Exploring the Activity-Travel Patterns of Multi-Purpose Commuters on Workdays Based on Activity Chains and Time Allocation: Evidence from Kunming, China

Abstract

Understanding activity-travel patterns and their determinants with regard to multi-purpose commuters is essential for enhancing commuting efficiency and ensuring equal participation in activities. This study applies sequence analysis and hierarchical clustering to identify distinct activity-travel patterns of Kunming commuters using 2016 Household Travel Survey data. Subsequently, a multinomial logistic regression model (MNL) examines the factors influencing these patterns. The results reveal significant heterogeneity across four activity-travel patterns: the fixed commuter pattern (FCP), characterized by pronounced morning and evening peaks with minimal non-commuting activities; the balanced commuter pattern (BCP), where commuters participate in non-commuting activities after afternoon work; the restricted commuter pattern (RCP), with non-commuting activities occurring after midday work; and the flexible commuter pattern (FLCP), featuring a late-start work pattern where some commuters go to work after 5 pm. Additionally, the study finds that female commuters and those with longer commuting and working hours tend to have simpler time allocation. Conversely, male commuters, those from complex family structures, car-owning households, and residents in areas with abundant activity opportunities actively engage in non-commuting activities. These findings can help policymakers optimize travel services and develop heterogeneous commuting and transportation policies.