The suitcase is open on the bed, the scale already reads 22 kilos, and you've still got half the wardrobe to pack. We've all been there. Headphones, though, are the one thing that'll ruin the whole trip if forgotten – especially if you're facing a four-hour flight next to a screaming toddler.
Here's a list of what you actually need. Nothing extra.
Packing list: headphones for travel
1. Headphones (surprise)
If you're flying, the VMK25 or VMK25.2 is the undisputed champion. The sole purpose of active noise cancellation in life is to eliminate the steady drone of airplane engines, and that's exactly where it shines. Low frequencies vanish like Henri's Alfa Romeo into the repair shop – efficiently and regularly.
If you're packing carry-on only and every gram counts, the NL25 earbuds weigh a fraction of over-ear headphones. With their charging case, they fit in your jeans pocket. Battery life is around 4.5 hours with ANC on though, so on a long flight you'll need to top up from the case in between. The VMK25.2 pulls off 55 hours on a single charge. Your call.
2. Case
That hard case that came with your headphones. Use it. Things happen inside suitcases that defy the laws of physics. Without a case, your over-ears get the same treatment as Henri's Alfa repair bills – merciless.
The NL25 charging case doubles as a protective case. One less thing to worry about.
3. USB-C charging cable
The VMK25, VMK25.2, and NL25 all charge via USB-C. One cable covers your headphones and probably your phone too. If you still own a device that charges via Micro-USB, you've earned your suffering.
Tip: A short 30 cm cable is way handier on a plane than that one-metre spaghetti rope.
4. 3.5 mm AUX cable (for over-ears)
The VMK25 and VMK25.2 come with an AUX cable. Bring it. Two reasons:
- The airplane entertainment system only works with a cable. Bluetooth support is still rare, even though it's 2025.
- If the battery dies, the headphones still work wired. No ANC, but the music plays on.
The NL25 earbuds don't have a cable option. They're fully wireless. This is either freedom or a limitation, depending on who you ask.
5. Airplane adapter
That little plastic dual-prong adapter that makes a 3.5 mm jack fit into the airplane's two holes. Valco doesn't sell these, but you can grab one from an airport kiosk for a couple of euros. Or just ask the flight attendant. Most newer planes already use a single standard jack, but on older aircraft you'll need the adapter.
What you DON'T need to pack
- A separate power bank just for your headphones. The VMK25.2 lasts 55 hours. If your flight is longer than that, you've got bigger problems than battery life.
- Replacement ear pads. Unless you're on a month-long interrail trip, the originals will be just fine.
- A backup pair of headphones. One pair is enough. This isn't like packing spare tights.
Summary
| You'll need | VMK25 / VMK25.2 | NL25 |
|---|---|---|
| Headphones | Yes | Yes |
| Case | Hard carry case | In the charging case |
| USB-C cable | Yes | Yes |
| AUX cable | Yes, absolutely | Not possible |
| Airplane adapter | Recommended | Not needed |
Over-ears for travel if you want the best noise cancellation and sound quality. Earbuds if you pack light and value freedom. Both choices are right. The wrong choice is leaving your headphones at home.
And remember: every Valco purchase funds 0.000001% of our Death Star. Travelling is a lot easier when the galaxy is yours.
