Ostrich Pillow Vs. Wander Plus Travel Pillow: In-depth Differences

I’ve always been that person who struggles to catch a wink of sleep on a plane, train, or even a long car ride. My neck ends up stiff, my head bobs around like a broken bobblehead, and I arrive at my destination looking—and feeling—like I’ve been through a wrestling match with a seatbelt.

So, when I decided to up my travel comfort game, I zeroed in on two contenders that kept popping up in my research: the Ostrich Pillow and the Wander Plus Travel Pillow. These aren’t your average U-shaped neck cushions—they promise innovation, support, and a nap so good you might forget you’re stuck in economy class.

My mission?

To put them head-to-head, test them out in real-world scenarios, and figure out which one’s worth your hard-earned cash.

In this article, I’m sharing my firsthand experience with both pillows, breaking down their pros and cons, and giving you a clear picture of what they bring to the table—or tray table, rather.

I’ll walk you through their key features, how they performed on my recent trips, and which one I’d grab for my next red-eye flight. By the end, you’ll have all the info you need to decide which pillow suits your travel style. Let’s get into it!

A Brief Comparison Table

Feature	Ostrich Pillow (Go Neck Pillow)	Wander Plus Travel Pillow
Design	360-degree wrap-around	Spiral, adjustable shape
Material	Memory foam, viscose/elastomer cover	Memory foam, soft fabric
Weight	0.5 lbs (8 oz)	Approx. 0.7 lbs (11.2 oz)
Portability	Compresses to 60% in travel bag	Packable, no specific compression
Adjustability	Velcro closure for custom fit	Twistable spiral design
Washability	Machine-washable sleeve	Spot clean or removable cover
Price (Approx.)	$60–$69	$22–$30
Best For	Long flights, neck support	Versatility, budget travelers
Unique Selling Point	Luxurious feel, full neck coverage	Customizable positioning

This table gives you a snapshot, but the real story comes from my hands-on testing. Let’s unpack each pillow and see how they stack up.

My Journey With The Ostrich Pillow

First up, the Ostrich Pillow—specifically, the Go Neck Pillow model, since the brand offers a few variations. I’d heard buzz about this one from travel blogs and sleepy frequent flyers who swore it transformed their in-flight naps.

At around $60–$69, it’s not cheap, but I was intrigued by its promise of 360-degree support and a plush, luxurious feel. When it arrived, I couldn’t wait to rip open the box and give it a whirl.

• Unboxing And First Impressions

The packaging screamed “premium.” It came with a sleek travel bag, and the pillow itself felt soft to the touch, thanks to its viscose and elastomer cover.

The memory foam inside was dense yet forgiving—kind of like hugging a cloud that hugs you back.

I noticed a faint chemical smell at first, which isn’t uncommon with memory foam, but after airing it out for a day, it was good to go.

The design is a standout: instead of the typical U-shape that leaves your chin dangling, this one wraps fully around your neck and secures with a Velcro strap.

It’s like a neck brace, but one you’d actually want to wear.

• Taking It For A Spin

I tested the Ostrich Pillow on a 5-hour flight from Seattle to Miami. Slipping it on felt like a warm embrace—seriously, the softness was next-level. I adjusted the Velcro to fit snugly around my neck, and it stayed put, even when I shifted in my seat.

The 360-degree coverage meant my head didn’t flop forward or sideways, which is a miracle for someone like me who usually wakes up with a crick in their neck. I managed to doze off for a solid two hours, which is a personal record for me in coach.

The memory foam molded to my neck and shoulders, offering just the right balance of support and cushioning. It wasn’t too firm, so I didn’t feel like my head was perched on a rock, but it wasn’t so soft that it collapsed under pressure.

I also loved how it compressed down to 60% of its size when I stuffed it into the travel bag—perfect for cramming into my carry-on.

Pros of The Ostrich Pillow

• Unmatched Comfort: The memory foam and silky cover make it feel like a luxury item. I felt pampered, even in a middle seat.
• Full Neck Support: That 360-degree wrap is a game-changer. My head stayed upright, and my chin didn’t droop once.
• Portability: Compressing it into the travel bag was a breeze, and it didn’t take up much space.
• Easy to Clean: The sleeve comes off and goes straight into the washing machine. After a sweaty flight, that’s a huge win.
• Premium Build: It’s clear this isn’t a cheap knockoff—the materials and craftsmanship are top-notch.

Cons of The Ostrich Pillow

• Price Tag: At $60–$69, it’s a splurge. If you’re not a frequent traveler, you might hesitate.
• Initial Odor: That new memory foam smell took a day to fade, which could be annoying if you need it right away.
• Bulk When Unpacked: While it compresses well, it’s still a bit bulky when you’re wearing it or carrying it through the airport.
• Heat Build-Up: After a couple of hours, I felt a slight warmth around my neck—not a dealbreaker, but worth noting if you run hot.

Overall, the Ostrich Pillow delivered on its promise of comfort and support. It’s ideal for long hauls where you want to arrive feeling human, not like a zombie with a sore neck.

My Experience With The Wander Plus Travel Pillow

Next, I turned to the Wander Plus Travel Pillow, a lesser-known contender that caught my eye on Amazon for its budget-friendly price—around $22–$30—and unique spiral design. I wasn’t sure what to expect, but I figured it was worth a shot, especially since it’s less than half the cost of the Ostrich Pillow.

• Unboxing and First Impressions

When it arrived, the Wander Plus didn’t come with the same fancy packaging as the Ostrich Pillow—just a simple plastic sleeve.

The pillow itself has a spiral shape, almost like a twisted U, with a soft, slightly textured fabric cover and memory foam inside.

It’s a bit heavier at around 11.2 ounces, and there’s no dedicated travel bag, but it’s still packable if you squash it into your luggage.

The deep mauve color was a nice touch—stylish without being over-the-top. Like the Ostrich, it had a mild memory foam smell, but it dissipated quickly.

The big draw here is the twistable design. Unlike traditional pillows, you can bend and shape it to fit your neck, shoulders, or even use it as a lumbar support. I was excited to see how that flexibility would play out on the road.

• Putting It to the Test

I took the Wander Plus on a 3-hour train ride and a 4-hour car trip as a passenger. On the train, I twisted it into a loose spiral around my neck, letting it prop my head against the window.

The memory foam felt supportive, though not as dense as the Ostrich Pillow’s, and the fabric was comfy against my skin. I nodded off for about an hour, which was decent, but I noticed my head slipped a bit when the train jolted—there’s no Velcro or clasp to lock it in place.

In the car, I experimented more. I shaped it into a tighter coil for neck support, then later stretched it out to rest my head forward against my chest. The versatility was impressive—I could tweak it to suit whatever awkward position I ended up in.

It didn’t compress as neatly as the Ostrich Pillow, but I managed to shove it into my backpack without too much hassle.

Pros of The Wander Plus Travel Pillow

• Affordable Price: At $22–$30, it’s a steal compared to pricier options. Great for casual travelers or budget-conscious folks.
• Versatile Design: The twistable shape lets you customize it for neck, chin, or even lower back support. It’s like a Swiss Army knife of pillows.
• Comfortable Feel: The memory foam and soft fabric combo is cozy, even if it’s not as plush as the Ostrich.
• Stylish Look: That mauve hue stands out in a sea of bland travel gear.
• Light Enough: At 11.2 ounces, it’s not a burden to carry, though it’s heavier than the Ostrich.

Cons of The Wander Plus Travel Pillow

• Less Support: The foam isn’t as dense, so it didn’t cradle my neck as securely. My head shifted more than I’d like.
• No Secure Closure: Without Velcro or a clasp, it can slip out of place, especially during bumpy rides.
• Packing Challenges: It doesn’t compress into a tidy package, so it took up more space in my bag.
• Cleaning Hassle: Some versions have a removable cover, but mine didn’t—spot cleaning was my only option, which isn’t ideal after a long trip.
• Learning Curve: Figuring out the best way to twist it took some trial and error. It’s not as intuitive as a wrap-around design.

The Wander Plus surprised me with its flexibility and price point. It’s a solid pick if you want something adaptable without breaking the bank, but it didn’t quite match the Ostrich’s stability.

In-depth Comparison of Ostrich Pillow And Wander Plus Travel Pillows

Now that I’ve lived with both pillows, let’s break down how they stack up across key areas.

• Comfort and Support: The Ostrich Pillow wins hands-down here. Its 360-degree wrap and denser memory foam kept my head and neck in perfect alignment, whether I was leaning back or slumping sideways. I woke up refreshed, not sore. The Wander Plus, while comfy, felt less secure. The twistable design is clever, but the softer foam and lack of a firm closure meant my head wobbled more, especially on bumpier journeys.
• Portability: The Ostrich Pillow takes the crown again. That travel bag and 60% compression made it a breeze to stow away, even in a stuffed carry-on. The Wander Plus, while packable, was trickier to manage—it’s bulkier when not in use, and I had to get creative to fit it in my bag. If you’re tight on space, the Ostrich has the edge.
• Durability and Maintenance: Both pillows held up well during my tests, but the Ostrich Pillow’s machine-washable sleeve gave me peace of mind. After a sweaty flight, I tossed it in the wash, and it came out like new. The Wander Plus’s spot-clean-only approach (at least on my version) felt less convenient, and I worried about stains sticking around. Long-term, the Ostrich seems built to last with its premium materials.
• Price and Value: Here’s where the Wander Plus shines. At $22–$30, it’s a fraction of the Ostrich’s $60–$69 price, making it a no-brainer for occasional travelers or anyone testing the waters with travel pillows. But if you’re a frequent flyer like me, the Ostrich’s superior comfort and durability justify the investment—it’s a one-time buy that pays off in better sleep.
• Style and Vibe: The Ostrich Pillow exudes luxury—it’s sleek, modern, and feels like a high-end accessory. The Wander Plus, with its quirky spiral and bold mauve color, has a fun, approachable vibe. I got a few curious glances with both, but the Ostrich felt more polished, while the Wander Plus leaned into a playful, budget-friendly aesthetic.

Which One Wins When?

• Long Flights: The Ostrich Pillow is my go-to. That full neck support and plush feel made a 5-hour flight bearable, even in coach.
• Short Trips or Trains: The Wander Plus works well here. Its versatility shone on a 3-hour train ride, and the price makes it less of a worry if it gets roughed up.
• Car Rides: I’d pick the Wander Plus for its adaptability. Twisting it to fit different positions in the passenger seat was a lifesaver.
• Budget Travel: The Wander Plus is the clear winner if you’re watching your wallet but still want decent comfort.

Which One’s for Me?

After testing both, I’m Team Ostrich Pillow for my travel needs. The comfort, support, and ease of use outweighed the higher cost—I’m someone who values a good nap over a cramped neck, especially on long hauls.

That said, the Wander Plus impressed me more than I expected. If I were a casual traveler or just needed a backup, I’d happily snag it for its price and flexibility.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Conclusion: Your Turn To Choose

So, there you have it—my real-world take on the Ostrich Pillow versus the Wander Plus Travel Pillow. If you’re after top-tier comfort and don’t mind spending a bit more, the Ostrich Pillow will treat you right with its luxurious feel and unbeatable support.

But if you want something versatile, affordable, and fun to play with, the Wander Plus is a fantastic pick that won’t let you down. Think about your travel habits—how often you’re on the move, what you prioritize (comfort or cost), and where you’ll be using it.

Whichever you choose, you’re one step closer to napping like a pro, and I’m rooting for you to find that perfect travel companion!