Noise Cancelling headphones

This may seem an odd subject when we are predominantly talking about travel but it’s often the little things that make a long trip so much better.  And this is one of those cases.

A few years ago we purchased – at Auckland Airport on the way overseas – a pair of noise cancelling headphones.  Simple devices that take whatever noise is around you and cancel it out making the sound you hear cleaner and clearer.

A quick trial in the airport lounge prior to departure and we both agreed – good but not spectacular.  The background noise was reduced but not hugely.

On the flight, however, things changed.  We could hear the movie without having to turn up the volume and music from our iPods was crisp and clear. But the most amazing thing was that the background hum/whoosh/hiss of the flight simply went away.  We ended up wearing them for virtually the whole flight.  Sleeping was easier and the general fatigue you feel during long distance flights was reduced.

If you don’t believe me, buy a pair and try them.  These days a good pair costs between $NZ140 and $NZ400.

One tip – buy a pair that sit across the top of your head not around the back, they are much more comfortable for sleeping.