10 Best Travel Headphones 2025 in the United States

The Bose QuietComfort Bluetooth Headphones are a solid choice for travelers seeking premium noise cancellation, comfort, and sound quality. These over-ear headphones excel in noise cancellation with both active and passive technology, making them ideal for blocking out external noise during flights or commutes. Comfort is another strong point, with plush earcup cushions and a padded headband designed for long listening sessions without discomfort.

The battery life is impressive, offering up to 24 hours of playtime on a single charge, and a quick 15-minute charge can provide an additional 2.5 hours of use, which is highly convenient for travel. Portability is enhanced by their lightweight design and included carrying case, although they are not the most compact due to their over-ear form factor. The sound quality is high-fidelity with adjustable EQ, allowing users to fine-tune bass, mid-range, and treble to their preference.

Durability is generally good, but the plastic material may not be as rugged as some might prefer for frequent travel. Connectivity options are versatile, with both wireless Bluetooth and wired modes available, and the multipoint Bluetooth feature allows easy switching between devices. Additional features such as the Bose app for updates and control, and touch controls on the headphones, add to their user-friendly experience. However, they lack water resistance, which might be a drawback for those needing durability in varied weather conditions. These headphones are well-suited for travelers prioritizing noise cancellation, comfort, and sound quality, with some minor limitations in material robustness and water resistance.

The Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones excel in several areas that are critical for travel headphones. Their active noise cancellation is top-notch, thanks to Dual Noise Sensor technology, making them excellent for drowning out ambient noise during travel. Comfort is also a highlight, with an updated design intended to relieve pressure during long listening sessions. The headphones offer an impressive battery life of up to 30 hours, and a quick 10-minute charge provides up to 5 hours of playback, which is very convenient for travelers.

The headphones are relatively portable and come with a protective case, although their over-ear design means they are bulkier than in-ear alternatives. Sound quality is another strong point, with features like Edge AI and DSEE Extreme upscaling enhancing the listening experience. The headphones are durable but not water-resistant, so they should be handled with care around liquids. Connectivity is seamless with Bluetooth 5.0 and multipoint connection, allowing you to pair with multiple devices easily.

Additional features like touch sensor controls, speak-to-chat, and superior call quality add to their appeal. However, the headphones are on the heavier side at 9 ounces, which might be a consideration for some users. While they do not have water resistance, their build quality is robust. Those looking for advanced travel headphones with premium noise cancellation, excellent battery life, and superior sound quality will find the Sony WH-1000XM4 to be a strong contender.

The Sony WH-CH720N Noise Canceling Wireless Headphones stand out as a lightweight and comfortable option for travelers. Weighing just 192 grams, they are Sony’s lightest over-ear model, ensuring that extended use won't be tiring. Their Dual Noise Sensor Technology, powered by the Integrated Processor V1, provides excellent noise cancellation, allowing users to fully immerse in their audio experience without external distractions.

The headphones also include smart features like Adjustable Ambient Sound mode and Adaptive Sound control, which automatically adjust to your surroundings for an optimized listening experience, making them versatile for various environments. With up to 35 hours of battery life and quick charging capabilities (3 minutes for 1 hour of playback), they are reliable for long trips without frequent charging. Sound quality is another strong point, with natural vocals and clear sound thanks to the Integrated Processor V1 and Digital Sound Enhancement Engine.

For connectivity, the headphones support multipoint connections, allowing easy switching between devices. Additionally, the built-in microphone and Alexa integration make hands-free calling and voice commands hassle-free. However, the product might not be the most portable option due to its over-ear form factor, and the impedance of 325 Ohm may be overkill for casual listeners who don't require high power headphones. Nevertheless, their durability and excellent sound performance, combined with advanced features, make them a strong choice for frequent travelers who prioritize comfort, sound quality, and noise cancellation.