Comparison of indicative characteristics

"Backpackers" and "Mass tourists"

Image 01 - Nature of backpacker

Image 02 - Nature of mass tourists

 

Characteristic	Backpackers	Mass Tourists
Age	Generally between 18-30 years old	Any age group, wide range.
Accommodation Used	Low Tariff. Hostels, Camping, Backpacker Hotels, Homes of friends and family.	High Tariff. Hotels etc., Self-Catering Apartments, All Inclusive Resorts.
Transport Used to get to Destination	Plane	Plane
Transport Used when in Destination	Public transport, e.g. local train and bus services	Private car, private coach.
Trip Duration	Longer than brief holiday, length varies greatly, from 1 month to 1 year	1-2 Weeks
Degree of Organization	Independently organized, flexible travel plan Most elements are not pre-booked, only outbound flight.	Packaged, organized by tour operator, inflexible. Components of holiday product are pre-booked at home.
Holiday Activities	Emphasis on informal and Participatory holiday activities.	Participate in wide range of activities. Day trips organized by tour operator. Sightseeing.
Expenditure	Limited, travels on a budget.	Comparatively large amount of money to spend.