10 Best Noise Cancelling Headphones For Travel 2026 in the United States

The Bose QuietComfort Bluetooth Headphones excel in noise cancellation, making them ideal for travel by effectively blocking out unwanted sounds. They offer a long battery life of up to 24 hours, which is convenient for long flights or extended use without frequent recharging. The headphones are designed for comfort, with plush earcup cushions and a padded headband, ensuring a secure fit for extended listening sessions.

The sound quality is impressive, featuring high-fidelity audio and adjustable EQ for a personalized listening experience. Additionally, the Quiet and Aware Modes allow users to switch between full noise cancellation and awareness of their surroundings. Portability is enhanced by their lightweight design and the included carrying case.

Connectivity is reliable with multipoint Bluetooth, allowing seamless switching between devices. A wired option is also available for use without Bluetooth or when the battery is low. However, the headphones are not water-resistant, which may be a drawback for some travelers. Durability appears solid, but the plastic material might not be as robust as metal alternatives. These headphones are a strong choice for travelers seeking effective noise cancellation, comfort, and high-quality sound.

The Apple AirPods Max are premium over-ear headphones designed to deliver great sound quality and effective noise cancellation, making them a strong choice for travelers who want to block out background noise on planes or in busy environments. Their active noise cancellation is rated as pro-level, reducing up to twice as much noise compared to older models, and the Transparency mode lets you hear your surroundings easily when needed. With personalized spatial audio and dynamic head tracking, the sound feels immersive and tailored to your ears, which is a nice touch for enjoying music or movies during travel.

Comfort is well thought out with soft memory foam ear cushions and a knit-mesh canopy that helps reduce pressure during extended wear—a key factor on long trips. Battery life lasts about 20 hours with noise cancellation on, which covers most travel days, and a quick 5-minute charge can add about 1.5 hours of listening time. Connectivity is seamless for Apple users thanks to the H1 chip, with easy pairing and automatic switching between Apple devices, though non-Apple users might find this less smooth.

On the downside, the AirPods Max are relatively heavy (around 386 grams) and their size, combined with the included Smart Case, makes them less portable compared to foldable travel headphones. They also lack water resistance, so they need to be kept dry. While the USB-C charging is convenient and modern, the premium price may be a drawback for budget-conscious travelers. These headphones excel in noise cancellation, sound quality, and comfort, making them well-suited for frequent travelers who prioritize audio performance and have other Apple devices. However, their bulk and cost may not suit those looking for ultra-compact or budget-friendly options.

The Apple AirPods Max are premium over-ear headphones well-suited for travelers who prioritize excellent sound and noise cancellation. Their active noise cancellation is very effective at blocking outside noise, which is great for noisy environments like planes or busy airports. Transparency mode is also handy when you need to stay aware of your surroundings without removing the headphones. Sound quality is impressive thanks to Apple’s custom drivers and spatial audio features, which create an immersive listening experience, especially if you use Apple devices.

The battery life supports up to 20 hours with noise cancellation on, enough for a long flight or day of travel, and quick 5-minute charging adds extra listening time. Comfort is generally good with memory foam ear cushions and a breathable knit canopy, though the headphones are heavier than some competitors, which might feel bulky on very long trips. Portability could be better as the headphones are relatively large and the included Smart Case offers minimal protection but is slim and light for carrying.

Connectivity works seamlessly with Apple devices via Bluetooth 5.0, including easy pairing and device switching, but non-Apple users may not get the full benefit of features like spatial audio or automatic switching. Durability is solid with premium materials, but the lack of water resistance means care is needed when traveling in wet conditions. These headphones are ideal for travelers who want top-notch sound and noise cancelling, especially if they are already using Apple products, though their size, weight, and price might be drawbacks for some.