New Zealand tops list of safe holiday destinations for 2026

New research from AllClear Travel Insurance suggests UK holidaymakers remain resilient in their overseas travel plans despite ongoing conflict in the Middle East, although safety is now a growing priority.

According to a survey of 2,000 UK adults, 80% plan to travel abroad in 2026, unchanged from January. The data indicates that geopolitical tensions have not led to widespread cancellations or delays, with travel intentions for peak months also holding steady. Around 17% plan to travel in April, rising to 19% in May and peaking at 22% in August.

However, destination preferences are shifting. A majority (92%) of respondents could identify destinations they regarded as safe, with New Zealand, Ireland, and Switzerland considered the safest. Canada, Spain, Iceland, and Italy also featured strongly in the safe destinations list. In contrast, Mediterranean destinations such as Cyprus (3%) and Malta (7%), alongside Turkey (7%), were among the lowest in the list following regional security concerns.

Domestic travel is also seen as a safe alternative, with 21% of respondents identifying Scotland and Wales as suitable family holiday options.

The research highlights a notable shift in booking priorities. The importance of price has dropped from 56% to 41% year on year, while safety has increased from 25% to 36%. Convenience has also declined from 41% to 33%.

The government of New Zealand recently announced the rollout of artificial intelligence (AI) scribe tools across the country’s national health system.