HeadphonesFinderSoundcore Space One
Effective ANC, long battery life and a jack cable: excellent value for travel.
Compare pricesWhat are the best headphones for flying and travel?
In the cabin, engine noise sits around 80 dB for hours on end. Good travel headphones make it bearable, plug into the seatback screen and last a whole long-haul flight. The selector is preset for a very noisy environment.
Updated 13 November 2026
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Our picks
Sony WF-1000XM5
Compact earbuds with top-tier noise cancelling, ideal for sleeping on a flight.
Compare pricesBose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones
Comfort and silence for long-haul flights, with a jack cable for the seatback screen.
Compare pricesExample models chosen for their reputation in this category. Prices and availability change: check them on the retailer's page.
Noise cancelling comes first
The roar of a jet engine is exactly the kind of low, constant noise that active noise cancelling removes best. The result: you listen at a lower volume, arrive less tired and can even sleep without music, with just the ANC switched on.
Being able to plug into the seatback screen
In-flight entertainment systems are almost always wired (3.5 mm jack, sometimes a two-prong adapter). Check that your headphones accept a jack cable and that ANC still works in wired mode. With wireless earbuds, a small Bluetooth transmitter plugged into the seat socket does the job.
Comfort and size
| Format | Strengths | Drawbacks |
|---|---|---|
| Over-ear headphones | Best isolation, comfortable for 10 hours, jack cable often included | Bulky, hot in tropical climates |
| ANC earbuds | Tiny, let you sleep on your side | Shorter battery per charge, no jack |
For a long-haul flight, go for foldable headphones with a hard case, soft ear cushions and a moderate weight (250 to 300 g). If you sleep leaning against the window, well-fitted earbuds get in the way less.
Battery life and charging
- Aim for at least 20 hours with ANC on to cover a long-haul outbound flight plus connections.
- Fast USB-C charging (a few minutes for a few hours) can save the day during a layover.
- Wired mode often lets you keep listening with a flat battery, but without ANC.
Mistakes to avoid
- Leaving without a jack cable or transmitter for the in-flight entertainment.
- Choosing open-back headphones: no isolation, and sound leaking out to your neighbours.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you use Bluetooth headphones on a plane?
Yes, most airlines allow Bluetooth in flight mode once airborne. For the seatback screen, you'll need a jack cable or a Bluetooth transmitter.
Does ANC help with ear pain on take-off?
No. The pain comes from pressure changes in the middle ear; ANC reduces noise, not pressure. Swallowing or yawning is still the best remedy.
Headphones or earbuds for a long-haul flight?
Headphones generally offer better isolation and longer battery life; earbuds are handier for sleeping and travelling light. Many frequent flyers take both.