What is the closest safe haven you can get to with a tank of gasoline from Budapest in case World War III broke out?
Armed conflicts are becoming more frequent around the world, and the threat of world war is increasingly unsettling many, especially given the proximity of Ukraine and the escalation of tensions in the Middle East. But where could one go if war were to erupt nearby? We highlight three countries that offer not only safety but strategic advantages, and can be reached by car on a single tank of gas.
How to choose a safe haven?
First and foremost, accessibility is key. A remote island in the middle of the ocean might seem secure, but if it’s nearly unreachable, it’s not a practical option. Mountainous terrain, valley regions, and coastal areas can all offer strategic benefits: whether it’s easier concealment, access to resources, or escape routes. Low crime rates, political stability, and a country’s distance from major global tensions are also important factors.
While Hungary is considered quite safe according to peace indices, many yearn for a retreat where nature itself provides protection. In the face of a world war threat, not just statistics, but geographic isolation may turn out to be the deciding factor.
Slovenia: Sheltered by the mountains
If you’re looking to avoid travelling to the ends of the earth, Slovenia could be the most realistic escape route near Hungary’s borders. This small Central European nation not only enjoys peace and prosperity, but also boasts natural features that make it an ideal refuge in case of global conflict. The deep valleys of the Julian Alps, dense forests, and secluded villages offer natural hideouts, even for those travelling by RV.
For those shifting into survival mode, clean drinking water, firewood, and even small-scale farming opportunities can be relatively easy to find here. The country is small but well-organised, with few major cities that would be likely bombing targets. Additionally, locals are known for their connection to nature and laid-back lifestyle, so a wandering Hungarian survivor might even find help on an alpine farm.
Slovenia holds minimal strategic importance, meaning it would likely remain off the radar of global superpowers in the event of a world war. Best of all, it’s within a tank of gas from Hungary: no need for a plane ticket, passport, or a big budget. With a well-equipped RV, even a small valley below the Triglav could become a sanctuary. In short, the Slovenian countryside is wild enough to hide you, yet civilised enough to help you survive.
Head for the coast
If the mountains aren’t your refuge of choice, Croatia may offer the perfect coastal shelter from the ravages of world war. Best known as a tourist hotspot, the country is actually full of remote, difficult-to-access villages and islands where it would be easy to retreat if the world really started falling apart.
The Dalmatian archipelago, depopulated fishing villages, steep shorelines, and dense pine forests provide excellent cover. If you have a vehicle—or you simply set out early—you could hunker down in a semi-abandoned harbour or the coastal woods for an extended period. While Croatia is a NATO member, it is not seen as a prime target and boasts strong infrastructure, offering a combination of natural shelter and modern amenities.
Transylvania: A refuge you can reach from the border
Romania is rarely considered a potential haven in times of world war, yet parts of Transylvania are ideally suited for hiding and self-sufficiency. The remote villages of Szeklerland, the Apuseni Mountains and the area around Retezat are not just breathtaking, but also sparsely populated and rich in natural resources: springs, forests, and small farms.
Although Romania is a NATO country, the central and southern regions of Transylvania face lower geopolitical risk and are easy to reach from Hungary, especially when travelling east or south, even on a single tank of gas.
Of course, in the event of a world war, sanctuary may be found in more than just the highlighted countries. According to the Global Peace Index, a number of nations have consistently ranked among the most peaceful in the world. Iceland, Ireland, Portugal, and Switzerland have been leading the pack for years, thanks to their isolation, political stability, and minimal military involvement. Austria and the Czech Republic are also attractive, not just for their geographic proximity, but for their stable political climates and orderly societies.
While these countries differ in geography and history, they share a commitment to peace, neutral or restrained foreign policies, and the kind of social calm that becomes most valuable in times of war.
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