As travel insiders we know smart, state of the art headphones are a must-have travel essential. That said, they’re so high-tech these days it’s crucial to know your in-ear from your on-ear and the over-ear style and the best way to go when it comes to fit and performance. If noise canceling is top of your checklist, you won’t go wrong with the over the ear Bose Quiet Comfort. For small and discreet, Apple AirPods Pro are still big on features. Plug into our curated guide for the best headphones to get you through long-haul travel in style and surround sound.
AirPods Pro
A small, easy to pack option is Apple Airpods Pro, which syncs easily with all of your Apple gadgets. The sleek upgraded design makes them comfortable to wear for extended periods (they are also sweat and water-resistant so perfect for working out) and you can expect a true noise canceling experience. The downside is the battery is also small, so needs to be replaced every 18-24 months.
Urbanears Pampas Wireless Over-Ear
If you’re a fan of deep lows Urbanears Pampas Wireless Over-Ear are incredible bass-forward headphones. Available in chic matte black, beige, and green design, the over-ear style is super comfortable, and they are also easy to drive with a single multifunction control on the right ear.
Sony WF 1000 X M3
For amazing wireless sound, Sony WF 1000 X M3 earbuds have enhanced noise-canceling capabilities making them the perfect travel companions. They are also Alexa voice-controlled, so you can make calls and change your music hands-free – a godsend when running through the airport, or sipping wine mid-flight.
Marshall Major III
Into retro vibes? Marshall Major III headphones ooze vintage style in a delectable assortment of shades while packing a full 30 hours of listening time into each charge. Talk about accessorizing your tech with your travel wardrobe.
Sony Noise Cancelling Headphones WH1000XM3
If you have trouble sleeping on flights, consider Sony Noise Cancelling Headphones WH1000XM3 the answer to your dreams. They also come turbocharged with noise-canceling performance, voice-activation capabilities, and space-saving foldable design.
Bowers & Wilkins PX
Stylish, tough, and big on functionality Bowers Wilkins PX will block out all the noise. Made from industrial materials you can wear them comfortably for long periods and toss them in your carry on without fear of breaking or scratching them.
Beats Studio 3
Beats are the OG of statement headphones and their new Beats Studio 3 over-ear headphones are cooler than cool and ridiculously comfortable. They’ll also pair perfectly with most Apple products and fold up into a small hard case making them the perfect on-the-go accessory.
V-MODA Forza Metallo
Style aficionados will love the unique necklace design of V-MODA Forza Metallo with wires so thin they are barely visible. The slimline design means the battery life offers just 10 hours of listening time, but a quick 15-minute charge will buy you an additional two hours.
Bose Quiet Comfort 35
It’s hard to beat Bose for sound quality. With noise-canceling options the Quiet Comfort 35 line gives you complete control and calls so crisp, you’ll feel like you’re at the cinema.
