Traveling abroad with your family can be exciting and magical. Helping you bond through new experiences, cultures and adventures, vacationing with your loved ones paves the way for cherished memories that you’ll never forget.
But while there’s a vast world out there waiting to be explored, it’s important to seek out destinations that are safe and accommodating for families. But how can you know the safest countries to visit with family?
Fear not – we’ve compiled a list of some of the safest places to travel with family. Using reputable data such as up-to-date crime rates, official travel advisories and the personal experiences of well-traveled families, here are our top 7 safest places to travel with family in 2024.
Singapore
With a Level 1 caution from The United States government (exercise normal precautions), Singapore consistently ranks at the top of the list as one of the safest places to travel with family due to its low crime rates, stable political climate and suitability for families. With violent crime and theft being considered rare, family vacations are an absolute must in this sunny country.
A place that’s known to cater to families and children, there’s plenty of fun to be had with the entire family in places like the Singapore Botanic Gardens, Children’s Museum, Singapore Zoo and Gardens by the Bay. Rich in culture, cuisine and style, this ultra-modern destination makes travelling with kids easier than ever before.
Why We Love It
With a welcoming climate all year round and an abundance of modern infrastructure and family-friendly spaces, Singapore is the ultimate destination for families. Known for being incredibly safe with the same amenities you enjoy at home, you still get to enjoy the wonders of Asian culture without having to compromise your family’s safety.
Why It’s Safe
With a crime rate of 12.72%, this pales in comparison to countries such as the United States which has a crime rate of 55.84%. With strict law enforcement, strong community values and an abundance of CCTV, locals enjoy a high standard of living in this sought-after destination and welcome tourists and families with open arms.
Portugal
Known for its breathtaking scenery, delectable cuisine and laid-back approach to life, Portugal continues to attract families looking to relax and unwind – especially in the summer! Whether you’re looking to spend all day lounging at the beach or want to explore the wonders of the city, there’s lots of fun to be had in this family-friendly destination.
As beautiful as it is fun, The Algarve remains a firm favorite with families for its countless experiences and crystal clear beaches. But if lounging by the beach isn’t your vibe, you can also opt for a fun city break with the wonders of Lisbon. Known for its low crime rate and family-friendly attractions, Portugal makes for a magical break with families as long as you remain aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings.
Why We Love It
There’s nothing better than a sun-soaked destination that caters to families. Welcomed in restaurants, supermarkets, attractions and more, you’ll never have to worry about negative looks from locals with your littles in tow. Portugal considers children to be part of the equation – in fact, you regularly see children out with their families well into the night enjoying themselves and having fun.
Why It’s Safe
There’s a reason why families continue to return to Portugal – it’s fun, safe and packed with countless water parks, parks and more for the whole family. And while it has a Level 1 caution from The United States government, Portugal is generally considered safe for families as long as you keep an eye on your personal items and keep your wits about you.
Copenhagen
Often referred to as the “happiest city in the world”, the charm of Copenhagen makes for a wonderful holiday for adventurous families. Designed specifically to meet the needs of parents and children, this exciting destination is packed with fun attractions, countless playgrounds and delicious eats.
Even better, Copenhagen has been reported as the world’s safest city. Families can rest easy knowing their fun-filled holiday won’t be spoiled by crime.
Why We Love It
Copenhagen couldn’t be more accommodating for families (read our Mom’s Guide to Copenhagen here). Instead of lugging around baby equipment during your travels, Copenhagen has a system where parents can rent children’s items directly in the city. All public transportation has reserved areas for strollers and you’ll find that restaurants welcome families with open arms. In fact, you may spot a few sleeping bubs left in their strollers outside of cafes and supermarkets – a common practice in this ultra kid-friendly location.
Why It’s Safe
While crime remains low in Copenhagen, it’s recommended to keep an eye on your personal belongings in crowded spaces – especially train stations. But as the safest city in the world, you can look forward to lots of cherished memories with your loved ones.
Norway
With spectacular scenery, friendly locals and many exciting excursions available for parents and kiddos, Norway is a dream holiday for families looking for fun. Whether you’re looking to go crabbing at the beach or want to say hello to the animals at a welcoming farm, there’s no shortage of memorable things to do in this family-friendly destination.
Known for being one of the safest places to vacation for families in Europe, Norway enjoys a low level of crime. With excellent security systems in place, families can rest easy knowing their long-awaited holiday won’t be tainted by bad vibes or people.
Why We Love It
There are lots of thrilling activities available for the entire family in Norway, as well as the famous Northern Lights. Revered for its landscapes, this breathtaking country is popular with families who value the beauty of the great outdoors.
Why It’s Safe
Violent crime is uncommon in Norway. As long as you take extra care in crowded tourist areas, your family will have a ball in this awe-inspiring destination.
Switzerland
You’d be hard-pressed to find a destination as beautiful as Switzerland. Famous for its jaw-dropping alpine scenery, delicious chocolate and picturesque villages, this welcoming country has plenty of excitement to keep kids of all ages happy.
Ranked as the safest spot in Europe, in certain areas of the country, children walk to school without parents from age 6. Families can embark on exciting activity trails, get active at rope climbing parks and even enjoy refreshing dips in many of the alpine lakes!
Why We Love It
Whether you’re planning a cozy, snow-filled trip to the Swiss Alps or want to explore the exciting cities of Geneva and Zurich, there’s something for everyone in Switzerland. Allowing you to explore the best of both worlds, Switzerland has fantastic infrastructure making for a stress-free family vacation.
Why It’s Safe
Revered for being safe and secure, Switzerland enjoys a high standard of living, making violent crime uncommon. But while you can expect to make lots of fun memories in this magical destination, you should still keep your wits about you – especially in crowded tourist areas. Leave the expensive jewellery at home and ensure that all valuable items are safely stored at your rental property.
Iceland
Filled with a diverse landscape that includes beautiful waterfalls, glaciers, beaches and more, Iceland is a small and friendly country that caters to both adults and children.
Packed with thrilling sightseeing activities, Iceland has one of the lowest crime rates in the world. Ideal for adventure-loving families, this stunning destination won’t disappoint loved ones looking to bond.
Why We Love It
Safe, beautiful and filled with exciting experiences for kiddos such as spotting local wildlife, exploring Thingvellier National Park and playing in the magical Blue Lagoon, Iceland is a safe haven away from the hustle and bustle of the outside world where you can relax and unwind.
Why It’s Safe
While Iceland has a low crime rate, it’s still recommended to practice common sense and ensure that no valuables are left in parked vehicles, even when locked. Leave flashy jewellery at home and ensure you have suitable travel insurance ahead of your vacation to account for your many exciting activities.
Hong Kong
Renowned for its culturally enriching experiences, beautiful skylines and family-friendly activities, Hong Kong is a great destination for a family vacation. With Hong Kong Disneyland, historic ferries and lots of engaging museums, there’s no shortage of fun to be had in this safe and welcoming destination.
Whether you like to go with the flow or plan your activities out months in advance, Hong Kong caters to all kinds of families.
Why We Love It
There are countless activities available for children in Hong Kong. With restaurants, public transportation and locals catering to children and families, you’ll feel right at home getting out and about with your kiddos in this beautiful destination.
Why It’s Safe
Hong Kong is one of the safest places to vacation to travel with family. While violent crime is low, you should take care in crowded areas as pickpocketing can happen.
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Tips For Safe Family Travel
Traveling to exciting locations with your family doesn’t need to be stressful. Here are some of our top tips for staying safe when traveling internationally with kids:
- Tip 1 – Dress your children in noticeable clothing: Whether you’re going swimming in the ocean or exploring tourist hot spots, noticeable clothing can help you spot your children with ease.
- Tip 2 – Leave flashy items at home: While you may be tempted to show off your latest designer goods, this can turn you into a target when it comes to pickpocketing. Stay safe and avoid drawing unnecessary attention to you and your family.
- Tip 3 – Create a separation plan: One of the best ways to keep your children safe abroad is to create a separation plan at crowded destinations. Have a conversation with your children on where to go if you get separated. Choose a memorable spot that will be easy to remember for everyone.
- Tip 4 – Research your destination: It’s important to be clued up about the destination you’re travelling to ahead of your holidays. Look into crime rates, theft hot spots and places to avoid.
- Tip 5 – Trust your gut: Travelling with your family is a great way to expose your children to different cultures, experiences and languages. But if something feels off, trust your gut. Remember that nothing is as important as your family’s safety.
Prioritize Safety (and Fun!) With Kid & Coe
From playing by the ocean to exploring the sights of the city to hiking glorious landscapes, there are so many exciting memories waiting to be had in this big, beautiful world of ours. Traveling isn’t only great for bonding with kids, it expands our children’s world, helping shape their natural curiosity and imagination.
Exploring the world with your family shouldn’t be intimidating. As long as you seek out safe family vacation destinations, book reputable accommodation suitable for kiddos and research your journey’s end ahead of time, you’ll be on your way to making magical memories you and your family will never forget. Find out more about our recommended family destinations and book child-friendly vacation homes at Kid & Coe.