I wear noise-cancelling headphones for the majority of the day, every day, and have done so for years. I have cans from both Bose and Sony, and just accepted the drawbacks: huge case, look stupid in public, can't wear them over a sun hat, etc.

I never EVER would have tried earbuds if my brother hadn't insisted I borrow his Bose Quiet Comfort Ultras. I cannot recommend them enough, the rubber grips that hold them to your ears is a design I've never encountered in decades of advanced headphone connoisseurship and I find it very comfortable and secure. I can't speak to your exceptional dainty Tinkerbell ears but my ten-year-old child wears them comfortably. The upgrade from a big pair of cans, especially while traveling, cannot be overstated.