Best toddler and kid headphones for plane travel

Parent Approved: 10 Best Toddler and Kid Headphones for Plane Travel [ 2023 ]

Traveling can be difficult and exhausting in itself, even more so when it comes to air travel. Not only do you have to deal with the fast-paced atmosphere of airports, but you also have to deal with sitting in a cramped space for hours on end. Considering how taxing plane travel is for adults, we can only imagine how uncomfortable it is for small children, especially if they’re not used to frequent travel. This can lead to crying and tantrums, making the whole flight even more stressful for you, your kids, and even your fellow passengers.

Giving your little one something they can occupy themselves with during the flight can go a long way in preventing tantrums and make the flight more bearable for everyone. And to make sure you don’t disturb you fellow passengers, we recommend buying a headphone specifically for toddlers or little kids.

Make your next family vacation a breeze

Travel with your kids now and build amazing memories as a family! Get our book, written by parents just like you, that will guide you all the way.

Here are our top 10 best toddler headphones for plane travel. These models were designed specifically for kids’ use, giving them the perfect tool that allows them to immerse themselves in what they’re doing, distracting them from the discomfort of plane travel.

Check them out below.

Product Comparison Table

ImageBrandDetails
BEST OVERALL
Puro Sounds LabCheck price
PREMIUM PICK
MidolaCheck price
BEST VALUE
iCleverCheck price
ElecderCheck price
noot productsCheck price
iCleverCheck price
ElecderCheck price
SnugCheck price
NivavaCheck price
KidroxCheck price

Top 10 Best Kid Headphones for Airplane Travel Reviews

Check out some of the top kid headphone models available on the market nowadays and view their highlighted features as well as the pros and cons of each.

1. Puro Sound Labs BT2200s Bluetooth Headphones

BEST OVERALL
Highlighted Features
  • Built-in limited volume
  • SharePort permits multiple listeners
  • Built-in microphone
  • Bluetooth connectivity
  • Noise-canceling

Higher priced than other headphones on the list, this product from Puro Sounds Labs delivers pure, excellent quality sound ideal for use in online classes but also for your child’s entertainment while in flight. That way, your child can be completely immersed and stay active in class or prevented from throwing random tantrums while you’re up and about.

There are several colors to choose from and I guarantee, there’s at least one unit your child will fall head over heels for. Bluetooth connectivity also ensures you can expect it to work with any mobile device you have. Plus, you can stop worrying about younger toddlers becoming entangled in wires too.

Pros
  • Cancels out up to 82% of background noise.
  • With built-in mic and noise cancellation, it’s a good choice for online schooling.
  • All purchases are covered by a 30-day money-back guarantee
  • Bluetooth connectivity makes it easy to connect across difference devices.
  • Safe sound limited to 85db guarantees your child’s ears are always protected.
Cons
  • This unit is best recommended for toddlers 2 to 8 years old only.
  • Older kids or kids with a larger head circumference may need something else.

2. Midola Foldable Kids’ Headphones

PREMIUM PICK
Highlighted Features
  • Bluetooth capability
  • Bluetooth playtime: 8 hours of continuous playtime on a single charge
  • Standby time: 200 hours
  • Battery capacity: 400mAh
  • Bluetooth Range: 10 m
  • FM Frequency: 87.5 to 108MHz
  • With the option to switch to wired using an aux cable
  • As wired headphones: compatible with all 3.5mm jack devices
  • With capacity as TF card music player
  • With buttons for complete controls
  • With built-in microphone for hands-free calling
  • With built-in volume limitation controls
  • Volume limitation capacity: 85dB to 110dB
  • Adjustable cushioned headband
  • Collapsible and flexible design
  • Breathable cushioned earmuffs
  • Designed for children aged 3 years and above

If you’re looking for an upgrade for your kids’ headphones or want something more versatile in terms of connectivity, then the Midola Foldable Kids’ Headphones might be worth checking out.

To protect your child’s hearing, these headphones feature volume limitation controls, allowing you to limit the sound level down to 85dB with a long press of the play button. When in a noisier environment like a plane, this can easily be switched to 110dB, allowing them to be immersed fully in what they’re listening to or watching.

It features Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free and wireless use although it can still be used as a wired headphones model with the included auxiliary cord. This allows it to be compatible with a wide range of devices – ranging from Bluetooth-capable to 3.5mm jack devices.

Aside from this, it provides the ultimate comfort with breathable cushions for the adjustable headband and earmuffs, allowing them to wear it for longer periods of time. The collapsible design gives it increased portability, perfect for when you’re traveling.

Pros
  • Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free and wireless use
  • Capacity to switched to wired use with an auxiliary cord
  • Comes with volume limitation controls for hearing protection
  • Designed for use of kids aged 3 and above
  • Comfortable features for longer use
Cons
  • Bulky design

3. iClever Foldable Kids’ Headphones

BEST VALUE
Highlighted Features
  • Designed for the use of kids aged 3 and above
  • With built-in volume limitation controls
  • Volume limitation: 85dB to 94dB
  • Cushioned and adjustable headband
  • Flexible and durable headband
  • With memory-protein cushioned earmuffs
  • Tangle-free nylon fabric cord
  • Foldable design for convenient storage
  • Available in a variety of vibrant colors
  • Lightweight at 6.1 oz.
  • Compatible with all 3.5mm jack devices

This headphone model from iClever features automatic volume limitation, capping it at 94dB to help safeguard your child’s still developing hearing against damages caused by loud noises. Aside from this feature, what makes this model one of the best kid headphones for airplane travel is that it features a foldable design that makes it easy to carry and store, perfect for traveling.

In terms of comfort, these headphones provide your child with the utmost comfort, using memory protein for the on-ear cushions, enabling them to wear them for longer periods of time. They’re perfectly sized to fit kids’ ears – from toddlers to teenagers, making it a worthwhile purchase.

The tangle-free cord is made from braided nylon, making it highly durable and less prone to breakage, ideal for kids’ use. Aside from this, the headband itself is very flexible, making it less likely to break with heavy-duty use.

It’s compatible with all devices with a 3.5mm jack, making its compatibility extensive and allowing your child to use it with a variety of devices.

Pros
  • Lightweight yet highly durable construction
  • Adjustable headband for the perfect fit
  • Memory protein ear cushions for ideal noise-blocking and comfort
  • Foldable design for portability and easy storage
  • Nylon braided cord for increased durability and longevity
Cons
  • They still tend to produce loud sounds

4. Elecder i37 Kids’ Headphones

Highlighted Features
  • Wired, on-ear, and foldable design
  • Available in a variety of vivid colors
  • Compatible with all 3.5mm jack devices (smartphones, tablets, and PCs)
  • Weight: 160g
  • Adjustable headband
  • Adjustment range: 1.57 inches
  • 40mm drivers for high-quality sound and immersive listening experience
  • Cord length: 4.9 ft
  • Cord material: Nylon fabric

If you’re looking for a kid’s headphones model that offers incredible durability and comfort for your child, then the Elecder i37 is a model that’s worth considering. As a wired headphone model, it features a 4.9-ft long cord that is tangle-free and highly durable due to its cloth construction.

Because of this, it’s unlikely to be damaged, making it a great investment on your part. Aside from this, it has an adjustable headband, allowing you to easily adjust its length so it fits perfectly on your child’s head. This makes wearing it incredibly comfortable, especially when coupled with its soft but noise-blocking earmuffs.

As one of the best kid headphones for airplane travel, the Elecder i37 features a foldable design, making it compact and easy enough to carry during travel. The noise-blocking feature provided by its soft earmuffs also contributes to your child’s focus, giving them a more immersive listening experience.

Pros
  • Foldable and compact design
  • Noise-blocking earmuffs
  • Soft and comfortable earmuffs
  • Adjustable headband for the perfect fit
  • Durable and tangle-free cord made of nylon
Cons
  • Might be too big for smaller kids, especially toddlers

5. Noot Products K11 Foldable Kids Headphones

Highlighted Features
  • Wired foldable headphones
  • On-ear design
  • Cord length: 5 feet
  • Cord material: Braided nylon cord
  • Compatible with all 3.5mm jack devices
  • Cushioned earmuffs
  • 40mm drivers for excellent sound quality
  • Foldable and compact design
  • Adjustable headband

This compact kids’ headphones with a foldable design is a travel-friendly option for parents with small kids who need entertainment during both short and long-haul flights. Aside from its compact and travel-friendly design, the K11 Kids’ Headphones provide excellent comfort with its adjustable headband and cushioned earmuffs.

Aside from comfort, the cushioned earmuffs provide excellent noise-blocking properties which, when coupled with its 40mm drivers that deliver the superb audio quality, allows for an enhanced listening experience for your child.

Because the cord is often what gives up first, the manufacturer’s use of braided nylon cord for its construction makes it highly durable, making it perfect for kids’ use. The K11 Kids’ Headphones is meant not just for use during flights but also for every day regular use, making it one of the best kids’ headphones available.

Pros
  • Comfortable cushioned earmuffs
  • Adjustable headband for the ideal fit
  • Foldable and compact design
  • Durable braided nylon cord
  • Compatibility with all 3.5mm jack devices
Cons
  • Doesn’t come with volume limitation

6. iClever Boostcare Headphones for Kids and Toddlers

Highlighted Features
  • Designed for the use of kids aged 3 and above
  • With built-in volume limitation for kids’ hearing protection
  • Volume limitation: 85dB to 94dB
  • Flexible construction
  • Made from high-quality and food-grade silicone
  • Compatible with all 3.5mm jack devices
  • Comes in a variety of colors
  • Lightweight and compact design
  • Tangle-free cord
  • Adjustable and cushioned headband
  • With cushioned ear pads
  • With built-in microphone

The iClever Boostcare Headphones were designed with kids aged 3 and up in mind, making it one of the best toddler headphones for plane travel. It features a compact and lightweight design, making it easy to store and incredibly travel-friendly.

Considering how sensitive your kids’ hearing is and how they are in the midst of development, the iClever Boostcare Headphones features volume limitation that allows you to set just how loud the sound is. You can set it to either 85dB for kids mode or 94dB for traveling, allowing your child to have the optimal listening experience even while on-the-go.

It’s fully compatible with all 3.5mm jack devices too so you don’t have to worry about compatibility issues with your smartphone or tablet, allowing your child to remain entertained for the duration of the entire flight.

The memory protein used for the cushioned earmuffs makes these headphones incredibly comfortable which, when paired with the adjustable cushioned headband, allows for the perfect fit and ultimate comfort for your child.

Moreover, to ensure that even toddlers can use it, it’s constructed with high-quality food-grade silicone, making sure that they’re safe even if they put any part of it in their mouths.

Pros
  • Compact and lightweight design
  • Flexible yet highly durable construction
  • Extensive compatibility with a wide range of devices
  • Protein memory cushioned earmuffs
  • Adjustable and cushioned headband
  • With volume limitation for hearing protection
Cons
  • Volume can be too low for some

7. Elecder i41 Kids’ Headphones

Highlighted Features
  • Compatibility with all 3.5mm jack devices
  • Durable tangle-free nylon fabric cord
  • Cord length: 4.9ft
  • Adjustable headband
  • Foldable design for easy storage and portability
  • Cushioned headband for comfort
  • Features high-quality 40mm drivers
  • Cushioned earmuffs for comfort and noise-blocking properties
  • Lightweight design suitable for kids
  • Weight: 165g/ 5.8 oz.
  • Available in a variety of bright colors

The Elecder i41 is a headphone model that’s not just suitable for kids’ use but also adults as well. The adjustable headband enables it to adapt and accommodate different head sizes, making it versatile and capable of providing comfort to anyone using it. In addition, the cushion on the headband makes it incredibly comfortable to wear, even for longer periods of time.

The lightweight nature also adds to the comfort provided by these headphones as it will make your child forget that they’re wearing headphones.

Adding to its comfortable features are the cushioned earmuffs that don’t just allow these headphones to fit snugly but also enables it to effectively block outside noise, giving your child an immersive listening experience. This, coupled with its foldable design, is what makes it one of the best kid headphones for traveling.

In terms of durability, the Elecder i41 features a cord constructed with high-quality nylon fabric, giving it enhanced durability and a longer lifespan as it won’t easily be damaged by your toddler or small child.

The high-quality 40mm drivers produce a high-quality sound which adds to the immersive experience of your child, effectively distracting them from the discomfort of being stuck in a plane for hours.

Pros
  • Highly durable and long-lasting tangle-free cord
  • Plenty of comfortable features for your child
  • Adjustable headband, allowing it to fit perfectly
  • Noise-blocking capacity for an immersive listening experience
  • Produces high-quality sound for an enhanced listening experience
Cons
  • Lack of volume-limiting controls for your child’s hearing’s protection

8. Snug Play+ Kids Headphones

Highlighted Features
  • Sharing port
  • Limited sound volume
  • 40mm drivers
  • Up to 21 color options available

Toddlers don’t have to be assigned their own mobile device and if that’s what you’re imposing on your kids, you can settle for these headphones and take advantage of the daisy connection. Assign one of your mobile devices and get to entertain 2 kids using the same device. Problem solved!

I find it has a limiting volume higher than most others usually at within 85+ db only. Although, 95db is well within the CDC’s recommended sound volume for young children which is a maximum of 120db.

Pros
  • Built-in volume limiting feature delivers a maximum of 93 db only.
  • There are 21 design and color options for you to choose from.
  • Highly compatible, be confident to use it with your iOS or android devices.
  • Lightweight and thoughtfully structured for long periods of use.
  • This unit is best for children 3 up to 8 years of age.
Cons
  • These headphones do not have a noise canceling feature.
  • This product may not be suited for kids who have bigger head circumference.

9. Nivava K8 Lightweight Kids’ Headphones

Highlighted Features
  • Compatible with all 3.5mm jack devices
  • On-ear design
  • With memory foam cushioned headband and earmuffs
  • Adjustable headband
  • Headband adjustment length: Maximum of 1.57 inches on both sides
  • Tangle-free nylon braided cord
  • Cord length: 4.9ft
  • Foldable and lightweight design

The Nivava K8 kids’ headphones feature a lightweight design that makes it suitable for children’s use. The memory foam used for the earmuffs isn’t just for the sake of comfortable wearing but it also helps block out outside noise, allowing your child to concentrate on what they’re watching or listening to.

The adjustable headband allows it to be easily adjusted to fit any head size, allowing it to rest comfortably on your child’s head.

The 3.5mm jack compatibility allows it to be used with a wide range of devices as long as they have a 3.5mm jack port. The cord is made with high-quality braided nylon fabric, making it extremely durable as well as prevents it from tangling, extending its lifespan.

It features a foldable design that allows you and your kids to easily store it when not in use, making it travel-friendly and portable.

Pros
  • Foldable and lightweight design for portability and easy storage
  • Memory foam ear cushions for noise blocking and comfort
  • Adjustable headband for the perfect fit
  • Compatible with all 3.5mm jack devices
  • Highly durable nylon braided cord
Cons
  • Lack of volume-limiting options for the protection of hearing

10. Kidrox Tiger-Ear Kids’ Headphones

Highlighted Features
  • Constructed with BPA-free and other non-toxic materials
  • Impact-resistant
  • Tear-resistant
  • With volume limitation controls
  • Volume limitation capacity: 85dB
  • Designed for children aged 1 and above
  • Soft cushioned headband and earmuffs
  • Compatible with all 3.5mm jack devices

Another suitable option for the best toddler headphones for plane travel is the Kidrox Tiger-Ear Kids’ Headphones. This model is constructed with high-quality materials that are BPA-free and non-toxic, giving you the peace of mind that your child will be safe even if they place it in their mouths.

Aside from this, these headphones feature impact- and tear-resistant properties, making it incredibly durable and suitable for kids’ use. The volume limitation controls allow you to set the volume produced to around 85dB, ensuring that their hearing is protected against damage.

For comfort, it features soft cushioned earmuffs and headband, allowing your child to use it for long periods of time with no problems. It’s compatible with a wide range of devices due to its 3.5mm jack compatibility.

Pros
  • Made from non-toxic materials for your child’s safety
  • Highly durable construction for long-lasting use
  • With volume limitation controls for protection
  • Soft and cushioned earmuffs and headband for comfort
  • Wide range compatibility
Cons
  • Sound quality isn’t as excellent

Choosing the Best Kids’ Headphones for Plane Travel: What to Consider

As mentioned, plane travel can be taxing for both you and your kids which is why having something to entertain them with is important to ease the discomfort brought upon by traveling. However, as parents, you only want what’s best for your child so making sure that the headphones they use is safe and won’t affect their still-developing hearing.

However, with the various options available, it can be difficult to choose the best kid headphones for airplane travel without help. Since you can’t buy any old headphones for your child, here are some of the factors you need to consider when choosing one:

Volume Limitation Capability

A child’s hearing is still developing which makes it extra sensitive to loud sounds and may cause irreparable damage such as hearing loss. This is why when looking for the best headphones for your child, it’s best if you look for something with this capability so as to protect their sensitive ears from damage.

Most kids’ headphones are capable of limiting it down to 60% of the total sound produced, around 85dB. For noisier environments like airports or planes, these headphones also offer the option to turn the volume up a bit.

Materials Used

Kids, especially toddlers, are known to put everything they can put their hands on in their mouths. Adding to this is the teething process, making them chew and bite on what they put in their mouths. This can pose a problem if the headphones they use are made from toxic materials.

This is why you should choose headphones that are made from only non-toxic materials such as food-grade BPA-free silicone. This way, you can rest assured that, even if they put it in their mouths, it won’t have negative consequences on their health.

Comfort

This is especially important if your child is going to use it for an extended period of time, like on an hours-long flight. Choose a headphone model that’s lightweight and offers comfortable features like a padded headband and earmuffs.

This way, they’ll be able to wear them for hours with no problems. Check if the headband is adjustable as well so that they fit perfectly on your child’s head.

Durability

Durability is also a concern since children are notorious for not being careful with their things. This can save you the cost of having to replace their headphones frequently which will happen more often than you think.

Choose something that can withstand the wear and tear as well as abuse of constant use and careless handling. This is especially important for the cord for wired headphones since they are usually the first to give up.

Shared Interface

Another feature that some headphones have is a shared interface, allowing you to connect another pair of headphones so you or another child can listen along without the need for a splitter.

This can be especially handy for parents with multiple children as this can eliminate the hassle of siblings fighting over one device, especially during long travel times like international flights.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What are the differences between regular headphones and kid headphones?

A: As mentioned, children’s hearing is still developing and is, therefore, more sensitive than a fully grown adult’s hearing. As such, it’s more prone to receiving damage when exposed to loud sounds which is what kid headphones target with their volume limitation controls. They produce a lower sound output, keeping in mind the ideal sound level for kids.

They also come in different sizes and they tend to be more affordable than regular headphones. On the other hand, they can be as durable as regular headphones – sometimes even more so. Kid headphones also come in bright colors and various designs to make it more appealing to kids.

Q: Which are better for my child, wired or wireless headphones?

A: Both have their pros and cons.  Wired headphones tend to be more affordable and they require no charging time. They also tend to be more durable due to the absence of components needed to make it wireless. However, the wire may get caught on something or tangled – something that happens often with kids. To combat this problem, there are tangle-free corded models, keeping in mind the children who will use it.

On the other hand, wireless eliminates much of the problem with cords and they are more convenient than wired headphones. However, they tend to be more expensive and its playtime is limited to a few hours at a time. Most wireless headphones have the option to switch to wired, including an auxiliary cable with the package. This can make them a better investment, especially if they’re durable enough that your child can use them long-term.

Q: Can kids’ headphones be used for calls or video calls?

A: Some models already have a built-in microphone, allowing them to be used for calls and video calls. They may cost more than models without a mic. For these models, your child can use the built-in microphone of their device and use the headphones to hear the caller’s voice.

Q: How is the sound quality?

A: With the advancement of technology, this has made it possible to create kid’s headphones that offer high-quality sound output. However, this isn’t that much of a concern to children as they only need to hear what they’re listening to. Nevertheless, it’s still a good idea to consider the sound quality of the headphones’ output.

Conclusion

With the right pair of headphones, your child can immerse himself or herself in a video and prevent them from having a tantrum due to the uncomfortable set-up in planes.

Air travel can be a stressful and emotionally taxing experience for both you and your children. Keeping them entertained for the duration of the flight can help make it more bearable for you, your children, as well as the other passengers on the plane.

0 0 votes
Article Rating

Ready to embark on an adventure with your kids?

Subscribe to our newsletter AND get a free sample copy of our entire book, How to Travel With Kids (Without Losing Your Mind)!

Subscribe
Notify of
guest
0 Comments
Inline Feedbacks
View all comments