Best Noise-Cancelling Earphones for Travel, Traveling can be an exciting experience, but it can also be noisy, stressful, and tiring, especially when you’re on long flights, train journeys, or in busy airports. One way to make your travel more enjoyable is by investing in a quality pair of noise-cancelling earphones or headphones.

These devices help block out external sounds, such as engine noise, crying babies, and general chatter, allowing you to enjoy your favorite music, podcasts, or simply relax in peace.

This guide will help you find the best noise-cancelling headphones for travel in 2024, including both over-ear models and wireless earbuds. We’ll cover what to look for when shopping for travel headphones, the top picks on the market, and the best features for noise isolation, sound quality, comfort, and more.

Key Takeaways

• Noise-cancelling headphones block out engine noise, chatter, and other distractions during travel.
• You can choose from over-ear headphones or wireless earbuds, depending on your needs.
• Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) is a key feature for long flights or train journeys.
• Look for headphones with long battery life, good comfort, and sound quality.
• Models like the Bose QuietComfort 700 and Sony WH-1000XM5 are some of the best options for travel.

Why Noise-Cancelling Earphones Are Essential for Travel

The Need for Noise-Cancelling Headphones During Travel

If you’ve ever been on a long flight, you know how challenging it can be to relax or enjoy entertainment with the constant noise around you. Noise-cancelling headphones are a game-changer, offering a way to block out distracting sounds such as aeroplane engine noise, overhead announcements, and loud conversations.

Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) technology works by using microphones to pick up external sounds and create sound waves that cancel them out. This creates a quieter environment for the listener, making it much easier to focus on your music, audiobooks, and podcasts or simply have some peace and quiet.

How Noise-Cancelling Technology Enhances Your Travel Experience

Whether you’re trying to sleep on a plane, catch up on your favourite podcast, or watch a movie without disturbance, noise-cancelling headphones are essential for enhancing your travel experience. The ability to block out surrounding noise ensures you won’t be distracted by the sounds of crying babies, people talking, or the loud engine noise of a plane. This means you can immerse yourself fully in your entertainment, making long trips feel a lot shorter.

Types of Noise-Cancelling Headphones: Which One Is Right for You?

Over-Ear vs. In-Ear Headphones

When choosing the best noise-canceling headphones for travel, you need to consider the type of design that best suits your needs: over-ear headphones or in-ear earbuds. Let’s break down the pros and cons of each.

Over-Ear Headphones

These headphones completely cover your ears and offer superior noise cancellation and comfort. They are generally larger and heavier, but they can block out noise more effectively and are better for long periods of use. If you prioritize comfort and immersive sound, over-ear headphones like the Bose QuietComfort 700 are an excellent choice for your travels.

In-Ear Earbuds

These are more compact and portable. Wireless earbuds, such as AirPods Pro or Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds, are great for travellers who want to save space and prefer a lighter, more discreet option. While they may not provide the same level of comfort or sound isolation as over-ear headphones, they still offer decent active noise cancellation and are perfect for shorter trips or casual use.

Wireless vs. Wired Headphones: What’s Best for Travel?

Wireless Headphones

Bluetooth headphones are the most popular option for modern travellers due to their convenience. With wireless headphones, you don’t have to worry about tangled cords. You can easily connect them to your phone, tablet, or laptop. Wireless models like the Sony WH-1000XM5 and Bose QuietComfort 700 are incredibly popular because they combine excellent sound quality with convenience, comfort, and noise-cancelling technology.

Wired Headphones

While not as popular as wireless models, wired headphones can still be a good choice for travellers who prefer the reliability of a wired connection, especially if you’re not worried about battery life. Wired models like the Bose QuietComfort 25 offer excellent noise-cancelling features without the concern of battery life, making them a reliable option for travellers who prioritize sound quality.

What to Look for in the Best Travel Headphones

Choosing the right pair of noise-cancelling headphones for travel requires you to consider several key features. Let’s explore what to look for:

Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)

If you’re travelling by plane, train, or bus, ANC is essential. Look for headphones that feature active noise-cancelling technology, which uses microphones to detect and cancel out external noise. ANC is particularly effective at reducing low-frequency sounds, such as engine noise, making it an ideal feature for long flights or train rides.

Sound Quality

While noise cancellation is important, sound quality is also a key consideration. Look for headphones with clear, balanced sound across all frequencies. Over-ear headphones like the Sony WH-1000XM5 and Bose QuietComfort 700 offer excellent sound for all types of audio—whether you’re listening to music, watching movies, or making calls.

Comfort and Fit

Since you’ll likely be wearing these headphones for long periods, comfort is paramount. Headphones with padded ear cups and adjustable headbands will provide a more comfortable fit. Over-ear headphones like the Bose QuietComfort 700 are known for their comfort and can be worn for hours without causing discomfort, making them a top choice for frequent travellers.

Battery Life

For long-haul flights or extended train rides, you’ll need headphones with long battery life. Look for headphones that offer at least 20-30 hours of continuous playback. Models like the Sony WH-1000XM5 offer up to 30 hours of battery life, so you can travel without worrying about recharging them.

Portability

Portability is essential when you’re travelling. Wireless earbuds like the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds are compact and easy to pack, making them ideal for short trips. On the other hand, over-ear headphones like the Sony WH-1000XM5 are larger but offer better comfort and superior noise isolation, making them better for longer flights.

Bluetooth Connectivity

Look for headphones with Bluetooth connectivity, especially if you want a wireless experience. Bluetooth 5.0 or higher is ideal for stable, seamless pairing with your devices, so you don’t have to worry about connection drops during your flight.

Top Picks for the Best Noise-Cancelling Headphones for Travel

Now that we’ve covered what to look for let’s dive into some of the best noise-cancelling headphones for travel in 2024:

Best Overall: Bose QuietComfort 700 Headphones

• Active Noise Cancellation (ANC): Outstanding ANC that eliminates surrounding noise effectively.
• Battery Life: 20-30 hours of playtime.
• Comfort: Lightweight design with plush ear cups for extended comfort.
• Sound Quality: Deep, clear sound with excellent bass.
• Price: $$$$

The Bose QuietComfort 700 headphones are an excellent choice for travellers seeking premium sound quality, comfort, and superb noise cancellation. These over-ear headphones are highly rated for long-haul travel.

Best for Active Noise Cancellation: Sony WH-1000XM5

• ANC: Unmatched ANC with adaptive sound control.
• Battery Life: Up to 30 hours of continuous playback.
• Comfort: Soft ear cups and lightweight frame.
• Sound Quality: Premium sound with a customizable equalizer.
• Price: $$$$

If ANC is your top priority, the Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones should be at the top of your list. These headphones block out even the most persistent background noise, and their long battery life ensures you won’t run out of power on a long flight.

Best Wireless Earbuds: Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds

• ANC: Compact but powerful ANC for earbuds.
• Battery Life: 18 hours of playtime.
• Comfort: Secure fit with multiple ear tips for a customizable fit.
• Portability: Extremely portable and easy to carry.
• Price: $$$$

For those who prefer earbuds over over-ear models, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds are a great option. They combine excellent ANC with portability, making them perfect for travellers on the go.

Best Budget Noise-Canceling Headphones: Anker Soundcore Space NC

• ANC: Moderate but effective ANC for the price.
• Battery Life: 20 hours of playtime.
• Comfort: Soft ear cups and foldable design for easy storage.
• Price: $$

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option without sacrificing essential features like noise cancellation, the Anker Soundcore Space NC is a solid choice. These headphones provide good ANC and sound quality for the price.

How to Choose the Best Noise-Cancelling Headphones for Your Needs

Consider Your Travel Habits

Think about how often you travel and the environments you’ll be in. If you’re a frequent flyer, you’ll want over-ear headphones with excellent ANC, long battery life, and a comfortable fit. For occasional travellers, wireless earbuds might be more convenient and sufficient for shorter trips.

Battery Life and Quick Charging

Long battery life is crucial for travellers who need their headphones to last through long flights. Look for headphones that offer at least 20-30 hours of playback. Additionally, some models have fast-charging features, so a quick 10-15 minute charge can give you several hours of use.

Comfort for Extended Use

Comfort is key for any travel accessory, especially if you’ll be wearing the headphones for hours. Look for headphones with memory foam ear cups and adjustable headbands. Over-ear models tend to offer more comfort than in-ear headphones, but both types can be comfortable with the right design.

My Opinion

When it comes to choosing the best noise-cancelling headphones for travel, it’s essential to weigh factors such as comfort, battery life, and active noise cancellation. With options like the Bose QuietComfort 700 and Sony WH-1000XM5, travellers can enjoy the peace and quiet no matter where they go. Whether you prefer over-ear headphones or wireless earbuds, investing in a good pair will significantly improve your travel experience.