Discover the Right Way to Use Travel Pillows: Tips from Viral TikTok

It really makes sense when you think about it.

Photo: urbazon/Getty Images

However, TikTok has proved to us that we’re pretty much doing everything wrong — including how we sleep on planes.

If you’ve ever been on a long-haul flight, you’ve probably tried to get some shut-eye on the way to your destination. And, unless you were in a fancy first-class cabin with lie-flat seats, you probably had to find the perfect position to use your travel pillow.

But what if we told you that we’ve all been wearing our travel pillows backwards? One TikToker, known as @Sidneyraz, shows how to sleep a little more comfortably while you’re 40,000 feet in the air.


Most people who have those classic, C-shaped neck pillows put the thick, closed part on the back of their neck and the thinner, open part in the front. However, according to @Sidneyraz, you’re actually supposed to turn that around for better neck alignment.

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In his video on TikTok, he simply puts on his travel pillow the “right” way and rests his head, saying, “I’m so comfy.” Consequently, he does appear more comfortable since his neck doesn’t have to bend awkwardly to find a nice, plush spot. While there technically is no “right” or “wrong” way to use a travel pillow, this hack seems beneficial for individuals experiencing sore necks or those who never felt fully comfortable using a travel pillow.

The video is part of @Sidneyraz’s series of TikTok videos entitled “Things I Didn’t Know Until I Was In My 30’s.” The series includes hacks for various everyday tasks, emphasizing practical tips.

For more travel hacks and insightful tips, you may want to explore other travel resources or consider following @Sidneyraz on TikTok. His advice includes efficient strategies like applying for TSA Pre-Check, which he advocates as “worth it.” Enough said.

Andrea Romano is a freelance writer in New York City. Follow her on Twitter @theandrearomano.


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