10 Best Kids Headphones For Airplanes 2025 in the United States

The Puro Sound Labs PuroQuiet Plus headphones are designed with children’s safety and comfort in mind, particularly for use in noisy environments like airplanes. One of the standout features is the volume limiting technology, which ensures the sound does not exceed 85 dB, protecting kids' hearing. This is a crucial aspect when selecting headphones for children and makes these headphones a safer choice. Additionally, the active noise-cancelling (ANC) feature effectively reduces background noise by up to 22 dB, enhancing the listening experience without the need to increase volume, which is ideal for busy or loud settings such as airplanes. This, combined with 78% noise isolation, ensures a quieter environment for children to enjoy their audio content without distractions.

Comfort and fit are also well-considered; the on-ear design with lightweight materials makes them suitable for prolonged use without discomfort, important for long flights. The headphones are equipped with Bluetooth for wireless connectivity, reducing the risk of entanglement with wires, though they can also be used with an audio cable if needed. The 35-hour battery life in non-ANC mode (23 hours with ANC) is impressive and should last through extended travel periods. However, while the durability appears solid with an aluminum build, it's worth noting that more robust usage might still test their longevity.

Portability is enhanced by their lightweight design and the included protective case, making them easy to pack and carry. Nevertheless, some potential drawbacks include their price, which might be on the higher side for some budgets, and the 1.26 pounds weight which, though manageable, may be slightly bulkier compared to some other kids' headphones. These headphones offer a good balance of safety, functionality, and comfort, making them a solid choice for kids, especially during airplane travel.

The Belkin SoundForm Mini Wireless Bluetooth Kids Headphones are notable for their strong battery life and safety features, making them a good choice for airplane travel. They feature a volume limiter set at 85dB, which is essential for protecting young ears. The 30-hour battery life is impressive, ensuring that the headphones last through long flights and layovers. Additionally, the USB-C fast charging is a bonus, providing quick recharges in just 10 minutes for 3 hours of use. The Bluetooth connectivity allows easy pairing with various devices, from iPhones to tablets, and maintains a stable connection up to 30 feet away.

The built-in microphone is handy for video calls or interactive apps, adding to their versatility beyond just listening to music or watching videos. However, there are some drawbacks. While these headphones offer wireless convenience, they lack active noise cancellation, which could be a downside in noisy airplane environments. The over-ear design and cushioned ear pads are designed for comfort, but the lack of noise isolation might make them less effective at blocking out ambient sounds. They do include an optional 3.5mm aux port and cable for wired connections, providing flexibility if the battery runs out or if Bluetooth isn't available.

Durability seems promising with their plastic construction, though long-term use might reveal more about their resilience. In terms of portability, they are lightweight and come with a detachable cable, making them easy to pack and carry. Sound quality is tailored for kids, which is good for safety but may not meet audiophile standards. The Belkin SoundForm Mini is a reliable and child-friendly choice for airplane travel, especially if noise isolation isn't a primary concern.

The Alpine Muffy Kids Noise Cancelling Headphones are designed to protect children's hearing in loud environments like airplanes. One of their key strengths is volume limiting, effectively reducing noise levels by 21 to 28 dB, which helps prevent hearing damage. This feature also makes them particularly suitable for kids with sensory issues or autism by reducing sensory overload.

Comfort is another area where these headphones excel, thanks to their soft, easy-to-clean materials and adjustable headband, ensuring a snug fit for various head sizes. Durability is bolstered by their lightweight yet robust construction, and they come with a travel bag for added portability.

These headphones are not wireless, which might be a drawback for those who prefer the convenience of wireless options. They are designed to be noise-isolating rather than providing sound quality for music or media, which may not satisfy older children who want high-quality audio playback. Their award-winning design and certification by US & EU regulations add to their credibility and appeal. These headphones are an excellent choice for younger children who need effective noise reduction and comfort during airplane travel, though they lack wireless capability and premium sound quality.