Published on
November 15, 2025
In a world where travel decisions are increasingly shaped by concerns about safety, trust, and global stability, the search for secure destinations has become an essential part of planning any journey. By 2026, travellers are expected to show a growing preference for countries where low crime, reliable healthcare, cultural warmth, and efficient public systems allow them to explore freely without anxiety. According to the latest Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection Report, a shift in the global safety landscape is already being observed, with new leaders emerging and familiar favourites strengthening their positions. These rankings have been compiled using recognised indicators such as the Global Peace Index, Numbeo data, and extensive traveller feedback, ensuring that both measurable realities and lived experiences are reflected. The resulting list highlights destinations where community trust, public order, and traveller wellbeing coexist seamlessly. For women, solo adventurers, and families alike, these countries promise more than scenic views; they offer peace of mind. As travellers prepare for the upcoming year, this guide provides a comprehensive look at the top choices around the world, from the tulip-lined charm of the Netherlands to the alpine stillness of Switzerland, offering a roadmap to journeys defined by calm confidence.
How The 2026 Global Safety Rankings Were Formed
The Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection Report has been prepared by blending factual data with real traveller insights. Indicators such as crime rates, political stability, healthcare quality, and emergency response efficiency were assessed alongside how safe travellers reported feeling in each destination. This combination ensured that the list captured not only statistical safety but also the emotional comfort experienced across different countries. By 2026, these rankings have become a dependable reference for evaluating where peaceful travel remains possible.
Top 10 Safest Countries To Travel In 20261. Netherlands
A new change has been observed in global safety patterns, with the Netherlands now recognised as the safest country for travellers in 2026. Safety here is experienced through organised infrastructure, low crime, and an inclusive society. From Amsterdam’s cycling lanes to picturesque towns such as Lisse, the environment has been shaped to support ease of movement and personal security. English is widely spoken, and public transport runs efficiently, allowing both women and solo travellers to explore without hesitation. The overall experience is defined by effortless calm, where a simple canal-side moment can be enjoyed without concern.
2. Australia
Australia continues to remain highly trusted for its blend of adventure and safety. Robust public safety laws, responsive emergency services, and friendly communities have created an environment where travellers feel supported at all times. Cities such as Sydney and Melbourne maintain low crime rates, while natural landscapes such as the Great Barrier Reef and Uluru offer experiences that are thrilling yet securely managed. Whether outdoor exploration or quiet urban relaxation is preferred, Australia provides stability throughout every journey.
3. Austria
Austria holds its place as one of Europe’s most serene and disciplined destinations. Its cities, including Vienna and Salzburg, maintain exceptionally low crime rates, clean public spaces, and well-functioning healthcare systems. Austria’s cultural heritage is deeply rooted in orderliness, courtesy, and community respect, which naturally extends to visitor experiences. Even a simple moment in a historic café or a walk through classical neighbourhoods becomes peaceful due to the country’s emphasis on public harmony.
4. Iceland
Though no longer in the top position, Iceland continues to represent one of the most secure environments in the world. Violent crime is almost absent, and communities operate with high mutual trust. Efficient natural disaster protocols provide travellers with confidence when exploring landscapes shaped by volcanoes, glaciers, and waterfalls. Whether a visitor watches the Northern Lights or relaxes in a geothermal lagoon, the country’s tranquil culture reinforces a constant sense of safety.
5. Canada
Canada remains synonymous with warmth, respectfulness, and low crime. From the Rocky Mountains to Montréal’s heritage districts, visitors encounter an atmosphere shaped by courtesy and community. Strong healthcare, reliable public systems, and polite social behaviour contribute to an environment where travellers feel quietly protected. Canada’s mix of wilderness and modernity ensures that both remote and urban areas provide consistent levels of safety.
6. New Zealand
New Zealand offers adventure wrapped in reliability. Clean cities, kind residents, and well-coordinated emergency systems make it especially attractive for solo travellers and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether skydiving above Lake Taupo or enjoying the peacefulness around Mount Cook, travellers remain supported by a culture that values environmental care and public safety.
7. United Arab Emirates
The United Arab Emirates has steadily climbed global safety rankings with its strict law enforcement, low crime rates, and meticulously maintained public spaces. Women travellers, in particular, experience high levels of comfort due to the country’s protective social structure and respect-based culture. From futuristic skylines to traditional marketplaces, movement remains secure across its cities.
8. Switzerland
Switzerland is defined by precision, discipline, and political neutrality, characteristics that contribute directly to its status as one of the world’s safest nations. Public systems function with remarkable accuracy, communities respect regulations, and towns maintain a clean, ordered atmosphere. Alpine landscapes further enhance the sense of calm, making Switzerland ideal for travellers seeking stillness.
9. Japan
Japan’s reputation for safety remains unmatched in Asia. Social respect, orderliness, and efficiency have cultivated an environment where crime is rare and punctuality shapes daily life. From neon-lit districts in Tokyo to the serene pathways of Kyoto, travellers can move without fear. Even late-night commutes remain characterised by public courtesy and reliability.
10. Ireland
Ireland completes the top ten list with its friendly communities and approachable culture. Crime remains low in both rural and urban areas, and public spaces encourage interaction. The combination of natural scenery, vibrant conversations, and supportive locals creates a setting where travellers feel welcomed and protected.
Europe’s Strong Presence In Global Safety
Europe continues to dominate global safety rankings with five countries in the top ten. Austria, Switzerland, the Netherlands, Iceland, and Ireland demonstrate how strong institutions, public order, and healthcare quality contribute to secure travel environments.
Honourable Mentions
Countries narrowly missing the top ten but offering safe, structured experiences include:
Belgium
Portugal
France
United Kingdom
Denmark
They remain reliable choices for shorter or spontaneous European trips.
Safest Countries For Solo And Women Travellers
Japan, the Netherlands, New Zealand, and Canada continue to lead in gender safety, public transport reliability, and respectful social conduct. These countries provide environments where movement is easy and potential risks stay minimal.
Smart Travel Practices That Still Matter
Even in the safest countries, responsible habits strengthen personal security. Travellers are encouraged to register long-term trips with embassies, keep digital backups of important documents, learn basic local phrases, and understand cultural norms before arrival.
Safety As A Form Of Modern Luxury
As global unpredictability increases, true luxury in 2026 is represented by peace of mind. Countries that prioritise security and trust offer journeys where travellers can explore without tension. From the Netherlands’ picturesque canals to New Zealand’s cinematic landscapes, the coming year invites travellers to experience the world with confidence and calm.
