The Best Travel Headphones 2024

If you’re in search of the best travel headphones, certain features stand out more compared to general-use headphones. Portability, long battery life, and active noise cancellation (ANC) are essential for making your travel experience more comfortable. For those who specifically need headphones for flying, having a wired connection is important to enjoy in-flight entertainment.

This guide on the best travel headphones overlaps with many of our top picks for noise-cancelling headphones, but here, we emphasize battery life, foldable and lightweight designs, and the inclusion of a 3.5mm audio jack. Over-ear headphones generally excel over wireless earbuds in ANC performance and often come with wired connectivity, making them a top choice. However, the portability of the best noise-cancelling earbuds is a huge plus, so we’ve included a few options, some of which even support a wired connection.

Our reviewers have tested all the travel headphones featured in this guide under real-world travel conditions, whether on planes, trains, buses, or even boats, ensuring the recommendations are based on practical experience. We’re also currently testing the new Apple AirPods 4 with noise cancellation. In our early hands-on review, we found the ANC to be “amazingly effective,” meaning these could soon be among our top travel picks. The regular AirPods 4 won’t include ANC but will be a more affordable option for those looking for similar features at a lower price. Apple has also updated the AirPods Pro 2 with new features like Improved Adaptive Audio, which lets you control how much noise you want to hear—perfect for travel situations.

The Best Travel Headphones

Sony WH-1000XM4

Sony WH-1000 series has consistently improved its noise-cancelling capabilities with each new version. While the Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones are now available, the 2020 WH-1000XM4s still offer an impressive combination of top-notch ANC and well-balanced audio from a lightweight, foldable design. You could opt for the latest model, but the XM4s provide excellent value for being slightly older.

For travelers, the noise cancellation is outstanding. You’ll only realize how loud a plane engine can be when you remove these headphones. This is thanks to Sony’s proprietary processor, which continuously samples ambient sound and adjusts the noise cancellation to block out distractions. Not only do the XM4s effectively mute unwanted noises, but the pleather ear cups are also soft and comfortable, even on long flights. That’s why the Sony WH-1000XM4 remains our top pick for travel headphones, despite the availability of the newer WH-1000XM5—the newer model doesn’t fold, costs more, and isn’t a major improvement.

Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones

These headphones might just be the perfect travel companion—aside from one small drawback. They excel in so many areas, with their best-in-class active noise cancellation being the highlight. During our testing, nothing else came close to blocking out the noise of city life or surrounding traffic as effectively. However, in rare cases—such as sitting next to a bus engine or during a plane takeoff—they produced a slightly robotic sound, but this was easy to overlook given how well they performed in all other situations.

In addition to superb noise cancellation, these headphones deliver exceptional audio quality. The sound is more engaging, precise, and detailed than anything else on this list. You’ll experience deep, rich bass, delicate treble, and a well-expressed mid-range. The spatial audio mode also enhances the listening experience by making the sound feel less confined, which can make long flights feel less overwhelming.

Despite all these features, the design remains relatively light and foldable, making them ideal for travel. They come with a hard case, so they’re easy to pack in your carry-on. The only notable downside is the 24-hour battery life, which is shorter than other over-ear headphones in this guide. However, it’s still enough to last through most flights—just don’t forget to recharge once you land.

While these headphones are on the pricier side, we believe they’re worth the investment if you can afford them. If not, the non-Ultra Bose QuietComfort headphones offer nearly the same noise-cancelling performance at a lower price and are still lightweight and foldable.

Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II

Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II go beyond just offering a snug fit—they take personalization to the next level by customizing the audio specifically to your ear canals. With Bose’s CustomTune technology, both the ANC and the sound profile are tailored to your ears, and the results are impressive. The clarity and detail in the sound are remarkable, even when you’re surrounded by the roar of jet engines. Combined with Bose’s top-tier noise cancellation, these earbuds deliver a vibrant and immersive sound experience.

The design of these earbuds has been significantly improved over the previous generation, offering a much more comfortable fit that’s perfect for extended listening sessions. While they aren’t the smallest earbuds out there, they are lighter than the original Bose QC Earbuds, and the lozenge shape no longer feels bulky when worn. The only downsides are the lack of hi-res audio support, no spatial audio, no multi-point pairing, and the somewhat chunky design, which may not appeal to everyone, though they do fit securely in the ear.

In terms of active noise cancellation, these earbuds are among the best available. The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds might offer slightly better ANC, but they are also more expensive and come with spatial audio support. However, if you’re looking for a more portable option that easily slips into your pocket, the QuietComfort Earbuds II are an excellent choice, even if they don’t quite match the noise-cancelling power of over-ear models.

Nothing Ear (a)

Nothing Ear (a) surprised us with just how much audio quality they packed into their budget-friendly price tag (under $100 / £100), even outperforming some highly rated options from Sony. These earbuds are a fantastic choice if you’re looking for great-sounding, noise-cancelling buds that are a step up from the budget category but still affordable.

One of the standout features is the variety of ANC profiles you can choose from, including High, Mid, Low, and Adaptive. We found the High setting particularly impressive, creating what we described as a “near bubble-of-silence” experience, effectively canceling out almost all noise when playing loud and strong audio. While pricier options may offer slightly better ANC, the difference isn’t drastic unless you’re willing to spend double. These earbuds do a great job at canceling out typical travel sounds like traffic, airplane engines, and background chatter, making them ideal for commuting or flying.

The sound quality is another highlight, delivering a fun and energetic listening experience. If you enjoy punchy, high-energy tracks, these earbuds will suit you perfectly. While audiophiles might find room for improvement, you’d have to significantly increase your budget to find better sound at this price point. Additionally, the Nothing Ear (a) offers excellent call handling, customizable EQ settings, Bluetooth 5.3, LDAC support for high-res audio, and in-ear detection for an enhanced user experience.

Travelers will appreciate the small and lightweight design, with each bud weighing just 4.8g. This makes them comfortable for long listening sessions. The charging case has also been reduced in size from previous models, making it incredibly pocketable – perfect for when you’re trying to maximize hand-luggage space.

The battery life is solid, if not outstanding. You’ll get 5.5 hours of use with ANC on, or 9.5 hours without. This should comfortably get you through short-haul flights or daily commutes. The total battery life jumps to 24.5 hours with the case (or an impressive 42.5 hours without ANC). If you need something with longer battery life for extended travel, the Sony WF-C700N offers nearly as good performance with 7.5 hours of battery life per charge, even with ANC on.

Earfun Wave Pro

If you’re on the hunt for travel-friendly headphones at a budget-friendly price, the Earfun Wave Pro is an outstanding option. For under $100/£100, these over-ear headphones offer solid performance that makes them perfect for long journeys and on-the-go music listening.

During testing, we found these headphones exceptionally comfortable, with soft memory foam padding on the wide ear cups that provide a cozy fit. The adjustable headband ensures a snug fit, and the foldable design makes them easy to pack, especially with the premium carry case. A key feature is the 3.5mm headphone jack, making it easy to connect to in-flight entertainment systems, which can be a lifesaver on long flights.

In terms of sound quality, while the Earfun Wave Pro won’t rival high-end audiophile-grade headphones, they perform impressively for the price. In our review, we noted that “compared to their rivals, the Earfun Wave Pro are really impressive.” Where budget headphones can often sound tinny or lack depth, the Wave Pro delivers a more balanced, full-bodied sound. Their 40mm drivers, High-Res Audio certification, and Sony LDAC technology for high-quality Bluetooth streaming all contribute to their surprisingly solid audio output.

Additionally, they feature active noise cancellation (ANC). While the ANC isn’t as effective as what you’d get from premium models, it still does a decent job of cutting out ambient noise, making it easier to enjoy movies or music without being overwhelmed by airplane engine noise.

The real star of the show is the battery life. With up to 80 hours of playtime (55 hours with ANC on), you won’t need to worry about running out of juice on long trips. The only downside is that it takes a bit longer than expected for the headphones to turn off, and the ANC controls can be a bit finicky. Plus, there’s only one color option available.

For travelers on a budget, the Earfun Wave Pro offers an impressive mix of comfort, sound quality, and features at a very affordable price. If you’re willing to spend more, you might find better performance elsewhere, but for the price, these headphones are hard to beat.

Cambridge Audio Melomania P100

Cambridge Audio Melomania P100 headphones are an exceptional option for travelers, designed to keep you entertained on long journeys. These over-ear headphones combine impressive specs and fantastic features for a well-rounded experience.

The P100s offer Class AB amplification, aptX Lossless compatibility, and multipoint pairing, ensuring high-quality audio streaming. Notably, the headphones provide lossless 16-bit/44.1kHz resolution, which will appeal to audiophiles. One quirky yet fun feature is the option to choose Matt Berry as the voice for audible feedback, which adds a personalized touch.

Where the P100 shines the most is in its battery life. With ANC off, you’ll enjoy an outstanding 100 hours of playtime—one of the best battery performances on the market. Even with ANC on, the headphones still offer a remarkable 60 hours of usage, which is perfect for long flights or extended trips. The ANC isn’t industry-leading, but the headphones still offer solid noise isolation in most environments.

In terms of sound, the P100 delivers an energetic and lively listening experience. Our review described the audio as “endlessly listenable,” thanks to the wide soundstage, excellent detail, and solid dynamic range. Whether you’re listening to high-resolution audio files or streaming music, the P100s adapt well to different sources, offering a consistently engaging sound profile. They performed exceptionally when paired with 16-bit/44.1kHz FLAC files via Qobuz or Tidal.

The build quality is another area where the P100s excel. Constructed from tactile, high-end materials, these headphones feel premium and are designed for comfort. Despite weighing 330g, the clamping mechanism is well-judged, providing a secure fit without unnecessary pressure on the head, making them comfortable for long listening sessions. The only downside in terms of design is the somewhat bulky travel case, but that’s a minor trade-off for the other features on offer.

Overall, the Cambridge Audio Melomania P100 headphones deliver a great mix of sound quality, comfort, and outstanding battery life, making them a fantastic option for travelers. While the Sony WH-1000XM4 might offer slightly better ANC, the P100s hold their own in nearly every other category, especially considering their unbeatable battery life.

Apple AirPods Pro 2

AirPods Pro 2 represent a significant upgrade for Apple’s earbud lineup, combining a seamless experience for Apple users with exceptional audio quality and noise cancellation that competes with the best in the market.

One of the standout features of the AirPods Pro 2 is their impressive sound quality. The earbuds deliver an expansive soundscape, showcasing intricate layers in audio. Vocals, bass, and individual instruments are well-defined, creating an immersive listening experience. This is a notable improvement over previous AirPods models.

In terms of active noise cancellation (ANC), the AirPods Pro 2 excel, providing a level of noise isolation that’s just a hair behind top contenders like Bose. Their lightweight design and compact charging case make them highly portable and convenient for travel. Additionally, Apple’s Find My feature helps locate the earbuds if misplaced.

One of the major highlights for travel enthusiasts is the Spatial Audio feature. When paired with an iPhone or iPad, the AirPods Pro 2 create an immersive audio experience akin to being in a movie theater, enhancing your movie-watching experience on the go.

Recent updates with iOS 18 have improved the Adaptive Audio controls, allowing users to fine-tune their level of awareness of ambient sounds. This provides a more customizable listening experience, along with reduced latency for better synchronization between audio sources and what you hear.

However, it’s essential to note that many features of the AirPods Pro 2 are optimized for Apple devices, limiting functionality for Android users. Additionally, while the battery life of 6 hours per charge is decent, it’s not the longest in its class. For instance, the Earfun Air Pro 3 offers 9 hours of battery life per charge, making it a more appealing option for those prioritizing longevity.

Overall, the AirPods Pro 2 are an excellent choice for Apple users seeking high-quality sound, effective noise cancellation, and a range of features that enhance the travel experience, but those on Android may find better value elsewhere.

Earfun Air Pro 3

Earfun Air Pro 3 have earned the title of “the best cheap noise-cancelling earbuds you can get,” offering a compelling package for those seeking budget-friendly options without compromising essential features. While they may not block noise as effectively as premium models like Bose, AirPods, or Sony, they provide solid noise cancellation for a fraction of the price, often available at even deeper discounts.

One of the standout features of these earbuds is their impressive battery life, boasting 9 hours of use on a single charge and an additional 45 hours with the charging case. This makes them ideal for long journeys or extended use without frequent recharging.

Future-proofing is another highlight, with Bluetooth 5.3 and LE Audio support ensuring compatibility with the latest devices and technologies. The sound quality is surprisingly good for the price, with no glaring weaknesses, though it may lack the richness found in more premium models. Overall, listening to music is still a fun and engaging experience.

While the design may not be the most compact, the inclusion of numerous features makes it a worthwhile trade-off. The Earfun Air Pro 3 are well-rounded earbuds that deliver quality sound, effective noise cancellation, and a fantastic battery life, making them an excellent choice for budget-conscious consumers looking for dependable performance on the go.

How to Choose the Best Travel Headphones for You

When it comes to selecting the best travel headphones, the choice is completely personal. It’s all about finding the right headphones for you, not anyone else, so there are a few key factors to keep in mind.

The first consideration is simple: do you prefer over-ear headphones or earbuds? Everyone has their own preference, and there’s no wrong answer. Some people find in-ear buds uncomfortable or worry about getting the perfect fit. Thankfully, most earbuds now come with a range of silicone tips to ensure a snug fit, which helps prevent them from falling out. A good fit is essential for active noise cancelling (ANC) to work effectively, and most ANC earbuds offer a variety of sizes to achieve that. Earbuds are also great for travel due to their compact size and cases, which easily fit into a pocket.

However, if you don’t mind carrying something bulkier and want a richer audio experience, over-ear headphones are a fantastic option. Brands like Sony and Bose have been popular among travelers for a reason—they offer ultra-comfortable over-ear designs, top-notch noise cancellation, and impressive sound quality.

Over-ear headphones are also comfortable to wear even when you’re resting your head on a neck pillow during a flight, which makes them perfect for long journeys. Look for models that include a 3.5mm cable, so you can plug them into airplane entertainment systems instead of relying on the flimsy free headphones offered onboard.

If you prefer true wireless earbuds, keep in mind that most don’t come with a cable option. If you’re planning to use them on a flight, be sure to load your phone or tablet with entertainment ahead of time.

Once you’ve chosen between over-ear or earbuds, the next step is to think about your budget. If you fly frequently or want to block out noisy commutes, it might be worth investing in a higher-end pair of ANC headphones. However, if you’re just going on a short trip and don’t want to splurge, there are plenty of affordable ANC options that still deliver decent sound quality. While you may have to sacrifice some extra features, good audio doesn’t always come with a high price tag.

When it comes to ANC, you’ll also need to decide how much external noise you want to block out. Generally, the more you pay, the better the noise cancelling will be, but that’s not always the case. It’s a good idea to check out reviews to find the best option for your needs. All of the headphones in this guide offer some level of ANC, which we consider essential for travel, but if noise cancellation is your top priority, you might want to check out our dedicated guide to the best noise cancelling headphones and earbuds.

Some high-end headphones also come with features that adjust air pressure between the ear and eardrum, which can be useful during flights. For example, the Sony WH-1000XM4, ranked #1 in our list, includes ‘Atmospheric Pressure Optimizing’ technology, while the AirPods Pro 2, ranked #7, also feature a pressure-balancing system.

How We Test the Best Travel Headphones

When we review headphones with active noise cancellation (ANC), we put them to the test in travel scenarios, as this is often the toughest environment for their noise-blocking abilities. We evaluate them in busy cities with traffic, on public transport like trains and buses, and we’ve taken many of these models on flights to determine which headphones are best for airplane use.

For audio quality, we test headphones using a variety of sources, primarily focusing on leading music streaming services. Our assessments include listening to high-quality tracks on Tidal, as well as the more basic sound quality found on Spotify. We also sample podcasts, YouTube videos, movie streams, and other common listening formats to provide a well-rounded evaluation.

In addition to sound quality, we examine the apps that come with most modern headphones. We see how these apps enhance or detract from the listening experience and check for features like customizable noise cancellation, equalizer settings, and spatial audio.

We also verify battery life claims through real-world usage. While testing, we make sure to wear the headphones for extended periods to assess their comfort level.

Finally, we compare our findings across all these aspects against similar products in the same price range. This helps us determine not just if the headphones sound good or effectively block noise, but also if they provide good value for the features and performance they offer.