I use ear plugs frequently as well. Always when traveling as unexpected noises (like hall doors slamming in hotels when people get in late/leave early) can occur at any time. Even at home, sometimes my DH snores or there are sirens or thunder. I don't like using them as I also find my ear canals sensitive to them, but at times they are a godsend.

I don't worry too much about not being able to hear important sounds as they are not THAT soundproof, and often I only put in one since I spend most of my time on my right side so don't put one in that ear. They do help quite a bit with getting extra sleep I know I need.