Feeling safe and secure is a huge priority while traveling in a foreign country. While crime is an unfortunate part of life no matter where you go, there are certainly places that are safer than others.
Traveling to a destination with low levels of crime is the first step to staying safe as a tourist. The next important step is purchasing a travel insurance plan before you leave your home country. Make sure you are getting comprehensive coverage from your travel insurance policy. This means your travel protection plan should include medical insurance (including medical care and emergencies like a medical evacuation) and cover any trip costs due to a trip interruption. Compare international travel insurance with iSelect to search for plans that fit with your unique medical conditions, needs, and budget.
Below we’ve broken down some of the safest countries to visit in 2020 using the 2019 Global Peace Index (GPI) and the International SOS’s Travel Risk Map.
New Zealand
New Zealanders are some of the nicest people around, so it makes sense this country would come in second on the 2019 GPI. Besides the friendly folk, the country’s landscapes are stunning with picturesque views and pristine beaches. The country was also given a low rating for both medical and security risks for travelers.
Sweden
Sweden — along with Finland, Denmark, Norway, Iceland, Switzerland, Greenland, and Slovenia — were all labeled with an “insignificant” travel security risk, according to International SOS. In addition to being one of the safest, Sweden is also considered one of the happiest countries in the world.
Finland
Consistently marked as a safe destination to travel to, Finland is also steeped in a rich cultural history and sprawling with beautiful landscapes and impressive architecture to feast your eyes on.
Denmark
Both reports concluded that the Nordic countries of Sweden, Finland, Iceland, Norway, and Denmark are some of the safest nations in the world to travel to. Denmark is the safest country in the Scandinavian region with one of the world’s lowest crime rates and a travel security risk marked “insignificant.”
Iceland
Iceland made the number one safest spot for the 2019 GPI for the fifth consecutive year. Beyond its record safety rating, the country’s impressive scenery has made it a popular tourist destination in recent years. Be sure to check out Iceland’s world-renown spas for some ultimate relaxation.
Norway
Considered to be one of the best places to spot the Northern Lights, Norway is a great destination for nature lovers. Plus, with the nation’s low crime rate and happy people, your visit will be more than pleasant.
Japan
Japan’s bustling city life, idyllic landscapes, and delicious food are just some of the many reasons to visit this Asian nation, besides it being a safe travel environment.
Canada
Home to some of the nicest people on the planet, Canada is a friendly nation with low crime rates. The country’s natural beauty will draw you in, but its kind people will make you never want to leave.
Switzerland
If you’re a mountain and ski enthusiast, then Switzerland is where you should take your next vacation. The country offers huge waterfalls, impressive slopes, and of course the famous Matterhorn! With Swiss watches, Swiss chocolate, and a low crime rate, your winter getaway is going to feel like a winter wonderland.
Greenland
This country doesn’t get enough recognition as it Icelandic cousin, but Greenland is a great, safe destination for thrill-seekers. Explore the glaciers, hike through the world’s largest national park, and take a dip in the hot springs.
Slovenia
Slovenia didn’t start getting attention from international travelers until 2016 after winning Europe’s Green Capital Award. Now, the small but beautiful country is capturing the hearts of tourists across the world.