Ultimate comfort and peace with the best travel noise-canceling headphones.
Traveling can be a real headache, literally! Between the drone of airplane engines, the chatter of fellow passengers, and the cacophony of bustling airports, it’s hard to find a moment of peace. But fear not, fellow traveler, because noise-canceling headphones are here to save the day!
These technological marvels are your secret weapon against the chaos, allowing you to immerse yourself in your favorite tunes, podcasts, or audiobooks, or simply enjoy the blissful silence. But with so many options on the market, choosing the right pair can be a daunting task.
That’s where we come in! We’ve scoured the market and tested the top contenders to bring you this ultimate guide to the 14 best noise-canceling headphones for travel, prioritizing comfort, noise reduction, and sound quality.
Learn more about 18 Best Noise Canceling Headphones for Office: Concentrate Better
So, buckle up, grab your passport, and let’s dive into the world of travel-worthy headphones that will transform your journey into a tranquil escape.
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Bose QuietComfort 45 | ![]() |
4.6 out of 5 stars | Jump to Review | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Sony WH-1000XM5 | ![]() |
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Apple AirPods Max | ![]() |
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Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless | ![]() |
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Jabra Elite 85h | ![]() |
4.1 out of 5 stars | Jump to Review | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Beats Fit Pro | ![]() |
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Anker Soundcore Life Q35 | ![]() |
4.4 out of 5 stars | Jump to Review | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
JBL Tour One | ![]() |
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Bang & Olufsen Beoplay HX | ![]() |
4.3 out of 5 stars | Jump to Review | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Shure Aonic 50 | ![]() |
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Bose QuietComfort 45
A classic choice for noise cancellation, the Bose QuietComfort 45 headphones offer exceptional noise reduction and a comfortable fit.
Specifications :
- Noise Cancellation: Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)
- Battery Life: Up to 24 hours
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.1
- Weight: 8.5 ounces
Reasons to buy :
- Excellent noise cancellation performance, especially for low-frequency sounds
- Comfortable and lightweight design
- Long battery life
- Easy to use controls
Reasons to avoid :
- Sound quality isn't as detailed or dynamic as some competitors
- Not as stylish as some other options
- Can feel a bit bulky
What you need to know :
Buy it if
You prioritize noise cancellation above all else and are looking for a comfortable and reliable pair of headphones.
Don't buy it if:
You're looking for the best possible sound quality or a sleek, minimalist design.
Bottom Line:
The Bose QuietComfort 45 headphones are a solid choice for travelers who need to block out noise and enjoy a comfortable listening experience. While they don't offer the most detailed sound or the most stylish design, they excel at noise cancellation and provide a long battery life. If you're looking for a reliable pair of headphones to help you escape the noise of the world around you, the QuietComfort 45 are a great option.
Read more about this on 22 Best Noise Canceling Headphones with Microphone: Top-rated Models
Sony WH-1000XM5
The Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones are the latest iteration of Sony's flagship noise-canceling headphones and offer impressive sound quality, noise cancellation, and a comfortable fit.
Specifications :
- Noise Cancellation: Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)
- Battery Life: Up to 30 hours
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.2
- Weight: 8.1 ounces
Reasons to buy :
- Excellent noise cancellation performance, particularly for high-frequency sounds
- Detailed and balanced sound quality
- Comfortable and lightweight design
- Long battery life
- Advanced features like multipoint connection and adaptive sound control
Reasons to avoid :
- Can be a bit pricey
- Not as good for workouts as some other options
What you need to know :
Buy it if
You're looking for a well-rounded pair of headphones with exceptional noise cancellation, great sound quality, and a comfortable fit.
Don't buy it if:
You're on a tight budget or need a pair of headphones specifically designed for workouts.
Bottom Line:
The Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones are a top contender in the world of noise-canceling headphones. They offer an impressive combination of noise cancellation, sound quality, comfort, and features. While they come with a higher price tag, they are a worthwhile investment for travelers who prioritize audio performance and a comfortable listening experience.
Apple AirPods Max
The Apple AirPods Max headphones are a premium option with a stylish design, excellent sound quality, and effective noise cancellation. They are designed for use with Apple devices and offer seamless integration.
Specifications :
- Noise Cancellation: Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)
- Battery Life: Up to 20 hours
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.0
- Weight: 13.6 ounces
Reasons to buy :
- Exceptional sound quality with a wide soundstage
- Stylish and comfortable design
- Excellent noise cancellation performance
- Seamless integration with Apple devices
- High-quality materials and build
Reasons to avoid :
- Expensive
- Not as portable as some other options
- Can be a bit bulky
What you need to know :
Buy it if
You're an Apple user who values a premium listening experience with a stylish design and excellent noise cancellation.
Don't buy it if:
You're on a tight budget or prioritize portability over sound quality.
Bottom Line:
The Apple AirPods Max headphones are a premium choice for Apple users who want a stylish and comfortable pair of headphones with exceptional sound quality and effective noise cancellation. While they are expensive, they offer a premium listening experience and seamless integration with Apple devices. If you're looking for a high-quality pair of headphones to elevate your audio experience, the AirPods Max are worth considering.
Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless
The Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless headphones are a stylish and comfortable option with excellent sound quality and effective noise cancellation. They offer a balanced sound signature and a sleek design.
Specifications :
- Noise Cancellation: Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)
- Battery Life: Up to 60 hours
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.2
- Weight: 9.7 ounces
Reasons to buy :
- Excellent sound quality with a balanced sound signature
- Comfortable and stylish design
- Long battery life
- Effective noise cancellation performance
Reasons to avoid :
- Can be a bit expensive
- Not as portable as some other options
What you need to know :
Buy it if
You're looking for a stylish and comfortable pair of headphones with excellent sound quality and effective noise cancellation.
Don't buy it if:
You're on a tight budget or prioritize portability over sound quality.
Bottom Line:
The Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless headphones are a stylish and comfortable choice for travelers who value sound quality and noise cancellation. They offer a balanced sound signature, a sleek design, and a long battery life. If you're looking for a high-quality pair of headphones that can provide a comfortable and immersive listening experience, the Momentum 4 Wireless are worth considering.
Jabra Elite 85h
The Jabra Elite 85h headphones are a versatile option with impressive noise cancellation, long battery life, and a comfortable fit. They are suitable for both travel and everyday use.
Specifications :
- Noise Cancellation: Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)
- Battery Life: Up to 36 hours
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.0
- Weight: 9.2 ounces
Reasons to buy :
- Excellent noise cancellation performance
- Long battery life
- Comfortable and lightweight design
- Versatile features, including a built-in voice assistant and customizable EQ settings
Reasons to avoid :
- Sound quality isn't as detailed as some competitors
- Can feel a bit bulky
What you need to know :
Buy it if
You're looking for a versatile pair of headphones with excellent noise cancellation, long battery life, and a comfortable fit.
Don't buy it if:
You prioritize sound quality above all else or want a sleek, minimalist design.
Bottom Line:
The Jabra Elite 85h headphones are a solid choice for travelers who need a versatile pair of headphones with impressive noise cancellation, long battery life, and a comfortable fit. While they don't offer the most detailed sound or the most stylish design, they provide a reliable listening experience with a range of features. If you're looking for a pair of headphones that can handle both travel and everyday use, the Elite 85h are a great option.
Beats Fit Pro
The Beats Fit Pro headphones are a great option for active users who need a secure fit and powerful sound. They offer impressive noise cancellation and a comfortable, secure fit.
Specifications :
- Noise Cancellation: Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)
- Battery Life: Up to 6 hours with ANC, up to 27 hours with charging case
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.0
- Weight: 5.4 ounces
Reasons to buy :
- Secure and comfortable fit, especially for workouts
- Powerful and balanced sound quality
- Effective noise cancellation
- Convenient charging case
- Apple features like spatial audio and automatic ear detection
Reasons to avoid :
- Can be a bit expensive
- Not as good for passive listening as some other options
- Not as stylish as some other options
What you need to know :
Buy it if
You're an active user who needs a secure fit and powerful sound.
Don't buy it if:
You prioritize passive listening over active noise cancellation or want a sleek, minimalist design.
Bottom Line:
The Beats Fit Pro headphones are a great choice for active users who need a secure fit and powerful sound. They offer impressive noise cancellation, a comfortable and secure fit, and a range of Apple features. While they are expensive, they are a worthwhile investment for those who prioritize performance and comfort during workouts.
Anker Soundcore Life Q35
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The Anker Soundcore Life Q35 headphones are a budget-friendly option that offers impressive noise cancellation and sound quality for the price. They are a great value for travelers who need to block out noise on a budget.
Check this blog on 20 Best Noise Canceling Headphones 2024: Latest Innovations
Specifications :
- Noise Cancellation: Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)
- Battery Life: Up to 40 hours
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.0
- Weight: 9.5 ounces
Reasons to buy :
- Excellent noise cancellation performance for the price
- Good sound quality with a balanced sound signature
- Long battery life
- Comfortable and lightweight design
- Affordable price
Reasons to avoid :
- Not as stylish as some other options
- Sound quality isn't as detailed as some competitors
- Can feel a bit bulky
What you need to know :
Buy it if
You're on a tight budget and prioritize noise cancellation and sound quality.
Don't buy it if:
You're looking for the most stylish design or the most detailed sound quality.
Bottom Line:
The Anker Soundcore Life Q35 headphones are a great value for travelers who need to block out noise on a budget. They offer impressive noise cancellation and sound quality for the price, making them a solid choice for those who prioritize performance without breaking the bank. While they don't offer the most stylish design or the most detailed sound quality, they provide a comfortable and reliable listening experience for the price.
JBL Tour One
The JBL Tour One headphones offer a premium listening experience with exceptional sound quality and effective noise cancellation. They are designed for audiophiles who want a detailed and immersive listening experience.
Specifications :
- Noise Cancellation: Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)
- Battery Life: Up to 50 hours
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.0
- Weight: 10.6 ounces
Reasons to buy :
- Exceptional sound quality with a wide soundstage and detailed sound
- Effective noise cancellation performance
- Comfortable and stylish design
- Long battery life
- Advanced features like adaptive sound control and customizable EQ settings
Reasons to avoid :
- Expensive
- Not as portable as some other options
What you need to know :
Buy it if
You're an audiophile who values exceptional sound quality and effective noise cancellation.
Don't buy it if:
You're on a tight budget or prioritize portability over sound quality.
Bottom Line:
The JBL Tour One headphones are a premium choice for audiophiles who want a detailed and immersive listening experience. They offer exceptional sound quality, effective noise cancellation, a comfortable design, and a long battery life. If you're looking for a pair of headphones that can elevate your listening experience, the Tour One are worth considering.
Bang & Olufsen Beoplay HX
The Bang & Olufsen Beoplay HX headphones offer a stylish and comfortable listening experience with excellent sound quality and effective noise cancellation. They are a premium option for travelers who value design and sound.
Specifications :
- Noise Cancellation: Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)
- Battery Life: Up to 35 hours
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.1
- Weight: 8.8 ounces
Reasons to buy :
- Stylish and comfortable design
- Excellent sound quality with a balanced sound signature
- Effective noise cancellation performance
- High-quality materials and build
Reasons to avoid :
- Expensive
- Not as portable as some other options
What you need to know :
Buy it if
You're looking for a stylish and comfortable pair of headphones with excellent sound quality and effective noise cancellation.
Don't buy it if:
You're on a tight budget or prioritize portability over sound quality.
Bottom Line:
The Bang & Olufsen Beoplay HX headphones are a premium choice for travelers who value design and sound. They offer a stylish and comfortable listening experience with excellent sound quality and effective noise cancellation. While they are expensive, they are a worthwhile investment for those who prioritize aesthetics and audio performance.
Shure Aonic 50
The Shure Aonic 50 headphones are a premium option for audiophiles who want a detailed and balanced sound with effective noise cancellation. They offer a neutral sound signature and a comfortable fit.
Specifications :
- Noise Cancellation: Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)
- Battery Life: Up to 20 hours
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.0
- Weight: 9.7 ounces
Reasons to buy :
- Excellent sound quality with a neutral sound signature
- Effective noise cancellation performance
- Comfortable and lightweight design
- High-quality materials and build
Reasons to avoid :
- Can be a bit expensive
- Not as portable as some other options
What you need to know :
Buy it if
You're an audiophile who values a neutral sound signature and effective noise cancellation.
Don't buy it if:
You're on a tight budget or prioritize portability over sound quality.
Bottom Line:
The Shure Aonic 50 headphones are a premium choice for audiophiles who want a detailed and balanced sound with effective noise cancellation. They offer a neutral sound signature, a comfortable fit, and high-quality materials. While they are expensive, they are a worthwhile investment for those who prioritize sound quality and a neutral listening experience.
Microsoft Surface Headphones 2
A solid pick for those who want a comfortable, stylish, and well-rounded pair of headphones.
Specifications :
- Noise Cancellation: Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) with adjustable levels
- Battery Life: Up to 20 hours with ANC on
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.0, USB-C charging
- Features: Microsoft Teams certification, touch controls, adjustable headband and earcups
- Price: Around $250
Reasons to buy :
- Comfortable and lightweight design
- Excellent noise cancellation that effectively blocks out ambient sounds
- Clear and balanced audio quality
- Seamless integration with Windows devices
- Long battery life
Reasons to avoid :
- Can feel a bit bulky for some users
- Not the best choice for audiophiles looking for the most accurate sound reproduction
- Price is a bit high compared to some other options
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You need a pair of headphones with excellent noise cancellation that work well with Windows devices
- You prioritize comfort and a stylish design
- You are willing to pay a premium price for a well-rounded package
Don't buy it if:
- You are looking for the most accurate audio reproduction possible
- You need a lightweight and compact pair of headphones
- You are on a tight budget
Bottom Line:
The Microsoft Surface Headphones 2 are a great option for travelers who prioritize comfort, noise cancellation, and seamless integration with Windows devices. The long battery life, comfortable design, and effective noise cancellation make them ideal for long flights, busy train rides, or any other situation where you need to block out distractions. The sound quality is excellent for most listeners, and the touch controls are convenient and easy to use. However, if you are on a tight budget or are looking for the most accurate audio reproduction possible, there might be better options out there.
Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2
Offering premium sound quality and noise cancellation with a sleek design.
Specifications :
- Noise Cancellation: Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) with adjustable levels
- Battery Life: Up to 30 hours with ANC on
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.0, USB-C charging
- Features: Customizable EQ settings, touch controls, adjustable headband and earcups
- Price: Around $400
Reasons to buy :
- Premium sound quality with rich bass and detailed highs
- Excellent noise cancellation that effectively blocks out ambient sounds
- Comfortable and stylish design
- Long battery life
- Customizable EQ settings
Reasons to avoid :
- Expensive compared to many other options
- Can feel bulky and heavy for some users
- Not as portable as some other headphones
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You prioritize premium sound quality and are willing to pay for it
- You need excellent noise cancellation for travel
- You are looking for a comfortable and stylish pair of headphones
Don't buy it if:
- You are on a tight budget
- You need the most portable headphones possible
- You don't need the highest quality sound
Bottom Line:
The Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2 headphones are a great choice for travelers who want the best possible sound quality and noise cancellation. They offer a rich and detailed audio experience, with powerful bass and clear highs. The noise cancellation is very effective, blocking out most ambient sounds, making them ideal for traveling on noisy trains, planes, or buses. The design is sleek and stylish, and the build quality is excellent. However, they are expensive, and some users may find them too bulky and heavy. If you are on a tight budget or prioritize portability over sound quality, there are other great options available.
Audio-Technica ATH-ANC900BT
A budget-friendly option with decent noise cancellation and solid sound.
Specifications :
- Noise Cancellation: Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) with adjustable levels
- Battery Life: Up to 35 hours with ANC on
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.0, USB-C charging
- Features: Built-in microphone for calls, touch controls, adjustable headband and earcups
- Price: Around $150
Reasons to buy :
- Affordable price
- Good noise cancellation for the price
- Comfortable and lightweight design
- Long battery life
- Clear and balanced sound
Reasons to avoid :
- Not the best option for audiophiles
- Noise cancellation isn't as effective as some higher-end options
- Sound quality isn't as detailed as some other options
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You are on a tight budget
- You need a pair of headphones with decent noise cancellation
- You prioritize comfort and long battery life
Don't buy it if:
- You are looking for the best possible sound quality
- You need the most effective noise cancellation possible
- You are willing to spend more for a higher-end option
Bottom Line:
The Audio-Technica ATH-ANC900BT headphones are a great option for travelers who are looking for a budget-friendly pair of headphones with decent noise cancellation and comfortable design. They offer good value for the price, with a long battery life, comfortable fit, and decent sound quality. However, if you are an audiophile or need the most effective noise cancellation, there are better options out there.
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Beyerdynamic Lagoon ANC
A stylish option with impressive sound quality and active noise cancellation.
Specifications :
- Noise Cancellation: Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) with adjustable levels
- Battery Life: Up to 24 hours with ANC on
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.0, USB-C charging
- Features: Built-in microphone for calls, touch controls, adjustable headband and earcups
- Price: Around $200
Reasons to buy :
- Great sound quality with rich bass and clear highs
- Effective noise cancellation
- Stylish and comfortable design
- Long battery life
- Foldable design for easy storage
Reasons to avoid :
- Not as portable as some other headphones
- Can feel bulky for some users
- Price is a bit high compared to some other options
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You want a pair of headphones with great sound quality and noise cancellation
- You prioritize comfort and style
- You are looking for a foldable design for easy storage
Don't buy it if:
- You need the most portable headphones possible
- You are on a tight budget
- You prioritize the smallest and lightest design
Bottom Line:
The Beyerdynamic Lagoon ANC headphones are a stylish and comfortable option with great sound quality and effective noise cancellation. They offer a balanced audio experience, with rich bass and clear highs. The noise cancellation is effective, blocking out most ambient sounds. The design is sleek and stylish, and the build quality is excellent. They are also foldable, making them easy to store in your bag. However, they are not as portable as some other headphones, and some users may find them bulky. If you are on a tight budget or need the most portable headphones possible, there are other great options available.
Choosing the right noise-canceling headphones for travel can make all the difference in your journey. Whether you're battling the roar of a plane engine or the chatter of a crowded train, these headphones offer a sanctuary of silence, allowing you to relax, focus, or enjoy your favorite music. With so many options available, finding the perfect pair for your needs is crucial.
This guide has explored 14 of the best noise-canceling headphones for travel, highlighting their strengths and features to help you make an informed decision. From lightweight and comfortable models to those with exceptional noise cancellation and impressive sound quality, there's a pair for every traveler and budget.
Ultimately, the best noise-canceling headphones for you depend on your individual preferences and needs. Consider factors like comfort, noise cancellation effectiveness, sound quality, and battery life before making your final choice. With the right headphones, you can transform your travel experience, turning even the most challenging journeys into relaxing and enjoyable ones.
So, pack your bags, grab your favorite headphones, and get ready to experience the world in a whole new way – free from distractions and enveloped in your own personal soundtrack. Happy travels!