When traveling, safety is just as important as the scenery. And while there’s no way to completely eliminate risk, the travel insurance provider Berkshire Hathaway has revealed its annual ranking of the world’s safest countries for travel in 2026, highlighting destinations where peace of mind comes with the plane ticket. The safety scores are based on traveler surveys, data from the Global Peace Index and Numbeo’s Safety Index, and an average of the GeoSure Global scores for the major cities in each country. To help you plan your next journey worry-free, below we explore the safest countries for travel in 2026.

5. Canada

Canada has been listed on Berkshire Hathaway’s safety index ever since its inception in 2018, and for good reason. In addition to the country’s fifth-place ranking overall, it’s home to the top six safest cities in North America on Numbeo’s safety index, with Quebec City taking the top spot this year. Canada also ranks among the 15 most peaceful nations on the 2026 Global Peace Index, with low levels of conflict, political violence, and violent crime.

However, there are a few safety considerations for visitors. When visiting tourist hot spots and metropolitan areas, such as Niagara Falls or Toronto, be aware of your surroundings and avoid leaving items in your car, as break-ins can occur. Additionally, Canada’s great outdoor adventure spots, such as Banff National Park and the Whistler ski area, attract many tourists who are unfamiliar with the remote terrain. It’s crucial to follow local guidelines and warning signs to avoid accidents.

4. Iceland

A recurring favorite of Berkshire Hathaway’s annual list of the safest countries to travel to, Iceland receives more than 2 million tourists annually. And what’s not to like? It’s the world’s most peaceful country, according to the Global Peace Index, and the second-happiest country in the world, per the World Happiness Report. Iceland’s capital city, Reykjavik, also boasts a strong sense of community and is surrounded by natural beauty, making it a welcoming home base for visitors exploring the island nation.

Popular activities in Iceland include bathing in the Blue Lagoon, viewing the northern lights, and hiking to glaciers and waterfalls. However, Iceland’s dramatic landscapes come with a unique safety hazard: volcanoes. Lava flows may occasionally impact main roads along popular tourist routes, possibly leaving drivers stranded. Always use caution and monitor local guidance during periods of eruption.

3. Austria

Known for its Alpine beauty, Austria is new to the safest countries for travelers list in 2026. Austria ranks fourth globally on the Global Peace Index, cited for its low rates of internal conflict, violent crime, and political terror. However, in busy urban centers such as the capital, Vienna, visitors should use extra caution, as petty crime and pickpocketing do occur, even in such a safe country.

Beyond the cities, Austria has no shortage of appeal for visitors, whether you’re enjoying world-class skiing in Innsbruck or trying culinary staples like Wiener schnitzel at a local gasthaus. While exploring, it’s important to follow safety warnings, especially in Alpine regions where avalanches may occur. Moreover, altitude sickness and mountain sports such as hiking and biking can pose safety risks.

2. Australia

Australia has ranked in the top 10 safest countries each year since 2018. It also ranks in the top 20 overall on the Global Peace Index, with particularly low rates of violent crime, political instability, and terrorism. The top three safest major cities in the country are Canberra (the capital), Adelaide, and Sydney, respectively.

Many tourists head to Australia to enjoy outdoor activities such as snorkeling the Great Barrier Reef, exploring the wild outback, driving along the Great Ocean Road, and surfing at Byron Bay, to name a few. But visitors must remain vigilant, as the biggest risks for tourists in Australia occur while outdoors. This includes extreme weather and natural disasters, such as wildfires, as well as coastal hazards, including rip currents and jellyfish. Follow all posted signage, heed weather warnings, and be aware of your surroundings while enjoying Australia’s beautiful landscapes.

1. The Netherlands

Known for its historic canals, colorful tulip fields, and charming windmills, the Netherlands ranks as the safest country for international travelers in 2026. Travelers surveyed by Berkshire Hathaway gave the country nearly perfect scores for health and overall safety, as well as high rankings for the safety of female travelers, LGBTQIA+ travelers, and travelers of color. However, if there’s one thing tourists should keep an eye out for in the Netherlands, it’s bicycles. Because the Netherlands is the leading cycling nation in the world, pedestrians should be aware of bicycle lanes to avoid injury.

Beyond its safety credentials, visitors flock to the country for its diverse attractions, from the bustling streets of Amsterdam to the solemn World War II memorial sites scattered throughout the country. Meanwhile, The Hague ranks as Europe’s third-safest major city, according to Numbeo. It’s home to the Peace Palace, the Binnenhof, and the Mauritshuis Museum, boasting famous 17th-century works by Rembrandt and Vermeer.

Top 15 Safest Countries for Travel in 2026

Below, check out the full index of 15 countries in Berkshire Hathaway’s 2026 safest countries report. (Note: This list was published before the regional conflict in the Middle East, which is impacting travel warnings to the UAE. Follow your country’s travel guidelines when considering a trip to this region.)

• The Netherlands
• Australia
• Austria
• Iceland
• Canada
• New Zealand
• United Arab Emirates
• Switzerland
• Japan
• Ireland
• Belgium
• Portugal
• France
• United Kingdom