Canada, Switzerland, and Norway Crowned Safest Travel Destinations for 2024

Travelers looking for a safe haven for their 2024 travels can set their sights on Canada, Switzerland, and Norway. These countries have emerged as the top three safest destinations according to the latest "State of Travel Insurance Safest Destinations" report by Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection (BHTP). This annual report, now in its ninth year, is a trusted resource for U.S. travelers seeking insights into travel safety and insurance trends.

The report's findings are a blend of survey responses from seasoned travelers and a myriad of third-party data. The latter evaluates key safety concerns, including the threat of terrorism, weather-related emergencies, health standards, and the security of underrepresented groups. This comprehensive approach provides a well-rounded perspective on what makes a destination safe.

Key Highlights of the Report

• Safest Countries: Canada's rise to the top of the list is a notable change from previous years, overtaking last year's leaders - the Netherlands, Denmark, and Iceland - which still hold strong positions in the top 10. This shift underscores the evolving landscape of global travel safety.
• Safest Cities: In the urban safety category, Honolulu, Montreal, and Reykjavik steal the spotlight, topping the list of 15 safest cities. This category, too, reflects changes from the previous year, with Honolulu climbing up the ranks to secure the leading position.
• Geographical Diversity: The 2024 list stands out for its inclusion of Asian and South American countries, with Japan and Brazil marking their presence among the top 15 safest countries. This diversification points to a broader global emphasis on safety in travel destinations.

The methodology behind the rankings combines insights from the "State of Travel Insurance" survey, conducted annually since 2016 by Polymath Research + Marketing. The survey taps into thousands of consumer opinions on travel habits and expectations surrounding travel insurance. To create the lists, BHTP also integrates data from various authoritative sources like the U.S. State Department, The Economist, GeoSure Global, Vision of Humanity, Numbeo, and Global Finance magazine. These lists not only reflect current safety standards but also incorporate historical data, offering a comprehensive view of travel safety trends.

Implications for Travelers

For the regular business traveler, family vacationer, or the adventurous solo explorer, this report serves as a valuable guide for planning safe and enjoyable trips. It addresses key concerns like health and security, while also factoring in the needs of underrepresented travelers. As the travel landscape continues to evolve, insights from such reports become increasingly crucial in shaping travel choices and expectations.