Canada gets top spot: The safest countries for travelers
A new year means new destinations. When looking at where to go, travelers will consider the usual factors such as weather, cost and available activities. This year, safety is also top of mind as more people want to go off the beaten path and take solo trips.
To help, travel insurance provider Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection just released its ninth annual State of Travel Insurance report, which includes the safest countries in the world for travelers.
“The definition of safe destination has evolved,” Carol Mueller, vice president at Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection, told USA TODAY in an email. “In our most recent survey, travelers lean in on countries they believe as safe destinations they can move about freely without discrimination or harassment.”
To determine the list, BHTP surveyed 1,702 people on their own travel experiences in different countries and also pulled data from third-party resources that evaluate safety concerns such as terrorism, weather emergencies, health measures and the safety of underrepresented groups.
While these countries are considered to be overall safe for people to visit, the company noted the report doesn’t mean every part of the country is safe nor account for the possibility of natural disasters. And as always, don’t let your guard down when it comes to petty theft against tourists.
1. Canada
The Great White North tops this year’s list of safest countries in the world for travelers, thanks to its low violent crime and strict gun laws. Last year, the country, known for its high standard of living and political stability, made sixth on the list.
2. Switzerland
Known for its security and low crime rates, Switzerland made second place for the safest nations to visit. The country is known for its high quality of living and beautiful nature, such as Lake Geneva and Lake Zurich.
Those wanting to see Ireland’s Cliffs of Moher or sip on some Guinness can rest assured in going through with those travel plans. The country had less homicides in 2022 than 16 U.S. cities, according to the report.
5. Netherlands
Last year, the Netherlands took the top spot for BHTP’s safest destinations to visit, and this year, it made fifth. Survey respondents repeatedly said they felt safe in the country and its capital Amsterdam. Just beware of the tourist tax increase as the city continues to crack down on reckless partiers.
6. United Kingdom
With a beautiful countryside and cities with low murder and theft rates, the United Kingdom is a safe bet for travelers. Unfortunately, the country is soon going to implement a fee to enter its borders.
Last year, Denmark was the second safest country in the world for travelers, and its low crime rates continue to help it be a safe choice for travel. The northern European country typically steals the spotlight for its happy residents and its politics.
9. Iceland
Like its Nordic neighbor Denmark, Iceland is often regarded as the world’s most gender equal country and the safest country in world when it comes to crime. To entice travelers even more, the country is home to otherworldly landscapes featuring glaciers, geysers, hot springs, waterfalls and volcanic terrain.
10. Australia
Rugged wilderness and cosmopolitan cities make Australia a desirable country for travelers, especially female solo travelers, since the Land Down Under also has low homicide rates. In 2022, there were 377 recorded homicides, about half of what Chicago experienced, according to the report.
11. New Zealand
Although expensive, New Zealand is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts who want to explore its coastlines, mountains, fjords and more, or for those who are big “Lord of the Rings” fans. With low crime rates, the country is also considered to be quite peaceful and great for female solo travelers.
12. Japan
Home to the City of Light, France has stood the test of time as one of the world’s most popular destinations. Thankfully for travelers, the country has relatively safe transportation (well, minus petty theft, which is common on the metro) and safety from disease epidemics, according to BHTP. However, violent demonstrations mean travelers should be cautious and check local media for updates.
14. Spain
Another popular European destination, Spain is known for petty theft like pickpocketing. Overall, the Mediterranean country has a low crime rating for how heavily touristed it is, the report said. BHTP recommends people especially watch out for passport thefts.
15. Brazil
This year, Brazil made the list for safe countries to visit. BHTP’s survey respondents who identified as women, people of color and LGBTQ+ especially felt safe in the South American country, known for its beautiful beaches. However, Brazil’s borders are notably dangerous for crime activity.