Traveling the globe offers unparalleled opportunities for discovery, but for many, a central concern before booking a ticket is personal safety. In an era where "safe" encompasses far more than just low crime statistics, travelers are prioritizing factors like access to quality healthcare, social inclusivity, and political stability when choosing a destination. The latest comprehensive research by travel insurance specialists, Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection, reflects this evolving perspective, delivering a surprise winner for the top-ranked safest country in the world for 2026.
Has the global definition of a 'safe destination' changed, now prioritizing health, inclusivity, and peace over traditional crime rates?
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The annual Safest Destinations report utilizes a blend of traveler survey data and key international metrics, including the Global Peace Index, to rank nations. It's a ranking that clearly demonstrates a significant shift in what constitutes a secure environment for visitors. No longer is safety purely about freedom from violent crime; it now heavily weighs a country's cultural disposition toward peace, its preparedness for climate events, and its commitment to ensuring all travelers – including women, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and travelers of color – feel genuinely welcome and protected.
The Netherlands jumps to the top spot
Climbing an impressive 13 places from the previous year's ranking, the Netherlands has officially claimed the number one safety score. This dramatic ascent can be largely attributed to its exceptional performance across multiple newly emphasized categories. Survey respondents lauded the Dutch for their "peace-loving" societal norms and remarkably high standards for health measures. The country's widespread inclusivity was a major factor, earning near-top marks for its safety across diverse traveler groups.
Interestingly, for those planning a visit, the primary hazard often cited is not crime, but the sheer volume of high-speed bicycles in cities like Amsterdam, which necessitates constant awareness when crossing the street.
Shuffling the top-tier ranks
While the Netherlands celebrates its new position, the familiar faces of global safety have seen a reshuffle. Australia secured the second-place spot, consistently scoring highly for its robust health system and strong measures against terrorism. Making a strong debut in the top three is Austria, recognized for its remarkable political stability and strong showing in various external peace indexes.
Iceland, the previous title holder, slipped to fourth place. Despite this change, the Nordic nation maintains its title as the world's most peaceful country overall, but the looming threat of volcanic eruptions and subsequent road closures introduced an element of hazard that slightly impacted its overall score. Rounding out the top five is Canada, renowned for its vast, welcoming environment and low crime rates.
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Conclusion
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The 2026 safety rankings underscore a modern understanding of security, one that values societal harmony, universal well-being, and genuine inclusion as much as crime statistics. The Netherlands' rise to the top highlights a traveler's desire for destinations where they can feel secure, healthy, and entirely accepted. As you plan your next adventure, considering this holistic safety score will ensure your chosen destination lives up to the promise of a truly worry-free getaway.
