Frequently Asked Questions
From questions on luggage allowance to packing essentials, our FAQs are here to help
Holding on to a burning list of questions? This page is here to help you with all the nitty-gritty Topdeck details. Everything you need to know is below. And if you’re still left with questions, contact our Customer Service team here. They are travel know-alls and full of amazing tips. You can thank us later.
The need-to-knows
On each trip itinerary, you'll find 'Your Inclusions' that gives you the low-down on exactly what's included in your trip each day. All our trips include transport, accommodation, some meals, tips (apart from Morocco and sailing trips – see individual trip pages for details), some incredible included experiences and your in-the-know Topdeck team. Your Inclusions vary with each trip though, so be sure to check out your trip page for more details.
Spending money, visas, personal travel insurance, medical fees, flights (unless specified), transfers (apart from Egypt and Morocco), departure taxes and any meals not mentioned on the trip page. Excursions and entrance fees are also not included – unless specified in the ‘Your Inclusions’ section of your trip page.
We’ve scoured the globe for the best things to do in your free time – and they're listed under ‘Your Options’ in each trip itinerary. These aren’t included in your trip price but are highly recommended as something to budget for. They really are that good.
International flights to and from the destination your trip starts and ends are not included and must be purchased separately.
If your Topdeck trip has flights between destinations, these are always included. Any regional flights will be listed under the ‘Your Inclusions’ in your trip itinerary and featured as a plane icon on your trip map.
Relax – we’ve made sure you’ve got the equivalent of one whole day to explore in each key city you’ll be visiting. And if you need some help deciding what to do with all that free time, we’ve got the inside scoop.
Throughout your trip we’ve organised a variety of ‘Your Options’ that we know you’ll love. You can find them on your trip itinerary – along with approximate prices to help you budget. Prices are listed in their local currency, so we recommend you allow for a little more due to changing conversion rates. Some of these activities can be pre-paid via the Topdeck Travel app. Those that can't, can be booked through your on-hand Trip Leader who can arrange a time to head to the ATM for cash. And like the name suggests, they’re entirely optional – so you can pick and choose whether you want to jump on board or do your own, spontaneous escapades.
2025-26 trips
Group sizes vary depending on the trip style:
- Get Social: averages around 30 travellers (max 48)
- Play & Pause: averages around 20 travellers (max 28
- Sail & Swim: averages around 15 travellers (max 18)
Want to know exactly how many travel buddies you’ll have on your trip? Our Customer Service team can fill you in via live chat or phone.
2026-27 trips
From April 2026, all trips will have a maximum group size of 18. Think smaller groups and more time to bond with your fellow travellers, more flexibility on the road and a deeper dive into each destination. It’s all about keeping the adventure social, but making the experience feel even more personal.
All Topdeck travellers have things in common. They’re sociable, open-minded, and aged between 18 and 32 (18 to 39 for trips up until 1 April 2026). But they’re a mixed bunch, with different interests and travel goals.
Not at all! Over 50% of our travellers start the trip solo and finish the trip with friends for life.
If you’d prefer to ride solo at night, chat to our Customer Service team to see which trip suits you best.
From trains to minicoaches, ferries and local buses, we get you safely from A to B – with zero hassle. Modes of transport vary from trip to trip, so check out the specifics under the ‘Trip Snapshot’ on your trip page.
From lively hostels in the centre of the action, to unique regional stays that immerse you in the local way of life – we have a mixed bag of accommodation depending on the destination and trip you’ve picked.
Think: character-filled hotels, social hostels, sailing boats, beachside resorts, desert camps and local homestays. To uncover the specifics of your trip, head to the accommodation sections on your trip itinerary – or contact our Customer Service team to find out more.
Accomodation for trips departing before April 2026
The clue’s in the name. Our Get Social trips are all about the atmosphere. Expect: bucket-list sights, jam-packed adventure and plenty of good times with your fellow travellers (up to 48 Topdeck travellers).
On these trips you’ll mostly stay in hostels. That means plenty of opportunities to catch up with fellow comrades over a drink, swap tips for the day ahead at breakfast and settle into the shared, social atmosphere. Dorms are mostly single-sex and multi-share. You might need to be quick to grab the top bunk – but that’s all part of the experience.
Time to play. Space to pause. Our Play & Pause trips are the perfect balance of thrill and chill.
You’re here for the big sights and the good times. But you’d prefer to share them with a smaller group (max 28). With more free time to do your own thing. And a bit of space to recharge at the end of the day.
That’s why on these trips you’ll stay in private accommodation – mostly twin-share with en-suite (and max size quad-share, very occasionally). Travelling as a couple? The room’s all yours. And if you’re going it alone, we’ll pair you with another solo traveller.
Our Sail & Swim trips are all about the perks of travelling by sea: dips in aquamarine waters, spine-tingling scenery and time to chill top deck (literally) with your new friends.
You’ll get to choose between our Traditional and Plus boats. All have cosy twin or double cabins with en-suites and air con. Breakfast is always included alongside selected lunches and dinners, depending on your chosen trip. Plus boats come with extras like bigger cabins and hot breakfasts.
Maximum group size depends on your chosen boat’s capacity – our smallest boat fits 16 Topdeck travellers and our largest fits 18.
Accomodation for trips departing after April 2026
Accommodation will be a mix of hostels and hotels. We offer a range of room types across most of our trips. For those where multi-share rooms come as standard, you’ll be able to upgrade to a twin, double, or single room if you’d like a little extra privacy.
Our hostel rooms are booked on a female-only or mixed-share basis. If you’d like to share with a friend or partner, you may be able to upgrade to a twin or double room (depending on availability and with a small supplement).
On some trips, there are unique stays like overnight trains or multi-share guesthouses where upgrades aren’t possible, and you’ll be sharing with a small group of fellow travellers. But wherever possible, your Trip Leader will do their best to room couples and friends together, or coordinate with other pairs to make it work.
Yes – single room supplements are available on some trips if you’d prefer your own space. Do keep in mind that even if you’ve selected a specific room type, there may be a few nights where this option isn’t available due to the style of accommodation. For upgrade info specific to your trip, just check in with our Customer Service team.
Booking your trip
If you’ve booked your trip well in advance of your departure date, you only need to put down a deposit for your selected trip. Then, you have up to 60 days prior to departure to pay off the rest.
If you’re booking 60 days or less before your trip is due to depart, you will need to pay the full amount upfront. Click here to find out more about our booking conditions and payment policies.
A Topdeck deposit costs $200 AUD. Other currencies are as follows: $200 NZD, $200 USD, $200 CAD, £60 GBP.
Our always-on ‘Freedom to Flex’ policy gives you flexibility when booking and paying for your trip. For more information on our ‘Freedom to Flex’ booking conditions and Terms & Conditions head here.
We get it, circumstances change and sometimes you need to cancel your plans. Cancel your trip before your full payment is due and we’ll give you a rolling deposit voucher. We’ll hold on to your deposit so you can use it for another trip, another time. Terms and conditions apply so check out the full details here.
You’ve got a few options.
- Call our friendly Customer Service team – they’ll take your payment securely over the phone.
- Do a direct transfer into Topdeck’s bank account. You’ll find the bank details at the bottom of your invoice.
- Pay via your My Topdeck account on the Topdeck app or online.
Please note, whilst we don’t offer pay later options, our payments are very flexible as long as we receive the full payment 60 days before departure.
Topdeck won’t charge any credit card fees, but your bank or travel agent may apply charges. We don’t accept AMEX.
Everything you need will be delivered straight to your inbox around 30 days before departure as long as you’ve paid in full and provided all passenger details. You can fill out your details online via your My Topdeck account or by contacting our Customer Service team.
You must read the detailed trip notes we send you before your trip. These can be downloaded at any time from your trip page on our website, on the Topdeck app and will also be emailed to you with your documentation. The trip notes contain a number of important points that you need to be aware of so please take the time to download and read them.
If your booking was made via a travel agent, your documentation will be sent directly to them.
Cancellation of your booking must be made in writing. We will not regard a booking as cancelled until written notice is received by us via email. On cancellation the following charges will apply:
| Days prior to trip | Percentage of trip cost | Pre/post hotel |
|---|---|---|
| Over 60 days | Rolling deposit voucher | Nil |
| 59-29 days | 40% | 40% |
| 28-14 days | 60% | 60% |
| 13-8 days | 80% | 60% |
| 7-1 days | 100% | 100% |
| Departure day | 100% | 100% |
| During trip | 100% | 100% |
On most trips, we can arrange any pre- and post- trip accommodation for you, hassle-free. Just contact our expert Customer Service team and they will research availability and book on your behalf.
Before you go & on-road stuff
Absolutely! It’s a requirement that all Topdeck travellers have comprehensive travel insurance to cover the likes of cancellation, personal injury and medical expenses. You’ll be barred from travelling with us without it. It’s also super important you read the fine print of the policy you’re taking out, so you know exactly what activities you are covered for (looking at you, adrenalin junkies!) and what your excess limits are in cases of emergency – before, during and after your trip. As a rule, you should book your travel insurance at the time of booking your trip.
Our Customer Service team can arrange cover for Australian citizens with our partnered travel insurance provider, Covermore. Shoot a message on our live chat or pick up the phone and we’ll get it sorted.
There are soooooo many different companies out there – Google it and go from there. You will find large supermarkets, department stores and banks sell travel insurance. It’s not hard to find one, but make sure you read the fine print, so you purchase the right one for you and your travel plans.
Your passport and any necessary visas are the essentials. Remember, it’s your responsibility to check visa requirements countries may have.
We don’t have a comprehensive list of absolutely every item you should pack for your trip-of-a-lifetime – we know you can figure that out on your own. But if you do need some tips, our Customer Service team have a few up their sleeve – chat to them if you have any Qs.
It varies! Obviously, there are loads of great souvenirs to be bought and nights on the town to get involved in (if that’s your thing). Some meals are included, but not all. Check your trip itinerary so you know what’s covered – and how much to set aside for the rest (plus any treats or personal spending along the way).
Plus, don’t forget Your Options. From gondola rides in Venice to sky diving in the Swiss Alps, there’s something for everyone – so keep them in mind when budgeting. Approximate prices are outlined on your trip page.
Yes, most of the places we stay offer free Wi-Fi.
When you’re out and about, most restaurants and cafes will allow you to jump on their Wi-Fi when you order something. Or you can buy your Topdeck eSIM from here and save some money on roaming fees.
Of course. You can use the complimentary Wi-Fi at our overnight accommodation. Alternatively, chat to your phone provider about an international roaming deal, arrange an eSIM or buy a local SIM card upon arrival.
And if you need to be contacted in the case of an emergency, Topdeck HQ have a direct line to your Trip Leader 24/7. You’re safe with us.
Obtaining the correct visas for your trip is your own responsibility. Not having correct visas could mean missing out on part (or all) of your trip. Ask your travel agent or check with the appropriate embassies before you depart, remembering that visa requirements can change at short notice.
Please note: For most countries where visas are required, it's NOT possible to obtain a visa while on the trip. Some visas take 3-4 weeks to obtain – so get on it early!
This depends on the countries you’re travelling to. There are recommended vaccinations for some Topdeck destinations – please consult your doctor or closest travel vaccination clinic for more information.
Smoking is not permitted on Topdeck minicoaches or many other modes of transport, such as trains and ferries, where stops aren’t always possible. Don’t worry though — we make regular break stops when travelling by minicoach. Smoking is not permitted in any of our accommodation, including our tents.
If you have any dietary requirements, we’ll make every effort to cater to your needs – as long as you advise your travel agent or our Customer Service team when you book.
Please note: although we’ll do everything in our power to cater to your needs, Topdeck cannot guarantee this will be possible in every restaurant we visit. In some destinations, certain dietaries are not well recognised – and whilst restaurants can usually whip up something tasty, you may have a more limited choice. We also cannot cater for tastes or dislikes, as most of our included evening meals feature a set menu.
Please re-confirm any dietary requirements with your Trip Leader at the start of your trip.
If you have an existing medical condition or disability that may affect your trip, we ask that you inform your travel agent or our Customer Service team in writing at the time of booking. We may ask you to obtain a medical certificate. If we reasonably feel we are unable to satisfactorily accommodate your particular needs, we reserve the right to decline the booking or to require that you be accompanied by a person who is able to provide full assistance to you.
The best way to stay updated is by downloading the Topdeck app.
Or you can check our Travel Alerts page here for any urgent, unprecedented changes to your trip.
Our brilliant Customer Service team are also available around-the-clock to answer any of your questions. Give them a buzz, send them a message through our live chat or send us a DM on social media.
Travelling to Europe?
Detailed information on your trip start and end point can be found on your My Topdeck account or in the documents sent to you prior to departure. We advise that everyone joins us at the official pick-up location due to any last-minute itinerary changes. If, for example, your trip starts in London and you want to join in Paris, please let our Customer Service Team know ahead of time. We’ll pass your information to the Trip Leader on your trip.
Trips departing before April 2026
For trips starting in London, you’ll usually meet and check-in around 6am and have your first group dinner in Paris that night. However, for Play & Pause trips, you'll need to meet your Topdeck Trip Leader and check-in by 6pm before your first group dinner. Check-in times in other cities can vary from trip to trip. Please check your trip documents for details.
Trips departing after April 2026
For trips starting in London, you’ll usually meet and check-in around 6pm. Please check your trip documents for specific details.
Trips departing before April 2026
If your trip ends in London, we usually arrive between 6.30pm and 8.30pm. The drop-off point will be the same as your start point. Please check your trip notes carefully for exact details.
Our return time depends on external factors such as traffic, ferry delays and hold-ups at British immigration. In peak summer season it's possible that our arrival time in London may be delayed – and throughout the year we may encounter unforeseen circumstances which could delay our arrival to London by up to several hours. For this reason, we strongly recommend that you do not book flights out of London for the day your trip finishes.
Trips departing after April 2026
Our return journey is subject to change depending on train delays. For this reason, we strongly recommend that you do not book flights out of London for the day your trip finishes.
Check your trip notes carefully to see where – and at what time – your adventure officially wraps up. For trips finishing outside of London, you’ll find the end time noted in your trip documents. If you arrive by rail, coach or ferry into your final destination, it’s worth remembering that delays can happen, so you might like to leave a little wiggle room (or even treat yourself to an extra night there) before heading home. And on some trips, a final night in the end destination is already included, with the trip drawing to a close after breakfast the next morning.
Trips departing before April 2026
We try to spend as little time on the coach as possible, so you have more time to enjoy the places you visit. However, Europe is big – so it does takes time to get around! Some days will include long hours of driving, but it’s a great opportunity to get to know your trip mates, catch up on some sleep or practise your high-school French. And don’t worry – there’ll be stops along the way to stretch your legs, run to the loo, and top up on food (beyond the snacks you’ve already stashed).
Strict driving rules apply in Europe that limit the max number of hours your Driver can clock up each day. They also limit the number of consecutive drive days before a day off must be taken. Our Drivers are incredible, but they’re also human. This means sometimes we’ll get public transport instead of travelling by coach – your expert Trip Leader will show you how to get around like a local.
Trips departing after April 2026
To make sure you get from A to B in the fastest, smoothest way possible, we travel on a mix of transport. That means everything from comfortable trains (including overnight services), to minicoaches, local buses and ferries – depending on the route. Of course, some journeys will still be longer than others, but you’ll get a real taste of travelling like a local while covering serious ground.
Trips departing before April 2026
There’s a range of accommodation on our Europe trips, and the style you choose will shape your experience. Keen to socialise? The hostel stays on our Get Social trips are perfect for that. Prefer some downtime and the privacy of your own hotel room? Our Play & Pause trips give you just that. Or maybe life on the water is your thing – Sail & Swim trips are made for that.
Bear in mind that hostel dorms and hotel rooms in some cities may be smaller than what you’re used to. You’ll still get an en suite in hotels, but hostel living is very much about sharing and caring. For 2026, there may also be private twin, double, or single rooms in hostels, though these could require sharing bathrooms on occasion.
On some Europe trips, we’ll travel on overnight trains and ferries too.
Trips departing after April 2026
You’ll generally be staying in hostels throughout your trip – think shared rooms, buzzing common areas and plenty of opportunities to bond with your fellow travellers. From time to time, we’ll mix it up with the occasional hotel stay too (hello, fresh white sheets and maybe even a bit more personal space). We have a range of room types across the majority of our trips, with some featuring no multi-share options and others giving you the option to upgrade to a twin, double, or single room for an extra fee.
Each Topdeck traveller is limited to one item of standard size luggage, plus a day pack.
The maximum weight of your main bag must not exceed 44lb/20kg – and the size for all bags must not exceed 70cm x 45cm x 25cm. Due to luggage restrictions on public transport, it’s best to pack light. Large, hard-shell suitcases will not be suitable, so bring a soft bag or roomy backpack. Stick to something you can carry comfortably, and you’ll save yourself a lot of hassle while travelling between destinations.
Shorts. Swimmers. Sandals. Sunscreen. Sunnies. Dresses and shirts. Comfy shoes for walking and a hat to stop your head from overheating. Everything else can be found in your trip notes.
Layers. Jumpers. Gloves. Scarf. Woolly hats. Jeans. Waterproof jacket and coat. If you’re heading to Scandinavia, prepare for snow and make sure you’ve got appropriate shoes and clothes. Basically, anything that will keep you cosy and warm. Find the rest in your trip notes.
ATMs are extremely common throughout all European countries. If you're visiting any countries outside of the 'Eurozone', you'll find that most of them accept euros as payment – or you’ll be able to withdraw local currency from an ATM after arriving in the country. This is the most convenient way to access local currency – just make sure to tell your bank of your travel plans before you depart!
United Kingdom – Great British Pound (GBP)
‘Eurozone’ countries (eg. France, Italy, Spain) – Euros (EUR)
Switzerland – Swiss Francs (CHF)
Czech Republic – Czech Koruna (CZK)
Poland – Polish Zloty (PLN)
Hungary – Hungarian Forint (HUF)
Albania – Albanian Lek (ALL)
Morocco – Moroccan Dirham (MAD)
Denmark – Danish Krone (DKK)
Sweden – Swedish Krona (SEK)
Norway – Norwegian Krone (NOK)
Turkey – Turkish Lira (TRY)
Iceland – Icelandic Krona (ISK)
Macedonia – Macedonian Denar (MKD)
Contactless payment is widely accepted across Europe – it's best to bring a payment card with no overseas withdrawal fees (and no nasty surprises when you check your account).
It’s also a wise move to bring some cash to cover you for spending money. We recommend that you exchange approximately €100 in cash before your trip departs (plus around €30 in Swiss Francs, if your trip goes through Switzerland).
Only on our Sail & Swim trips. Tipping is standard aboard boats, and all our local crew members work tirelessly over the 5-month summer period to ensure all passengers have the best trip possible. If you’re happy with the service the crew provides, we encourage the contribution of a small tip (around €10) for each local crew member. Your Topdeck Sailing Representative will not expect, nor ask for, any tips as per our No Tipping Policy.
Travelling to New Zealand?
Short answer – a centrally located hotel or hostel in the starting city that’s also got easy-to-navigate transport, especially for solo travellers. Detailed information on your trip start and end point can be found on your My Topdeck account or in the documents sent to you prior to departure. If you have any questions, live chat our Customer Service team and they’ll be able to help!
We try to spend as little time on the coach as possible so you have more time to enjoy the places you visit (obvs). However, things in NZ tend to be pretty spread out – so it does take time to get around! Some days will include long hours of driving (with scenic and toilet breaks!), BUT it’s a great opportunity to get to know your trip mates, catch up on some zzzs, eat all the snacks, or take in the jaw-dropping scenery.
Each Topdeck traveller is limited to one item of standard size luggage, plus a day pack.
The maximum weight of your main bag must not exceed 44lb/20kg. Due to weight regulations, passengers with overweight luggage may be asked to offload the excess on the morning the trip departs. So pack light!
Please note that small, hard suitcases can’t be taken on board the coach as carry-on luggage is stored above your seats where there is limited space – so stick with a backpack or soft-shell bag. This also prevents any safety issues if bags fall.
New Zealand is relaxed, so you won’t be needing anything too fancy. Jeans and a nice top will do for those more social nights. Togs (swimmers) are a must for jumping into those awesome lakes. And layers are your mates: it can get chilly in the evenings. For a full list, your trip notes have everything you need.
Thermals. Warm boots. Scarf. Hat. Sunnies to protect your eyes from the winter glare. Plenty of thick socks to keep your toes warm. Get the complete lowdown on your individual trip notes.
Where you stay depends on the style of trip you choose. Some trips focus on socialising, so you’ll mostly be in hostels to make the most of meeting new people. Others are all about immersing yourself in local life, with a mix of hotels and lodges. On certain trips, there may even be a traditional local cultural stay for a unique experience.
To uncover the specifics of your trip, head to the accommodation section under ‘what’s included’ on your trip page.
New Zealand Dollar – NZD
Contactless payment is widely accepted across New Zealand – it's best to bring a payment card with no overseas withdrawal fees (and no nasty surprises when you check your account).
ATMs are also extremely common, so you’ll be able to withdraw cash after arriving in the country.
Travelling to the Middle East or North Africa?
Detailed information on your trip start and end point can be found on your My Topdeck account or in the documents sent to you prior to departure. If you have any questions, live chat our Customer Service team and they’ll be able to help!
Yes! We’ve taken the hassle out of navigating your way to the hotel and included arrival airport transfers in your trip price. Give us your flight details at least a month before departing, touch down at the airport and meet your Topdeck Rep outside the gates.
We try to spend as little time on the minicoach as possible, so you have more time to enjoy the places you visit. However, things in the Middle East and North Africa tend to be pretty spread out – so it does take time to get around. Some days will include long hours of driving, but it’s a great opportunity to get to know your trip mates, catch up on some sleep or take in the jaw-dropping scenery. There’s plenty of rest breaks, too.
Each Topdeck traveller is limited to one item of standard size luggage, plus a day pack.
The maximum weight of your main bag must not exceed 44lb/20kg – and the size for all bags must not exceed 70cm x 45cm x 25cm. Due to weight regulations, passengers with overweight luggage may be asked to offload the excess on the morning the trip departs (eek). So pack light!
Please note that small, hard suitcases can’t be taken on board the coach as carry-on luggage is stored above your seats where there is limited space – so stick with a backpack or soft-shell bag. This also prevents any safety issues if bags fall.
Yes – if you are booking our Egypt: Pharaohs & Pyramids (formerly Delve Deep: Egypt) trip you will need to bring your own sleeping bag for our overnight felucca sailing experience.
High factor sunscreen is a must. Anything that’ll protect your shoulders and your face. Kaftans, short-sleeved tees, sunnies, hats... Activewear for when you’re getting your steps in. Don’t forget your mosquito repellent either. Then, the usual: shorts, trainers and sandals. A full list will be on your trip notes.
For wet season, you’re going to need raincoats and waterproofs. Loose pants will also keep you cool when humidity is high. Everything you need to know if on your full packing list.
Whist visiting some destinations, sights and attractions in the Middle East and Africa it is customary to cover your shoulders and knees as a sign of respect. It’s a good idea to pack t-shirts, long pants or long skirts for when this is required. Your Trip Leader will advise you well in advance when you will be required to cover up.
On our Middle East and North Africa trips you’ll stay in a mix of well-equipped hotels and authentic stays that allow you to delve deeper into each unique destination.
Topdeck travellers on our Morocco: Souks & Spices (formerly Delve Deep: Morocco) trips will also get to experience a night in a desert camp. The camp features twin-share tents or cabins, with beds, pillows and all sheets and blankets provided. BUT the bathroom facilities are basic (hey, you're in the desert!) and the showers are usually cold-water only – but it's all part of an amazing experience you’ll remember forever!
Booking our Egypt: Pharaohs & Pyramids (formerly Delve Deep: Egypt) trip? You’ll have an overnight stay on a traditional felucca sailing boat. Feluccas are traditional wooden sailing boats that have been used as transport up and down the Nile for centuries. Meaning? No motors. No cabins. No hairdryers. The boat’s broad canvas sails offer shade and protection from the elements by day. And by night, we’ll sleep outdoors on comfy mattresses – so don’t forget a sleeping bag. And for other…things? All meals are prepared by the felucca crew aboard the boat. During winter months it can get cold on the river, especially at night. So, it’s a good idea to bring a jacket or warm windcheater during these months.
To uncover the specifics of your trip-of-a-lifetime, head to the accommodation section under ‘what’s included’ on your trip page.
Egypt – Egyptian Pound (EGP)
Morocco – Moroccan Dirham (MAD)
Local currency is easily available from the numerous cash machines/ATMs in all of our starting cities in the region, plus most of the cities and major towns which we visit. This is the easiest and most convenient way to access local cash – just make sure you notify your bank of your travel plans before you leave. If you have any worries on the road, your Trip Leader will help.
Travel hack alert! It’s a good idea to have a small amount of cash ($USD, GBP or local currency) with you on arrival in case of emergencies.
Tipping is standard in the Middle East and North Africa. For ease, your Trip Leader may suggest a tipping kitty to the group whereby everyone contributes an equal amount. To note: this excludes restaurant tips for meals planned outside Your Inclusions. The tipping kitty is not compulsory and is entirely at your own discretion. In true Topdeck style, your Topdeck Crew will not ask for a tip at the end of your trip – as per our ‘No Tipping Policy’.
Breakfasts are often included and usually feature cereals with milk or yogurt, bread, a variety of local dishes, and a selection of spreads, with fruit juice, tea, or coffee to drink. While hot breakfasts are still less common, there may occasionally be some hot options available. In 2026, even more meals are included, with some evening meals served in local restaurants, making it easier than ever to enjoy the local flavours without having to plan every bite yourself. In most cases, table water is provided with the meals, and if you wish to purchase additional drinks you can do so at your own expense. And when meals are up to you? Ask your expert Trip Leader for their favourite local recommendations.
As many Middle Eastern countries are of Islamic faith, it is important to remember that lots of restaurants and shops will either be closed or operating on reduced hours during Ramadan. As a result, some optional and included activities on your trip may be affected. Ramadan, which takes place in either April, May or June, is an incredibly important and sacred month for Muslims. When equipped with some basic knowledge, you’ll have the chance to immerse yourself in this special tradition and experience all its highlights.
Unless your government website or that of your intended destination advise not to travel, your booking will be in line with the normal Topdeck Travel terms and conditions.
Travelling to Asia?
Detailed information on your trip start and end point can be found on your My Topdeck account or in the documents sent to you prior to departure. If you have any questions, live chat our Customer Service team and they’ll be able to help!
We try to spend as little time on the minicoach as possible, so you have more time to enjoy the places you visit. However, things can be pretty spread out in countries like Vietnam and Cambodia – so it does take time to get around! We also can’t control the traffic – so some days will include long hours of driving. But it’s a great opportunity to get to know your trip mates, catch up on some sleep or take in the jaw-dropping scenery.
In many Asian countries we’ll also travel like a local – think (very basic) overnight trains in Thailand and Vietnam, boats in the Philippines, and bullet trains and metros (plus lots of walking) in Japan and South Korea.
Each Topdeck traveller is limited to one item of standard size luggage, plus a day pack – we recommend a soft-shell bag or backpack.
The maximum weight of your main bag must not exceed 44lb/20kg – and the size for all bags must not exceed 70cm x 45cm x 25cm. Due to weight regulations, passengers with overweight luggage may be asked to offload the excess on the morning the trip departs (eek). So pack light!
Please note that small, hard suitcases can’t be taken on board the coach as carry-on luggage is stored above your seats where there is limited space – so stick with a backpack or soft-shell bag. This also prevents any safety issues if bags fall. If your trip includes a stay on an overnight train, your luggage should be small enough to be easily stored in your cabin (spoiler: it will also get dirty – all part of the real experience!).
Pack light – nobody wants to haul heavy bags in sticky weather. Opt for lightweight, quick-drying clothes, and bring a couple of thin jumpers for cooler evenings. Don’t forget the essentials: sunglasses, suncream, a hat, tees, shorts and for Southeast Asia, include a compact rain jacket or poncho and a small umbrella. Your trip notes will have the full list of recommendations.
For Japan and South Korea: gloves, socks, woolly hats, a rain jacket, long pants, and anything else you’d usually wear during the brisk, cold months. Southeast Asia has a different story as it’s mostly sunny (but way cooler than its summer months!). So, pack for summer, but top up on those extra layers! For a full list, see your trip notes.
Whist visiting some destinations, sights and attractions in Asia it is customary to cover your shoulders and knees as a sign of respect. It’s a good idea to pack t-shirts, long pants or long skirts for when this is required. Your Trip Leader will advise you well in advance when you will be required to cover up.
There’s a range of accommodation on our Asia trips.
Bear in mind that hostel dorms and hotel rooms in some cities may be smaller than what you’re used to. Hotels include an en suite, while hostel stays involve shared facilities and a more communal set-up.
Special shoutouts for Asia accommodation include homestays, overnight trains and buses, boats, floating rafts, tents and treehouses. For more info about exactly what accommodation you’re getting for your buck, take a peek at the accommodation section of your chosen trip.
Cambodia – Cambodian Riel (KHR)
Vietnam - Vietnamese Dong (VND)
Japan – Japanese Yen (JPY)
Laos – Lao Kip (LAK)
Thailand – Thai Baht (THB)
South Korea – South Korean Won (KRW)
Philippines – Philippine Peso (PHP)
Local currency is easily available from the numerous cash machines/ATMs in all of our starting cities in the region, plus most of the cities and major towns which we visit. This is the easiest and most convenient way to access local cash – just make sure you notify your bank of your travel plans before you leave.
It’s a good idea to have a small amount of cash ($USD or local currency) with you on arrival in case of emergencies.
Tipping is expected for quite a few things in Asia but you only need to give a small amount and your Trip Leader will advise you what is appropriate to give. In true Topdeck style, your Crew will not ask for a tip at the end of your trip – as per our ‘No Tipping Policy’.
Are you travelling to North America?
Detailed information on your trip start and end point can be found on your My Topdeck account or in the documents sent to you prior to departure. If you have any questions, live chat our Customer Service team and they’ll be able to help!
We try to spend as little time on the coach as possible so you have more time to enjoy the places you visit (obvs). However, Canada is a big country – so it does take time to get around! Some days will include long hours of driving But it’s a great opportunity to get to know your trip mates, catch up on some sleep or take in the jaw-dropping scenery.
To get from A to B we may spend several hours on the road, but we always break up the journeys with interesting stops along the way. Lunch breaks or scenic stops vary from trip to trip and range from standard commercial service areas to interesting locations such as scenic parks, viewpoints and charming small towns.
Tipping is a way of life in North America. When dining out or visiting bars, it is courteous to tip the serving staff (who rely on tips to supplement their wages). In a bar, a $2 tip per visit to bar is recommended if you are purchasing 1 or 2 drinks. If you're buying a round for a group, a $3 tip is recommended. If you choose not to tip in a bar, you are likely to cause offence and may struggle to get served again.
In restaurants, a tip of around 15-20% of the bill is advised. A $1 to $2 tip for taxi rides is recommended. And for Topdeck ‘optional activities’ – a $3 to $5 tip for your guide on each excursion or activity is recommended.
In true Topdeck style, your Topdeck Crew will not ask for a tip at the end of your trip – as per our ‘No Tipping Policy’.
In Canada, the drinking age is 18 in Alberta and Quebec, and 19 in British Columbia and Ontario. Our Canadian Rockies trips visit both Alberta and British Columbia. You should always carry photographic ID (typically your passport) with you if you wish to purchase alcohol.
Each Topdeck traveller is limited to one item of standard size luggage, plus a day pack.
The maximum weight of your main bag must not exceed 44lb/20kg – and the size for all bags must not exceed 70cm x 45cm x 25cm. Due to weight regulations, passengers with overweight luggage may be asked to offload the excess on the morning the trip departs. So pack light!
Please note that small, hard suitcases can’t be taken on board the coach as carry-on luggage is stored above your seats where there is limited space – so stick with a backpack or soft-shell bag. This also prevents any safety issues if bags fall.
Similar vibes to Europe. Shorts. Swimmers. Sandals. Sunscreen. Sunnies. Some cutesy dresses. Some mindful shirts. Comfy shoes for walking and a hat to stop your head from overheating. For everything else? Those trip notes are your friend!
Thick layers. Jumpers. Long-sleeved tees. Jeans and leggings. A big coat or jacket. If you’re heading to the Canadian mountains for some skiing, you know what’s coming: Ski. Wear. And the usual winter accessories: hats, scarves, gloves. You get the picture. For more ideas, see your trip notes.
Canada – Canadian Dollar (CAD)
ATMs are extremely common throughout Canada so, you’ll be able to withdraw cash from an ATM after arriving in the country. This is the most convenient way to access local currency – just make sure to tell your bank of your travel plans before you depart!
Travel hack alert! It’s a good idea to take out a bit of cash before your trip departs. You can use this to pay for Your Options on the coach and saves you rushing to the nearest ATM before dinner with the gang at a cash-only restaurant.