Product Review

The Best Noise-Canceling Headphones for Travel

We tested the top noise-canceling headphones on long-haul flights to find the best options for blocking airplane noise, comfort on 10+ hour journeys, and overall value.

Updated December 2025
15 min read
By TravelGiftList Editors
Independently Tested
No Sponsored Content
200+ Products Reviewed
Updated December 2025

Our Top Picks

The best noise-canceling headphones for most travelers.

1
1
Industry-leading noise cancellation with 30-hour battery

Sony WH-1000XM5 Headphones

4.6
15,420 reviewsPrimeIn Stock

The Good

  • Best-in-class ANC
  • 30-hour battery
  • Ultra comfortable

The Bad

  • Doesn't fold flat
  • Premium price

Approx. Price

~$348

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Free returnsFast shipping
2
2
Premium comfort with immersive spatial audio

Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones

4.4
8,920 reviewsPrimeIn Stock

The Good

  • Best-in-class comfort
  • Immersive Audio feature
  • Folds flat

The Bad

  • Shorter battery life
  • Higher price than Sony

Approx. Price

~$349

Check Amazon for current price

Check Price on Amazon
Free returnsFast shipping
3
3
Premium over-ear headphones with spatial audio

Apple AirPods Max

4.6
28,910 reviewsPrimeIn Stock

The Good

  • Exceptional sound quality
  • Premium aluminum build
  • Spatial audio

Approx. Price

~$449

Check Amazon for current price

Check Price on Amazon
Free returnsFast shipping

All Headphones Reviewed

Complete reviews of every headphone we tested.

1

Sony WH-1000XM5 Headphones

Industry-leading noise cancellation with 30-hour battery

4.6
15,420 reviews
  • Best-in-class ANC
  • 30-hour battery
  • Ultra comfortable

Approx.

~$348
PrimeIn Stock
Check Price
2

Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones

Premium comfort with immersive spatial audio

4.4
8,920 reviews
  • Best-in-class comfort
  • Immersive Audio feature
  • Folds flat

Approx.

~$349
PrimeIn Stock
Check Price
3

Apple AirPods Max

Premium over-ear headphones with spatial audio

4.6
28,910 reviews
  • Exceptional sound quality
  • Premium aluminum build
  • Spatial audio

Approx.

~$449
PrimeIn Stock
Check Price

How to Choose Travel Headphones

Key Features for Travel

  • Active Noise Cancellation (ANC): Blocks airplane engine noise
  • Battery Life: 20+ hours for long-haul flights
  • Comfort: Lightweight with good padding for extended wear
  • Portability: Foldable design with carrying case

Budget Considerations

  • Under $100: Soundcore Space One offers surprising value
  • $200-300: Sony XM4 and Bose QC are excellent mid-range options
  • $300+: Sony XM5 and Bose Ultra for the best experience
More Options

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