The Perks Behind a Travel-Friendly Seat Cushion

Sitting in a vehicle for hours at a time is no chore. No matter what type of health situation(s) you've got going on. Those with neck cramps will certainly see their pains magnified. While those who are in perfect health will simply become uncomfortable. Our bodies were made to stand, stretch, and walk, not stay plopped in the same position for hours on end. Yet when traveling, especially around the holiday season, said long-term sitting is often a necessity. 

For those end-of-the-year travel sessions, consider giving your seat an upgrade. It's a simple change (and inexpensive), but will give your rear a whole new life for the entirety of the trip. Back pain will be out the window, and your car ride will fly by faster than ever before.

Travel seat cushions work to keep the rear cushioned and supported, this often eliminates pain associated with displaced weight, especially when sitting for hours on end. They also align the spine, which leaves your lower and upper back steadily in place, often eliminating discomfort all on its own. Additional features, such as coccyx cutouts relief pressure (great for anyone with an aching tailbone). Foam or memory cushions will shape to your body over time, creating an even more comfortable surface. 

Sitting atop one of these specialized cushions can also increase blood flow to the rear. This means circulation throughout the entire body will be improved, even though you're seated for long periods at a time. All of the above can make for a more enjoyable road trip, and one that goes much quicker.

To stock up on all your travel rear/back related needs, head to Contour Living's product page. Here you can learn more about each cushion, and find the one that will best suit your sitting needs. 

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5 Non-Beachy Ways to Utilize Your LA Wedge Headrest Pillow

A few months ago Contour Living came out with a brand new summer-friendly product. A foamy wedge that could support the head (even in the sand or water), keep drinks cold, and tote around belongings – in whatever order the user saw fit. We call it the LA Wedge Headrest Pillow. Now that it's not exactly pool season, however, those same uses have been put on hold. But that doesn't mean you can't still find some great functions from your pillow.

Whether you already have one (or more) or are considering buying, check out these top five off-season tasks it's ready to take on. 

5. Road Trip Companions

Load 'em up and pack 'em in the car. Your LA Wedge can double as both a place to store belongings, and as a comfortable trip pillow. Use for yourself, or grab one for each of the kids – they can bring whatever activities can fit inside. And because the Wedge comes in six neon colors, it's always easy to tell whose is whose.

4. Hot Tub Head Support

Sitting in a bath of hot swirling water can be relaxing, but the facilities don't usually count for individual heights. Pack along your LA Headrest and gain access to some serious head support that you can adjust as you soak. The same goes for the bathtub too! You can even pack its pouch full of belongings to keep them nearby (though it's best to remove anything that isn't waterproof before getting in.) 

3. Stargazing

Traditional pillows obstruct your view, and can get bogged down with some of Mother Nature's finest, like leaves or dirt. Opt for your foam headrest instead for a comfortable way to take in the sights. 

2. Carryon Item

Much like in the car, the wedge offers great head support on a plane. And because you can store things inside it, the LA Headrest helps combine luggage, streamlining the travel process.

1. Tailgating Gear

Walking to your favorite sporting event, or even just navigating the pre-game parties, often means lots of outdoors time. Stock your LA Wedge with some beverages to keep cold (maybe a snack or two), and get ready to enjoy the game.

Learn more about the LA Wedge Headrest Pillow here! 

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How to Sleep Better on a Plane

Catching rest while traveling isn't exactly the easiest task. Sometimes it's even an impossible task – depending on your schedule and how many children are in close proximity. But when the timing is right, which is to say you have a long flight and courteous co-travelers – naps are a welcome occurrence. In order to gain rest even with distractions in place, we look to the help of industry pros. Flight attendants who offer their best advice at achieving sleep while traveling on a plane.

They suggest:

Boarding the plane without expectations of sleep. Sure it'd be great, but assuming it'll be a quiet, smooth ride is the easiest way for that to not occur. Instead, go in knowing that you'd like to sleep, but there's a good possibility it won't happen. Those who feel entitled to sleep, the flight attendants said, become the most irritable. Adding that reminding yourself how much you need rest is the best way to not be able to sleep – no matter where you're trying to doze. 

Window seats are also ideal for sleeping, as there's slightly more space to rest. (Rather than being wedged between two strangers.) They also point out seats that line up with interior lines so you can keep yourself alongside windows, rather than offset or near an uneven surface. 

Comfortable clothes are also key, such as pants with excess room and shoes that don't fasten too tight. Flying causes the human body to bloat and temporarily grow, meaning clothes can become even tighter in-air. 

Finally, plan for success. Pack a neck pillow, eye shades, back supports – whatever will help bring you comfort. You can also ask flight attendants for a blanket to help keep warm. Compiling all of the above, they say, can provide one of the most perfect recipes for in-air sleep. Keep them in mind the next time you travel. [Yahoo]

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Travel with the Inflatable BackMax

Traveling is generally something we love – it’s a chance to see new things or visit with old friends. To get out of the house and have a break from work, or life, or whatever else might be wearing you down. 

But that doesn’t mean that getting to your destination is always a picnic. More often than not, travel calls for rides in multiple vehicles and lots and lots of sitting. And just when you think it’s almost over, yes there’s even more sitting. However, for those suffering from medical problems, traveling logistics are even more unpleasant. 

But thanks to the inflatable BackMax, those of all ailments can gain relief on the go. Because air can be added (and then removed) as needed, patients have easy access to comfort, support, and extreme pain relief. Without having to transfer a bulky or heavy pillow on their trip. 

How it Works

The inflatable BackMax comes with the same setup as the original. Multiple wedges that can be moved and rearranged as needed to account for some of the worst pains or conditions. Including acid reflux, surgery recovery, chronic back pains, aches, and more. And because most of these ailments are put on high alert when traveling (whether from sleeping in a different bed or eating foods your body isn’t accustomed to), it’s also the time when you need relief the most. Especially for those who might be on the road for a big surgery – extra recovery time, and plenty of resting afterwards. Even when in the car.

To make the most out of your traveling logistics, the inflatable BackMax can help make the trip. Cutting out pains and lowering symptoms along every step of the way. Consider ordering yours today – and in plenty of time for your next big trip. 

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Survive your Next Road Trip with These 5 Items

Summer months are prime time for traveling. The weather is cooperating, seasonal events are taking place in your area, and it’s also likely that you’ve caught the bug. The one that makes you want to get out and see things and experience all types of culture … or your same old favorites, just at new venues. No matter your summer plans, however, chances are you have to travel to get to them. Even if it’s just slightly. 

No matter how far your next trip, these items will make sure you get there with plenty of comfort and support to spare.

5. The Twist Neck Pillow

Adjustable and the perfect size to keep your head upright – especially for sleeping in the car – try the Twist Neck Pillow for all your car sleeping needs. Bend as needed to create the exact shape and style you prefer.

4. Comfort Travel Cushion

Sitting for hours on end can be rough on the rear. But with the Comfort Travel Cushion, you can add plush layers right where they’re needed the most. Roll it up for extra neck leverage, or place behind the back for an added lumbar prop.

3. Inflatable Neck Cushion

This device is the ultimate travel companion. Not only does the Inflatable Neck Cushion provide some much needed neck reinforcements, it can be deflated for easy suitcase storage. Just inflate when needed, and press out the air when it’s not! 

2. Headache Ice Pillow

Driving (or riding) is known to make even the strongest headache-prone. Rather than fighting them off, relax with this made-for-pain pillow. Pack in an ice pouch and relax the aches away with the convenient Headache Ice Pillow. 

1. CPAP Pillow

Traveling with a CPAP machine can be a pain, but with this pillow, complete with strategic cutouts, life just got easier. Pack along this CPAP accessory for easy travel and even better sleep. 

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Airline Precautions with Comfort Travel Items

There’s no doubt that airline security is on the rise. It’s a good but necessary change, in order to keep everyone safe. On that quest, however, we also put ourselves through some serious scrutiny, like body scans, metal detectors, and more. Again, a necessary part of this safety process, even if it isn’t particularly fun. 

In order to make security checkpoints faster and easier for all involved, it’s first important to know flight regulations. How they change and what’s specific to your next destination. (Overseas is most difficult as this is hardest to get information for, and it can be more difficult to communicate when dealing with various native languages.)

This also might mean bringing on paperwork for all of your travel products, including pillows and seat cushions. This was brought to our attention when a long-term user of Contour items said she uses this trick, after having difficulties in a French airport with a support piece that sat in a pillow’s interior. Especially for items that can’t be opened or dissected for inspection. With its description, travelers can express the pillows’ make up to get on their plane in a far quicker fashion. 

Next, look up to ensure that you can bring on various travel items as a carry-on. You don’t want to be charged extra just because an airline’s rules were difficult to understand. (Almost all airlines offer unpaid carry-ons, but might count a purse or diaper bag as a separate item.)

Finally, determine which items you most need to make for an easy, comfortable flight. Based on the size of plane or length of flight, you might be more in need of neck support, seat cushion, or even a combo model that offers all of the above in a single combinable device.  

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Customer Reviews Say it Best! Check Out the Twist Neck Pillow

Traveling? Staying in? No matter your destination, nothing quite says “comfort on the go” like our Twist Neck Pillow. All it takes is a few maneuvers and you can be on your way to sitting in any position without losing neck support. And without having to crane and adjust the body in order to get it. (You know the pain of twisting and adjusting the body until you get settled just so.)

But not only is this little guy convenient, it’s portable, and incredibly comfortable. Don’t take our word for it though – take its continued sales patterns. As well as reviews from actual Twist Pillow users.

“This is my 2nd twist pillow. I bought the 1st over 12 years ago. I can twist one end up when seated so my head is supported while I sleep flying over the Atlantic. I am able to use it in a hotel as a CPAP pillow when I use my machine,” January 2015 

“I use it at home to stretch my neck. Perfect size and resilience.” July 2014 

“Bought one in 1997 & found I could turn up one end to rest my head while I sleep. Am a CPAP user. It is great to sleep on as the pillow does not interfere with the mask. It goes with me on all travels now.” July 2014 

“I saw one of these pillows while on a long flight oversees and continued to look for one of my own for two years. I finally found one at a small drug store and bought the last one they had. Once I knew who made it, I looked them up on their web page and discovered the full line of amazing products. After reviewing all the products, I still decided to go with more of the same thing because it is so versatile. Am enjoying the pillow very much and have decided to purchase extras as gifts.” July 2014 

“Fell asleep in front of the TV again. This really helps!” May 2013 

“This product is great. I take it everywhere with me. I have several bulging disks in my neck plus fibromyalgia and this pillow gives the perfect support no matter if I am laying down reading, in the car, or watching TV on the sofa.” May 2013

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Tips for Sleeping Away This Holiday Season

With all the traveling and visiting that’s to be done this time of year, many of us find ourselves sleeping away from home. Whether that’s in a guest bed, on the couch, on an air mattress, or worst of all – on the floor. Maybe even a combination, depending on how much hopping around is to be done and how many houses visited. 

No matter where you rest your head this holiday season, however, there are a few simple and proven steps that can help you get a better night’s rest. Even if you are sleeping on the hard ground or on a too-worn mattress. 

To eliminate back pain, bring along an add-on item such as a leg pillow or wedge to create a better-aligned surface. Many come in portable sizes, and range in all types of specialties, depending on what type of issue ails you most. For instance, a Contour Leg Pillow to better set the spine while laying on one’s side. Or a Wedge Cushion to reduce acid reflux when only a flat pillow is within reach. 

Traveling in Better Health

There are also plenty of sitting travel options to make life easier (and less painful). Opt for a rear or back cushion that can be placed on top of your seat – whether in a car, bus, or plane. Or pack along a backrest that will keep you sitting comfy and alert through the entire traveling process. 

Best of all, each of these products can be found in foldable, or travel sizes. So as to not take up much space while still offering real-time results.

And, of course, if you’re hosting this holiday season, it doesn’t hurt to have plenty of comfort items for your guests. Mattress pads, pillows, and more can all make for a more enjoyable stay and better sleep to be had by all. 

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Tips for Sleeping in Hotel Beds

Does your back hurt after sleeping in a new bed? What about your neck or legs? When sleeping in a new place, most often a hotel, it can be common to wake up stiff and in pain. Because it’s a new surface, and not one your body is accustomed to, the body can have a hard time getting comfortable. Then once it does, will often be jarred out of its normal position, creating awkward placements for the muscles and spine. And because we sleep in these out-of-the-ordinary poses (for hours on end), it causes pain and stiff joints throughout the rest of the day. 

So how do we avoid these uncomfortable scenarios? After all, it’s hard enough to get proper rest while traveling, let alone when it causes us to hurt during our waking hours. With the help of proper pillows or any added accessories, however, those pains can be greatly reduced. If not eliminated altogether. 

How to Eliminate Back Pains While Traveling

The next time you travel, remember to take a supportive pillow. Use one for your neck, legs, or hips – whatever tends to hurt the most while on vacation. These pillows will help keep your body properly aligned, while adding some much needed comfort in the process. You can also talk with the hotel and inquire about extra pillows or any mattress toppers that might make your stay more pleasant. 

Another way to reduce pains can be achieved by the way you sleep. If it’s your lower back that usually hurts, it may be best to sleep on your side. And so on. Talk to your doctor about various sleeping positions, specifically those that will work best for your specific body type. A quick Google search can also provide some insight on nightly routines and how to take advantage of your next hotel stay.

Get started on these simple tips while planning your your next trip. 

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New Product! The Inflatable BackMax Body Wedge

Love the BackMax but need something more convenient for travel or storage? You’re in luck! Our new version of the product allows you to inflate and deflate at your convenience, creating a cushion that’s as flexible as your schedule. Air it up with the provided pump to recover after a surgery, or pack it along for your next trip. It’ll ensure comfortable resting no matter the sleeping situation. With this inflatable product, you’re able to get the pain relief you deserve in a user-friendly, mobile package, and without losing any of the comfort or support that comes with a traditional BackMax Plus. 

The BackMax Plus works by offering users three specifically designed wedges – that can be used separately or together – to form the perfect position. By combining or removing pieces, patients can best support body parts that need it, while choosing to bypass the ones that don’t. Or, use all three pieces at once to create the ultimate zero gravity position. It’s one that also promotes oxygen flow and circulation, to even further speed along the healing process. 

The BackMax Body Wedge Can Also:

• Be adjusted to different levels of firmness – use less air for a softer feel, or fill it up for extra firmness. 
• Be purchased in three different sizes, so you’re sure to find the right fit.
• Customize to your body’s individual shape and size.
• Reduce stress, pain, and strain throughout the body.
• Create full body support … or be adjusted to host just one portion at a time.

Whether you’re using it to recover from an injury, or are just looking to add some comfort into your daily routine, the BackMax Plus offers an entire combination of ways to relax. And with its new inflatable counterpart, you never have to go without your favorite back product again. 

Head to Contour’s product page to start shopping! 

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The Twist Pillow: Neck Comfort While Traveling

Traveling, for any amount of distance, is bound to bring on some uncomfortable situations. Between all the waiting and the public transportation seats, which are usually foamy and made for the wrong size, rest doesn’t exactly come easily. No matter how tired you may be from the long day of traveling, it can be too uncomfortable to nap, or even relax.

But with the right travel-along product, those former fears can be put to rest. No longer are you left to crunch or squeeze your way into a comfortable position. One such product, the Twist Neck Pillow, not only travels easy, but offers an unlimited source of head and neck support. With this carry-on pillow, travelers of all ages can turn a terminal, bus station, or long car ride into a great place to take a nap.

About the Twist Pillow

Made specifically to “twist” into the perfect position, this pillow is great for those of all sizes. Simply mold it to fit your neck or head, and enjoy hours of comfortable rest. In fact, it stays so well put that travelers can even walk about with the pillow on their neck, leaving their hands free for a carry on or hand rails.

Then once you reach your destination, the pillow can even be used as a lumbar or leg pillow. Simply adjust its position, and watch it mold into the perfect supportive shape. The Twist Neck Pillow is so versatile, customers have found countless uses for this ever-changing model.

It also comes in several different versions. Purchase the original model in cream or black, or upgrade to a memory foam or massage model. The memory foam molds to create a customized fit, while the massage pillow provides soothing relief while acting out its pillow duties.

No matter how often you travel, the Twist Neck Pillow is a great option for on-the-go rest. Head to the product page to learn more.

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Add “Back Support” to your Travel List

Planes, trains, and automobiles – as the old saying goes – are often a necessary choice when traveling across town, state, or even the world. No matter the distance, these vehicles get us where we need to go – hopefully in a timely fashion. However, when made for speed and distance, some transportation machines don’t have all the necessary comfort features that we’d like. For instance, headrests that are made for those over six feet, cushions that are too spongy, and seats that are often worn out from seating multiple travelers.

Of course, adjustments can be made to personal vehicles, such as your car or a bus seat. (Which are bulky, but provide ample cushion.) But when it comes to airplanes or long rides with a friend, sometimes the basics just won’t cut it.

However, thanks to a small travel carry along item, your comfort issues can be easily fixed.

Comfort That Defies Location

With the Contour Travel Back Support cushion, journeys of all lengths can be met with the proper spinal and rear adjustments. Simply attach the small travel piece to the back of your chair, and enjoy hours of extra back support. Through turbulence, red lights, and any kind of traffic jam, your back will be properly held into place. The cushion even folds down flat for easy storage. Keep it in your purse, carry on luggage, or slide in next to your newspaper; the cushion is so small and lightweight, it’s hardly noticeable.

The Back Support features can also be customized for the individual traveler. Because it sticks to your chair (or cushion’s) back, it can be set on any height. Use it for the lower back, mid-range, or upper back to address any section of pain. Then set it to firm, soft, or anywhere in between – it’s truly made to support any back needs. 

The Travel Back also comes with:

• Four-position lumbar support
• Folding flat capabilities
• Built-in hook fasteners
• Winged sides to protect adhesive
• Ventilation holes
• Center slots for spine placement

Coming in as one of Contour’s more affordable products, the Travel Back Support is a must-have for the frequent (and no so frequent) traveler. With its versatility, ability to provide support, and ease and which it can be transported, this is a product every traveler should keep on their packing list.

To learn more about the Contour Travel Back Support or to order yours today, head to our product page.

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