Finding the best noise canceling headphones for travel can be challenging, as travelers need a balance of comfort, long battery life, and effective noise reduction. The Sony WH-CH720N stands out as the overall top choice thanks to its reliable noise canceling and lightweight design. For those seeking exceptional sound quality, the Bose QuietComfort offers superior comfort and deep bass, while the Beats Studio Pro appeals to users wanting a stylish look with great ANC. Each of these options involves tradeoffs—like battery life versus weight or sound quality versus price. Continue reading for the full breakdown to find the best fit for your travel needs.
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Key Takeaways
- Long battery life remains a key priority, with some models offering over 90 hours of playback, ideal for long trips.
- Comfort and fit vary significantly; lightweight designs tend to be better for extended wear during travel.
- Active noise canceling technology differs in effectiveness; premium models generally provide superior noise reduction.
- Sound quality and features like customizable EQ and built-in microphones add value but often come with a higher price tag.
- Price ranges vary widely; balancing budget with essential features is critical for most travelers.
| Boean Active Noise Cancelling Headphones, Bluetooth 6.0 Wireless Over Ear Headphones with 120H Playtime, 360° Spatial Audio & 5 ENC Mics |  | Best Overall for Long-Lasting, Immersive Travel Listening | Noise Cancelling: Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling, blocks up to 96.7% | Battery Life: 120 hours | Bluetooth Version: 6.0 | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Soundcore by Anker Q30 Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones, Black |  | Best Value with Customizable Noise Control and Long Battery Life | Connectivity: Bluetooth | Noise Cancellation: Hybrid with 3 adjustable modes | Battery Life: 50 hours in ANC, 70 hours in standard mode | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| TOZO HT3 Hybrid Noise Cancelling Wireless Headphones, 90H Over Ear Headset with Hi-Res Audio, AI Voice Assistant, Dual Device Connection, 32 Custom EQs, Built-In 5 Mics, ANC, Foldable, Bluetooth 6.0 |  | Best for Tech-Savvy Users Wanting Customization and Multi-Device Use | Noise Cancellation: 45dB ANC & Hybrid Noise Cancellation | Battery Life: 90 hours | Connectivity: Bluetooth, dual device connection | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Sony WH-CH720N Noise Canceling Wireless Headphones with Microphone and Alexa Built-in, Black |  | Best Lightweight Option for All-Day Comfort and Practical Noise Cancellation | Weight: 192g | Battery Life: Up to 35 hours | Charging: 3 min for 1 hour playback | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Beats Studio Pro Wireless Over-Ear Headphones – Sand Gray |  | Best for Premium Sound and Comfort for Long Travel Days | Battery Life: Up to 40 hours | Active Noise Cancelling: Yes | Connectivity: Bluetooth, USB-C, 3.5mm audio cable | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Bose QuietComfort Headphones – Wireless Bluetooth Over-Ear Noise Cancelling with Mic, USB-C Charging, Deep Bass, 24 Hours Playtime, Twilight Blue |  | Best Overall for Long-Lasting Comfort and Sound | Color: Twilight Blue | Connectivity: Wireless Bluetooth, Wired with audio cable | Battery Life: Up to 24 hours | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Soundcore by Anker Q20i Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones, Black |  | Best Value with Strong Noise Cancellation | Noise Cancelling: Hybrid ANC with 2 internal and 2 external mics | Driver Size: 40mm | Battery Life: 40 hours with ANC on, 60 hours in normal mode | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| JBL Tune 770NC Wireless Over-Ear Headphones – Black |  | Best for All-Day Use with Adaptive Noise Cancelling | Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.3 with LE Audio | Battery Life: Up to 70 hours | Fast Charging: 5 minutes for 3 hours | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| YMOO Active Noise Cancelling Headphones for Airplane Travel, LDAC Hi-Res Audio, Wired and Wireless ANC Headphones, 100H Playtime Over Ear Headphones, Custom EQ via App, Bluetooth 6.0 Headset for All |  | Best for Maximum Battery Life and Versatile Use | Driver Size: 40mm | Noise Reduction: Hybrid ANC, reduces ambient noise up to 90% | Bluetooth Version: 6.0 | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| noise canceling headphones for travel | Battery Life | Connectivity |
|---|---|---|
| Boean Active Noise Cancelling | 120 hours | Wireless Bluetooth, 3.5mm AUX wired mode |
| Soundcore by Anker Q30 Hybrid | 50 hours in ANC, 70 hours in standard mode | Bluetooth |
| TOZO HT3 Hybrid Noise Cancelli | 90 hours | Bluetooth, dual device connection |
| Sony WH-CH720N Noise Canceling | Up to 35 hours | Bluetooth, Multipoint |
| Beats Studio Pro Wireless Over | Up to 40 hours | Bluetooth, USB-C, 3.5mm audio cable |
| Bose QuietComfort Headphones | Up to 24 hours | Wireless Bluetooth, Wired with audio cable |
| Soundcore by Anker Q20i Hybrid | 40 hours with ANC on, 60 hours in normal mode | Bluetooth 5.0, dual-device connection |
| JBL Tune 770NC Wireless Over-E | Up to 70 hours | Bluetooth 5.3 with LE Audio |
| YMOO Active Noise Cancelling H | — | — |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Boean Active Noise Cancelling Headphones, Bluetooth 6.0 Wireless Over Ear Headphones with 120H Playtime, 360° Spatial Audio & 5 ENC Mics
This model stands out for its exceptional noise cancellation, blocking up to 96.7% of background sounds, which surpasses many competitors like the Sony WH-CH720N. Its remarkable 120-hour battery life makes it ideal for multi-day travel without frequent recharging, a significant advantage over shorter-lived options like the Soundcore Q30. The hybrid ANC combined with a comfortable foldable design ensures you stay immersed in your audio for hours, though the reliance on an app for full transparency features might be a hassle for some. The bulky profile may be less appealing for travelers seeking ultra-lightweight options, but overall, this headphone offers unmatched longevity and sound immersion.
Pros:- Unmatched 120-hour battery life for multi-day use
- Strong hybrid noise cancellation up to 96.7%
- Comfortable, foldable design for travel convenience
- Clear call quality with 5 ENC microphones
Cons:- ANC not available in wired AUX mode, limiting flexibility
- May feel bulky for those who prefer lightweight headphones
Best for: Travelers who prioritize maximum battery life and immersive noise cancellation for extended trips
Not ideal for: Users seeking a lightweight, compact pair for quick trips or casual use
- Noise Cancelling:Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling, blocks up to 96.7%
- Battery Life:120 hours
- Bluetooth Version:6.0
- Driver Size:40mm
- Microphones:5 ENC microphones
- Connectivity:Wireless Bluetooth, 3.5mm AUX wired mode
Our verdict“This headphone is best suited for travelers needing all-day comfort and long-lasting noise cancellation without frequent recharging.”
Soundcore by Anker Q30 Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones, Black
The Soundcore Q30 offers a compelling blend of hybrid ANC with three adjustable modes, providing tailored noise cancellation that performs well against louder environments, outperforming basic models like the Sony WH-CH720N in customization. Its 50-hour battery life in ANC mode rivals more expensive options, and the Deep Bass and high-res sound make for an engaging listening experience. The soft earcups and memory foam ensure comfort over long periods, but the ANC does not work via AUX cable, limiting wired flexibility, and its bulk might be less appealing for travelers seeking ultra-light gear. Overall, it strikes a fine balance between cost, performance, and comfort.
Pros:- Excellent noise cancellation with three customizable modes
- Long-lasting 50-hour battery in ANC mode
- High-res sound with deep bass and clear treble
- Comfortable for extended wear
Cons:- ANC not compatible with AUX cable, limiting wired use
- Bulkier design may be less portable
Best for: Budget-conscious travelers wanting customizable noise cancellation and extended battery life
Not ideal for: Those who prefer wired connectivity for reliability or have smaller ears that might find bulk uncomfortable
- Connectivity:Bluetooth
- Noise Cancellation:Hybrid with 3 adjustable modes
- Battery Life:50 hours in ANC, 70 hours in standard mode
- Driver Size:40mm
- Frequency Response:Up to 40kHz
- Material:Protein leather earcups with memory foam
Our verdict“Ideal for budget travelers who want customizable noise control and all-day listening without sacrificing sound quality.”
TOZO HT3 Hybrid Noise Cancelling Wireless Headphones, 90H Over Ear Headset with Hi-Res Audio, AI Voice Assistant, Dual Device Connection, 32 Custom EQs, Built-In 5 Mics, ANC, Foldable, Bluetooth 6.0
The TOZO HT3 headphones excel with 45dB hybrid noise cancellation and an extensive 90-hour battery life, making them a strong choice for tech enthusiasts. Their 32 customizable EQ modes and app control offer a level of sound personalization that surpasses simpler models like the Soundcore Q30, while their multi-device connectivity supports seamless switching—great for work and leisure. The built-in 5 microphones ensure clear calls, and the foldable design enhances portability. However, their complex feature set might overwhelm casual users, and the bulk could be a concern for travel. Despite that, these headphones deliver sound, comfort, and customization for demanding users.
Pros:- Exceptional noise cancellation and sound quality
- 32 customizable EQ modes via app
- Long 90-hour battery life with fast charging
- Supports dual device connection
Cons:- May be bulky for some users
- Feature complexity could be overwhelming for casual users
Best for: Tech-oriented travelers who want personalized sound profiles and multi-device connectivity
Not ideal for: Casual listeners or those seeking simple, straightforward headphones without extensive features
- Noise Cancellation:45dB ANC & Hybrid Noise Cancellation
- Battery Life:90 hours
- Connectivity:Bluetooth, dual device connection
- Microphones:Built-in 5 Mics
- EQ Modes:32 customizable modes
- Foldable:Yes
Our verdict“Best suited for tech-savvy travelers seeking extensive customization and multi-device flexibility on long trips.”
Sony WH-CH720N Noise Canceling Wireless Headphones with Microphone and Alexa Built-in, Black
The Sony WH-CH720N offers a lighter design at just 192g, making them highly suitable for travelers who dislike bulk, especially compared to heavier over-ear models like the Beats Studio Pro. Its effective noise canceling, powered by Dual Noise Sensor technology, provides a quiet experience for commutes or flights. The up to 35 hours of battery life with quick charge is sufficient for most travel days, and features like adaptive sound control and ambient mode help adapt to surroundings seamlessly. While it may lack some of the advanced features found in premium models like the TOZO HT3, its simplicity and comfort make it a practical choice for everyday use, though sound quality can depend on the connected device.
Pros:- Lightweight and comfortable for all-day wear
- Long battery life with quick charging
- Effective noise canceling with Dual Noise Sensor
- Multipoint connection for switching devices easily
Cons:- Less feature-rich compared to premium models
- Sound quality varies depending on source device
Best for: Travelers seeking a lightweight, comfortable pair for daily use with decent noise cancellation
Not ideal for: Audio enthusiasts wanting advanced customization or the highest noise canceling levels
- Weight:192g
- Battery Life:Up to 35 hours
- Charging:3 min for 1 hour playback
- Connectivity:Bluetooth, Multipoint
- Microphone:Beamforming microphones
- Features:Adaptive Sound Control, Ambient Sound Mode
Our verdict“A practical choice for travelers prioritizing comfort and reliable noise cancellation in a lightweight design.”
Beats Studio Pro Wireless Over-Ear Headphones – Sand Gray
The Beats Studio Pro headphones deliver rich, balanced sound combined with active noise cancelling and spatial audio, offering an immersive experience that rivals higher-end offerings like the Sony WH-CH720N. Their up to 40-hour battery life with fast charging supports extended use, ideal for long flights or travel days. The all-day comfort of their over-ear design makes them suitable for prolonged listening, and seamless multi-device Bluetooth pairing adds convenience. The main tradeoff is that the price is not specified, and their weight—though not provided—may impact portability for some travelers. Nonetheless, they stand out for those seeking a blend of style, comfort, and premium sound quality.
Pros:- Long-lasting 40-hour battery with fast charging
- Effective active noise cancelling and spatial audio
- Comfortable, stylish over-ear design
- Seamless multi-device Bluetooth pairing
Cons:- Price not specified, potentially expensive
- Weight not provided, which may affect portability
Best for: Travelers who prioritize premium sound, comfort, and stylish design for long durations
Not ideal for: Budget travelers or those needing ultra-lightweight headphones for quick trips
- Battery Life:Up to 40 hours
- Active Noise Cancelling:Yes
- Connectivity:Bluetooth, USB-C, 3.5mm audio cable
- Additional Features:Spatial audio, seamless device switching
- Color:Sand Gray
Our verdict“Perfect for travelers who desire premium sound and comfort over extended periods, and are willing to invest in quality.”
Bose QuietComfort Headphones – Wireless Bluetooth Over-Ear Noise Cancelling with Mic, USB-C Charging, Deep Bass, 24 Hours Playtime, Twilight Blue
The Bose QuietComfort headphones in Twilight Blue stand out for their combination of superior noise cancellation and long-lasting comfort, making them an excellent choice for frequent travelers. Compared with the Soundcore Q20i, Bose offers more refined active noise cancellation, which is crucial for immersive listening in noisy environments like airplanes or busy airports. While the Bose model provides fewer customization options and comes at a higher price, it compensates with a more balanced sound profile and premium build quality. The 24-hour battery life ensures you won’t need to recharge during long journeys, and the adjustable EQ allows tailoring sound to personal preferences. However, its bulkier design and limited color options could be a drawback for those seeking maximum portability or variety.
Pros:- Excellent active noise cancellation for immersive listening
- Long battery life with quick USB-C charging
- Comfortable fit suitable for extended wear
- Customizable sound with app-supported EQ
Cons:- Premium price may be a barrier for some buyers
- Bulkier design reduces portability
Best for: Travelers who prioritize premium sound and comfort for extended use
Not ideal for: Casual users who want a lightweight option or prefer a lower price point
- Color:Twilight Blue
- Connectivity:Wireless Bluetooth, Wired with audio cable
- Battery Life:Up to 24 hours
- Charging:USB-C
- Noise Cancellation:Active with passive features
- Additional Features:Multi-point Bluetooth, Adjustable EQ, Bose app support
Our verdict“Ideal for frequent travelers seeking premium comfort and sound quality, even if it means a higher investment.”
Soundcore by Anker Q20i Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones, Black
The Soundcore Q20i headphones deliver impressive noise reduction, capable of reducing up to 90% of external sounds thanks to hybrid ANC with multiple microphones. Compared to the Bose QuietComfort, they provide similar noise cancellation at a more accessible price, making them particularly appealing to budget-conscious travelers. Their 40-hour battery life outperforms many competitors, and fast-charging means a quick 5-minute boost can provide hours of listening. While the sound quality is good, it is heavily reliant on app customization, which may not satisfy audiophiles seeking a perfectly tuned sound out of the box. The bulky design could also be less comfortable during long wear for some users, and the absence of premium build features limits their luxury feel.
Pros:- Reduces up to 90% of external noise with hybrid ANC
- Extremely long 40-hour battery life
- Fast charging provides hours of use in minutes
- Supports dual-device connection
Cons:- Bulky design may feel uncomfortable over long periods
- Sound quality depends heavily on app customization
Best for: Budget-minded travelers who want effective noise cancellation without sacrificing battery life
Not ideal for: Users seeking refined sound tuning or ultra-lightweight headphones
- Noise Cancelling:Hybrid ANC with 2 internal and 2 external mics
- Driver Size:40mm
- Battery Life:40 hours with ANC on, 60 hours in normal mode
- Fast Charging:5 minutes for 4 hours of playback
- Connectivity:Bluetooth 5.0, dual-device connection
- App Compatibility:Yes
Our verdict“Perfect for budget-conscious travelers who need reliable noise cancellation and extended battery life without premium features.”
JBL Tune 770NC Wireless Over-Ear Headphones – Black
The JBL Tune 770NC headphones excel with their long battery life of up to 70 hours and adaptive noise cancelling, making them a strong contender alongside the Bose QuietComfort for those who want extended listening without frequent recharges. Their JBL Pure Bass Sound offers punchy audio, ideal for energetic travelers. Compared with the Soundcore Q20i, they feature a more modern design and Bluetooth 5.3 with LE Audio, enhancing wireless stability and connectivity. The customizable sound via the JBL app and smart ambient modes provide flexibility for different environments. However, their potentially bulky profile and the need to use the app for full customization might be inconvenient for users seeking simplicity or compactness for travel.
Pros:- Outstanding battery life of up to 70 hours
- Effective adaptive noise cancelling
- Customizable sound with JBL app
- Lightweight and foldable design
Cons:- Battery life may be unnecessary for casual use
- Full feature experience requires app setup
Best for: Travelers who want long-lasting, effective noise cancelling with a focus on bass-heavy sound
Not ideal for: Light travelers or those seeking the most compact, lightweight headphones
- Connectivity:Bluetooth 5.3 with LE Audio
- Battery Life:Up to 70 hours
- Fast Charging:5 minutes for 3 hours
- Noise Cancelling:Adaptive Noise Cancelling with Smart Ambient
- Sound Quality:JBL Pure Bass Sound
- Controls:On-earcup buttons, VoiceAware
Our verdict“Great for travelers who prioritize extended listening time and bass-rich sound, even if they are less portable than smaller models.”
YMOO Active Noise Cancelling Headphones for Airplane Travel, LDAC Hi-Res Audio, Wired and Wireless ANC Headphones, 100H Playtime Over Ear Headphones, Custom EQ via App, Bluetooth 6.0 Headset for All
The YMOO headphones distinguish themselves with an extraordinary 100-hour battery life and hybrid noise reduction capable of reducing ambient noise up to 90%. Their support for LDAC Hi-Res Audio and customizable EQ via an app makes them highly appealing for audiophiles and frequent travelers alike. Compared with the Bose QuietComfort, YMOO offers a longer battery life, making them ideal for multi-day trips or long flights. The inclusion of both wired and wireless options adds versatility, especially for users with varied preferences. However, their bulky design and complex feature set can be overwhelming for casual or infrequent travelers. The higher price may also deter those seeking a simple, lightweight solution.
Pros:- Unmatched 100-hour battery life for extended use
- Hybrid ANC reduces ambient noise significantly
- Supports LDAC Hi-Res Audio and customizable EQ
- Includes wired and wireless options for flexibility
Cons:- Bulky design may be uncomfortable for some
- Complex feature set with learning curve
Best for: Travelers who need maximum battery life and versatile wired/wireless options
Not ideal for: Light or occasional travelers who prioritize portability or straightforward use
- Driver Size:40mm
- Noise Reduction:Hybrid ANC, reduces ambient noise up to 90%
- Bluetooth Version:6.0
- Battery Capacity:850mAh
- Playtime:Up to 100 hours
- Charging Time:Quick 10-minute charge for 5 hours of use
Our verdict“Best suited for dedicated audiophiles and long-haul travelers who need maximum battery capacity and versatile connectivity, despite larger size.”
How We Picked
These headphones were evaluated based on performance, comfort, battery life, noise canceling effectiveness, usability, build quality, and value for money. We prioritized models that excel in real-world travel scenarios, such as long battery endurance and comfort for extended wear, while also considering additional features like adjustable ANC and ease of connection. Our rankings reflect a combination of expert insights, user reviews, and feature assessments, aiming to highlight options suited for different traveler types—from budget-conscious to premium users.Factors to Consider When Choosing Best Noise Canceling Headphones For Travel
When choosing the best noise canceling headphones for travel, it’s important to consider several factors that impact your overall experience and value. The right pair should blend comfort with effective noise reduction, especially on noisy flights or commutes. Battery life is critical for long trips, while build quality affects durability during travel. Additional features like portability, ease of use, and sound customization can enhance your experience. Carefully weighing these factors helps ensure you select a pair that meets your specific travel needs without unnecessary compromises.Comfort and Fit
Since travel often involves hours of wear, comfort is a top concern. Look for headphones with plush ear cups and adjustable headbands, especially if you have a larger head or sensitive ears. Lightweight models reduce fatigue during long flights, but some may sacrifice noise canceling power for weight savings. Consider materials that breathe well to prevent overheating, and check user reviews for insights on long-term wear comfort to avoid discomfort or pressure points.
Battery Life and Portability
Extended battery life is essential for long travel days, with some models offering over 90 hours of playback, reducing the need for frequent recharging. Compact, foldable designs enhance portability and storage in carry-ons or pockets. Wireless connectivity offers convenience, but having a wired option can be useful when battery is depleted. Consider charging speed as well—some headphones provide rapid charge features for quick power boosts during travel breaks.
Noise Cancellation Effectiveness
Effective noise canceling can dramatically improve travel comfort by blocking out engine noise, chatter, or ambient sounds. Premium models typically deliver better ANC, but some budget options still offer decent performance. Test reviews often highlight how well the technology works in different environments—airports, planes, or busy streets. Beware of models that only provide passive noise reduction, which may not be sufficient for noisy travel conditions.
Sound Quality and Additional Features
Good sound quality enhances your listening experience, especially with features like customizable EQ settings. Built-in microphones for calls and voice assistants add convenience, but can vary in clarity. Some headphones include features like app control, multiple device pairing, and ambient modes, which are valuable for versatile use. However, these added features often increase the price, so consider which are essential for your travel routine.
Durability and Build Quality
Travel gear needs to withstand the rigors of transit, so look for sturdy construction, reinforced hinges, and quality materials. Water and sweat resistance can be beneficial if you travel in varied climates or want to use headphones for workouts too. Lightweight but durable designs tend to strike the best balance, but always check warranty policies and user durability reviews before making a purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions
How important is active noise canceling compared to passive noise reduction for travel?
Active noise canceling (ANC) significantly enhances the ability to block out engine noise, chatter, and ambient sounds during travel, especially on airplanes or buses. Passive noise reduction, which relies on the physical barrier of ear cups, is less effective but still provides some isolation. For most travelers, ANC is the key feature that makes a noticeable difference, but combining it with a good passive seal offers the best overall noise reduction. Keep in mind that ANC effectiveness varies among models, so reviews can be helpful in making the right choice.
Should I prioritize battery life over sound quality?
Ideally, you want a balance between the two, but for long trips, battery life often takes precedence, as it ensures continuous use without recharging. High-quality sound is important for an enjoyable listening experience, but many premium models deliver both excellent audio and extended battery life. If your trips are short, focusing on sound quality might be more appealing, but for all-day travel, a longer battery life can prevent frustration from frequent recharges.
Are wired headphones better for travel than wireless?
Wired headphones eliminate concerns about battery life and often provide slightly better sound quality, but they reduce convenience and mobility, especially during travel. Wireless models offer greater freedom of movement and easier pairing with devices, which is usually more practical on the go. Some travelers prefer wireless for the convenience, but keeping a wired backup can be wise if you anticipate long flights or trips where charging options are limited.
How do I choose the best fit if I wear glasses or have a larger head?
For those who wear glasses or have larger heads, adjustable headbands and larger ear cups are essential. Look for models explicitly noted for a comfortable fit over extended periods, and consider headphones with memory foam padding that molds to your head shape. Trying on different models or reading reviews from similar users can help identify options that won’t cause discomfort or pressure points during long wear.
Is it worth investing in premium noise canceling headphones for travel?
Investing in premium models often means better noise canceling, more durable construction, and additional features like customizable sound profiles and better microphones. If you travel frequently or spend long hours on planes and trains, the investment can significantly improve your comfort and audio experience. However, for occasional travelers, mid-range options may provide sufficient noise reduction and comfort at a more accessible price point, offering good value without the premium cost.
Conclusion
Choosing the best noise canceling headphones for travel depends on your priorities. For overall reliability and a balanced mix of features, the Sony WH-CH720N makes an excellent choice, especially for frequent travelers needing lightweight comfort and solid ANC. Those seeking premium sound and comfort might prefer the Bose QuietComfort despite its higher price, while budget-conscious travelers will find the JBL Tune 770NC offers decent noise cancellation at a lower cost. Beginners or infrequent travelers can opt for simpler, more affordable models, whereas heavy travelers or professionals should consider investing in premium options to maximize comfort and sound quality on long journeys.
