Travelers today often base their decisions on how secure a place feels, especially amid global uncertainties like geopolitical tensions and health concerns. According to a 2024 McKinsey survey, a striking 81% of respondents identified safety and security as the primary factor influencing their travel choices, outranking even cost or convenience. This trend underscores why resources like Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection’s (BHTP) annual reports are invaluable for planning worry-free trips.
BHTP, a prominent travel insurance company based in Wisconsin, unveiled its 11th annual State of Travel Insurance Safest Destinations report on October 15, 2025, specifically tailored for 2026 travel. Since launching this initiative in 2016, BHTP has analyzed data from authoritative sources including the Global Peace Index (GPI), which measures societal safety and ongoing conflict levels; Numbeo, a crowdsourced database tracking crime perceptions in cities worldwide; and GeoSure Global, which evaluates neighborhood-specific risks using AI-driven insights on crime, health, and infrastructure. To add a human element, the report incorporates feedback from 1,838 American travelers who have visited these destinations within the last five years, assessing aspects like overall security, medical access, and inclusivity for groups such as women, LGBTQ+ individuals, and people of color.
Carol Mueller, BHTP’s head of marketing, emphasized the report’s role in empowering travelers: “With global uncertainty and safety concerns top of mind this year, travelers are more thoughtful than ever with where they choose to explore. Our annual report not only highlights the destinations that travelers perceive as safest, but also serves as a valuable resource for planning trips with confidence. The 2026 edition reveals significant shifts from the previous year, with three newcomers—Austria, the United Arab Emirates, and the Netherlands—claiming the top spots, while longstanding leader Iceland slipped to fourth. Europe dominates the rankings, occupying nine of the top 15 countries, thanks to robust legal systems, low violent crime, and progressive social policies.
However, BHTP cautions that these rankings represent a snapshot based on data up to mid-2025 and can evolve due to unforeseen events like natural disasters, political unrest, or pandemics. For instance, recent global risks such as climate-related hazards or cyber threats could alter perceptions, so the company advises checking real-time advisories from sources like the U.S. State Department or local health authorities. Travelers are encouraged to adopt smart habits: staying aware of surroundings, using ride-sharing apps in unfamiliar areas, and securing comprehensive insurance to cover medical evacuations or trip interruptions. This approach ensures that even in top-ranked spots, personal vigilance enhances the experience.
The World’s Safest Countries in 2026
The 2026 rankings spotlight destinations where peace, infrastructure, and community support converge to create reassuring environments. Leading the list is the Netherlands, which rocketed from 14th place in 2025 to No. 1, earning praise for its progressive society, efficient public services, and welcoming atmosphere. The Global Peace Index scores it highly for minimal internal conflicts and militarization, while Numbeo rates cities like The Hague (No. 3 safest globally) and Eindhoven (No. 12) exceptionally well for low theft and harassment risks. Surveyed travelers highlighted its strong health measures, including universal healthcare access and quick emergency responses, alongside top safety scores for female solo travelers, LGBTQ+ visitors, and people of color—making it ideal for diverse groups seeking inclusive vibes. Iconic spots like Amsterdam’s canals or Utrecht’s bike-friendly streets embody this effortless security, where English is widely spoken and public transport runs like clockwork.
Australia secures the No. 2 position for the second consecutive year, lauded for its laid-back culture paired with stringent safety protocols. It excels in terrorism prevention, with no major incidents in decades, and boasts world-class healthcare systems that handle everything from coral reef dives to urban explorations in Sydney or Melbourne. Low violent crime rates—fueled by community policing and gun control laws—along with responsive emergency services, make it a haven for families and adventure seekers alike. Travelers appreciate the inclusive environment, where beaches like Bondi or the Outback trails feel secure day or night.
Debuting at No. 3, Austria brings alpine serenity and urban sophistication to the forefront, with Vienna often cited as one of Europe’s safest capitals. Its high GPI ranking reflects stable governance and low societal tensions, while GeoSure data shows minimal risks in health and crime categories across regions like Salzburg or Tyrol. The country’s efficient rail network and multilingual emergency support appeal to international visitors, and recent traveler input underscores its safety for women and underrepresented groups.
Iceland drops to No. 4 but retains its reputation as a near-utopia of safety, with virtually no violent crime and a tight-knit population where trust is the norm—even hitchhiking is common. GeoSure rates all neighborhoods as highly safe, and its protocols for natural hazards like volcanic activity add layers of preparedness. Northern Lights viewing or Blue Lagoon soaks proceed without worry, bolstered by top-tier medical facilities.
Canada at No. 5 shines for its vast, welcoming landscapes and low crime statistics, particularly in violent offenses. Cities like Vancouver and Toronto score well on Numbeo for pedestrian safety and LGBTQ+ protections, while universal healthcare ensures seamless care for tourists. It’s a favorite for road trips through Banff or urban jaunts in Montreal, with travelers noting the friendly locals and quick police response.
New Zealand (No. 6) combines adrenaline-pumping activities like bungee jumping with pristine safety, thanks to low disease outbreaks and responsive emergency systems. Its isolation aids in maintaining peace, and eco-friendly policies enhance health security. The United Arab Emirates (No. 7) emerges as a newcomer, leveraging futuristic infrastructure in Dubai and Abu Dhabi for low crime and effective law enforcement. Women travelers particularly rate it highly for public space safety, with luxury malls and deserts feeling equally secure.
Switzerland (No. 8) offers precision-engineered safety, from punctual trains to alpine rescue teams, with low terrorism risks and excellent medical access. Japan (No. 9) leads globally in violent crime avoidance, where lost items are routinely returned and streets like Tokyo’s Shibuya Crossing bustle safely. Ireland (No. 10) charms with its pub-lined streets and low threats, scoring well for inclusive policies.
The rankings continue with Belgium (No. 11) for its cultural hubs and health strengths; Portugal (No. 12) for sunny coasts and low risks, ranking high for families; France (No. 13) despite urban crowds, thanks to improved security post-events; the United Kingdom (No. 14) for diverse protections in London and beyond; and Denmark (No. 15) for progressive safety nets.
The full top 15 safest countries for 2026 are:
- Netherlands
- Australia
- Austria
- Iceland
- Canada
- New Zealand
- United Arab Emirates
- Switzerland
- Japan
- Ireland
- Belgium
- Portugal
- France
- United Kingdom
- Denmark
BHTP’s “Hall of Fame” honors consistent performers in the top 10 since 2018 Iceland, Japan, Switzerland, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Norway, and Ireland, reflecting their sustained commitment to traveler well-being. Category breakdowns further illuminate strengths Japan and Canada top violent crime safety; Australia, Netherlands, and New Zealand lead in terrorism prevention; and Australia again excels in health measures with efficient systems and low outbreak risks. For families, top picks include Austria, Japan, and the Netherlands LGBTQ+ travelers favor Denmark, Australia, and Canada.
The World’s Safest Cities in 2026
Urban centers often amplify a country’s safety profile, offering concentrated access to services while minimizing risks through smart design and enforcement. Reykjavik, Iceland, clinches No. 1 for the second straight year, with GeoSure Global deeming every neighborhood exceptionally safe—no low-rated areas exist. Its culinary scene, from fresh seafood to geothermal-baked bread, unfolds against a backdrop of near-zero violent crime and robust protections for women and LGBTQ+ visitors. While volcanic risks require monitoring, the city’s emergency protocols are exemplary, allowing worry-free pursuits like whale watching or exploring the Hallgrimskirkja church.
Copenhagen, Denmark, holds steady at No. 2, excelling in transport safety with bike lanes that feel as secure as sidewalks and low terrorism threats. Travelers rave about its hygge atmosphere—cozy cafes and Nyhavn harbor strolls—supported by efficient healthcare and inclusive policies for diverse groups. Zurich, Switzerland, vaults to No. 3 in its debut, blending compact efficiency with spacious parks; its low crime, rapid medical responses (often under 10 minutes), and secure public transit make it a model for urban living.
Amsterdam, Netherlands (No. 4), mirrors its country’s rise, topping safety for LGBTQ+ and travelers of color with vibrant yet vigilant neighborhoods like Jordaan. Honolulu, Hawaii (No. 5), the highest U.S. entry and a three-year list veteran, offers tropical relaxation with strong crime controls, beachside healthcare, and protections for underrepresented visitors—think safe hikes in Diamond Head or Waikiki swims.
Sydney, Australia (No. 6), leverages harbor views and health excellence, with minimal terrorism risks and quick emergency access. Barcelona, Spain (No. 7), captivates with Gaudí architecture and low crime in areas like La Rambla, emphasizing inclusivity. Lisbon, Portugal (No. 8), enchants with hilly trams and family-friendly security, scoring high on GeoSure for coastal safety. Tokyo, Japan (No. 9), dominates violent crime avoidance, where efficient subways and polite crowds enable safe midnight ramen runs. Dublin, Ireland (No. 10), buzzes with pub culture yet maintains low threats and welcoming streets.
Further down, Venice, Italy (No. 11), glides through canals with controlled tourism and health measures; Seoul, South Korea (No. 12), impresses with tech-savvy security and low risks; London, United Kingdom (No. 13), balances history with enhanced post-Brexit protections; Singapore (No. 14) enforces order in its multicultural hub; and San Francisco, California (No. 15), the second U.S. city, stands out for LGBTQ+ safety amid Golden Gate views.
The full top 15 safest cities for 2026 are:
- Reykjavik, Iceland
- Copenhagen, Denmark
- Zurich, Switzerland
- Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Honolulu, Hawaii
- Sydney, Australia
- Barcelona, Spain
- Lisbon, Portugal
- Tokyo, Japan
- Dublin, Ireland
- Venice, Italy
- Seoul, South Korea
- London, United Kingdom
- Singapore
- San Francisco, California
These city rankings align with broader trends Reykjavik and Tokyo lead in violent crime safety, while Honolulu and Sydney top health and transport categories. U.S. cities like Honolulu and San Francisco highlight domestic options for international travelers, emphasizing protections for diverse needs. As BHTP notes, combining these insights with personal research—such as app-based risk alerts or cultural etiquette guides—maximizes security, turning potential trips into memorable, stress-free adventures.
