Best Earplugs for Flying

The Short Answer

EarPlanes are the best earplugs for pressure equalization during takeoff and landing. For noise reduction and sleep, Alpine FlyFit earplugs are reusable, comfortable, and effective. Budget travelers can't go wrong with Mack's Flightguard, which offers solid performance for a few bucks.

Two Problems, Different Solutions

Flying creates two distinct ear problems, and most people confuse them:

Problem 1: Noise. Airplane cabins average 80-85 decibels, roughly the volume of a vacuum cleaner running continuously. Over a long flight, that constant drone causes fatigue even if you don't notice it. Noise-reducing earplugs or noise-canceling headphones solve this.

Problem 2: Pressure. During descent, cabin pressure increases rapidly. If your Eustachian tubes can't equalize fast enough, you get that painful pressure feeling, sometimes lasting hours after landing. Pressure-equalizing earplugs slow the rate of pressure change, giving your ears time to adjust.

Some earplugs handle both. Some are better at one than the other. Knowing which problem you're solving helps you pick the right pair.

Best for Pressure Relief: EarPlanes

EarPlanes exist specifically to solve the pressure problem. Their patented CeramX filters regulate the rate of air pressure change reaching your eardrum, giving your Eustachian tubes time to equalize naturally. They reduce about 20 decibels of noise too, which is a nice bonus.

Made from hypoallergenic silicone, they're comfortable enough to wear through takeoff, the flight, and landing. The key is putting them in before the plane starts descending, not after your ears already hurt. If you regularly experience ear pain during landing, these are the ones to try first.

They're disposable, designed for 1-2 flights per pair, which makes them less economical for frequent flyers. But for the price of a couple of dollars, the pain prevention is worth it.

Best for: Travelers who experience ear pain during takeoff or landing.

Best Reusable: Alpine FlyFit

Alpine FlyFit earplugs are built to last up to 100 uses, making them the sustainable and economical choice for frequent flyers. The patented filter regulates pressure changes to prevent pain, while the ThermoShape material is hypoallergenic and molds gently to your ear canal for a custom fit.

They come with a carrying case that clips to your keychain or travel bag, so you'll actually have them when you need them. The noise reduction is moderate, enough to take the edge off engine noise without completely isolating you. You can still hear announcements and conversation.

At about $15 for a pair that lasts 100+ flights, the per-use cost is essentially zero. They're the most practical option for anyone who flies regularly.

Best for: Frequent flyers who want reusable pressure equalization.

Best Budget: Mack's Flightguard

Mack's is the brand most often recommended by ENT doctors, and the Flightguard model is designed specifically for flying. They're affordable enough to toss a couple pairs in your travel bag and forget about them until you need them.

They scored an 8.8 in testing, just slightly below EarPlanes, with the main advantage being price. If you fly a few times a year and don't want to invest in reusable earplugs, Mack's gives you solid pressure relief and noise reduction at a fraction of the cost.

Best for: Occasional flyers and budget-conscious travelers.

Best for Noise Reduction: BLSN Life+ (Flying)

The BLSN Life+ won the test category for anti-pressure equalization, with their biggest advantage being optimally regulated pressure equalization, especially during landing. But they also excel at noise reduction, making them a strong dual-purpose option.

These are a premium choice with a premium price, but for travelers who want the absolute best in both pressure equalization and noise dampening, they deliver. The fit is comfortable for extended wear on long-haul flights.

Best for: Travelers who want the best of both noise reduction and pressure equalization.

Earplugs vs. Noise-Canceling Headphones

This isn't an either/or choice. They serve different purposes:

• Earplugs are better for: pressure equalization, sleeping (they don't fall off), portability, and passive noise blocking.
• Noise-canceling headphones are better for: music, movies, active noise cancellation of engine drone, and comfort during waking hours.

The ideal setup for a long flight is noise-canceling headphones for entertainment and earplugs for sleeping. Many experienced travelers carry both.

What to Look for in Flying Earplugs

Pressure Regulation Technology

Look for terms like "CeramX filter," "AERO FILTER," or "pressure-relief membrane" in the product description. These indicate the earplug actively manages pressure changes, not just blocking noise. This is the critical feature for preventing ear pain.

Noise Reduction Rating (NRR)

Measured in decibels, the NRR tells you how much noise the earplug blocks. For flying, 20-30 dB reduction is ideal. Too much (33+ dB) and you won't hear safety announcements. Too little (under 15 dB) and you won't notice the difference.

Material and Comfort

Silicone and thermoplastic earplugs conform to your ear canal and stay comfortable for hours. Foam earplugs expand to fill the canal but can cause pressure and soreness on long flights. For flights over 4 hours, silicone is the better choice.

Reusable vs. Disposable

Disposable earplugs are cheaper per pair but cost more over time. Reusable earplugs from Alpine or similar brands last 100+ uses and come with a case. Frequent flyers should go reusable. Occasional travelers can stick with disposable.

How to Use Earplugs for Flying

• Insert before the cabin door closes for takeoff pressure changes.
• For landing, put them in 30-45 minutes before touchdown when the descent begins. The captain usually announces this.
• Pull your ear up and back while inserting to straighten the ear canal for a better seal.
• Don't push too deep. They should sit comfortably in the outer ear canal.
• If you have a cold or sinus congestion, use a nasal decongestant spray 30 minutes before descent in addition to earplugs. Congestion blocks the Eustachian tubes, and earplugs alone may not be enough.

When Ear Pain Is More Than Annoying

Occasional mild ear discomfort during flying is normal. But if you experience severe pain, hearing loss, ringing, or dizziness that lasts more than a few hours after landing, see a doctor. Barotrauma (pressure injury to the ear) can cause real damage in rare cases, especially if you're flying with a cold, sinus infection, or ear infection.