Outdoor tourism : understanding the motivations behind backpacking amongst young adults in Malta

Abstract

This study aims to identify the main motivations amongst young adult flash/backpackers in Malta. The backpacker market has seen a steady increase in recent years due to the increased accessibility of travel. While backpacking in Malta is not given much importance, the primary driver of this research study is to gain an understanding of what young adults in Malta expect out of their backpacking trip abroad. The age group of 18-35 was selected as that seems to be the most popular age bracket for backpacking. This study endeavours to make a contribution to the current literature through exploring a particular culture sharing group. It may also serve as a guide for those who are currently engaged in the backpacker market in Malta for the development of their products. Primary data indicates that the motivations for young Maltese adults do not differ greatly from their foreign counterparts in current literature. However, it was found that the back/flash-packer motivations of Maltese locals are very context dependent and that motivations link to one another. Technology, similarly to abroad, is also playing a large role in influencing the local backpack culture and has helped the development of the flashpacker market. A majority of backpackers today often rely on technology during their travels. While facets of backpacking have become commercialised, backpacking still is not for everyone and a significant difference exist between backpackers and mass tourists.