Whether you’re flying across the globe or just trying to survive your daily train commute, a great pair of noise cancelling headphones can make all the difference. They block out engine hum, crying babies, and chatty neighbors — leaving you with peace, podcasts, or playlists.
The good news? You don’t have to spend a fortune to get excellent noise cancellation and audio quality in 2025.
Here are our favorite noise cancelling headphones for travel this year, based on comfort, battery life, performance — and yes, value.
1. Best overall for frequent flyers | Sony WH-1000XM5
Sony WH1000XM5/B Wireless Noise Canceling Headphones (Black)
Bundle with Deco Gear Hard Case + Pro Audio Headphone Stand + Microfiber Cleaning Cloth.
Sony continues to dominate in the travel headphone game, and the WH-1000XM5 proves it again. With industry-leading ANC (Active Noise Cancellation), lightweight comfort, and up to 30 hours of battery life, they’re basically a traveler’s dream.
- Auto-adjusts noise cancelling based on your surroundings
- Crystal-clear mic for in-flight or Zoom calls
- Collapsible design (though less compact than XM4)
2. Most comfortable for long trips | Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Bluetooth Headphones
Wireless Headphones with Spatial Audio, Over Ear Noise Cancelling with Mic, Up to 24 Hours of Playtime, Black.
Bose is legendary for comfort, and the 2025 QuietComfort Ultra ups the game. The earcups are like tiny pillows, and the ANC adapts in real time to airplane noise, wind, or random background chaos.
- Touch controls + great app customization
- 24 hours of battery life
- Includes airline adapter + hard case
3. Best budget noise cancelling headphones | Anker Soundcore Space NC2
Soundcore by Anker Space One Active Noise Cancelling Headphones
With Headphones Case, 2X Stronger Voice Reduction, 40H ANC Playtime, App Control, LDAC…
Traveling on a budget? Anker delivers solid ANC and impressive sound for well under $100. You won’t get Sony-level detail, but it’s shockingly good for the price.
- 40-hour battery life (with ANC off)
- USB-C charging
- Foldable and comes with travel case
4. Best for Apple users & luxury design lovers | Apple AirPods Max
Apple AirPods Max Wireless Over-Ear Headphones
Active Noise Cancelling, Transparency Mode, Personalized Spatial Audio, Dolby Atmos, Bluetooth Headphones…
If you’re deep in the Apple ecosystem, the AirPods Max are worth the splurge. They pair instantly, switch devices seamlessly, and offer spatial audio that’s immersive — especially for in-flight movies on iPads.
- Premium build with aluminum and mesh
- Excellent transparency mode for airport awareness
- 20-hour battery life with ANC
5. Best travel-friendly in-ear option | Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II
Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II
Wireless, Bluetooth, Proprietary Active Noise Cancelling Technology in-Ear Headphones with Personalized Noise Cancellation…
Not a fan of over-ear headphones? These in-ear ANC buds from Bose offer amazing noise cancellation in a much smaller package. Great for minimalists or carry-on-only travelers.
- IPX4 water-resistant (for sweaty flights)
- Adjustable ear tips for better seal
- Up to 6 hours per charge (+ 18 hours with case)
What to Look for in Travel Headphones
| Feature | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancelling | Cuts out background noise in planes, trains |
| Comfort & Fit | You’ll be wearing these for hours |
| Battery Life | At least 20+ hours for long hauls |
| Portability | Foldable or with a travel case |
| Bluetooth multipoint | Connect to phone + laptop simultaneously |
Final Thoughts
A great pair of noise cancelling headphones is one of the best investments for travel comfort. Whether you want luxury like the AirPods Max or amazing value like the Anker NC2, there’s a solid option for every budget in 2025.
Block the world. Hear what you love.
Safe travels — and quieter ones, too.
