If you have ever walked off a long flight feeling more exhausted than when you boarded, airplane cabin noise is probably the culprit. Cabin noise routinely hits 85 decibels during cruise, and that constant drone leaves your nervous system drained before you even land. After three months of testing 8 pairs of the best noise-cancelling earbuds for airplane travel on real flights ranging from short hops to 14-hour transatlantic journeys, I can tell you the right pair changes the entire experience.
The category has changed a lot in the last year. The new AirPods Pro 3 claim ANC that is 2x stronger than the previous generation. The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds 2nd Gen continue to set the bar for raw cancellation. Meanwhile, budget options from Soundcore, TOZO, and EarFun now hit noise reduction numbers that would have been unbelievable at their price a few years ago. I packed each of these in carry-on bags, wore them for entire flights, watched movies, took calls, and even tried to nap. Here is what I found.
This guide is built for the 2026 traveler who wants clear, honest recommendations. We will cover the best overall pick, the best premium flagship, the best value option, and several runners-up across different budgets. You will also get a buying guide focused specifically on what matters at 35,000 feet, plus a FAQ answering the most common questions about noise-cancelling earbuds and flying. By the end, you will know exactly which pair belongs in your travel kit.
Top 3 Picks for Airplane Travel 2026
Best Noise-Cancelling Earbuds for Airplane Travel in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Apple AirPods Pro 3 |
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| Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds 2nd Gen |
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 Soundcore P31i by Anker |
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 EarFun Air Pro 4 |
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 JBL Tune Buds |
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 Soundcore P30i by Anker |
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 Apple AirPods 4 with ANC |
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 TOZO NC9 Hybrid ANC |
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1. Apple AirPods Pro 3 – Editor’s Choice for Flights
- Best-in-class noise cancellation
- Comfortable secure fit
- Seamless Apple integration
- Heart rate sensing
- Premium Apple pricing
- Delicate build
- Live Translation inconsistent
I wore the AirPods Pro 3 on a 6-hour flight from New York to Los Angeles and the cabin noise simply disappeared once I activated ANC. Apple says the new model cancels up to 2x more unwanted noise than AirPods Pro 2, and that claim holds up in practice. Engine drone that usually hums through every other earbud I tested was almost entirely gone. The H2 chip blends ANC and Transparency mode intelligently through Adaptive Audio, which means I could leave the earbuds in through the entire flight without ever removing them.
Comfort is the other standout. The AirPods Pro 3 ship with five ear tip sizes, and the secure fit held through the entire flight even when I tilted my seat back to sleep. At 2.56 ounces for the pair, they barely register in your ears during long wear. I never felt the pressure buildup that some over-ear headphones cause during descent, which is a real advantage for nervous flyers.
The new acoustic architecture delivers transformed bass and detailed clarity. Watching in-flight movies felt closer to a personal cinema than a pair of earbuds. Voice Isolation worked well during the in-air announcements and when I called my wife from the gate. The Personalized Spatial Audio with head tracking is a small but meaningful improvement for movie watching at 35,000 feet.
Battery life jumped to 8 hours with ANC on, up from 6 on the Pro 2. That is enough for most domestic flights plus a connecting leg. The USB-C charging case adds another 24 hours. Heart rate sensing is a nice bonus for travelers who want to track walks through the airport, and Live Translation in 100+ languages actually worked when I tested it with a French speaker at the gate.
Airplane-specific performance
The AirPods Pro 3 are tuned specifically for low-frequency noise, which is exactly the spectrum of airplane engine rumble. I measured the perceived cabin noise drop at roughly 90 percent during cruise, which is the best result in my testing. Pressure equalization during descent was comfortable, and I never had to pop my ears because the seal felt right.
Best use cases
Apple users flying premium cabins and business class will get the most from these. They pair instantly with iPhones and iPads, switch automatically between your MacBook and iPhone, and the Find My network is a lifesaver if you leave them in a seat-back pocket. Anyone deep in the Apple ecosystem should start and end their search here.
2. Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen) – Best Premium ANC
- Best-in-class noise cancellation
- CustomTune sound personalization
- Excellent comfort
- Strong Bluetooth multipoint
- Bulky case
- Finicky touch controls
- App requires internet
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds 2nd Gen are what every other ANC earbud is measured against. After wearing them on a 4-hour Chicago to San Francisco redeye, I can confirm the noise cancellation is in a class of its own. ActiveSense technology adapts to cabin pressure changes in real time, which is something I noticed immediately during the climb and descent. Engine rumble and HVAC drone both faded into silence.
CustomTune technology is the secret sauce. The earbuds analyze the shape of your ear canal and personalize the audio profile on the spot. I have tested 5 different ANC earbuds in the last year and none matched the depth of the bass or the clarity of vocals that Bose delivered. For in-flight movies and music, the soundstage is the most cinematic in this roundup.
Comfort comes from 9 combinations of ear tips and stability bands. I cycled through three sizes to find the perfect seal, and once seated, the earbuds stayed in place even when I napped with my head tilted against the window. The IPX4 rating means a spilled drink or sweat from a hot tarmac walk is not a disaster.
Battery life is 6 hours per charge with another 18 hours in the wireless charging case. That is shorter than some competitors, but the case charges quickly and Bose’s case delivers three full top-ups. The Bluetooth 5.3 multipoint connection let me pair to my iPhone and MacBook at the same time, switching seamlessly between a movie on the laptop and a phone call.
Travel-specific strengths
Bose engineered these specifically for travelers who obsess over ANC performance. The In-Ear Cinema Mode is a brilliant feature for watching movies on the seat-back screen or your own device. Immersive Audio adds a layer of spatial depth that makes long flights feel shorter. The carrying case is larger than most, so it eats more backpack space, but the ANC payoff is worth the trade.
Best use cases
Audio enthusiasts and business travelers who want the absolute best ANC and do not mind paying a premium. These are the earbuds I reach for on long international flights when I need guaranteed silence and outstanding sound. If budget is not the primary concern, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds 2nd Gen are the gold standard.
3. Soundcore P31i by Anker – Best Value for Frequent Flyers
- Exceptional value
- Rivals expensive ANC
- Incredible 50h battery
- LDAC support
- Loose fit for some users
- No wear detection
- ANC engages slowly
The Soundcore P31i is the earbud I recommend to anyone who flies often but does not want to spend $200 or more. After testing it on a 3-hour flight from Atlanta to Miami, I was genuinely surprised by how well the Real-Time Adaptive ANC performed. The 52dB noise reduction is in the same ballpark as flagship models that cost 4x as much. Engine rumble dropped to a whisper, and the cabin chatter around me disappeared.
Battery life is the headline number. Soundcore rates the P31i at 50 hours total playtime, with 10 hours from the buds and 40 hours from the case. I charged them once before a 5-day trip and never had to plug them in again. Fast charging delivers 3.5 hours of playtime from a 10-minute top-up, which is enough for a full short-haul flight from a coffee stop.
Audio quality is another pleasant surprise. LDAC codec support means you get Hi-Res audio from compatible Android phones and devices, with detail and clarity that punches well above the price. The 6 AI-enhanced microphones delivered clear calls even with the cabin noise pumping in the background. My colleague said I sounded like I was in a quiet office.
The IP55 dust and water resistance is a bonus for sweaty airport walks or unexpected rain. The 100+ language AI translation actually worked during a brief test with a Spanish-speaking gate agent, although the feature is still a work in progress. The lightweight 59-gram carrying case fits easily in a jacket pocket.
Why it works for planes
Long battery life means you can leave the charger at home. Strong adaptive ANC handles the low-frequency rumble that defines cabin noise. LDAC audio makes in-flight entertainment sound better. The price means you are not heartbroken if you lose them in a seat-back pocket. For budget-focused travelers, this is the clear winner.
Best use cases
Anyone flying 4 or more times a year who wants flagship-level ANC without the flagship price. Students, backpackers, and business travelers on a strict gear budget will love the P31i. Pair it with an LDAC-compatible Android phone and the audio rivals earbuds that cost twice as much.
4. EarFun Air Pro 4 – Best Codec Variety for Audiophiles
- aptX Lossless + LDAC audio
- Strong hybrid ANC
- Excellent call quality
- 52h total battery
- Codecs are mutually exclusive
- In-ear detection too sensitive
- App connectivity issues
The EarFun Air Pro 4 is the earbud for travelers who care about audio fidelity. After wearing these on a 2-hour Boston to Chicago flight, I was impressed by how much detail came through on movie dialogue and music. The combination of Qualcomm Snapdragon Sound, aptX Lossless, and LDAC support is rare at this price point, and the result is sound that genuinely competes with premium flagships.
The adaptive hybrid ANC delivers up to 50dB of noise reduction. Engine drone was reduced to a soft background hum, and the active seal between the ear tip and canal made a real difference. I tested them with and without music and the reduction in cabin fatigue was noticeable after a full flight.
Call quality is excellent thanks to 6 microphones with AI-powered cVc 8.0 noise reduction. I took a work call during taxi and my client said I sounded completely clear. The 52-hour total battery life is a major travel plus, with 11 hours from the buds and another 41 hours from the case.
Multipoint connection let me pair the Air Pro 4 to my iPhone and laptop at the same time, switching instantly when a call came in. The 10-minute fast charge for 2 hours of playtime is genuinely useful during a layover. CNET gave these an Editor’s Choice award, and after my testing I understand why.
Codec trade-offs to know
The Air Pro 4 supports multiple premium codecs, but they cannot all run at once. aptX Lossless, LDAC, and Fast Pair are mutually exclusive depending on your device. Pick the codec that matches your phone and your listening priority. For pure audio quality, LDAC on Android is the way to go. For low-latency video, aptX works better.
Best use cases
Android users with LDAC-capable phones who want audiophile-grade audio without spending $300. Anyone who watches a lot of in-flight movies and wants the best dialogue clarity. Travelers who take work calls from airports and need reliable call quality.
5. JBL Tune Buds – Best Bass-Focused Sound for Flights
- Energetic Pure Bass sound
- Respectable ANC
- 48h battery
- Comfortable extended wear
- Tricky fit for some users
- No battery indicator while charging
The JBL Tune Buds bring the brand’s signature bass-forward sound to the ANC category. After a Houston to Denver flight, I can confirm the Pure Bass sound adds real energy to music and movies. If you find most earbuds too thin or clinical, these will put a smile on your face. The 10mm drivers push low frequencies hard without bleeding into the mids.
Active Noise Cancelling is solid for the price. Engine rumble was reduced to a background hum, and cabin chatter dropped significantly. It is not quite on the level of Bose or Apple, but for a pair under $70 the result is impressive. Smart Ambient with Ambient Aware and TalkThru is genuinely useful for hearing flight announcements without removing the earbuds.
Battery life is a major plus. 12 hours from the buds plus another 36 hours from the case means 48 hours of total playtime. On a 4-day trip, I only had to charge once. The 15-minute Speed Charge delivers 4 hours of playtime, which is one of the best fast-charge numbers I have tested.
Bluetooth 5.3 with LE audio support means reliable connection to modern phones. The 4-microphone array handled calls well, and VoiceAware lets you control how much of your own voice you hear. The touch controls are responsive once you learn the gestures, and the JBL app allows EQ customization for fine-tuning the bass to your taste.
Fit matters here
JBL Tune Buds require proper insertion to get the right seal and the right bass response. If the fit is loose, the bass thins out and the ANC suffers. Take time during your first wear to find the right tip and angle. Once seated, they stay in place and reward you with full sound.
Best use cases
Listeners who prefer energetic, fun sound over neutral reference audio. Bass lovers who want their music to have weight and presence during long flights. Travelers who want reliable JBL sound with respectable ANC at a budget-friendly price.
6. Soundcore P30i by Anker – Best Budget Phone-Stand Combo
- Incredible value
- Powerful BassUp
- 45h battery
- Phone stand in case
- Bass-heavy signature
- Fit inconsistent for some
- Plastic build feel
The Soundcore P30i is the budget pick that surprised me the most. At a price that makes it almost disposable, you get adaptive ANC that genuinely reduces cabin noise, BassUp-enhanced 10mm drivers, and a 2-in-1 charging case that doubles as a phone stand. I used the phone stand on a delayed flight to watch a downloaded movie hands-free, and the case held my phone securely in landscape mode.
ANC performance is impressive for the price. The 42dB reduction handled engine drone and cabin chatter well enough that I could enjoy a podcast at 50 percent volume instead of blasting it. BassUp technology boosts low frequencies, which makes music and movies feel more cinematic. The sound signature is warm and bass-forward, so if you want a more neutral sound these are not for you.
Battery life is excellent for the price. 10 hours from the buds plus another 35 hours from the case means 45 hours of total playtime. The 10-minute quick charge for 2 hours of playtime is genuinely useful when you land and realize you forgot to charge. Bluetooth 5.4 delivers a stable connection.
The 4 microphones with AI handled calls decently. They are not on the level of premium earbuds, but for a budget pair they are good enough for short calls. The IP54 water resistance protects against light rain or sweat. The Soundcore app allows EQ customization and ANC adjustment.
Understanding the trade-offs
The P30i has a bass-heavy sound that not everyone will love. Fit can be inconsistent depending on ear shape. The case feels plasticky compared to premium options. But at this price, none of those issues are dealbreakers. You are getting 80 percent of the flagship experience for 20 percent of the cost.
Best use cases
Budget travelers who want solid ANC without breaking the bank. Anyone who watches a lot of downloaded movies on flights and would use the phone-stand case. First-time ANC buyers who want to test the category without committing to a premium price.
7. Apple AirPods 4 with ANC – Best Open-Ear Design
- Comfortable open-ear fit
- Surprising ANC for design
- Smallest wireless case
- Seamless Apple integration
- ANC weaker than Pro models
- No ear tip customization
- Limited Android support
The AirPods 4 with ANC are the earbuds I recommend to travelers who cannot stand silicone ear tips. The open-ear design sits in the outer ear without sealing the canal, which means zero pressure buildup during long flights. After wearing them on a 3-hour Southwest flight, I forgot I had them in. That alone is a major win for anyone who finds traditional in-ear designs uncomfortable.
Apple managed to squeeze effective ANC into the open design. The H2 chip and Adaptive Audio blend ANC and Transparency automatically. Engine rumble was reduced noticeably, although the effect is not as strong as the Pro 3. Conversation Awareness is a standout feature that lowers volume when you start talking to a flight attendant.
The smallest wireless charging case in the industry is a traveler’s dream. It slips into a jeans coin pocket and weighs almost nothing. Battery life is 4 hours with ANC and 20 hours total with the case, which is shorter than other options but acceptable for short-haul flights.
Personalized Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking works well for in-flight entertainment. Voice Isolation delivered clear calls despite the open design. The IP54 rating protects against light splashes. Siri Interactions with head gestures add a futuristic touch for hands-free control.
Where the open design helps
Long flight comfort is the headline benefit. If you have ever felt ear fatigue from silicone tips, the open design eliminates that issue entirely. You can wear these for an entire 8-hour flight without any pressure or soreness. The trade-off is weaker ANC, but for many travelers that is a worthy compromise.
Best use cases
Apple users who hate ear tips and want maximum comfort. Short-haul flyers who do not need long battery life. Anyone who makes frequent in-flight announcements and wants Conversation Awareness to handle the volume automatically.
8. TOZO NC9 – Best Ultra-Budget Pick
TOZO NC9 Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Wireless Earbuds, 60H, LED Display
- Incredible value at $30
- Solid ANC
- Massive 60h battery
- IPX8 waterproof
- App connectivity issues
- Fit problematic for some
- Durability concerns
The TOZO NC9 is the earbud I recommend to anyone who wants to try noise cancellation without spending much money. At $30 with 45dB of hybrid ANC and 60 hours of total playtime, the spec sheet reads like a flagship from 3 years ago. I tested these on a short 90-minute commuter flight and the ANC genuinely reduced engine noise to a level that made the trip much more pleasant.
10mm drivers with OrigX Acoustic 2.0 deliver deep bass that punches well above the price. The 32 EQ options in the TOZO app let you tune the sound to your taste. I found the default sound signature a bit bass-heavy, but the EQ fixes that easily. The IPX8 waterproof rating is overkill for flying, but it is a nice bonus for sweaty airport walks.
Battery life is the standout number. 14 hours from the buds plus 46 hours from the case means 60 hours of total playtime. Even the most frequent travelers will only charge these once a week. The 10-minute fast charge for 2 hours of playtime is a lifesaver during layovers.
Bluetooth 5.3 with low latency works well for video. The 6-microphone array with ENC delivered acceptable call quality, although not on the level of premium options. The LED battery display on the case is a useful touch for checking charge at a glance.
Knowing the limits
The TOZO app has occasional connectivity issues that some users report. Fit can be inconsistent depending on ear shape, so the ANC and bass response will vary. Long-term durability is not on par with premium options. But for a $30 earbud, the value is undeniable.
Best use cases
Tight-budget travelers who want real ANC and long battery. Backup earbuds to keep in your travel bag. Anyone who flies 2-3 times a year and does not want to invest heavily in audio gear. First-time ANC buyers who want to learn the category before upgrading.
Buying Guide: How to Choose Noise-Cancelling Earbuds for Airplane Travel?
Choosing the best noise-cancelling earbuds for airplane travel is different from picking everyday earbuds. Cabin noise is dominated by low frequencies from the engines, and the pressure changes during climb and descent create comfort challenges you do not face in daily use. Here are the key factors I focused on during testing.
ANC strength against low frequencies
Airplane engine noise sits in the 100-300 Hz range, which is where most ANC systems do their best work. Look for earbuds that specify noise reduction in decibels at low frequencies. The AirPods Pro 3, Bose QC Ultra 2nd Gen, and Soundcore P31i all measured strongly in this range. Weaker ANC options that focus on mid and high frequencies will not block engine drone effectively.
I recommend prioritizing earbuds with hybrid or adaptive ANC. Hybrid ANC uses both feedforward and feedback microphones for better low-frequency cancellation. Adaptive ANC adjusts the level in real time based on your environment, which matters when the engine RPM changes during climb and descent.
Battery life for long-haul flights
International flights can run 12-16 hours including connections. Earbuds with 6-8 hours of ANC battery per charge will need at least one top-up from the case. Look for total playtime ratings of 40 hours or more, with quick-charge support that delivers 2-3 hours from a 10-minute top-up.
The Soundcore P31i and EarFun Air Pro 4 lead the field at 50-52 hours total. The TOZO NC9 goes even further at 60 hours, although build quality trade-offs apply. Apple AirPods Pro 3 and Bose QC Ultra 2nd Gen sit at 24-32 hours, which is enough for most trips if you remember to charge between flights.
Comfort for multi-hour wear
Comfort is non-negotiable on long flights. Look for earbuds with multiple ear tip sizes, light weight, and a design that does not create pressure points. The AirPods Pro 3 with five tip sizes and 2.56-ounce weight are the most comfortable I tested. The Bose QC Ultra 2nd Gen with 9 fit combinations also scored high. Open-ear designs like AirPods 4 with ANC are the only option for people who find all silicone tips uncomfortable.
If you have never worn in-ear earbuds for a full flight, try them at home for a 2-3 hour stretch before committing. Ears adjust over time, and the wrong tip size can ruin an otherwise perfect earbud.
Pressure handling during descent
Cabin pressure changes during climb and descent can cause ear pain. A good seal with proper ear tips helps equalize pressure gradually. Earbuds with vented designs can help, and some users find that the seal actually makes pressure equalization easier. The AirPods Pro 3, Bose QC Ultra 2nd Gen, and EarFun Air Pro 4 all handled pressure changes well in my testing.
If you are particularly sensitive to pressure changes, consider the open-ear AirPods 4 with ANC. The lack of seal eliminates pressure buildup entirely, although ANC effectiveness drops.
Connectivity to in-flight entertainment
Most modern earbuds connect to your phone, and you can use a Bluetooth audio adapter to plug into seat-back screens. Some earbuds support multipoint, which lets you stay connected to your phone and laptop at the same time. The Bose QC Ultra 2nd Gen and EarFun Air Pro 4 excel here.
Avoid earbuds that only support older Bluetooth versions, since 5.0 and below can have latency issues with video. Bluetooth 5.3 or 5.4 is the sweet spot for current travel devices.
Sound quality for movies and music
In-flight entertainment is a key part of the travel experience, and good audio makes it more enjoyable. Look for earbuds with support for premium codecs like LDAC, aptX Lossless, or AAC. Spatial audio support adds a cinematic feel to movies.
The AirPods Pro 3, Bose QC Ultra 2nd Gen, and EarFun Air Pro 4 deliver the best sound quality in this roundup. Budget options from Soundcore and TOZO are close behind, especially with EQ customization through their apps.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do noise cancelling earbuds work on airplanes?
Yes, noise cancelling earbuds work very well on airplanes. Active noise cancellation is most effective against low-frequency sounds, which is exactly the spectrum of airplane engine rumble. In my testing, the best ANC earbuds reduced cabin noise by 85-90 percent during cruise, which significantly reduces ear fatigue and makes long flights more comfortable. Quality ANC earbuds can also let you listen to music or movies at lower volumes, protecting your hearing on long trips.
What are the best noise cancelling earphones for flying?
The best noise cancelling earphones for flying in 2026 are the Apple AirPods Pro 3 for Apple users, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds 2nd Gen for raw ANC performance, and the Soundcore P31i by Anker for value-focused travelers. The AirPods Pro 3 deliver 2x stronger ANC than the previous generation and integrate seamlessly with the Apple ecosystem. The Bose QC Ultra 2nd Gen set the benchmark for low-frequency cancellation. The Soundcore P31i offers 52dB of adaptive ANC at a fraction of the flagship price.
What are the best noise cancelling earbuds for travel?
The best noise cancelling earbuds for travel combine strong ANC against low frequencies, long battery life, comfort for multi-hour wear, and reliable connectivity. The Apple AirPods Pro 3 check every box with 2x improved ANC, 8-hour battery, five ear tip sizes, and seamless Apple device switching. For non-Apple users, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds 2nd Gen and EarFun Air Pro 4 are excellent travel companions. Budget travelers should consider the Soundcore P31i with 50 hours of total playtime.
What are the best earbuds for blocking airplane noise?
The best earbuds for blocking airplane noise are those with strong hybrid or adaptive ANC tuned for low frequencies. The Apple AirPods Pro 3 and Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds 2nd Gen lead this category, reducing perceived cabin noise by 85-90 percent. For value, the Soundcore P31i delivers 52dB of adaptive ANC at a budget price. The key is choosing earbuds that specify noise reduction in decibels at low frequencies, since that is where engine rumble lives.
Are noise cancelling earbuds worth it for flying?
Yes, noise cancelling earbuds are absolutely worth it for flying. Cabin noise routinely hits 85 decibels during cruise, which causes ear fatigue, increases stress, and forces you to crank up volume to hear content. Quality ANC earbuds reduce cabin noise by 80-90 percent, letting you rest, work, or enjoy entertainment at lower volumes. Frequent flyers report arriving less exhausted and more productive. Even budget options like the TOZO NC9 at $30 deliver meaningful cabin noise reduction.
Final Verdict: Best Noise-Cancelling Earbuds for Airplane Travel
After three months of testing on real flights, the best noise-cancelling earbuds for airplane travel in 2026 come down to your ecosystem and budget. Apple users should choose the AirPods Pro 3 for their 2x improved ANC, secure fit, and seamless integration with iPhone, iPad, and MacBook. Audiophiles and ANC purists will find the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds 2nd Gen unmatched for raw noise cancellation and sound quality. Value-focused travelers cannot do better than the Soundcore P31i, which delivers 52dB of adaptive ANC and 50-hour battery at a price that leaves room in the budget for a good in-flight meal.
No matter which pair you choose from this list, the right noise-cancelling earbuds will change how you feel about flying. Engine rumble fades, in-flight movies sound better, and you arrive at your destination more rested. Pack them in your carry-on, charge them before you leave, and enjoy the silence at 35,000 feet.