Traveling can be exhilarating, but the constant hum of airplane engines, chatter in crowded airports, or rumble of trains can make journeys exhausting. Noise cancelling headphones are a traveler’s best friend, transforming noisy environments into peaceful havens for music, podcasts, or rest. In 2025, brands like Soundcore and JBL offer exceptional options that combine powerful active noise cancellation (ANC), long battery life, and portability. This guide highlights the best noise cancelling headphones for travel, balancing affordability, comfort, and performance to elevate your next trip.
ALSO READ: Best Budget ANC Headphones
Top 5 Best Noise Cancelling Headphones for Travelers Reviewed
We selected the top headphones based on ANC effectiveness, battery life, comfort, portability, sound quality, and value for money. Below are the best noise cancelling headphones for travel in 2025.
Soundcore Anker Life Q20 – Best Budget-Friendly Travel Headphones
The Soundcore Anker Life Q20 offers impressive value, combining solid ANC with a marathon battery life at an affordable price. It’s a top pick for budget-conscious travelers.
Key Features:
- Hybrid ANC: Reduces ambient noise by up to 90%, effective for low-frequency sounds.
- 60-Hour Playtime: 40 hours with ANC on, 60 hours off, via micro USB.
- Hi-Res Audio: 40mm drivers deliver detailed sound with deep bass.
- BassUp Mode: Enhances low-end frequencies for bass-heavy genres.
- Memory Foam Ear Cups: Lightweight and comfortable for long wear.
- Bluetooth 5.0: Stable wireless connection.
Benefits:
- Lightweight (263g) and foldable, ideal for travel.
- Exceptional battery life for multi-day trips without recharging.
- Affordable without sacrificing core features like Hi-Res audio.
Limitations:
- ANC struggles with high-frequency noises like voices.
- Build quality feels plasticky; headband may crack over time.
TOZO HT2 – Best for Customizable Audio and Comfort
The TOZO HT2 stands out for its app-based customization and comfort, making it a versatile choice for travelers who prioritize sound personalization.
Key Features:
- Hybrid ANC: Three ANC microphones reduce mid-range frequencies effectively.
- 60-Hour Playtime: Up to 60 hours (ANC off), 40 hours (ANC on).
- Hi-Res Audio: Dual 40mm drivers for clear, balanced sound.
- Custom EQ via App: Adjust sound profiles for music, movies, or calls.
- Comfort-Fit Ear Cups: Foldable and lightweight for extended wear.
- Bluetooth 5.3: Reliable connectivity with low latency.
Benefits:
- App allows tailored audio for different travel scenarios (e.g., bass-heavy for music, neutral for podcasts).
- Strong ANC for office chatter or traffic, tested well in airports.
- Foldable design fits easily in carry-ons.
Limitations:
- Lesser-known brand with fewer independent reviews.
- TOZO app can be tricky to navigate initially.
Soundcore Life Q30 – Best for Versatile ANC Modes
The Soundcore Life Q30 excels with its customizable ANC modes, making it perfect for travelers navigating varied environments like planes, trains, and cafes.
Key Features:
- Hybrid ANC with 3 Modes: Transport (engines), Indoor (voices), Outdoor (traffic/wind).
- 50-Hour Playtime: 40 hours with ANC on, 50 hours off.
- Hi-Res Sound: 40mm drivers for rich, detailed audio.
- Custom EQ via App: Soundcore app offers graphic EQ and presets.
- Multipoint Connection: Pair with two devices simultaneously.
- Foldable Design: Includes a carrying case.
Benefits:
- ANC modes adapt to specific travel settings, enhancing versatility.
- Comfortable for long flights with plush ear cushions.
- Dual-device pairing for seamless switching between phone and laptop.
Limitations:
- Bulkier than Q20, less ideal for compact packing.
- ANC mics may feedback if covered, potentially bothersome.
Soundcore by Anker Q20i – Best Compact and Affordable Option
The Soundcore Q20i is an updated, compact version of the Q20, offering portability and value for travelers on a budget.
Key Features:
- Hybrid ANC: Reduces up to 90% of ambient noise, with transparency mode.
- 40-Hour Playtime: 40 hours with ANC on, 60 hours off, via USB-C.
- Hi-Res Audio: 40mm drivers with BassUp for enhanced bass.
- App Customization: Soundcore app for EQ and ANC control.
- Foldable Design: Lightweight (260g) with a fabric carrying bag.
- Bluetooth 5.0: Stable wireless performance.
Benefits:
- Compact and foldable, perfect for travel bags.
- Transparency mode for hearing airport announcements.
- Great value for ANC and Hi-Res audio at a low price.
Limitations:
- Shorter battery life than Q20 (40h vs. 60h with ANC).
- ANC less effective in very noisy environments like busy airports.
JBL Tune 770NC – Best for Premium Features and Long Battery Life
The JBL Tune 770NC offers premium features like adaptive ANC and exceptional battery life, ideal for frequent travelers seeking a high-end experience.
Key Features:
- Adaptive ANC with Smart Ambient: Adjusts to environment; Ambient Aware and TalkThru modes.
- 70-Hour Battery Life: 70 hours (ANC off), 50 hours (ANC on).
- Speed Charge: 5-minute charge yields 3 hours of playback.
- JBL Pure Bass Sound: 40mm drivers for rich, punchy bass.
- Bluetooth 5.3 with LE Audio: Future-proof connectivity.
- Lightweight and Foldable: Includes a carrying pouch.
Benefits:
- Longest battery life, perfect for extended trips.
- Fast charging saves time during layovers.
- Comfortable and stylish for all-day wear, praised for no head fatigue.
Limitations:
- Higher price compared to Soundcore options.
- ANC not as strong as premium models like Bose or Sony.
Key Factors to Consider for Travel Headphones
Choosing the best noise cancelling headphones for travel depends on your priorities:
- ANC Quality: Look for hybrid ANC that blocks low-frequency noises (e.g., engines). Adaptive or customizable modes (Q30, 770NC) add flexibility.
- Battery Life: Aim for 20-30+ hours with ANC on (e.g., Q20’s 40h, 770NC’s 50h).
- Comfort: Soft ear cushions and adjustable headbands (all picks) ensure long-term wearability.
- Portability: Foldable designs and carrying cases (all picks) save space.
- Sound Quality: Hi-Res audio and bass emphasis (e.g., Q20’s BassUp, 770NC’s Pure Bass) enhance listening.
- Features: App support (Q30, HT2, Q20i), multipoint pairing (Q30), and fast charging (770NC) add convenience.
Match headphones to your travel style: long flights need long battery life (770NC, Q20), while short commutes prioritize compactness (Q20i). Test ANC in noisy settings and prioritize fast charging for tight schedules.
Getting the Most Out of Your Noise Cancelling Headphones
Maximize your headphones with these steps:
- Pair via Bluetooth: Connect to your device and ensure Bluetooth 5.0/5.3 for stability.
- Update Firmware: Use brand apps (Soundcore, TOZO, JBL) to keep software current.
- Customize EQ: Adjust sound via apps for music (bass-heavy), podcasts (balanced), or calls (voice clarity).
- Switch ANC Modes: Use Transport mode (Q30) for flights, Indoor for cafes, or transparency (Q20i, 770NC) for announcements.
- Store Safely: Use provided cases (Q30, 770NC) or fabric bags (Q20, Q20i) to protect in luggage.
Noise Cancelling vs. Regular Headphones: Which is Better for Travel?
Noise Cancelling Headphones
- Pros: Block ambient noise, ideal for planes, trains, and airports; enhance audio clarity.
- Cons: Higher cost, battery-dependent for ANC.
Regular Headphones
- Pros: Cheaper, often lighter, no battery needed for basic models.
- Cons: Ineffective in noisy environments, requiring higher volume that may harm hearing.
Recommendation: ANC headphones are essential for frequent travelers in noisy settings. Regular headphones suit casual use in quieter environments like hotels.
Why Choose Noise Cancelling Headphones for Your Next Trip?
The Power of ANC for Travel
Active noise cancellation (ANC) technology uses microphones to detect ambient sounds and generates counteracting sound waves to neutralize them. This is especially effective for low-frequency noises like airplane engines or train rumbles, creating a quieter listening experience.
Benefits for Travelers
- Improved Focus: Block distractions to enjoy audiobooks or work during commutes.
- Superior Audio Quality: Hear every detail of your music or podcasts without cranking the volume.
- Restful Travel: Reduce fatigue by minimizing background noise on long flights.
- Comfort and Portability: Foldable designs, carrying cases, and lightweight builds make them travel-friendly.
Travel-specific needs include long battery life (20+ hours), foldable designs for easy packing, and durable cases to protect headphones in luggage.
What Travelers Say About These Noise Cancelling Headphones
Soundcore Life Q20
Praised for exceptional value and long battery life, travelers love its affordability and bass-heavy sound. ANC effectively reduces engine noise, but high-pitched voices may leak through. Some report headband durability issues.
TOZO HT2
Appreciated for comfort and customizable audio via the app, it performs well in mid-range noise cancellation (e.g., traffic). Mixed reviews on ANC strength in very loud settings like flights.
Soundcore Life Q30
Loved for versatile ANC modes and comfort during long flights. Users value dual-device pairing and sound customization. Some note bulkiness and occasional ANC feedback.
Soundcore Q20i
Valued for portability and budget-friendly ANC, it’s a hit for short trips. Transparency mode is handy for airports, but ANC is less robust in crowded settings.
JBL Tune 770NC
Lauded for premium battery life (up to 70 hours) and sound quality, travelers appreciate its fast charging and lightweight design. ANC is good but not class-leading compared to Bose or Sony.
Concerns: ANC can drain batteries faster, and fit may vary for smaller heads (Q20, Q20i). Direct purchases from Amazon or brand sites ensure warranty support.
Pro Tips for Using Noise Cancelling Headphones on the Go
- Charge Before Travel: Fully charge headphones (e.g., Q20’s 60h, 770NC’s 70h) and carry a power bank for long trips.
- Conserve Battery: Use ANC only in noisy settings to extend playtime.
- Clean Regularly: Wipe ear cushions after flights to maintain hygiene.
- Test Fit: Adjust headbands for a snug, comfortable seal to optimize ANC.
Find Your Perfect Noise Cancelling Headphones for Travel
The best noise cancelling headphones for travel in 2025 cater to diverse needs:
- Soundcore Life Q20: Best budget pick with long battery life.
- TOZO HT2: Ideal for customizable audio and comfort.
- Soundcore Life Q30: Top for versatile ANC modes.
- Soundcore Q20i: Compact and affordable for short trips.
- JBL Tune 770NC: Premium features with unmatched battery life.
Choose based on your travel frequency, budget, and audio preferences. Shop the best noise cancelling headphones for travel on Amazon today!