Backpackers in Australia:

Abstract

The term backpacker is widely used in Australia to describe young budget travelers on extended holiday. However, little in-depth research has been conducted on this segment of travelers, with a resulting lack of understanding of their key characteristics and motives. The results of this nationwide study of 690 backpackers reveals that they are primarily motivated by the need for excitement/adventure and meeting local people. Factor analysis was used to examine their motives with respect to PearceÆs Travel Career Ladder, and cluster analysis revealed that not all backpacker respondents had the same motive profile. Four motive-based clusters were found; Escapers/Relaxers, Social/Excitement-Seekers, Self-Developers and Achievers. Nationality was the most pronounced difference across segments. They also differed in terms of expenditure patterns, accommodation and activity structure preferences, and destinations visited.