Factors Influencing Tourists’ Intention to Use Cryptocurrencies

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

Tourism studies Department, Faculty of Tourism and Hotels, University of Sadat City

Abstract

The increasing integration of digital innovations within the global tourism industry has highlighted cryptocurrencies as a promising mechanism for facilitating seamless and cross-border financial transactions. However, tourists’ adoption of these currencies remains relatively limited, primarily due to concerns related to awareness, trust, and perceived complexity. This study aims to examine the psychological and cognitive determinants that influence tourists’ behavioral intention to utilize cryptocurrencies in tourism-related transactions.
Grounded in the theories of innovation diffusion and behavioral intention, the study specifically investigates the impact of awareness, trust, and attitudes on tourists’ intention to adopt cryptocurrencies. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire administered to a sample of 387 tourists of diverse nationalities, with all constructs measured using validated and reliable scales.
The results indicate that awareness, trust, and attitudes exert a significant and positive influence on behavioral intention, highlighting the critical role of educational programs, awareness campaigns, and digital literacy initiatives in promoting the adoption of cryptocurrencies. These findings offer practical insights for tourism policymakers and digital payment service providers seeking to encourage broader cryptocurrency adoption in the tourism sector.

Keywords