Drive Tourism: Cars, Motorcycles and RVs

Drive tourism is coined interchangeably for self-drive car tourism as well. Indeed, drive tourism is dominated by automobile/car drive tourism. Earlier, Prideaux (2001) noted that the drive tourists travel from the origin point to the destination by car, which can be either owned or rented. Although due to the rising environmental concerns, there are reservations against the promotion of car drive tourism, it is still increasing tremendously. Weston and Davies (2007) noted that in many Western tourist destinations, private car use might dominate despite regulations to limit private automobile use in destinations. The comfort of a car as an independent vehicle, the desire for self-driving, and the mobility freedom enjoyed in multi-destination visits are the prime reasons for drive car tourism. By using cars, independent tourists get the sense of individual achievements since such tourists are empowered with the opportunity to gain feelings of intimacy, escapism, freedom, anonymity, and solitude (Butler & Hannam, 2012). The motivation of escapism can be seen in drive tourism significantly. Ideally, cars allow them to avoid the monotony they undergo in the usual place of work and residence. The intimacy is generated due to the desire to drive and experience the scenery/view along the route, and by involving in touristic activities in the destination.