I’m a Pro Traveler, and This Clever Gem Saves Me on Every Flight (It Takes Up No Space!)

If there’s one thing I find essential while flying, it’s comfort. From self-regulating the temperature (why are planes always so chilly?) to having a soft spot to rest my head, I try to make my airplane experience as peaceful as possible so I can use it as a time to disconnect. I’m a frequent flier who consistently reaches Platinum status with American Airlines, and I travel internationally and domestically several times a month, so I feel I’ve perfected the art of staying content on board.

Whether cozying up means reading a book, journaling, or getting some sleep on the plane, there’s one product that has helped me stay comfy for over two decades: a travel blanket and pillow set. While some people sing the praises of neck pillows, I could never find one that kept my head from bobbing around, so when I saw a travel set that included a pillow stuffed with a throw and eye mask, I was sold. Here’s why I think you could use one, too.

Not all companies call their blanket/pillow combo by the same name, but generally it’s a coverlet that folds and tucks inside a zippered fabric cover, letting it function as a pillow or a blanket, depending on what you need. The addition of an eye mask is a bonus I appreciate, although it’s not necessarily my reason for loving this duo.

The brilliance is in the understated versatility of a seemingly ordinary set. In its pillow form, I use the blanket-stuffed pillow to stabilize my head or prop a book on my lap. Even though airlines typically provide small pillows and throws during international flights, I instantly elevate the lackluster airline pillow by placing it inside the case and using the set’s blanket to keep warm as I rest.

There are so many positives to having a mini pillowcase that I can stuff with a coverlet, but part of its secret power is using it to keep everything I need to get comfortable on the flight close at hand. In addition to the blanket and eye mask that comes with it, I’ve also stuffed earplugs, headphones, and a scarf inside.

However, I’ve gotten a bit more creative over the past couple decades. I’ve put everything from a packable puffer coat and extra gloves to a lightweight sweater and wrinkle-resistant dress to wear post-flight inside my travel pillowcase. I can stuff it with whatever soft items I want to keep handy en route instead of putting them with my carry-on luggage in the overhead compartment. 

On international flights, I like the peace of mind of using my own pillowcase and blanket instead of the more flimsy ones the airline provides. I’ve also had the unfortunate experience of sleeping overnight in the airport due to flight delays, and this pillow-blanket set has been a lifesaver in those situations. 

While a travel pillow can easily go through security (as long as you don’t stuff it with banned items, like a pocket knife), check with your airline to see if it counts towards your carry-on allowance, as some budget airlines have restrictions about what you can take on board. 

Are you convinced to swap your neck pillow for something more functional? Although my original set is no longer in production, here are a few options with various handy features.