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Are you traveling alone or with your device? The impact of connected mobile device usage on the travel experience

Alinda Kokkinou (Avans School of International Studies, Avans University of Applied Sciences, Breda, The Netherlands)
Emma Tremiliti (Academy for Tourism, Breda University of Applied Sciences, Breda, The Netherlands)
Marc van Iwaarden (Academy for Tourism, Breda University of Applied Sciences, Breda, The Netherlands)
Ondrej Mitas (Academy for Tourism, Breda University of Applied Sciences, Breda, The Netherlands)
Sebastiaan Straatman (Academy for Tourism, Breda University of Applied Sciences, Breda, The Netherlands)

Journal of Hospitality and Tourism Insights

ISSN: 2514-9792

Article publication date: 24 December 2020

Issue publication date: 21 January 2022

474

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to explore how tourists use connected mobile devices such as smartphones to manage their tourist experience.

Design/methodology/approach

A multi-method, cross-sectional approach was used consisting of questionnaires about tourists self-reported use of connected mobile devices and recorded observations of tourists' interaction with their devices.

Findings

Respondents who reported a more intense use of their connected mobile devices also reported a heightened tourist experience. Specifically, high users reported more intense emotions and expressed the belief that using their device improved the quality of their vacation. More extensive use of connected mobile devices was also linked to the perception that waits for attractions and restaurants were shorter.

Research limitations/implications

While the data and methods employed do not allow for testing of causality, the field research approach provides the benefit of high ecological validity, complementing previous studies on this topic.

Practical implications

Commercial service providers should explore ways to stimulate the use of devices, for instance by offering information about the attraction, or by providing an attractive setting for tourists taking photos. This contributes to shorter time perception and improved visitor evaluations.

Originality/value

Tourists' use of connected mobile devices to manage their tourist experience varies in terms of quality and intensity. Findings show that travelers know how to use their smartphones in a way that best suit their information and social needs.

Keywords

Citation

Kokkinou, A., Tremiliti, E., Iwaarden, M.v., Mitas, O. and Straatman, S. (2022), "Are you traveling alone or with your device? The impact of connected mobile device usage on the travel experience", Journal of Hospitality and Tourism Insights, Vol. 5 No. 1, pp. 45-61. https://doi.org/10.1108/JHTI-04-2020-0058

Publisher

:

Emerald Publishing Limited

Copyright © 2020, Emerald Publishing Limited

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