Traveling can be both exciting and exhausting, especially when it comes to getting comfortable on a long flight or road trip. For years, I’ve been on a quest to find the perfect travel pillow, and after trying various models, I stumbled upon the Wander Plus Travel Pillow.
I was intrigued by its promises of comfort and support, and as someone who travels frequently, I decided to give it a try.
But before you jump to buy this pillow, let me share my honest experience with it. Spoiler alert: It’s not all sunshine and rainbows. If you’re considering this travel pillow, there are some things you absolutely need to know.
If you’re still interested after reading this, you can find it on several e-commerce platforms, but proceed with caution.
First Impressions: What You Need To Know?
When I first unboxed the Wander Plus Travel Pillow, my initial reaction was mixed. The pillow comes vacuum-sealed, which means it needs some time to expand before you can use it.
This wasn’t a big deal, but the strong chemical smell that hit me as soon as I opened the packaging was a red flag.
I left it out to air for a couple of days, hoping the odor would dissipate, but the smell persisted.
This was concerning because I couldn’t imagine resting my face against something that smelled so strongly of chemicals.
Another issue I encountered was the pillow’s thickness.
It’s bulkier than I anticipated, which made it a bit uncomfortable to wear around my neck. While the memory foam was soft and supportive, the overall design felt more cumbersome than cozy.
Pros And Cons of the Wander Plus Travel Pillow
Pros
- Memory Foam Support: The memory foam in the Wander Plus Travel Pillow is genuinely supportive, providing the kind of neck and chin support that many travelers seek. It’s firm yet comfortable, which can help in maintaining an upright posture during long journeys.
- Breathable and Skin-Friendly Fabric: The outer layer of the pillow is made of a breathable cotton fabric that’s soft to the touch. It didn’t irritate my skin, and the material seems durable and easy to clean, thanks to its removable and washable cover.
- Chin Wrap Design: The chin wrap feature is a thoughtful addition. It’s designed to prevent your head from falling forward while you sleep, which is a common issue with many other travel pillows. In theory, this should make it easier to sleep upright.
Cons
- Unpleasant Chemical Odor: The biggest downside of this pillow is the strong chemical smell. Even after airing it out for several days, the smell was still overwhelming. This could be a deal-breaker for those sensitive to odors or who simply don’t want to rest their face against something that smells off.
- Too Thick and Bulky: The pillow’s bulkiness makes it uncomfortable for those with smaller necks or those who prefer a more streamlined design. It feels more like a collar than a pillow, which detracts from its comfort.
- Velcro Issues: The Velcro that’s supposed to hold the pillow together simply doesn’t stick well. This makes it difficult to keep the pillow secure around your neck and even more challenging to pack it back into its pouch when you’re done using it.
- Difficult to Pack: Speaking of the pouch, getting the pillow back into its storage bag is a struggle. The material doesn’t compress easily, so you’ll likely find yourself wrestling with it every time you try to pack it up. This is far from convenient when you’re on the go.
Maintenance Tips: Keeping Your Wander Plus Pillow Fresh
If you decide to go ahead with the Wander Plus Travel Pillow despite its drawbacks, proper maintenance is crucial to get the most out of it. Here are some tips:
- Air It Out Thoroughly: Before your first use, make sure to leave the pillow in a well-ventilated area for several days. This will help reduce the strong chemical odor that comes with it.
- Wash the Cover Regularly: The outer cover is removable and washable, which is a plus. Be sure to wash it regularly to keep it clean and fresh, especially after long trips. Follow the care instructions carefully to avoid shrinking or damaging the fabric.
- Store It Properly: Although packing the pillow into its pouch is difficult, it’s essential to store it correctly to maintain its shape and longevity. If you’re having trouble with the pouch, consider storing it in a larger, breathable bag.
- Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Memory foam can be sensitive to temperature changes. Avoid exposing the pillow to extreme heat or cold, as this can affect its firmness and overall comfort.
How Does Wander Plus Compare To Other Travel Pillows?
When it comes to travel pillows, there’s no shortage of options. So how does the Wander Plus stack up against some of the most popular alternatives?
Trtl Pillow
The Trtl Pillow is one of the most popular travel pillows on the market, and for good reason. Unlike the Wander Plus, the Trtl is not a traditional U-shaped pillow. Instead, it’s designed to support your neck with a unique internal support system that’s much more compact and easier to carry.
Pros:
- Compact and lightweight
- Supports the neck effectively without bulk
- Easy to pack and carry
Cons:
- Not as plush or soft as memory foam pillows
- May not provide enough support for everyone
In comparison, the Wander Plus offers more cushioning with its memory foam but lacks the portability and ease of use that the Trtl provides.
Cabeau Evolution Pillow
The Cabeau Evolution Pillow is another popular choice, known for its high-quality memory foam and ergonomic design. It’s similar to the Wander Plus in terms of materials but offers a more refined design.
Pros:
- High-density memory foam provides excellent support
- Compact and easy to pack with a convenient travel case
- Adjustable straps for a customizable fit
Cons:
- Slightly more expensive than the Wander Plus
- Some users find it too firm
Compared to the Wander Plus, the Cabeau Evolution Pillow offers better build quality and packing convenience, making it a more reliable choice for frequent travelers.
BCOZZY Chin Supporting Travel Pillow
The BCOZZY Travel Pillow is known for its chin support and versatility. It wraps around your neck and can be adjusted to provide support in various positions.
Pros:
- Excellent chin and neck support
- Soft and plush material
- Easy to carry and pack
Cons:
- Less support for the back of the neck
- Can be too warm for some users
While the BCOZZY provides better chin support than the Wander Plus, it may not offer the same level of back neck support that some travelers need.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Absolutely! Travel pillows like the Wander Plus are designed for use on planes, trains, buses, and even in cars. They are typically small and portable enough to be considered a personal item, so you can bring them on board without any issues.
To use the Wander Plus Travel Pillow, simply remove it from its storage pouch (which can be a bit tricky) and allow it to expand. Once fully expanded, place it around your neck with the chin wrap in front. Adjust the Velcro straps to your desired tightness, ensuring that the pillow provides support without feeling too tight or uncomfortable.
Memory foam travel pillows, like the Wander Plus, are often preferred for their ability to conform to the shape of your neck and provide personalized support. They can be more comfortable than pillows filled with beads or other materials, but this largely depends on personal preference. Some people find memory foam to be too firm or too warm, while others appreciate its supportive nature.
Memory foam and bead-filled travel pillows offer different types of support and comfort. Memory foam pillows, like the Wander Plus, mold to the shape of your neck, providing customized support. They are generally firmer and can help maintain an upright posture. On the other hand, bead-filled pillows are typically softer and more flexible, allowing for more movement but offering less structured support. The choice between the two depends on your comfort needs and how much support you require during travel.
Final Thoughts: Is The Wander Plus Travel Pillow Worth It?
After spending some time with the Wander Plus Travel Pillow, I have to admit I’m left with mixed feelings. While the memory foam provides good support, and the chin wrap is a nice touch, the overall experience is marred by the strong chemical smell, bulky design, and unreliable Velcro.
If you’re sensitive to odors or prefer a more compact and easy-to-pack pillow, I’d recommend looking at other options like the Trtl Pillow or Cabeau Evolution Pillow. The Wander Plus has potential, but it falls short in key areas that are hard to overlook, especially if comfort and convenience are your top priorities during travel.
In the end, if you still want to give the Wander Plus a try, you can find it on various e-commerce platforms, but keep in mind the drawbacks mentioned. For frequent travelers who demand more from their gear, it might be worth exploring other travel pillow options before settling on this one.
