Advertiser Disclosure

Many of the credit card offers that appear on this site are from credit card companies from which we may receive financial compensation when a customer clicks on a link, when an application is approved, or when an account is opened. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site (including, for example, the order in which they appear). However, the credit card information that we publish has been written and evaluated by experts who know these products inside out. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse. This site does not include all credit card companies or all available credit card offers that are on the market. See our advertising policy here where we list advertisers that we work with, and how we make money. You can also review our credit card rating methodology.

The Safest Countries To Visit in 2026

Christine Krzyszton's image
Christine Krzyszton
Edited by: Michael Y. Park
& Jestan Mendame
Jump to Section

We may be compensated when you click on a link, when an application is approved, or when an account is opened from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

Click for Card Offers (Up to 300k!)

Top Partner Offers

LIMITED-TIME OFFERChase Sapphire Preferred® Card

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

Apply Now(at Chase's secure site)
Earn 75000 100,000 Points
BEST FOR DINING
American Express® Gold Card

American Express® Gold Card

Apply Now(at Amex's secure site)
As High As 100,000 Points. Find Out Your Offer.
NEW OFFERThe Business Platinum Card® from American Express

The Business Platinum Card® from American Express

Apply Now(at Amex's secure site)
Earn As High As 300,000 points. Find Out Your Offer.
BEST LOUNGE CARD
Platinum Card® from American Express

Platinum Card® from American Express

Apply Now(at Amex's secure site)
As High As 175,000 Points. Find Out Your Offer.

If you’re a frequent traveler, safety is a top priority. While everyone’s definition of a safe enough country can vary, having more information can help you make a more informed decision when choosing your next destination.

According to the U.S. State Department, more than 10% of countries worldwide are off-limits to safety-minded travelers right now. It’s one of several globally recognized organizations that compile the information you need to identify the safest countries you can travel to.

Here’s where to learn more about the safest destinations and some of the countries that consistently rank among the safest places to visit.

Advertisement

How To Research a Country’s Safety Level

Whether you’ve already decided on a country to visit or are still deciding where to go, you should gather more information before your trip.

Here’s how to get started with your research.

  • Check travel advisories: The U.S. State Department website is a good starting point for information about the area you’re planning to visit or for finding the safest countries. Although the department tends to be extra cautious, visiting the government website is essential.
  • Read recent studies on a country’s safety: Reliable data companies compile country-level safety information annually — crime rates, health risks, unrest, terrorism, and more. We’ll mention some available resources later in this article.
  • Review firsthand information: Some of the best information comes from people who have been to the country you’re planning to visit. Joining destination-specific Facebook groups, participating in Reddit forums, reading blogs, and watching YouTube videos of the area you’re considering can offer insight and a street-level perspective.

Use the U.S. State Department as a Starting Point

Let’s start with the definitive source for information about visiting any country. The U.S. State Department’s website rates each country on a risk scale from 1 to 4. Level 1 is the safest, and Level 4 nations are designated “Do Not Travel” countries.

The site provides an interactive map with a color-coded scheme to depict safety ratings. The darkest red areas are countries designated as Level 4, the blue areas are the safest, and the striped areas indicate countries with a higher security risk.

Safest Countries U.S. State Department
The State Department rates countries worldwide by safety risk. Image Credit: U.S. State Department

While there are too many to list here, the countries with the lowest risk, according to the U.S. State Department, include Canada, Iceland, Mongolia, Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Vietnam, South Korea, some Scandinavian countries, and much of Eastern Europe. You can view the entire map on the State Department website.

The map is also interactive. You can sort the countries by risk level and risk type, which can be helpful.

Safest Countries State Department Ratings
The State Department website is a good starting point for your research. Image Credit: U.S. State Department

The list also provides specific risk types for each country. For example, you could sort by Level 1 to find the current safest countries.

Bottom Line:

To begin your search for a safe country to visit, start with the U.S. State Department’s website. While the State Department tends to be cautious in its safety ratings, the information provided can be helpful when planning.

Advertisement

Travel Safety Studies and Rankings

Berkshire Hathaway, a highly rated insurance company, compiles one of the most comprehensive rankings of the safest countries for travel.

The company has been studying the topic since 2018, compiling data from travelers and trusted sources, including the Global Peace Index, Numbeo, the world’s largest crowdsourced database, and GeoSure, the safety and security intelligence platform.

In 2026, the countries at the top of Berkshire Hathaway’s index are the following:

  1. Netherlands
  2. Australia
  3. Austria
  4. Iceland
  5. Canada
  6. New Zealand
  7. United Arab Emirates
  8. Switzerland
  9. Japan
  10. Ireland

The World Population Review, a trusted demographic data company, compiles its list from several sources similar to those Berkshire Hathaway uses, as well as additional sources such as the Global Terrorism Index.

Hot Tip:

When traveling abroad, I recommend signing up for the government’s Safe Traveler Enrollment Program. Registering your location and receiving updates about activity in the area can be extremely helpful during times of unrest (or even severe weather). The program can also assist you in emergencies.

The Safest Countries To Visit Right Now

It would be difficult to list every country it’s safe to travel to right now. But if you had to narrow it down to just a handful, these choices would still score highly in any analysis. Here are some of the safest countries on earth to visit, along with the reasons they consistently top the lists.

Iceland

No matter the index, Iceland consistently scores highest in traveler safety. Its low crime rate, social and economic structure, and lack of any dangerous animals are among the reasons.

Black Sand Beach Iceland
Black sand beach, south shore of Iceland. Image Credit: Christine Krzyszton

Because of the country’s safety level, it’s a perfect destination for U.S. solo travelers. Its tourist-friendly infrastructure, English-speaking residents, and strong social trust also contribute to its high safety rating. If there is any downside to traveling to Iceland, it would be seasonal inclement weather or volcanic activity, both of which the country is well prepared for.

Australia and New Zealand

It doesn’t take much encouragement to visit New Zealand or Australia — both of which rank highly for safe travels. The islands’ remote geographic locations and the countries’ highly respected police forces contribute to a safe environment.

Castle Hill Near Christchurch NZ
Walking around Castle Hill near Christchurch, New Zealand. Image Credit: Christine Krzyszton

Reliable transportation, a welcoming atmosphere, and English-speaking residents make the countries excellent for travelers from the U.S. There is little crime, a stable government, and almost no corruption. And, New Zealand, known for its extreme sports, has established strict regulations governing these activities, making it a safer environment for participating travelers.

Both countries have exceptional healthcare, strict gun laws, well-lit cities, and strong law enforcement institutions.

The Netherlands

The Netherlands regularly ranks high in safety for some of the same reasons other countries make the list. Its violent crime rate is low, it is politically stable, and it boasts a strong infrastructure.

Juan Ruiz Amsterdam Canals
The scenic and peaceful Amsterdam canals. Image Credit: Juan Ruiz

Safety is relative, though, as you need to watch out for the hazards posed by fast-moving bicycles (of which there are many). Aside from petty crime in some major cities, though, the country is currently one of the safest to visit.

Because of the country’s diversity, travelers experience a welcoming environment overall. One word of caution is that the country may face terrorist threats and move up the State Department scale to Level 2 (exercise extreme caution) in some circumstances.

Canada

Canadians are our treasured neighbors, and their country is one of the safest places we can visit. The country is rated safe, partially thanks to its low incidence of gun-related crime.

Quebec City Center
Quebec City, Ontario, Canada, with Fairmont Le Château Frontenac in the background. Image Credit: Christine Krzyszton

The country’s low crime rates, stable political environment, strong healthcare system, and effective emergency services all contribute to its reputation. The country also exhibits a social environment where travelers experience a sense of freedom and inclusiveness.

Ireland

Ireland is a beautiful country and also one of the safest countries to visit. The green countryside makes for pleasant hikes and scenic train journeys. Medieval castles and Viking settlements date back centuries, and historic pubs populate the cities and countryside, offering live music and social fun.

Dublin City Center
Dublin city center. Image Credit: Christine Krzyszton

Petty crime can be a factor in the city centers, especially Dublin, with its drinking culture. But overall, Ireland rates highly for safety, as violent crime rates are quite low. Helpful locals and a lack of language barriers also make Ireland a good destination for American solo travelers.

Japan

Japan is a fascinating country with cultural attributes that contribute to its high safety rating. While the country’s safety rating is largely pegged to an extremely low rate of violent crime, its inhabitants are known for their universal respect and consideration for others. This cultural attitude can translate into a safer experience for travelers.

Park Hyatt Tokyo night view Image Credit Chris Hassan
The Tokyo skyline as seen from the Park Hyatt Tokyo. Image Credit: Chris Hassan

Noted for its stable, peaceful society, Japan is also a favorite among solo travelers. The country’s reliable infrastructure and strict weapons regulations contribute to its high safety rating, as well.

Honorable Mentions

The United Arab Emirates, Switzerland, Singapore, Austria, and Finland score high on most lists of the safest countries. And while some destinations receive higher safety ratings than others, travelers still have plenty of options.

Bottom Line:

Of the 195 countries rated by the U.S. State Department, only 21 currently carry a Level 4 Do Not Travel advisory, while 27 are designated Level 3 Reconsider Travel. That leaves the majority of the world open to travelers, depending on your personal risk tolerance.

How To Book Your Trip Using Points and Miles

Regardless of the destination, if you can travel there using points and miles, your trip will cost much less. Cards that earn flexible rewards are our go-to for receiving the best potential value, but we also like the travel insurance benefits that come with the best travel rewards cards.

The Platinum Card® from American Express is known for its stellar worldwide lounge access, statement credits (some require enrollment), and travel insurance benefits.

BEST LOUNGE CARD
Platinum Card® from American ExpressTerms Apply / Rates & Fees

The Amex Platinum reigns supreme for luxury travel, offering the best airport lounge access plus generous statement credits, and complimentary elite status.

Apply Now(at Amex's secure site)

Apply With Confidence

Know if you're approved with no credit score impact

If you're approved and accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.

The Amex Platinum reigns supreme for luxury travel, offering the best airport lounge access plus generous statement credits, and complimentary elite status.
You may be eligible for as high as 175,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $12,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply to know if you’re approved and find out your exact welcome offer amount – all with no credit score impact. If you’re approved and choose to accept the Card, your score may be impacted.
As High As 175,000 Points. Find Out Your Offer.
Up to $3,850
$895
See Pay Over Time APR
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.
Good to Excellent
Why We Like This Card

When it comes to cards that offer top-notch benefits, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better card out there than the Platinum Card® from American Express.

Make no mistake — the Amex Platinum card is a premium card with a premium price tag. With amazing benefits like best-in-class airport lounge access, hotel elite status, and tremendous value in annual statement credits, it can easily prove to be one of the most lucrative cards in your wallet year after year.

Pros & Cons
Pros
  • The best airport lounge access out of any card (by far) — enjoy access to over 1,550 worldwide lounges, including the luxurious Amex Centurion Lounges, Priority Pass lounges (enrollment required), Plaza Premium Lounges, and many more!
  • 5x points per dollar spent on flights purchased directly with the airline or with AmexTravel.com (up to $500,000 per year)
  • 5x points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels booked with AmexTravel.com
Cons
  • $895 annual fee (rates and fees)
  • Airline credit does not cover airfare (only incidentals like checked bags)
Card Highlights
  • You may be eligible for as high as 175,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $12,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply to know if you’re approved and find out your exact welcome offer amount – all with no credit score impact. If you’re approved and choose to accept the Card, your score may be impacted.
  • Get more for your travels with 5X Membership Rewards® points on all flights and prepaid hotel bookings through American Express Travel®, including Fine Hotels + Resorts® and The Hotel Collection bookings. You earn 5X points on flights purchased directly from airlines or through American Express Travel® on up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year.
  • With over 1,550 airport lounges - more than any other credit card company on the market* - enjoy the benefits of the Global Lounge Collection®, over $850 of annual value, with access to Centurion Lounges, 10 complimentary Delta Sky Club® visits when flying on an eligible Delta flight (subject to visit limitations), Priority Pass Select membership (enrollment required), and other select partner lounges.* As of 07/2025.
  • $200 Uber Cash + $120 Uber One Credit: With the Platinum Card® you can receive $15 in Uber Cash each month plus a bonus $20 in December when you add your Platinum Card® to your Uber account to use on rides and orders in the U.S when you select an Amex Card for your transaction. Plus, when you use the Platinum Card® to pay for an auto-renewing Uber One membership, you can get up to $120 in statement credits each calendar year. Terms apply.
  • $300 Digital Entertainment Credit: Experience the latest shows, news and recipes. Get up to $25 in statement credits each month when you use your Platinum Card® for eligible purchases on Disney+, a Disney+ bundle, ESPN streaming services, Hulu, The New York Times, Paramount+, Peacock, The Wall Street Journal, YouTube Premium, and YouTube TV when you purchase directly from one or more of the providers. Enrollment required.
  • $600 Hotel Credit: Get up to $300 in statement credits semi-annually on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection* bookings through American Express Travel® using the Platinum Card®. *The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.
  • $400 Resy Credit + Platinum Nights by Resy: Get up to $100 in statement credits each quarter when you use the Platinum Card® to make eligible purchases with Resy, including dining purchases at U.S. Resy restaurants. Enrollment required. Plus, with Platinum Nights by Resy, you can get special access to reservations on select nights at participating in demand Resy restaurants with the Platinum Card®. Simply add your eligible Card to your Resy profile to book and discover Platinum Nights reservations near you.
  • $209 CLEAR+ Credit: CLEAR+ helps get you to your gate faster by using your face to verify you are you at 55+ airports nationwide. You can cover the cost of a CLEAR+ Membership* with up to $209 in statement credits per calendar year after you pay for CLEAR+ with your Platinum Card®. *Excluding any applicable taxes and fees. Subject to auto-renewal.
  • $200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees, such as checked bags and in-flight refreshments, are charged by the airline to the Platinum Card® Account. American Express relies on airlines to submit the correct information on airline transactions to identify incidental fee purchases. If you do not see a credit for a qualifying incidental purchase on your eligible Card after 8 weeks, simply call the number on the back of your Card. Qualifying airlines are subject to change. See terms & conditions for more details.
  • Start your vacation sooner, and keep it going longer. When you book Fine Hotels + Resorts® through American Express Travel®, enjoy noon check-in, when available, and guaranteed 4PM check-out.
  • $300 lululemon Credit: Enjoy up to $75 in statement credits each quarter when you use the Platinum Card® for eligible purchases at U.S. lululemon retail stores (excluding outlets) and lululemon.com. That’s up to $300 in statement credits each calendar year. Enrollment required.
  • $155 Walmart+ Credit: Receive a statement credit* for one monthly Walmart+ membership (subject to auto-renewal) after you pay for Walmart+ each month with the Platinum Card®.* Up to $12.95 plus applicable local sales tax. Plus Ups not eligible.
  • Whenever you need us, we're here. Our Member Services team will ensure you are taken care of. From lost Card replacement to statement questions, we are available to help 24/7.
  • $895 annual fee.
  • Terms Apply.
Financial Snapshot
  • APR: See Pay Over Time APR
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None
Rewards Center

American Express Membership Rewards

We also love the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card for its earning power, ability to transfer rewards to airline and hotel travel partners, and excellent travel insurance benefits. Plus, it has a low annual fee.

LIMITED-TIME OFFER
Chase Sapphire Preferred® CardTerms Apply / Rates & Fees

A fantastic travel card with a great welcome offer, good benefits, and perks for a moderate annual fee.

Apply Now(at Chase's secure site)
A fantastic travel card with a great welcome offer, good benefits, and perks for a moderate annual fee.
Earn 75,000 100,000 bonus points after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
75,000 100,000 points
$2,000
$95
19.24% - 27.49% Variable
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.
Good to Excellent
Why We Like This Card

The Chase Sapphire Preferred® card is one of the best travel rewards cards on the market. Its bonus categories include travel, dining, online grocery purchases, gas, EV charging, vacation homes, and streaming services, which gives you the opportunity to earn lots of bonus points on these purchases.

Additionally, it offers flexible point redemption options, no foreign transaction fees, and excellent travel insurance coverage including primary car rental insurance and emergency evacuation. With benefits like these, it’s easy to see why this card is an excellent choice for any traveler.

Pros & Cons
Pros
  • 5x points on all travel booked via the Chase Travel portal
  • 3x points on dining purchases, online grocery purchases (excluding Walmart, Target, and wholesale clubs), gas, EV charging, vacation homes (such as Airbnb and Vrbo), and select streaming services
  • 2x points on all other travel worldwide
Cons
  • $95 annual fee
  • No elite benefits like airport lounge access or hotel elite status
Card Highlights
  • Earn 100,000 bonus points after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
  • Enjoy benefits such as 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, 3x on vacation homes, 3x on gas & EV charging, 3x on top streaming services and online groceries (excluding Walmart, Target, and wholesale clubs), 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases
  • Earn up to $100 in statement credits each account anniversary year for hotel stays through Chase Travel
  • Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
  • Get a year of complimentary Apple TV when activated by December 31, 2026 - a value of $156.
  • Complimentary DashPass which unlocks $0 delivery fees & lower service fees for a min. of one year when you activate by 12/31/27. Plus, a $10 promo each month on non-restaurant orders.
  • Receive one statement credit of up to $120 every four years as reimbursement for the application fee charged to your card for a Global Entry, TSA Precheck® or NEXUS application.
  • Transfer points to leading airline and hotel loyalty programs
  • Member FDIC
Financial Snapshot
  • APR: 19.24% - 27.49% Variable
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None
Rewards Center

Chase Ultimate Rewards

The Chase Sapphire Reserve® is a premium travel rewards card that also offers worldwide lounge access, up to $300 in annual travel statement credits, and excellent hotel statement credits with The Edit and certain hotel brands.

Chase Sapphire Reserve®Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

A top player in the high-end premium travel credit card space that earns points on travel and dining while offering top luxury perks.

Apply Now(at Chase's secure site)
A top player in the high-end premium travel credit card space that earns points on travel and dining while offering top luxury perks.
Earn 100,000 bonus points after you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
100,000 points
$2,000
$795
19.49% - 27.99% Variable
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.
Excellent
Why We Like This Card

If you’re looking for an all-around excellent travel rewards card, the Chase Sapphire Reserve® is one of the best options.

The card combines elite travel benefits and perks like worldwide airport lounge access, with excellent point earning and redemption options. Plus, it offers top-notch travel insurance protections to cover you at home or on the road.

Don’t forget the more than $2,000 in annual credits, which can offset the annual fee!

Pros & Cons
Pros
  • 8x points on all Chase Travel purchases
  • 5x points on Lyft rides
  • 4x points on flights and hotels booked directly
Cons
    • $795 annual fee
Card Highlights
  • Earn 100,000 bonus points after you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
  • Get $3,000 in annual value with Sapphire Reserve.
  • Earn 8x points on all purchases through Chase Travel℠, including The Edit℠ and 4x points on flights and hotels booked direct. Plus, earn 3x points on dining worldwide & 1x points on all other purchases
  • $300 annual travel credit as reimbursement for travel purchases charged to your card each account anniversary year.
  • Access over 1,300 airport lounges worldwide with a complimentary Priority Pass™ Select membership, plus every Chase Sapphire Lounge® by The Club with two guests. Plus, up to $120 towards Global Entry, NEXUS, or TSA PreCheck® every 4 years
  • Get up to $150 in statement credits every six months for a maximum of $300 annually for dining at restaurants that are part of Sapphire Reserve Exclusive Tables.
  • Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Coverage, Lost Luggage Insurance, no foreign transaction fees, and more.
  • Get complimentary subscriptions to Apple TV and Apple Music for a minimum of one year when activated by June 22, 2027, a value of $288 annually.
  • Member FDIC
Financial Snapshot
  • APR: 19.49% - 27.99% Variable
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None
Rewards Center

Chase Ultimate Rewards

Advertisement

You can learn more about the best travel rewards cards in our regularly updated comprehensive list.

Final Thoughts

Gathering information from different sources can help you make an informed decision about where to travel. Timing is also important, as the safest countries can change from year to year, or even month to month.

Each traveler’s safety tolerance varies. One traveler might feel fine traveling to Mexico 2 or 3 times a year, but another traveler might not travel there at all. Fortunately, there are countless resources to help you research and find the best destinations that fit your travel preferences and risk tolerance.

Christine Krzyszton's image

About Christine Krzyszton

Christine ran her own business developing and managing insurance and financial services offices. This stoked a passion for points and miles and she now has over 2 dozen credit cards and creates in-depth, detailed content for UP.

INSIDERS ONLY: UP PULSE

Deluxe Travel Provided by UP Pulse

Get the latest travel tips, crucial news, flight & hotel deal alerts...

Plus — expert strategies to maximize your points & miles by joining our (free) newsletter.

We respect your privacy. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA. Google's privacy policy  and terms of service  apply.

Deluxe Travel Provided by UP Pulse

We Recommend

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

Welcome Offer: 75,000 100,000 points

  • Earn 100,000 bonus points after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
  • Enjoy benefits such as 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, 3x on vacation homes, 3x on gas & EV charging, 3x on top streaming services and online groceries (excluding Walmart, Target, and wholesale clubs), 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases
Show more
  • Earn up to $100 in statement credits each account anniversary year for hotel stays through Chase Travel
  • Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
  • Get a year of complimentary Apple TV when activated by December 31, 2026 - a value of $156.
  • Complimentary DashPass which unlocks $0 delivery fees & lower service fees for a min. of one year when you activate by 12/31/27. Plus, a $10 promo each month on non-restaurant orders.
  • Receive one statement credit of up to $120 every four years as reimbursement for the application fee charged to your card for a Global Entry, TSA Precheck® or NEXUS application.
  • Transfer points to leading airline and hotel loyalty programs
  • Member FDIC
DMCA.com Protection Status