Top-tier headphones for travel in 2025: outstanding headphones perfect for extensive voyages
In the realm of travel headphones, finding the perfect pair can make all the difference in your journeys. We've compiled a list of the top recommendations for 2025, based on expert reviews from various sources such as CNET, Listful, What HiFi, and TechRadar.
Best Overall: Sony WH-1000XM6
These headphones are praised for their top-tier sound quality, best-in-class noise cancellation, excellent call performance, very comfortable fit, and a compact foldable design, making them ideal for travelers, remote workers, and commuters [1][2][4].
Best for Noise Cancelling: Sony WH-1000XM6
They provide industry-leading Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) performance powered by the new QN3 chip with 12 microphones, effectively blocking ambient noise, including on public transport or flights [1][4].
Best Budget: Sony WF-C710N (wireless earbuds)
Offering impressive sound quality, noise cancellation, comfort, and about 8.5 hours of battery life alongside a rechargeable case, these earbuds are noted for delivering significant value for money compared to pricier models like AirPods Pro 2 [3].
Best for Comfort: Bose QuietComfort Headphones (including Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds)
Known for superb comfort and secure fit during long travel sessions, combined with effective noise cancellation and good sound quality, these headphones are ideal for travelers prioritizing comfort [2].
The Sonos Ace headphones, the first pair launched by Sonos, offer superior comfort, thanks to memory foam and a snug fit. However, they do not offer full integration with existing Sonos Wi-Fi speaker systems [5].
The Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S3 have top-notch build quality and materials. They also boast easy-to-use on-board controls and the option of a wired connection. With a battery life of 30 hours between charges, these headphones are a reliable choice for extended travel sessions [6].
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds are compact and offer stellar active noise cancellation (ANC). They also come with a fantastic Immersive Audio (spatial audio) feature. In the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds review, it was stated that "if you're in the market for one of the best-sounding pairs of earbuds, these sit in scarce company" [7].
In the Sonos Ace review, tech editor Mike Lowe called them the most comfortable pair of headphones he's ever worn [8]. The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones are the best travel headphones for noise-cancelling [9].
The Nothing Ear (2) are top-quality travel earbuds despite their low price. They offer a compact form factor, good sound quality, and impressive noise cancellation [10].
The Sony WH-1000XM6 have market-leading noise cancelling, a design that folds, and an arguably perfect case [6]. Their adaptive noise cancelling adjusts to common locations, ensuring a consistently excellent listening experience.
In conclusion, these recommendations consistently appear in expert reviews and reflect a balance of performance, comfort, and price for travelers [1][2][3][4]. Whether you're looking for the best overall, the most comfortable, or the best budget, there's a pair here to suit your needs.
This article was updated on July 4, 2025, with new headphones added to the recommendations.
References:
[1] CNET. (2025). Best noise-cancelling headphones of 2025. [online] Available at: https://www.cnet.com/tech/home-entertainment/best-noise-cancelling-headphones/
[2] Listful. (2025). Best Travel Headphones in 2025. [online] Available at: https://listful.net/best-travel-headphones-2025/
[3] What Hi-Fi. (2025). Best wireless earbuds 2025. [online] Available at: https://www.whathifi.com/best-wireless-earbuds
[4] TechRadar. (2025). Best noise-cancelling headphones 2025. [online] Available at: https://www.techradar.com/best/best-noise-cancelling-headphones
[5] The Verge. (2025). Sonos Ace review: The best headphones you've never heard of. [online] Available at: https://www.theverge.com/23311521/sonos-ace-review-headphones-wireless-noise-cancelling
[6] Pocket-lint. (2025). Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S3 review. [online] Available at: https://www.pocket-lint.com/sound/reviews/headphones/buyers-guides/152466-bowers-wilkins-px7-s3-review
[7] The Verge. (2025). Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds review: The best sounding earbuds you can buy. [online] Available at: https://www.theverge.com/23306742/bose-quietcomfort-ultra-earbuds-review
[8] The Verge. (2025). Sonos Ace review: The best headphones you've never heard of. [online] Available at: https://www.theverge.com/23311521/sonos-ace-review-headphones-wireless-noise-cancelling
[9] TechRadar. (2025). Best travel headphones 2025. [online] Available at: https://www.techradar.com/best/best-travel-headphones
[10] CNET. (2025). Best wireless earbuds 2025. [online] Available at: https://www.cnet.com/tech/home-entertainment/best-wireless-earbuds/
1. "After a long day of exploring new cultures in the realm of travel, unwind with a relaxing dinner prepared deliciously with a recipe found on a food-and-drink blog."
2. "Returning from your travel adventures, decorate your home-and-garden with unique fashion-and-beauty souvenirs picked up from various destinations around the globe."
