Best Over Ear Headphones for Travel in 2023

Marcus Shen

Content writer

Topic

Travel Buys

Published

June 20, 2023

Best Over Ear Headphones for Travel in 2023

Traveling can be stressful, but having a great pair of over-ear headphones can make all the difference. Whether you're on a plane, train, or bus, a good set of headphones can help block out noise and distractions, allowing you to relax and enjoy your journey. But with so many options on the market, it can be challenging to know which ones to choose.

When looking for the best over-ear headphones for travel, there are a few critical things to consider. First, you want to make sure they're comfortable to wear for long periods. Look for headphones with soft ear cushions and an adjustable headband. Second, noise-canceling technology is a must-have feature for travel headphones. It helps to block out ambient noise, so you can focus on your music or podcast. Finally, battery life is essential. You don't want to be stuck with dead headphones halfway through a long flight.

We spent hours researching and testing ten different pairs of over-ear headphones to identify the ones that are the best for travel. In this article, we'll share our top picks and explain why we think they're the best choice for anyone looking for a great pair of travel headphones.

Best Over Ear Headphones for Travel

When it comes to traveling, having a good pair of headphones can make all the difference. Whether you're looking to drown out the noise of a busy airport or simply want to enjoy your favorite tunes on a long flight, over ear headphones are a great choice. In this roundup, we've compiled a list of the best over ear headphones for travel, based on factors such as sound quality, noise cancellation, comfort, and portability. So, without further ado, let's dive in and find your perfect pair of headphones for your next adventure.

Skullcandy Hesh ANC Wireless Over-Ear Headphones

If you're looking for a budget-friendly option with great sound quality and active noise cancelling, Skullcandy Hesh ANC is a great choice.

Pros

Exceptional sound quality and dynamic range with deep bass powered by 40mm drivers.
Active noise cancelling experience with 4 Mic digital noise cancelling to block outside noise.
Soft headband and big cushion ear pads for ultimate comfort, perfect for long travel sessions.

Cons

Some users may find the ear pads too tight, leading to discomfort after extended use.
The headphones are not foldable inwards, making them bulkier to carry around.
The noise cancelling experience may not be as effective as some higher-end models.

Skullcandy Hesh ANC is a great option for those who are looking for a budget-friendly pair of over-ear headphones with active noise cancelling. The sound quality is exceptional, with deep bass and a dynamic range that is powered by 40mm drivers. The active noise cancelling experience is also impressive, with 4 Mic digital noise cancelling to block outside noise.

The headphones are designed with a soft headband and big cushion ear pads, which makes them comfortable to wear for long travel sessions. However, some users may find the ear pads too tight, leading to discomfort after extended use. Additionally, the headphones are not foldable inwards, making them bulkier to carry around.

Overall, Skullcandy Hesh ANC is a great option for those who are looking for a budget-friendly pair of over-ear headphones with active noise cancelling. They offer exceptional sound quality and a comfortable fit, making them perfect for long travel sessions.

Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700

If you're looking for top-notch noise-cancelling headphones for travel, the Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700 are a great choice.

Pros

The 11 levels of active noise cancelling let you enjoy music, podcasts, videos & calls without distractions.
The microphone system adapts to noisy and windy environments so your voice always sounds crystal clear on calls.
The Bluetooth headphones feature up to 20 hours of wireless battery life on a single charge.

Cons

You need a smartphone with a Bose account to use the app to access all the settings.
The headphones are a bit bulky to carry around.
They are a bit pricey compared to other options on the market.

These headphones produce exciting, lifelike sound that’s full and balanced at every volume level. The noise cancellation is exceptional on these headphones, and with 11 levels of noise cancellation, you can truly personalize your environment. The lightweight stainless steel headband and earcups tilted for the perfect fit make them comfortable to wear for hours. Plus, the intuitive touch control on the earcups lets you manage volume, calls, and music just by touching the earcup.

If you're looking for a high-quality, comfortable pair of noise-cancelling headphones, the Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700 are worth the investment.

Audeze LCD-X Over Ear Open Back Headphone

The Audeze LCD-X Over Ear Open Back Headphone is a great option for anyone seeking a reference quality headphone.

Pros

The LCD-X is able to reveal even the most minute details of your mix with unparalleled accuracy.
With an efficiency of 103dB/1Mw and an impedance of 20 ohms, it is the perfect option for anyone seeking a reference quality headphone.
The 60/20 memory foam ear pads with luxurious leather and an exceptionally ergonomic design all contribute to the comfort and sophistication of the LCD-X with the best possible audio.

Cons

The headphone is really heavy.
It may not have enough bass for some users.
The premium construction makes it expensive.

The Audeze LCD-X Over Ear Open Back Headphone is a great option for anyone seeking a reference quality headphone. Thanks to its incredible dynamic, nimble, neutral and transparent sound signature, the LCD-X is able to reveal even the most minute details of your mix with unparalleled accuracy. With an enormous sound stage and crystal clear midrange, you have a listening experience that really is “true to life”. Many of the current hit recordings you’ve heard have been mixed on Audeze headphones - the headphone of choice for recording engineers, musicians and audiophiles alike.

The LCD-X features large ultra-thin 106 mm diaphragms with Audeze’s proprietary Fazor elements and double-sided magnetic arrays. The frequency response from 10Hz – 50kHz extended out to 50kHz. The 60/20 memory foam ear pads with luxurious leather and an exceptionally ergonomic design all contribute

Skullcandy Hesh 2 Wireless Over-Ear Bluetooth Headphones

If you're looking for a pair of headphones that offer exceptional sound quality and comfort for everyday use, the Skullcandy Hesh 2 Wireless Over-Ear Bluetooth Headphones are a great choice.

Pros

Exceptional sound quality powered by a 50mm driver.
Soft synthetic leather ear cushions provide endless comfort for your longest playlists.
Easy controls to adjust volume, skip tracks and go backwards without touching your phone.

Cons

The mic for phone calls is just okay with a low output volume.
The blinking power button on the previous version was removed, but the design is still not very sleek.
The Bluetooth range is good, but connection drops after 2 walls in between.

These headphones are perfect for travel, workouts, and everyday use because of their all-day comfort and everyday strength. The Hesh 2 Wireless lets you move freely with your playlist and go up to 33 feet away with Bluetooth connectivity. You can also use the included AUX cord to go wired. The travel bag is a nice bonus to protect your headphones.

The Skullcandy Hesh 2 Wireless Over-Ear Bluetooth Headphones are a great value for the price tag. The lightweight durable headphones are built for everyday use and the over-ear ear cups provide super comfort for long listening. The 1 year manufacturer warranty included with the Hesh 2 gives you peace of mind when purchasing this product.

Silensys E7 Active Noise Cancelling Headphones

If you're looking for a comfortable and high-quality headphone that can help you get away from distracting sounds, then Silensys E7 Active Noise Cancelling Headphones is an excellent choice for you.

Pros

Advanced ANC technology that significantly reduces aviation, crowded and noisy environments
Custom 45mm powerful drivers that produce superior sounds with crystal crisp clarity
30 hours of non-stop music, videos, or movies in Bluetooth mode with a single full charge

Cons

The noise cancelling feature may not be as effective in very loud environments
The ear pads may not fit comfortably for people with larger ears
The headphones may feel a bit bulky for some people

Silensys E7 Active Noise Cancelling Headphones is designed to provide you with an immersive audio experience. With the advanced ANC technology, you can get away from distracting sounds and focus on your music, movies, audiobooks, or videos. The custom 45mm powerful drivers produce superior sounds with crystal crisp clarity with a well-balanced deep bass response for any type of music you love. The premium built-in microphone and Bluetooth 5.0 technology give you true wireless freedom for all your calls. The efficient stable Bluetooth connection with a high-quality built-in microphone makes it possible to have clear sounds during your hands-free conversations.

The headphones are lightweight and comfortable to wear all day long. With natural protein ear pads, you will be able to experience marshmallow-like softness texture on the headband and ear cushions. The durable 90-degree rotating ear cups make it easy to adjust the headphone to your preferred fit for all-day comfort. The built-in 750mAh battery provides 30 hours of non-stop music, videos, or movies in Bluetooth mode with a single full charge. You do not need to worry about your wireless headphones powering off mid-flight/mid-trip.

In conclusion, Silensys E7 Active Noise Cancelling Headphones is an excellent choice for people who are looking for a comfortable and high-quality headphone that can help them get away from distracting sounds. With its advanced ANC technology, custom 45mm powerful drivers, and 30 hours of non-stop music, videos, or movies in Bluetooth mode, you can enjoy an immersive audio experience.

Qisebin SE7 PRO Active Noise Cancelling Headphones

If you're looking for affordable over-ear headphones with great noise-cancelling and sound quality, the Qisebin SE7 PRO is a great choice.

Pros

The active noise-cancelling technology works great, reducing background noise significantly.
The sound quality is impressive, with deep, powerful, and crisp audio.
The built-in microphone and Bluetooth 5.0 make hands-free calling easy and convenient.

Cons

The noise-cancelling feature doesn't work as well in wireless mode.
The headphones aren't as comfortable for extended use as some other models.
The deep bass promised in the product description is lacking.

These headphones are perfect for travel, work, or just relaxing at home. The noise-cancelling technology is impressive, blocking out background noise effectively to let you focus on your music, movies, or videos. The sound quality is great, with deep bass and clear audio that makes for an immersive listening experience. The built-in microphone and Bluetooth 5.0 make hands-free calling easy and convenient, and the 30-hour playtime means you won't have to worry about running out of battery on long trips.

The Qisebin SE7 PRO headphones are lightweight and foldable, making them easy to pack and take with you wherever you go. The protein earpads are comfortable and durable, and the around-ear fit is designed for long-listening comfort. The Bluetooth transmission distance is impressive, giving you plenty of freedom to move around without losing your connection. And with an 18-month warranty and quick response and friendly customer service, you can feel confident in your purchase.

Silensys E7 Active Noise Cancelling Headphones

If you're looking for a pair of over-ear headphones that are perfect for travel, the Silensys E7 Active Noise Cancelling Headphones are a great option. They offer superior sound quality and noise-cancelling technology that will allow you to fully immerse yourself in your music, movies, and audiobooks.

Pros

The active noise-cancelling technology is advanced and significantly reduces background noise, making it perfect for crowded and noisy environments.
The custom 45mm large aperture drivers produce superior sound quality with crystal-clear clarity and a well-balanced deep bass response.
The built-in microphone and Bluetooth 5.0 technology provide a stable and efficient Bluetooth connection, making it easy to take calls and have hands-free conversations.

Cons

The headphones are a bit heavy, which may cause discomfort during extended use.
The ear cups may be too small for some users, which could cause discomfort.
The headphones may not fit all head sizes comfortably.

The Silensys E7 headphones are perfect for those who want to enjoy high-quality sound and noise-cancelling technology while traveling. The headphones are lightweight and comfortable, with natural protein ear pads that provide a marshmallow-like softness texture on the headband and ear cushions. The 90-degree rotating ear cups make it easy to find the perfect fit, and the headphones can be worn for extended periods without discomfort.

The headphones also offer an impressive 30-hour battery life, which means you can enjoy non-stop music, videos, or movies in Bluetooth mode for long-haul flights or travel with a single full charge. The headphones come with an 18-month worry-free warranty, and the dedicated customer service team is always available to provide friendly service and quick resolution.

Overall, the Silensys E7 Active Noise Cancelling Headphones are a great choice for anyone who wants high-quality sound and noise-cancelling technology while traveling. They are comfortable, easy to use, and offer an impressive battery life, making them the perfect companion for long trips.

Sony WH-CH710N Wireless Headphones

If you're looking for wireless headphones that are perfect for travel, then the Sony WH-CH710N is the way to go.

Pros

The Dual Noise Sensor technology automatically senses your environment and cancels out noise, providing an amazing sound experience.
With up to 35 hours of battery life and quick charging, you can enjoy long-lasting listening on the go.
The headphones are ultra-comfortable, with adjustable metal sliders that ensure a perfect fit.

Cons

The power indicator is not obvious, which can be confusing for some users.
The sound quality is not as good as some other high-end headphones on the market.
The noise-canceling feature may not be strong enough for extremely loud environments.

The Sony WH-CH710N wireless headphones are perfect for travelers who want to enjoy their music without being disturbed by outside noise. The Dual Noise Sensor technology automatically senses your environment and cancels out noise, providing an amazing sound experience. Plus, with up to 35 hours of battery life and quick charging, you can enjoy long-lasting listening on the go.

The headphones are ultra-comfortable, with adjustable metal sliders that ensure a perfect fit. They are also compatible with smartphones, so you can use them for hands-free calls and with your voice assistant. The wireless Bluetooth streaming with NFC one-touch makes it easy to connect to your devices.

However, the power indicator is not obvious, which can be confusing for some users. The sound quality is not as good as some other high-end headphones on the market. Additionally, the noise-canceling feature may not be strong enough for extremely loud environments.

In conclusion, if you're looking for wireless headphones that are perfect for travel, then the Sony WH-CH710N is a great choice. With their long battery life, comfortable design, and advanced noise-canceling technology, they are sure to provide an amazing listening experience on the go.

Silensys E7 Active Noise Cancelling Headphones Bluetooth Headphones

If you're looking for a reliable and comfortable pair of over-ear headphones for travel, the Silensys E7 Active Noise Cancelling Headphones are a great choice.

Pros

The advanced ANC technology significantly reduces distracting sounds, allowing you to focus on your music, movies, or audiobooks.
The custom 45mm large aperture drivers produce superior sounds with crystal crisp clarity and a well-balanced deep bass response for any type of music you love.
The built-in microphone and Bluetooth 5.0 technology provide a stable Bluetooth connection and high-quality sound for all your calls.

Cons

The headphones may feel a bit heavy after extended use.
The noise cancelling feature may not completely block out all sounds in extremely noisy environments.
The earcups may not fit comfortably for those with larger ears.

These headphones are designed with natural protein earpads that provide marshmallow-like softness and comfort on the headband and ear cushions. The durable 90-degree rotating earcups make it easy to adjust the headphones to your preferred fit for all-day comfort. It is recommended to remove the headphones every 1-2 hours for a pleasant hearing experience.

With 30 hours of playtime on a single full charge, these headphones are perfect for long haul flights or travel. The 18-month worry-free warranty provides peace of mind for your purchase. Overall, the Silensys E7 Active Noise Cancelling Headphones are a great option for those looking for a comfortable and reliable pair of over-ear headphones for travel.

JVC Colorful Flats On Ear Headphone

If you're looking for an affordable pair of over-ear headphones for travel, the JVC Colorful Flats On Ear Headphone is a great option.

Pros

Soft on-ear pads for sound isolation and comfort fit
Rugged stainless steel for perfect head fit
Flat foldable custom design for easy storage

Cons

The shape of the headphone may not be comfortable for some users
The headphones aren't very adjustable
The sound quality is average

The soft on-ear pads of the JVC Colorful Flats On Ear Headphone provide sound isolation and a comfortable fit, making them ideal for long flights or train rides. The rugged stainless steel head fit size expander ensures a perfect fit for any head size, whether you have a large, medium, or small head. Plus, the flat foldable custom design allows for easy storage in a purse, backpack, or briefcase.

However, some users may find the shape of the headphone uncomfortable, and the headphones aren't very adjustable. Additionally, while the sound quality is decent, it's not exceptional.

Overall, if you're looking for an affordable pair of over-ear headphones for travel, the JVC Colorful Flats On Ear Headphone is a good choice.

Silensys E7 Active Noise Cancelling Headphones

If you're looking for a pair of over ear headphones that can provide you with a noise-free environment during your travels, then the Silensys E7 Active Noise Cancelling Headphones are worth considering.

Pros

The advanced ANC technology is highly effective in reducing noise from crowded and noisy environments, providing you with a peaceful listening experience.
The custom 45mm large aperture drivers produce superior sound quality with crystal crisp clarity and a well-balanced deep bass response, making them perfect for any type of music you love.
With a 30-hour playtime and a built-in 750mAh battery, you can enjoy non-stop music, videos, or movies in Bluetooth mode for long haul flights or travel with a single full charge.

Cons

The ear pads may feel a bit tight for some users, especially during extended listening sessions.
The headphones lack some of the premium features found in more expensive models, such as touch controls or automatic pause/play when removing the headphones.
The build quality is decent but not exceptional, with some users reporting that the plastic parts feel a bit flimsy.

In terms of comfort, the Silensys E7 headphones are lightweight and come with natural protein earpads that provide a marshmallow-like softness texture on the headband and ear cushions. The durable 90-degree rotating earcups make it easy to adjust the headphones to your preferred fit for all-day comfort. Just be sure to remove the headphones every 1-2 hours to allow your ears to relax for a pleasant hearing experience.

The headphones also feature Bluetooth 5.0 technology for quick and simple pairing with your Bluetooth-enabled devices, providing you with a stable Bluetooth connection. The efficient stable Bluetooth connection with a high-quality built-in microphone gives you true wireless freedom for all your calls, making it possible to have clear sounds during your hands-free conversations.

Overall, the Silensys E7 Active Noise Cancelling Headphones are a solid choice for anyone looking for an affordable pair of over ear headphones with ANC technology and a long battery life. With an 18-month worry-free warranty for items purchased in new condition, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing that you're covered by the dedicated customer service team.

Qisebin E7 Active Noise Cancelling Headphones

If you're looking for budget-friendly over ear headphones with noise-cancelling features, the Qisebin E7 Active Noise Cancelling Headphones are a great option.

Pros

Active noise-cancelling technology for a quiet listening experience
High-quality built-in microphone for hands-free calls
30 hours of playtime per charge

Cons

Can be uncomfortable for extended use
Noise-cancelling feature doesn't completely eliminate all outside noise
Audio quality isn't as good as higher-end headphones

The Qisebin E7 headphones have a sleek and modern design. The over-ear cushions are made of a protein material that's soft and comfortable to wear for shorter periods. The earcups swivel 90 degrees, making it easy to store them in a bag or backpack.

The active noise-cancelling technology works well in wire and wireless mode, reducing outside noise and allowing you to focus on your music, movies, and videos. The built-in microphone allows for hands-free calls, and the NFC pairing feature makes it easy to connect your Bluetooth-enabled devices.

The headphones have a 30-hour battery life per charge, which is impressive for the price point. However, they can be uncomfortable for extended use, and the noise-cancelling feature doesn't completely eliminate all outside noise. The audio quality isn't as good as higher-end headphones, but for the price, they're a great option for those looking for noise-cancelling headphones for travel or work.

Meidongg SE7 Dual Feedback Active Noise Cancelling Headphones

If you're looking for a pair of over-ear headphones for travel, the Meidongg SE7 Dual Feedback Active Noise Cancelling Headphones are definitely worth considering. With professional active noise cancelling technology and aptX Hi-Fi technology, you'll be able to enjoy amazing sound quality while blocking out the noise around you.

Pros

The active noise cancelling technology is incredibly effective, making these headphones perfect for travel.
The sound quality is excellent, with clear highs and deep bass.
The built-in microphone and Bluetooth 5.0 make it easy to take calls and control your music without having to take your phone out of your pocket.

Cons

The earpads may not be as comfortable as some other over-ear headphones on the market.
The headphones can be a bit heavy, which may make them less comfortable for extended periods of use.
The build quality may not be as durable as some other headphones in this price range.

Overall, the Meidongg SE7 Dual Feedback Active Noise Cancelling Headphones are a great choice for anyone looking for a high-quality pair of over-ear headphones for travel. With excellent sound quality, effective noise cancelling technology, and a built-in microphone, these headphones are perfect for long flights or train rides. However, if you're looking for the most comfortable headphones on the market, or if you need a pair of headphones that can withstand heavy use, you may want to consider other options.

Soundcore Anker Life Q20 Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones

If you're looking for a pair of over-ear headphones that are perfect for travel, the Soundcore Anker Life Q20 Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones might just be what you need.

Pros

Incredible sound quality that's loved by over 20 million people.
Hi-Res Audio that produces extraordinary clarity and detail.
Hybrid active noise cancellation that reduces ambient noises by up to 90%.

Cons

The left earcup is slightly bigger than the right.
The pad is not as comfortable as some other headphones in the same price range.
The reduced ambient noise can sometimes be too much, making it difficult to hear important announcements.

These headphones produce Hi-Res sound, thanks to the custom oversized 40 mm dynamic drivers. The Life Q20 active noise cancelling headphones reproduce music with extended high frequencies that reach up to 40 kHz for extraordinary clarity and detail. The hybrid active noise cancellation can detect and cancel out a wider range of low and mid-frequency noises such as cars and airplane engines, reducing ambient noises by up to 90%.

The exclusive BassUp technology conducts real-time analysis of the low frequencies to instantly strengthen the bass output, making it 100% stronger. Double press the play button when listening to bass-heavy genres like EDM and hip-hop for an amplified listening experience.

With up to 40 hours of non-stop playtime in wireless active noise cancellation mode (at 60% volume), the Soundcore Anker Life Q20 Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones are perfect for long flights or road trips. A single charge gives you enough juice to listen to over 600 songs or soundtrack multiple long haul flights. And when you’re in a rush, charge Life Q20 active noise canceling headphones for 5 minutes and get 4 hours of listening.

In conclusion, the Soundcore Anker Life Q20 Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones are a great choice for anyone looking for high-quality over-ear headphones for travel. The sound quality is top-notch, the noise cancellation is excellent, and the battery life is impressive.

Bose QuietComfort 45 Bluetooth Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones

If you're looking for a top-of-the-line pair of noise-cancelling headphones for travel, the Bose QuietComfort 45 headphones are an excellent choice.

Pros

The noise-cancelling technology is top-notch, and the headphones offer both Quiet and Aware modes.
The sound quality is excellent, with deep bass and clear treble.
The headphones are comfortable to wear for long periods of time and have a long battery life.

Cons

The headphones are expensive, so they may not be the best choice for budget-conscious travelers.
The headphones are relatively heavy, which may be an issue for some users.
Some users have reported connectivity issues with the headphones.

These headphones are a great choice for travelers who want to block out external noise and enjoy high-quality audio on the go. The noise-cancelling technology is incredibly effective, and the headphones offer both Quiet and Aware modes, so you can choose the level of noise cancellation that's right for you. The sound quality is excellent, with deep bass and clear treble, and the headphones are comfortable to wear for long periods of time.

One potential downside of these headphones is their price. They are relatively expensive, so they may not be the best choice for budget-conscious travelers. Additionally, the headphones are relatively heavy, which may be an issue for some users who prefer lighter headphones. Finally, some users have reported connectivity issues with the headphones, so it's important to keep this in mind when considering a purchase.

Overall, if you're looking for a high-quality pair of noise-cancelling headphones for travel, the Bose QuietComfort 45 headphones are an excellent choice. They offer top-notch noise-cancelling technology, excellent sound quality, and a comfortable fit, making them a great choice for frequent travelers who want to enjoy their music or podcasts without distraction.

Buying Guide

When it comes to buying over-ear headphones for travel, there are a few things to consider to ensure you get the best product for your needs. Here are some features to look for:

Noise Cancellation

Noise cancellation is a crucial feature for travel headphones, as it helps to block out ambient noise and makes it easier to enjoy your music or podcasts. Look for headphones with active noise cancellation (ANC) technology, which uses microphones to detect and cancel out external sounds.

Comfort

Since you'll be wearing these headphones for extended periods, comfort is essential. Look for headphones with well-padded ear cups and headbands, and adjustable sizing to ensure a comfortable fit. Some headphones also have breathable materials to prevent your ears from getting too hot.

Battery Life

Travel headphones should have a long battery life to ensure you don't run out of power during your journey. Look for headphones with at least 20 hours of battery life, and consider headphones with a quick charge feature if you need to top up your battery on the go.

Connectivity

Make sure the headphones you choose are compatible with your devices, whether that's through Bluetooth or a wired connection. Bluetooth connectivity is ideal for travel, as it eliminates the need for cords and allows you to move around freely.

Portability

Finally, consider the portability of the headphones. Look for headphones that are lightweight and foldable, making them easy to pack in your luggage. Some headphones also come with a carrying case for added protection.

Buyer's Guide: Best Over Ear Headphones for Travel