighter for use in a car.