Nationality and low-cost trip duration. A microeconometric analysis

This study examines the determinants of trip duration of international tourism using low-cost carrier services from the UK, Germany, France and Italy; top tourist emitting countries in the EU. Data is from a survey conducted for one of the largest low-cost carriers tourist markets; the Girona–Catalonia region in Spain. A model of traveller/tourist demand is estimated using an econometric duration model. It is found that that while there are some common effects for associated with the four nationalities of tourist, some differences exist relating to such things as age or education.

Research highlights► Looking at low-cost carrier services from the UK, Germany, France and Italy to Spain it is found that longer trip duration take place in the summer when most tourists have more time to travel. ► The exact purpose of a trip – holidays, visits to family and friends, culture and shopping – are not generally significant factors influencing trip duration. ► Urban destinations generally generate shorter stays compared to “sun and sand” destinations.