Best Noise-Canceling Headphones for Travelers in 2025

Whether you're on a long-haul flight, navigating crowded terminals, or commuting across a noisy city, noise-canceling headphones are a travel essential in 2025. They not only block out ambient noise but also improve audio clarity for music, calls, and in-flight entertainment.

With better battery life, smarter AI, and lighter materials, modern noise-canceling headphones make travel more peaceful and productive than ever.

Here’s a curated list of the top noise-canceling headphones travelers should consider this year.

Why You Need Noise-Canceling Headphones While Traveling

• Reduce engine and cabin noise on flights
  
  
• Improve focus during work on the go
  
  
• Enjoy high-quality audio in loud environments
  
  
• Protect hearing by avoiding higher volumes
  
  
• Improve sleep and relaxation during layovers
  

1. Sony WH-1000XM6

• Noise Cancellation: Industry-leading with AI-adaptive technology
  
  
• Battery Life: Up to 40 hours (ANC off), 30 hours (ANC on)
  
  
• Extras:
  
  
  • Touch controls
    
    
  • Speak-to-chat function
    
    
  • 3.5mm wired support
    
    
• Best For: All-around premium travel use
  

2. Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones

• Comfort: Plush earcups and lightweight design
  
  
• ANC: Advanced with custom profiles
  
  
• Battery: Up to 24 hours with ANC
  
  
• Extras: Immersive spatial audio, great call quality
  
  
• Best For: Travelers prioritizing comfort and clarity
  

3. Apple AirPods Max (2nd Gen)

• Compatibility: Best for iPhone/Mac users
  
  
• Audio Quality: Spatial audio with dynamic head tracking
  
  
• Noise Control: Adaptive transparency + strong ANC
  
  
• Battery: 20 hours with ANC and spatial audio
  
  
• Best For: Apple ecosystem travelers
  

4. Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless

• Sound Quality: Audiophile-grade tuning
  
• Noise Cancellation: Hybrid ANC with customizable modes
  
  
• Battery: Best-in-class 60 hours
  
  
• Design: Sleek, foldable, and durable
  
  
• Best For: Audiophiles and long-haul fliers
  

5. Bowers & Wilkins PX8

• Premium Build: Leather, metal, and carbon-fiber materials
  
  
• ANC: Adaptive hybrid technology
  
  
• Sound: Studio-grade clarity and balance
  
  
• Battery: 30 hours with ANC
  
  
• Best For: Luxury travelers and sound purists
  

6. Anker Soundcore Space One

• Budget Option: Great value under $100
  
  
• ANC: Adaptive with environmental tuning
  
  
• Battery: 40 hours (ANC on)
  
  
• Extras: Fast charging, multipoint connection
  
  
• Best For: Budget-conscious travelers
  

7. Shure AONIC 50 Gen 2

• Studio Heritage: Reference-quality sound
  
  
• ANC: Enhanced with personalized modes
  
  
• Battery: Up to 45 hours
  
  
• Extras: Adjustable EQ via app, wired option
  
  
• Best For: Musicians, creators, and business travelers
  

Key Features to Look for in Travel Headphones

- Battery Life

• Minimum 20–30 hours for international trips
  
  
• Fast charging with USB-C support
  

- Portability

• Foldable or rotatable earcups
  
  
• Carry case included for luggage protection
  

- Noise Cancellation Modes

• Adaptive ANC for different environments
  
  
• Transparency mode for announcements or conversations
  

- Comfort & Fit

• Memory foam or protein leather padding
  
  
• Lightweight headbands to avoid fatigue
  

- Audio Performance

• Balanced frequency response
  
  
• Support for high-resolution codecs (LDAC, aptX, AAC)
  

Tips for Using ANC Headphones While Traveling

• Activate airplane mode & download content in advance
  
  
• Use wired mode during takeoff/landing if wireless use is restricted
  
  
• Use sleep playlists or ambient white noise for naps
  
  
• Clean earpads regularly with sanitizing wipes
  

Other Useful Alternatives for Travelers

- Earbuds

• Sony WF-1000XM5: True wireless ANC earbuds with compact case
  
  
• Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II: Great fit and ANC in small form
  

- Noise-Canceling Sleep Headbands

• MUSICOZY Bluetooth Sleep Headband: Built-in speakers for side sleepers
  
  
• QuietOn 3.1 Sleep Earbuds: Pure ANC for sleep, no audio
  

Conclusion

In 2025, noise-canceling headphones are more than just a luxury—they’re a travel companion that enhances your entire journey. Whether it’s catching some sleep on a flight, tuning into a podcast on the train, or focusing on remote work from an airport lounge, the right pair can make all the difference.

From budget picks to premium audiophile models, there’s a perfect pair for every kind of traveler. Don’t leave home without one—you’ll wonder how you ever traveled without it.