Gender Differences in Vacation Behavior

Abstract

This study directs attention to the gender aspects of the vacation. In tourism, gender differences are evident in that male and female consumption differ in various phases of a vacation. This study intends to shed light on gender intricacies as it relates to nature-based vacations. Based on a quantitative survey, the vacation experience is measured in the dimensions of tourism motivation, evaluation of attributes, and activity involvement. A survey questionnaire was handed out among tourists in northern Norway, resulting in a sample size of 867 respondents. The study findings show a clear disparity between genders in the dimensions measured. Women placed higher importance on vacation motivations relating to mental relaxation, escape, physical activity. and learning about places and cultures. Women also value the tourism company attributes of price, products, and hygiene higher than men do. In terms of destination attributes, women value restaurant options, price level at destination, and climate higher than men do. The results also reveal that women are more prone to participate in activities that are culturally oriented, as well as hiking, and men take more interest in fishing and boating. The study thus raises awareness of how gender dissimilarities in tourism consumption might contribute to the knowledge of how women and men differ in their preferences when being on vacation.