Best Noise Cancelling Headphones for Travel: Tune Out the World in Style

But with so many choices out there, finding the right one isn’t easy. So, we did the heavy lifting for you. After digging deep into performance, comfort, battery life, and overall value, here are the top noise cancelling headphones you’ll want to pack for your next adventure in 2025.

What Actually Matters When Picking Travel Headphones?

Before jumping into the list, here’s what you should really look for if you want headphones that won’t let you down when you need them most:

• Serious Noise Cancellation: Look for strong, active noise cancelling (ANC) features that can actually hush the constant hum of an airplane or chatty neighbors.
  
  

• All-Day Comfort: If they aren’t comfortable after a couple of hours, they’re no good for long trips. Lightweight builds and cushioned ear cups are key.
  
  

• Battery That Lasts: Aim for at least 20 hours of battery life so you're not hunting for outlets mid-trip.
  
  

• Easy to Pack: Headphones that fold or lay flat will save you a lot of space (and frustration) in your carry-on.
  
  

• Sound You’ll Love: Beyond canceling noise, you’ll want rich, clear sound — because your favorite playlist deserves better than just "okay" audio.
  
  

• Built to Travel: Drops, bumps, and messy backpacks happen. You’ll need headphones sturdy enough to handle real-world travel.

Top 5 Best Noise Cancelling Headphones for Travel

1. Sony WH-1000XM5

• Why We Love It: Sony leads the market with best-in-class ANC, plush comfort, and outstanding sound clarity.
  
  

• Key Features:
  
  

• 30-hour battery life
  
  

• Ultra-light and ergonomic design
  
  

• Exceptional call quality with voice pickup technology
  
  

Verdict: Perfect for travelers who demand absolute silence and rich audio experience.

2. Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones

• Why We Love It: Bose’s legendary comfort and balanced sound profile make these an easy choice for long-haul flights.
  
  

• Key Features:
  
  

• 24-hour battery life
  
  

• Adjustable noise cancellation
  
  

• Immersive Audio Mode for deeper sound
  
  

Verdict: A dream for frequent flyers who prioritize comfort.

3. Apple AirPods Max

• Why We Love It: Seamless integration with Apple devices, stunning design, and spatial audio for an immersive experience.
  
  

• Key Features:
  
  

• 20-hour battery life
  
  

• Computational Audio for adaptive sound control
  
  

• Premium aluminum and memory foam build
  
  

Verdict: Ideal for Apple users who want style without compromising performance.

4. Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless

• Why We Love It: Crisp audio with deep bass and impressive ANC performance.
  
  

• Key Features:
  
  

• Massive 60-hour battery life
  
  

• Touch-sensitive controls
  
  

• Lightweight yet premium build
  
  

Verdict: Best choice for audiophiles who travel extensively.

5. Anker Soundcore Space Q45

• Top Highlights: Affordable without major compromises on ANC and audio quality.
  
  

• Key Features:
  
  

• 50-hour battery life (ANC on)
  
  

• Multi-point Bluetooth connectivity
  
  

• Adjustable ANC levels
  
  

Verdict: A budget-friendly option that doesn't skimp on essentials.

Bonus Tips for Traveling with Noise Cancelling Headphones

• Carry a Wired Backup: Some airlines’ in-flight entertainment still require a wired connection.
  
  

• Bring a Charging Cable: Especially for long trips, having a USB-C or Lightning cable handy is a lifesaver.
  
  

• Invest in a Hard Case: Protect your headphones from damage during transit.
  

Concluding Remarks

With the right noise cancelling headphones, every travel becomes enjoyable since troubling noise becomes soothing silence. If it's top-tier audio you’re after, unrivaled plushness, or even just superb value for your buck, all our recommendations were tailored to ensure that you travel smarter and more comfortably than ever before.

About to block the world out while traveling?