Is "bet" necessary in here?
Native speaker’s answer
Rebecca
The term "safe bet" is actually a phrase that refers to something in which confidence can be placed regarding a future outcome. Without "bet" it lacks the nuance of risk. Because even when something is a "safe bet" there is still a risk it may not go the way you want it to. Ex: It’s a safe bet that the others won’t make the same mistake. Ex: Spain is a safe bet for good weather at this time of year.