Noise-cancelling headphones are essential for travel. Find out which features matter most, whether you're taking a long-haul flight or just riding the subway.
Go to Air Travel TipsKey features when battling cabin noise and crossing time zones.
For a transatlantic flight, you need a minimum of 20 hours, but **30+ hours is ideal**. The Sennheiser Momentum 4 (with 60 hours) sets the benchmark here. You don't want to rely on the plane's limited power ports, so prioritize models like the XM6 or XM4 that consistently deliver.
Airplane noise is mostly low-frequency rumble, which all modern ANC headphones handle well. However, the high-pitched *hiss* and *whoosh* of air conditioning are harder. The **Bose QC Ultra** typically excels at blocking the widest range of frequencies, making it a stellar choice for true cabin silence.
Your headphones will get thrown around in a carry-on. The ability to **fold** into a compact case (like the Sony XM4/XM6) is a huge advantage over non-folding designs like the AirPods Max. A hard case is non-negotiable for long-term protection.
Features that optimise focus and awareness in urban environments.
For crossing busy streets or hearing announcements on the train, a great Transparency Mode is vital. The **AirPods Max** offer the most natural and clear sound passthrough, but Sony's Speak-to-Chat feature (available on XM4 and XM6) is indispensable for quick conversations without taking the headphones off.
For office workers or those taking calls on the move, focus on **outbound voice clarity**. Recent models like the XM6 and QC Ultra utilize beamforming mics to isolate your voice from background noise. This ensures your clients hear you, not the café espresso machine.