The Best Noise-Canceling Headphones for Travel in 2025

From screaming babies on planes to engine hums and crowded terminals, traveling can be noisy and chaotic. That’s where noise-canceling headphones come in — offering a personal bubble of calm and immersive sound. In 2025, the headphone industry has evolved to offer smarter, more adaptive, and more comfortable options for travelers.

Whether you're a frequent flyer, a digital nomad, or a commuter looking for peace, this guide explores the best noise-canceling headphones tailored for travel.

Why Noise-Canceling Headphones Are a Travel Essential

• Silence background noise during flights or layovers
  
  
• Enjoy movies and music with immersive sound quality
  
  
• Stay focused and calm in stressful environments
  
  
• Make crystal-clear calls with advanced mics
  
  
• Get better sleep on long-haul trips
  

Key Features to Consider

- Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)

• Blocks external noise using sound wave inversion
  
  
• Adaptive ANC adjusts to your environment
  

- Battery Life

• At least 20+ hours of playtime for long trips
  
  
• Quick charge options for emergencies
  

- Comfort & Fit

• Over-ear padding or ergonomic earbuds
  
  
• Lightweight for prolonged wear
  

- Audio Quality

• Balanced sound with deep bass and crisp highs
  
  
• Custom EQ options via companion apps
  

- Portability

• Foldable designs or compact cases
  
  
• Easy to store in your carry-on
  

Best Over-Ear Noise-Canceling Headphones for Travel

1. Sony WH-1000XM6

• Industry-leading ANC with auto-adaptive features
  
  
  
• Up to 40 hours battery life (ANC off), 30 with ANC
  
  
  
• Touch controls, voice assistant, and speak-to-chat
  
  
  
• Lightweight and travel-friendly
  

2. Bose QuietComfort Ultra

• Exceptional noise cancellation in any environment
  
  
  
• Signature Bose sound and spatial audio
  
  
  
• 24-hour battery life with comfortable over-ear fit
  
  
  
• Multipoint pairing for seamless device switching
  

3. Apple AirPods Max (2025 Model)

• H2 chip with enhanced ANC and spatial audio
  
  
• Premium build quality and seamless iOS integration
  
  
• 20-hour battery life with case
  
  
• Automatic device switching with iPhone, iPad, Mac
  

4. Sennheiser Momentum 5 Wireless

• Audiophile-grade sound with personalized sound profiles
  
  
• Smart Pause and Transparent Hearing modes
  
  
• 37-hour battery life
  
  
• Stylish design with memory foam cushions
  

5. Bowers & Wilkins PX8

• 24-bit high-res audio performance
  
  
• Premium aluminum and leather build
  
  
• Adaptive ANC and wear-detection sensors
  
  
• 30-hour battery with fast charge (7 hrs in 15 min)
  

Best In-Ear Noise-Canceling Headphones for Travel

- Sony WF-1000XM5

• Top-tier ANC in compact form
  
  
• 8 hours of playtime + 16 extra in case
  
  
• Adaptive Sound Control for on-the-go use
  

- Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II

• Custom-tuned ANC based on your ear shape
  
  
• Incredible fit with StayHear Max tips
  
  
• Up to 24 hours total battery life
  

- Jabra Elite 10 Active

• Great for both calls and music
  
  
• Sweatproof with ergonomic fit
  
  
• Adjustable ANC and hear-through modes
  

- Beats Fit Pro (2025 Edition)

• Apple H2 chip for iOS users
  
  
• Active noise cancellation + spatial audio
  
  
• Secure wingtip design ideal for travel and workouts
  

Budget-Friendly Options

- Anker Soundcore Life Q35

• Hybrid ANC with 40-hour battery life
  
  
• LDAC audio codec support
  
  
• Affordable with great comfort
  

- EarFun Air Pro 3

• Solid ANC and clear sound under $100
  
  
• Good fit and water resistance
  
  
• Great value for budget travelers
  

Travel Tips for Using Noise-Canceling Headphones

• Enable airplane mode-compatible Bluetooth
  
  
• Use included audio cable during takeoff/landing
  
  
• Download content offline to save battery
  
  
• Bring a headphone jack adapter for older planes
  
  
• Charge before your flight and carry backup power
  

Best Uses While Traveling

- On the Plane

• Block out engine noise and chatter
  
  
• Watch in-flight movies with superior audio
  

- At the Airport

• Focus on work in lounges
  
  
• Tune out background announcements and noise
  

- While Sleeping

• Get restful sleep on long-haul flights
  
  
• Use ANC + white noise for maximum effect
  

- During Commutes or Walks

• Enjoy immersive music and podcasts
  
  
• Stay alert with ambient mode if needed
  

Smart Headphones with Extra Travel Features

• Auto pause when you remove headphones
  
  
• Ambient awareness or transparent hearing
  
  
• Multi-device pairing
  
  
• Voice assistant integration for hands-free control
  

Conclusion

Noise-canceling headphones have become a must-have for modern travelers. In 2025, the market offers something for everyone — from luxury over-ear headsets with cinematic sound to compact earbuds with next-gen ANC. Choose based on your travel style, comfort preference, and budget.

No matter your destination, the right pair of headphones can transform your trip from chaotic to calm. Let the world fade away, and travel in peace, style, and sound.