### Elevate Your Travel Comfort with Noise-Cancelling Headphones
Traveling by plane has never been the most soothing experience, and with persistent airline disruptions, bothersome fellow passengers, and ever-shrinking seat spaces, it may even seem intolerable. Coupled with the stress stemming from [recent airplane accidents](https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2025/02/17/plane-crashes-2025-washington-alaska-philadelphia/78990206007/), it’s not surprising that many travelers seek ways to enhance their travel experience. One straightforward yet impactful upgrade? Investing in a high-quality pair of noise-cancelling headphones.
### Why Opt for Noise-Cancelling Headphones?
Countless [headphone options](https://mashable.com/category/headphones) are out there, ranging from over-ear styles to [wireless earbuds](https://mashable.com/roundup/best-wireless-earbuds), with many featuring active noise cancellation (ANC). Luckily, in 2025, you can find ANC headphones priced below $100. However, for the ultimate experience at cruising altitude, we advise spending a little extra. To assist with your selection, we’ve evaluated and reviewed the top noise-cancelling headphones available.
#### **What’s the Ideal Budget for Noise-Cancelling Headphones?**
For the finest noise-cancelling headphones suitable for flying, plan to spend between $250 and $500. Higher-end models deliver exceptional noise cancellation, customizable features, and transparency settings that enable you to catch essential airport announcements.
While there are numerous [affordable headphones](https://mashable.com/article/best-headphones-under-100) that purport to provide noise cancellation, a $50 option with passive noise reduction will hardly eliminate any sound. Inexpensive models might also present connection difficulties, lack comfort, or have trouble seamlessly switching between devices.
Ultimately, spending on a reliable high-quality pair is worthwhile. ANC alone cannot assure a tranquil flight—comfort plays a crucial role too. If your headphones aren’t comfortable, you will hesitate to wear them throughout the flight. Moreover, we awarded additional points to headphones designed for travel convenience.
If a price point above $250 is prohibitive, we’ve identified several [affordable earbuds](https://mashable.com/roundup/best-budget-wireless-earbuds) under $100, although they involve some compromises. For a middle-ground choice, consider [wireless earbuds with ANC](https://mashable.com/article/best-wireless-earbuds) instead of over-ear models.
For those who are uncertain about the expense, waiting for a sale can be a wise strategy. Brands like Bose, Sony, and [Apple](https://mashable.com/category/apple) consistently provide discounts throughout the year. If tracking deals sounds tedious, [Mashable’s deals coverage](https://mashable.com/deals) is an excellent resource for locating the best headphone bargains.
### **Top Noise-Cancelling Headphones for Air Travel**
Noise-cancelling headphones are particularly advantageous on airplanes, where ongoing noise can hinder relaxation or concentration. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler wanting to work or unwind, the right ANC headphones can assist you in blocking out disturbances.
To simplify your hunt, we’ve conducted the research and practical testing for you. Keep reading to uncover the best noise-cancelling headphones for air travel in 2025—according to Mashable’s expert evaluations.