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The gadget you need to make sure your headphones work in-flight

Joshua Buchwald

Updated September 30, 2025 - 2.11am

9PR: Travel adapters — 9Product Reviews / iStock

You've got an eight-hour flight ahead of you, ready with your trusty noise-cancelling headphones. But then you notice, the infamous two-pronged audio jack of doom and despair.

This old port means your headphones are useless with the in-flight entertainment, and you're stuck with some flimsy airline earbuds (if they even provide those anymore).

Luckily, there's a simple solution every modern traveller needs: headphone adapters. We round up the best adapters on offer and outline the differences between Bluetooth and traditional audio jack converters.

NOTE: Prices are accurate at the time of publishing

The simple, wired solution

9PR: Travel audio adapter — Wired travel headphone adapters are the foolproof fix. 9Product Reviews / Amazon

The classic airplane wired headphone adapter is the original and almost a foolproof fix for your traveling problems. These adapters have a standard 3.5mm female audio jack on one end for your headphones, and the twin prongs on the other end to fit into the plane's ports.

They're the perfect choice for travellers who still use wired headphones or Bluetooth headphones that have the option to be wired. However, if your modern headphones only have a USB-C connection, you will likely need a USB-C to 3.5mm adapter as well.

The pros of the wired adapter are that they're inexpensive, reliable, and don't require charging or pairing. The only real con is that you're physically restricted to the seat.

Where can I buy wired airplane audio adapters?

T Tersely 2 pack, $8.95

Mobi Lock 2 pack, $9.99

Ptunghey 5 pack, $9.99

The modern, wireless solution

9P: Travel bluetooth adapter — Who knew you could use Bluetooth transmitters to solve this common travel problem! 9Product Reviews / Amazon

If you're wireless all the way, Bluetooth audio transmitters will be your best friend. These smart devices free you from wires by plugging straight into the plane's audio jacks and converting the wired signal into a wireless Bluetooth signal you can pick up.

You can pair these with your AirPods, Bose, Sony, or any other Bluetooth headphones you might have. The biggest pro is the freedom from wires, letting you move around without getting tangled. However, they do need charging and come at a slightly higher price point.

Urgreen Airplane Bluetooth Adapter for 2 headphones, was $36.49, now $25.49

9PR: Urgreen Airplane Bluetooth Adapter for 2 headphones — 9Product Reviews / Ugreen

Snag for 31% off

Ymoo Bluetooth Transmitter Receiver, $34.99

9PR: YMOO Bluetooth 5.3 Transmitter Receiver for Airplane/TV to Wireless Headphones, Wireless Audio Adapter with AUX 3.5mm Jack, Dual Link, 22H Long Range AptX Low Latency for Plane/Home Stereo/Speaker — 9Product Reviews / Ymoo

Order from Amazon

Twelve South 4353 Airfly SE, was $59.99, now $55

9PR: Twelve South 4353 Airfly SE | Wireless Transmitter/Receiver with Audio Sharing for Up to 2 Airpods/Wireless Headphones to Any Audio Jack for use On Airplanes, Boats or in Gym, Home, Auto — 9Product Reviews / Twelve South

Now 8% off

Which adapter should you choose?

The best choice depends on your current headphone needs, although they're both rather inexpensive. If you love your wired headphones and want a no-fail solution, then the classic wired adapter is all you need. If you stand by wireless, then the Bluetooth transmitter will suit you well. And as the saying goes, why not both?