Exploring travel patterns and motivations of people with disabilities (PwD) in health and active tourism: a Hungarian perspective

Purpose The objective of this research is to investigate the travel patterns, motivations and choices of people with disabilities (PwD) in Hungary, with a particular emphasis on engaging in active and health-related tourism. The study's aim is to determine the degree to which goals related to health and physical activity impact the related individuals’ travel behaviour. Design/methodology/approach In fall 2023, a questionnaire survey was carried out in Hungary, specifically targeting PwD (n = 320). The survey, accessible via both online and in-person methods, gathered data on the frequency of travel, reasons for travelling and demographic characteristics. The data were analysed using descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests, with a specific emphasis on identifying the travel habits of PwD in health and active (cycling, hiking, walking, etc.) tourism. Findings The research indicates that PwD in Hungary commonly engage in domestic travel, but their foreign travel is restricted. The primary incentives for travel are nature visits and sightseeing, whereas health and wellness tourism, while notable, is less widespread. The findings suggest that older persons with disabilities are primarily driven by health-related travel, whereas younger individuals exhibit a higher level of enthusiasm for extreme sports and nature excursions. The results further emphasize the beneficial influence of tourism on the quality of life and subjective well-being of PwD, affirming the idea that inclusive tourist services might augment their overall quality of life. Research limitations/implications The study’s limitations include a comparatively limited sample size (the sample is not representative, but the number of respondents can be considered high due to the very specific social segment), possible biases in responses and a concentration on locomotory disability, which might restrict the applicability of the results. Subsequent investigations should prioritize the inclusion of bigger and more varied participant pools, include numerous nations and investigate the impact of new technology on improving travel accessibility for different disability populations. Originality/value This study offers useful insights into the relatively unexplored domain of travel behaviours and motives of PwD, specifically in the context of active and health tourism. It enhances comprehension of inclusive tourism and emphasizes the significance of accessible tourist services in enhancing the quality of life for PwD.