Do Demographic Traits Matter? Backpackers’ Information Technology and Destination-Related Risk Concerns Towards Smartphone Usage

A number of risks are associated with the use of mobile phones. However, there is still a paucity of evidence on the extent to which demographics influence risk perceptions of smartphone usage. This paper examines backpackers’ perceived risk of smartphone usage and the extent to which demographic attributes influence risk perceptions. A survey involving 567 backpackers was conducted in Ghana. The CFA, ANOVA and independent samples t-test were used to analyse the data. The study showed the relevance of coalescing information technology and destination risks factors in measuring perceived risks towards smartphone usage before assessing the effects of demographics on perceived risk. Importantly, backpackers’ risk perceptions are a function of their demographic traits, such as sex, age, education, income, occupation, continent of origin and travel experience. The theoretical and managerial implications of the study are discussed.