Backpacking and risk perception: the case of solo Asian women

This study provides a holistic Asian viewpoint of the perceptions of risk and worry encountered by solo women Asian backpackers. Qualitative semi-structured interviews were conducted with 19 backpackers. The research followed content analysis to interpret the results. Two groups of backpackers were identified who faced quite different risk-related issues. One group chose to travel alone on their own volition, while the second group travelled alone due to circumstances, typified by a lack of travel partners. Members of both groups identified physical risks, especially related to sexual dimorphism associated with being Asian women. However, members of the second group were more likely to identify with social/psychological and satisfaction risks.