Everything You Need For Noise Cancellation On A Flight — Including Earbuds From $30
You’ve woken up at an ungodly hour to take the earliest (and usually cheapest) flight possible, or perhaps you’re on a red-eye flight hoping to get some shut-eye. But there are babies crying, and other passengers incessantly chittering on. Yes, a plane is not the quietest place.
In fact, even without noise from passengers, aeroplane ambient sounds in the cabin can reach up to 140 decibels (dB) at take-off. That’s way above the recommended sound level cap of 70 dB set by the World Health Organization (WHO). Cruising is no better, either, clocking in at around 80 dB, which is compounded by the duration of the flight, crying babies, and loud groups. In short, flights are not a sanctuary, especially for those sensitive to noises or light sleepers trying to catch some Zs.
Fortunately, the remedy is simple. Ahead, we share with you the best noise-cancelling accessories to buy that can help you reclaim your peace during the flight.
Noise-cancelling earbuds and headphones
Apple AirPods 4 with active noise cancellation ($249)
For the first time ever, Apple has introduced active noise cancellation on the AirPods series, previously only available on the AirPods Pro 2. The AirPods 4 with ANC also shares similar technologies with the Pro 2, such as the H2 Chip, Adaptive Audio, Transparency Mode, and more. What the new release from Apple is also said to boast a better fit (all the better for workouts) and better audio quality too. Charge via USB-C charging or wirelessly (possible via the Apple Watch too). Available from Sep 20. Buy here
Prefer a pop of colour to your noise-cancelling headgear? You get five colour choices now that Apple has just launched a plethora of new colourways (including Midnight, Starlight and Purple) for the AirPods Max, a crowd favourite when it comes to noise-cancelling headphones. Plus, it now comes with USB-C charging capabilities. Available here
For those who prefer headphones over wireless earbuds that you could easily lose, the acclaimed Sony XM5s has racked up over 2.6k positive reviews, earning it a solid 4.5 out of 5 stars. Not only does it boast active noise cancellation, but the headphones can be connected to two devices via Bluetooth at the same time — so you don’t have to switch between your mobile phone and laptop, for example. Each charge offers a whopping 30 hours of playtime to last you through the longest of flights. Plus, it’s among the most comfy over-the-ear noise-cancelling headphones we’ve tried. Buy here
For something a little more compact, these popular Bose earbuds are also built with ANC that the brand dubs CustomTune technology. Meanwhile, there are nine soft ear tips and stability bands that you can swap between to find your perfect fit. You get six hours of playback on a single charge, while the case offers an additional 18. Buy now
We love products that offer more than one function. The 3D sleep mask from Travelmall caught our attention as it simultaneously blocks light and allows us to listen to music. The eye mask has a 3D construction, so it does not press down on the eyes while blocking out light. The built-in headphones, meanwhile, come with an aeroplane 3.5mm adapter that connects to any regular audio jack. Buy here
Sleep earbuds: Wireless earbuds that play audio, but also optimised for sleep
Wedoking Mini Sleep Earbuds ($67)
Sleep earbuds are wireless earbuds optimised for sleep. These mini sleep earbuds have noise blocking technology as well as audio functions, albeit at a lower volume output than regular earbuds, making them perfect for meditation or playing white noise before bed. Their discreet design means that they’re tucked comfortably in the ear and does not jut out, which we reckon will be more comfortable for side sleepers. The soft silicone tips come in three sizes to get the best fit and block out up to 24 dB of sound. Each charge offers four hours of playtime and up to 20 hours of battery life with the charging case, and they’re also exercise-friendly and have an IPX6 water-resistance rating. Buy here
These are a wired pair of earphones, which comes in handy on a flight when things could easily get lost. The soft silicone tips of the earbuds, which are also available in Type-C plugs, have an ergonomic design with a double-layer tip to block out noises while being made with side sleepers in mind. Constructed with bulletproof casing, the durable wire measures 125cm long, so you get some freedom of movement even while you’re using them. Shop here
The Anker earbuds’ higher price tag comes with a slew of additional features. These are purported to be suitable even for side sleepers while blocking out ambient noises with their twin-seal ear tips and noise-masking drivers. There is also a sensor to track your sleep quality. Lastly, the earbuds allow you to stream music, podcasts, or white noise to lull you to dreamland, offering up to 14 hours of playtime in Sleep mode with a single charge. Buy now
Earplugs: A step up from traditional earplugs
Loop Quiet 2 Ear Plugs in Violet ($28.95)
Loop earplugs are a social media fave. However, these earplugs are also the top sellers of their category on Amazon, owing to their fashionable aesthetics and ability to block out up to 24 dB of sound. They are made with soft-touch silicone and four ear tip sizes to ensure a customised fit for maximum sound blockage and comfort. They also come with a keychain carry case for portability. Shop here
The PQ mouldable silicone wax earplugs are made for those who cannot use traditional, one-size-fits-all earplugs. In this set, there are 15 pillows, each of which can be broken into two, totalling 150 uses. The earplug blocks up to 32 dB of sound and can even be worn by side sleepers as it moulds to the shape of the ear. Because they are waterproof, you can wear them to swim or shower. Make use of the accompanying carrying case when you are on the road. Buy now
Mack’s Flightguard Airplane Pressure Relief Earplugs ($19.48)
Pressure changes during takeoff and landing are uncomfortable and can pop ears. These washable, reusable earplugs from Mack’s are fitted with an open-flow filter system that regulates and relieves ear pressure while blocking up to 26 dB of sound. The brand recommends putting them on before takeoff and removing them after landing for best results. Available here
Our articles may contain affiliate links. If you buy through these links, we may earn a small commission. Prices are correct at the time of publishing.
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