Travel Safety Trends and Statistics for 2026: Air Remains the Safest Way To Travel

Travel safety trends in 2026 show that while travel remains statistically safe, the factors influencing traveler safety have grown more complex. As trips become more digitally connected and shaped by world events, safety now involves digital hygiene, climate awareness, and geopolitical savvy supported by thoughtful planning and preparation.

As an established travel assistance membership plan, Emergency Assistance Plus® (EA+®) has extensive experience supporting travelers during unforeseen medical emergencies. 

We spoke with Bryanna Moore, Senior Product Manager, Dr. Michelle Nathan, MD FAAEM, Chief Medical Officer, and Johanna Hartnett, Global Security Services Manager, who are key experts in travel safety at EA+ to gain insights on the trends that impacted travelers in 2024 and what’s on the horizon for 2025.

Key Trends

• • Air travel safety statistics had a 2024 accident rate of 1.13 per million flights, lower than other transport modes, despite a slight rise from 2023.

• • 36% of travelers purchase travel protection for potential medical needs.

• • Claims for travel assistance protection increased from January to March 2024.

• • Technological advancements, including AI translation, real-time tracking, and safety alerts, are transforming travel by increasing safety and control for travelers.

• • The safest places to travel in 2025 are Iceland, Japan, New Zealand, Portugal, and Canada.

1. Despite rising concerns, air travel remains the safest way to travel

Although late 2024 and early 2025 saw increased media coverage of airplane accidents, air travel remains the safest mode of transportation compared to road, rail, and maritime travel, such as cruising.

In 2024, the global aviation accident rate was 1.13 per million flights (one accident per approximately 880,000 flights). This is an improvement over the five-year average of 1.25 but a slight increase from the 1.09 recorded in 2023. This increase may be linked to continued growth in global air travel, with passenger demand rising 6.6% year over year in late 2025. 

Media attention has also followed a rise in drone sightings near airports worldwide in 2025, which led to temporary runway closures, delays, and heightened safety protocols, even though these incidents rarely resulted in accidents.

This data underscores the relative safety of air travel, but traveler concern remains a factor, as Senior Product Manager Bryanna Moore states:

“Travelers are increasingly researching airline safety records before booking flights, and more people are purchasing coverage that includes emergency evacuation and flight cancellation.”

For peace of mind regarding medical emergencies and emergency evacuation, look into travel assistance plans to address costs, or if you’re worried about flight disruptions, look into flight insurance.

Compare plans

2. Americans report growing confidence in solo travel

With a current value of $482 billion in 2024, the solo travel industry is experiencing significant growth, projected at a 14% CAGR between 2025 and 2030. Notably, women are a key demographic in this market, accounting for 54% of solo travelers. 

This strong female presence in the solo travel market is further reflected in traveler sentiment, with 59% of female solo travelers feeling safe traveling alone, possibly due to access to safety resources, growing empowerment, and better travel planning.

Outside of solo travel, the rise of female-friendly accommodations, tour groups, and trends like van life offer control and independence, which adds to this sense of security. However, maintaining situational awareness is crucial, especially when driving alone. Particularly in snowy conditions, travelers should actively seek and apply winter driving tips to stay safe.

While solo travel demonstrates a positive perception of safety, it’s important to acknowledge broader trends in traveler risk mitigation. Moving into 2026, feeling safe while traveling increasingly reflects confidence in preparation and access to information, rather than a belief that risks no longer exist. As Moore states:

“Conflicts in the Middle East, Ukraine, and Taiwan have increased risks for travelers, prompting greater caution around geopolitical tensions, natural disasters, and even cyber threats that can disrupt travel plans.

As a resource, the U.S. Department of the Treasury offers a comprehensive list of sanctions programs and country information to help travelers stay informed if they are planning on traveling abroad.”

3. Interest in travel protection plans on the rise

“There’s growing interest in travel assistance and insurance plans, with more travelers purchasing [protection] that includes emergency evacuation, trip cancellation, and protection against disruptions or health risks,” says Moore.

Recent reporting on global travel disruptions indicates that traveler demand for trip protection increased in early 2025, with travel insurance quote requests up at least 32% year over year and purchases of more flexible protection options rising by more than 30%.

The rising interest in travel protection is reflected in EA+’s membership trends. From 2021 to 2024, membership in travel assistance programs grew overall. The steady growth over time reinforces travelers’ continued prioritization of protection amid escalating global health risks.

As concerns over travel disruptions and health risks grow, more travelers are securing protection for eventualities like flight cancellations or medical emergencies. This is reflected in current travel insurance statistics, including an NMSC report that indicated 36% of travel protection is for medical coverage. 

In 2024, 15 norovirus outbreaks on cruise ships led to 1,894 passengers and 245 crew members becoming sick. Similar gastrointestinal illness outbreaks continued to be reported into 2025, coinciding with a global rise in illness reports of influenza, RSV, and other infectious diseases. 

This broader trend has strained healthcare systems, a pattern reflected in our internal data. From January to March 2024, illness-related membership cases surged by 26%. 

Looking ahead, this issue of illness-related travel disruptions is likely to persist in 2026 and beyond, impacting how travelers prepare for trips and what they prioritize. As Dr. Michelle Nathan, MD FAAEM, Chief Medical Officer, states:

“Recent outbreaks—such as Mpox globally, measles in Europe and the U.S., and yellow fever in parts of the Americas—have heightened traveler awareness around health risks.

As a result, more travelers are engaging in pre-trip planning, asking about available medical care, medications, and health services at their destinations. It’s essential to research your destination for disease concerns, vaccination requirements, and local resources for medical care before you go.”

Travel assistance plays a useful role in supporting travelers affected by medical emergencies abroad, including hospitalization due to severe outbreaks like norovirus or general illnesses like traveler’s diarrhea. It helps protect against medical expenses, evacuation (if needed), and logistical support for managing cancellations or delays due to health issues.

Learn more

4. AI-powered tools are becoming more effective in emergency situations

Humetrix’s AI-powered app at the Paris 2024 Olympics demonstrated the effectiveness of AI language translation in emergency care. By translating patient data into 25 languages, the app ensured rapid communication, optimized resource use, and provided equitable medical assistance to attendees. 

This aligns with a JAMIA case study, which, while acknowledging AI translation technology’s ongoing development, highlights the potential to enhance face-to-face communication, improve care quality, and address health disparities. 

Both cases underscore the importance of utilizing resources that bridge language barriers to optimize patient care in diverse settings. Moving into 2026, AI-powered tools are being applied more broadly across emergency travel scenarios to support faster decision-making and coordination during disruptions. 

Beyond language translation, AI technology is being used to enhance travel safety through tools such as real-time location sharing, AI-assisted triage, and automated check-ins. These tools can also deliver safety alerts that help travelers and support teams respond more quickly when something goes wrong.
This use of technology could increase traveler control and security in 2026 and beyond, as Global Security Services Manager Johanna Hartnett states:

“Real-time communication capabilities allow travelers to immediately alert management in case of an emergency, while management can track their progress through the itinerary. This technology has significantly reduced risk landscapes and increased comfort for travelers in a variety of situations.

For example, it can assist a study-abroad student walking home alone in a new city or a caravan traveling through the SAHEL.”

5. Significant modernizations are coming to travel security

Negotiating airport and border security is becoming easier as automated systems reduce friction at checkpoints. In the U.S., biometric identity verification allows travelers to move through security using facial recognition. Internationally, more countries are adopting contactless border controls to reduce wait times and congestion.

As travel becomes more digitally driven, security increasingly extends beyond physical checkpoints. Travelers now rely heavily on mobile devices for identification, boarding passes, payments, and accommodations, making digital vigilance essential. At the same time, AI-powered scams and fraudulent booking platforms are becoming more sophisticated.

Public Wi-Fi networks and QR codes in busy hubs such as airports are increasingly exploited for targeted phishing and data theft. As travel systems become smarter, staying secure now depends on pairing seamless technology with proactive habits, including verifying digital communications and safeguarding devices while abroad.

6. Island nations and Nordic countries are the safest places to travel

As the global security landscape remains unpredictable, traveler perceptions of safety are shaped by stability, infrastructure reliability, and access to essential services. 

In 2026, travelers consistently find Canada, Japan, New Zealand, Portugal, and Iceland exceptionally safe due to top-notch healthcare, effective governance, and low crime rates. Recent aviation safety data also highlights them as safe places to travel.

These five countries also align with the “coolcation” trend as travelers increasingly favor destinations with milder summer climates amid rising global heat events. Insights from Virtuoso’s 2026 Luxe Report reinforce this shift, noting growing demand for destinations that offer climate comfort, stability, and a sense of ease.

This search for security is also influencing accommodation choices when traveling. As Moore states:

“Travelers are increasingly seeking destinations and travel advisors who can offer more personalized and safer travel experiences for their families. Safety concerns have led many families to prefer all-inclusive resorts, private vacation rentals, and other accommodations that offer more controlled environments.”

1. Iceland 

Iceland is a Nordic island country known for its dramatic landscapes, including volcanoes, geysers, hot springs, and lava fields. Reykjavik, the capital and primary gateway for visitors, is widely regarded as one of the safest cities in the world. Iceland consistently ranks as one of the safest countries due to its low crime rate, strong social welfare system, and culture of trust.

• Safety Index: 74%
• Global Peace Index: Ranked #1
• Life Satisfaction: 7.6/10

2. Japan

Japan is an East Asian island nation known for its blend of traditional culture and advanced technology. Tokyo, one of the world’s largest metropolitan areas, is also among its safest major cities, supported by efficient public transportation, low crime rates, and strong emergency preparedness.

• Safety Index: 77%
• Global Peace Index: Ranked #12
• Life Satisfaction: 6.1/10

3. New Zealand

New Zealand is a South Pacific island nation recognized for its mountains, lakes, and dramatic coastlines, as well as its outdoor-focused travel experiences. It is widely regarded as a safe destination for travelers. Nearby Australia, particularly Perth, is often considered alongside New Zealand for its geographic isolation, infrastructure, and safety standards.

• Safety Index: 52%
• Global Peace Index: Ranked #3
• Life Satisfaction: 7.3/10

4. Portugal

Portugal is a Southern European country celebrated for its rich history, vibrant culture, and picturesque coastal towns. It is also generally considered a very safe country for travelers.

• Safety Index: 68%
• Global Peace Index: Ranked #7
• Life Satisfaction: 5.8/10

5. Canada

Canada is a North American country known for its vast wilderness, diverse cities, and strong public services. Its political stability, healthcare system, and well-developed transportation infrastructure contribute to consistently high safety perceptions among travelers.

• Safety Index: 54%
• Global Peace Index: Ranked #14
• Life Satisfaction: 7/10

Additional High-Performing Safe Destinations

Several other countries also rank highly across global safety, peace, and quality-of-life measures. The table below highlights additional contenders frequently recognized for their stability and traveler-friendly environments.

Country	Safety Index	Global Peace Index	Life Satisfaction
Singapore	74%	Ranked #6	6.6/10
Denmark	77%	Ranked #8	7.5/10
Norway	72%	Ranked #32	7.3/10
Switzerland	75%	Ranked #5	7.2/10
Austria	71%	Ranked #4	7.1/10

Travel statistics 

The global travel industry has made a strong recovery since the impact of COVID-19. As tourism levels continue to rise, here are some key insights—some reflecting industry-wide trends, others specific to EA+, especially in areas like health and safety.

Travel safety statistics

• In 2024, travel emergencies were almost evenly split between illness and injury, with illness claims comprising 53% of the total and injury claims 47%. (EA+) 
• In 2024, 12% of EA+ cases involved fatalities during travel, requiring repatriation of the remains. (EA+) 
• Strokes and heart attacks, among other cardiovascular concerns, were the top medical events in 2024. (EA+) 
• The highest number of travel emergencies between 2023 and 2024 occurred in Florida, followed by Mexico, Arizona, California, and Italy. (EA+) 
• Emergency evacuations, particularly from Mexico and Europe to the U.S., remain some of the most expensive travel emergencies. (EA+) 
• Stomach bugs, colds and flu, and illnesses spread by bug bites continue to be among the most common health issues for people traveling internationally. (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)

Travel statistics by mode of transportation

• Air travel statistics show that commercial flying remains the safest way to travel long distances, with a fatality risk of 0.06 per passenger flight in 2024. (IATA)
• Road travel is the most dangerous mode of transportation worldwide, with an estimated 1.19 million global deaths each year from road traffic accidents. (World Health Organization)
• Bus travel remains one of the safest forms of road transportation, with bus occupants accounting for less than 1% of all traffic fatalities in 2024. (U.S. Bureau of Transportation Statistics)
• Rail travel has a low fatality rate. In the EU, rail-related deaths account for less than 1% of transport fatalities. (European Union Agency for Railways)
• Only about 10% of cruise ship medical visits require urgent care, and roughly 5% require evacuation; however, cardiovascular events, with just 3% of visits, account for 80% of deaths. (CDC)

Travel technology statistics

• Biometric screening is becoming standard at airports worldwide, with approximately 70% of airports incorporating biometric identity management in 2026. (SITA)
• Airport biometric services are a fast-growing global market, valued at over $113 billion in 2024 and projected to approach $200 billion by 2030, reflecting nearly 10% annual growth. (Research and Markets)
• Data security remains a key concern, with 50% of travelers worried about data protection. (IATA)
• Travelers are increasingly targeted by cyber-enabled fraud. Phishing accounted for over 34% of all cybercrime complaints in 2024, with attacks via travel bookings and public Wi-Fi use common. (FBI)
• Cybersecurity has become a critical travel safety priority, with 66% of airlines and airports ranking cybersecurity as a top concern. (SITA)
• AI-powered language translation is rapidly expanding, growing from $2.34 billion in 2024 to $2.94 billion in 2025, with applications that include real-time communication during medical emergencies and travel disruptions. (The Business Research Company)

Travel industry statistics

• Travel and tourism contributed 10% to the global economy in 2024. (World Travel & Tourism Council) 
• With over 7.5 million domestic flights in 2024, the U.S. remains one of the busiest domestic air travel markets in the world. (U.S. Department of Transportation)
• In 2024, U.S. travelers spent $1.3 trillion, generating $2.9 trillion in economic output and supporting more than 15 million jobs nationwide. (U.S. Travel Association)
• France is the country with the highest number of inbound travelers, welcoming over 100 million travelers. (Statista)  
• In 2024, the average length of leisure trips increased by one day compared to March 2020. (Mastercard Economics Institute)
• 70% of snowbirds begin their seasonal travel lifestyle before age 60, reflecting how longer stays and remote work are shaping extended travel patterns. (EA+)

Experience the future of safe travel with EA+

The travel industry is ever-evolving, with travel safety trends frequently changing. To lower accident risks and ensure a safe journey, travelers of all ages, including senior travelers, need to stay informed about their plans before and during their trip. 

EA+ is a proactive annual travel assistance membership designed to assist you in a medical emergency. With safety risks varying by destination, having a reliable protection partner is essential for peace of mind, helping you feel safe no matter where you travel.

Enroll today

Methodology

First-party data is collected from EA+ member cases, specifically focusing on date, type of incident, location of occurrence, transport details, and associated costs. This data is used to identify and support data trends related to accident, injury, death and other incident patterns, with a strong emphasis on maintaining client data privacy. 

Costs represent the service-related expenses incurred during an incident, distinct from the annual membership fee, which includes access to those services when an incident occurs.

To determine the safest travel destinations, we analyzed crime rates, Global Peace Index ratings, and life satisfaction across numerous countries using data from the Global Peace Index, Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), and World Population Review. Countries were compared based on these factors, with each metric contributing to an overall understanding of safety for travel.

Travel safety trends FAQ

What are the travel advisory safety levels?

The four-tier U.S. travel advisory system helps travelers evaluate risks before visiting a country. Issued by the U.S. Department of State, these advisories assess safety concerns such as crime, terrorism, civil unrest, health risks, and natural disasters. They also identify the most dangerous countries to visit, guiding informed travel decisions.

The levels include:

• Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions
• Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution
• Level 3: Reconsider Travel
• Level 4: Do Not Travel

What is the safest way to travel around the world? 

The safest ways to travel around the world are commercial flights and train travel. Both have low accident rates and strict safety protocols.

What is safer, a train or a plane?  

Air travel is statistically the safest mode of transportation, with an exceptionally low accident rate per mile. This is largely attributed to rigorous safety standards, advancing technology, and extensive pilot training.

What is the safest place to travel alone?

The safest places to go as a solo traveler are Iceland, closely followed by Japan and New Zealand, all known for their low crime rates, friendly locals, and safe environments.

How is AI being used to improve traveler safety and alerts?

AI helps improve traveler safety by delivering faster alerts based on real-time conditions. AI-powered systems analyze data such as weather events, transportation disruptions, health advisories, and security updates to notify travelers when risks change. These tools are used to provide:

• Real-time safety and disruption alerts
• Automated check-ins during high-risk events
• Faster emergency coordination and support

How are geopolitical conflicts affecting travel safety in 2026?

Geopolitical conflicts primarily affect travel safety through logistical disruptions rather than direct threats to travelers. Ongoing tensions in regions such as Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and parts of Asia have led to airspace closures, flight rerouting, shifting visa rules, and short-notice advisories. 

For most travelers, the key impact is increased uncertainty, making it important to monitor official guidance, remain flexible with plans, and prepare for potential delays or changes.