A new report has named the Netherlands as the safest country in the world for travelers in 2026, marking a significant shift in global travel safety rankings. The annual list, compiled by Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection, saw the European nation climb from 14th place to dethrone Iceland, which has long held the top spot.
The findings reflect a growing trend among travelers who now prioritize personal safety and security above all other factors when choosing a destination. This shift in traveler priorities is reshaping tourism landscapes and influencing where people decide to spend their time and money.
Key Takeaways
- The Netherlands is ranked the #1 safest country for travel in 2026, a jump from 14th place in the previous year.
- Safety is the top concern for 81% of travelers when making travel decisions, according to a separate industry survey.
- The rankings are based on data from global safety indices and surveys of American travelers.
- Reykjavik, Iceland, was named the safest city, even as its home country lost the top national ranking.
A New Leader in Global Travel Safety
For the first time in years, a new country sits atop the list of the world's safest destinations. The Netherlands' rise to the number one position is a notable development in the travel industry. The country's high scores were attributed to its overall level of security, particularly for women, people of color, and LGBTQ+ travelers.
This change pushes Iceland, a long-time favorite for its low crime rates and stability, into the fourth position. The updated rankings highlight a dynamic global environment where perceptions of safety can change based on a variety of factors.
Newcomers to the top 10 this year include Austria and the United Arab Emirates, indicating their growing reputation as secure and stable destinations for international visitors. The list is compiled annually and has become a key resource for travelers planning their trips.
Top 10 Safest Countries for 2026
- Netherlands
- Australia
- Austria
- Iceland
- Canada
- New Zealand
- United Arab Emirates
- Switzerland
- Japan
- Ireland
Why Safety Is the New Top Priority
The emphasis on safety is not just a perception; it's backed by data. A recent State of Travel Survey by McKinsey found that an overwhelming 81% of respondents identified safety and security as the most important factor when making travel decisions. This places it ahead of cost, weather, and activities.
"Today's travelers are prioritizing their safety more than ever," said Carol Mueller, head of marketing at Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection. "The 2026 State of Travel Insurance Safest Destinations report not only highlights locations where travelers feel most secure, but also serves as a trusted resource for making informed choices about where to explore next."
This heightened awareness means that countries perceived as safe are more likely to attract tourism revenue. Travelers are actively seeking destinations where they can feel secure, allowing them to relax and fully enjoy their experience without undue worry.
How the Rankings Are Determined
To ensure a comprehensive and balanced view, the safety rankings are not based on a single metric. Instead, they are formulated using a combination of data from established third-party sources and firsthand traveler experiences.
The Methodology Explained
The report's foundation rests on data from several respected sources, including the Global Peace Index, which measures societal safety and security, and city-level safety scores from Numbeo. It also incorporates data from GeoSure Global, which provides localized safety ratings. Crucially, the formula includes input from 1,838 American travelers who have personally visited the ranked countries within the last five years, adding a real-world perspective to the statistical data.
This multi-faceted approach aims to provide a holistic picture of what it's like to travel in a particular country, moving beyond simple crime statistics to include factors like health risks, terrorism, and the safety of specific demographic groups.
Top Cities and A Note of Caution
While the Netherlands took the top spot for countries, the safest city in the world for 2026 was named as Reykjavik, Iceland. This shows that even if a country's overall ranking shifts, its capital can remain a beacon of safety.
The list of safest cities is dominated by European and Asia-Pacific destinations:
- Reykjavik, Iceland
- Copenhagen, Denmark
- Zurich, Switzerland
- Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Honolulu, USA
- Sydney, Australia
- Barcelona, Spain
- Lisbon, Portugal
- Tokyo, Japan
- Dublin, Ireland
Despite the data-driven nature of these lists, experts advise that travelers should always remain vigilant. The report itself notes that safety is fluid and that a list represents a snapshot in time. Major events can impact a destination's security after a report is published. Therefore, travelers are encouraged to stay informed and practice smart travel habits regardless of their destination's ranking.
