The safest countries to travel to in 2026 revealed - and the UK doesn't make the top 10

When choosing your next travel destination, you might want to think carefully - personal safety while abroad is paramount.

Some destinations will all but guarantee a pleasant experience, while others are known for high crime rates, harassment and other travel concerns.

Now, the safest countries for travel in 2026 have been ranked.

The good news? There's plenty of destinations to choose from, and some are just a short flight away in Europe.

However, disappointingly, the UK hasn't made the list's top 10.

Coming in first place is the Netherlands, known for its vibrant capital city Amsterdam, tulip fields and windmills.

The Netherlands was named the safest country in the world this year, congratulated for its 'peace-loving' attitude. 

It was awarded very high marks for health measures and overall safety, as well as for safety for female travellers, LGBTQIA+ travellers, and travellers of colour. 

Coming in first place is the Netherlands, known for its vibrant capital city Amsterdam, tulip fields and windmills

Coming in first place is the Netherlands, known for its vibrant capital city Amsterdam, tulip fields and windmills

In second place on the list was Australia. With its modern cities, incredible ocean experiences and a seemingly empty outback, it's a great place to pick for your next trip

In second place on the list was Australia. With its modern cities, incredible ocean experiences and a seemingly empty outback, it's a great place to pick for your next trip

'We're seeing a shift in how travellers define "safe,"' a spokesperson travel insurance company Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection, who conducted the survey, said.

'It's not just about crime rates anymore, people are also considering healthcare access, climate stability and inclusivity. 

'Survey respondents felt the Netherlands excels across all those verticals, which is why it's resonating so strongly with travelers heading into 2026.'

In second place on the list was Australia.

With its modern cities, incredible ocean experiences and a seemingly empty outback, it's a great place to pick for your next trip.

It's also known for its impressive, iconic sights, including the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Opera House as well as Ayers Rock and the Great Barrier Reef. 

The third place title was given to Austria.

This country has more than just its capital, Vienna, and its palaces, coffee houses, concert halls and galleries.

The third place title was given to Austria. This country has more than just its capital, Vienna, and its palaces, coffee houses, concert halls and galleries

The third place title was given to Austria. This country has more than just its capital, Vienna, and its palaces, coffee houses, concert halls and galleries

The fourth spot was handed to Iceland, which is often hailed for its safety and the high quality of life

The fourth spot was handed to Iceland, which is often hailed for its safety and the high quality of life

Top 15 safest countries in the world 

  1.  Netherlands
  2. Australia 
  3. Austria 
  4. Iceland 
  5. Canada 
  6. New Zealand 
  7. United Arab Emirates 
  8. Switzerland 
  9. Japan 
  10. Ireland 
  11. Belgium 
  12. Portugal 
  13. France 
  14. United Kingdom 
  15. Denmark
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You can also explore the Alps that cover half the country.

The fourth spot was handed to Iceland, which is often hailed for its safety and the high quality of life. 

In fifth place is Canada, popular during the winter season for skiiers and city hoppers.

The UK only came in 14th, just scraping a spot on the list. 

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