On each trip page you'll find a 'Your Inclusions' section that gives you the low-down on exactly what's included in your trip price. All our trips include transport, accommodation, some (drool-worthy) meals, tips (apart from Egypt, Morocco and sailing trips – see trip pages for deets), a heap of I-N-C-R-E-D-I-B-L-E included experiences and your awesome AF Topdeck Crew. Your Inclusions vary with each trip though, so be sure to check out your trip page.

Spending money (duh), visas, personal travel insurance, medical fees, flights, transfers (apart from Egypt and Morocco), departure taxes and any meals not specified 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 dubbed them ‘Your Options’. These aren’t included in your trip price but are highly recommended as something to budget for. They’re that good. 

International flights to and from the destination your trip starts and ends are not included and must be purchased separately. But DW, there’s plenty of online options for you to shop around for the best quote. Or book through your travel agent. Easy!

If your Topdeck trip has flights between destinations, these are always included. Any regional flights will be listed under the ‘Your Inclusions’ section of the trip page and featured as a plane icon on your trip map.

Relax – you’ve got heaps of it. And if you need some help deciding what to do with all that free time, we’ve got your back.  

Throughout your trip we’ve organised a variety of ‘Your Options’ that we know you’ll love. You can find a list of Your Options specific to your trip on the trip page – 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 are unavailable via the app can be booked through your on-hand Trip Leader who can arrange a time to head to the ATM for cash. And like the totally unoriginal name suggests, they’re entirely optional – so you can pick and choose whether you want to jump on board or do your own, spontaneous, this-is-what-I-came-for-thing.

Group sizes vary according to the trip style. Our Get Social trips average around 30 Topdeckers (with a maximum group size of 48), Play & Pause trips average around 20 (with a maximum of 28), Delve Deep trips average around 16 (with a maximum of 20) and Sail & Swim trips average around 15 (with a maximum of 30).

If you want to find out how many like-minded travellers will be on your specific trip, our Customer Service team can help – use our live chat or give them a ring.

All Topdeckers have things in common. You’re sociable, open-minded, and aged between 18 and 39. BUT you’re a mixed bunch, with different interests and travel goals. We get it. That’s why we’ve got different trip styles to help match you with the right adventure and the perfect travel buds. Check them out here.

Not at all! Sooooo many Topdeckers are solo travellers. In fact, over 50% of our travellers start the trip solo and finish the trip with mates for life! We’ll match you with an awesome AF roommate(s) of the same sex.

If you’d prefer to ride solo at night, check out our Play & Pause and Delve Deep trips which offer single room upgrades where available. Chat to our Customer Service team to see which trip suits you best.

From internal flights to roomy on-road coaches and local transport (insert: Japanese bullet train) 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 ‘what’s included’ 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 style 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-of-a-lifetime, head to the accommodation section under ‘what’s included’ on your trip page – or contact our Customer Service team find out more about our various trip styles.

Clue’s in the name. Our Get Social trips are all about the social vibe. Expect: bucket-list sights, jam-packed adventure and heaps of good times with a bigger gang (up to 48 Topdeckers).

On these trips you’ll mostly stay in hostels. Meaning? Time to mingle with your trip mates at the bar, show off your mad table tennis skills, and make plans for the day over brekkie. Dorms are mostly single-sex and multi-share. Yeah, you’ll have to call shotgun on the top bunk faster than your roomie – but that’s all part of the experience. 

Ready for fast-track friendships and full-on fun? Get the deets here.

Time to play. Space to pause. Our Play & Pause trips are the perfect balance of thrill and chill. 

Yeah, you want bucket-list sights and fun times (obvs). But you’d rather share them with a smaller bunch of trip mates (max group size of 28, in fact). Have more free time to do your thing. And get room 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, more 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. 

Sound like your vibe? Find out more here.

Our Delve Deep trips are all about exploring MORE. More culture, more history, more local eats. And a more varied mix of accommodation for authentic travel experiences.

These are immersive adventures in a single country or region, and you’ll be staying in some unique places along the way. Think: floating bungalows, rustic lodges, desert camps and sleeper trains. Sometimes rooms will be private; sometimes you’ll be sharing with the like-minded Topdeckers on your trip (FYI it’s a close-knit group of up to 20).

Keen to discover the local way of life? Delve deeper here.

A pirate’s life for you. 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 crew. 

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 brekkies. 

Maximum group size depends on your chosen boat’s capacity – our smallest boat fits 16 Topdeckers and our largest fits 30.

Check if these trips float your boat here.

Hostel rooms are booked on a single-sex basis. So, heterosexual couples should not expect to share.

However, your Trip Leader will try and room couples together wherever possible. For instance, if twin or double share accommodation is available at certain locations, you may be able to share a private room. It may also be possible to co-ordinate with other couples in the group so two or more couples can share together. This is entirely at the discretion of your Trip Leader.

It depends. Our trips have varying prices for twin, double or multi-share accommodation. However on certain trips we can offer single room supplements. Bear in mind – although you may have selected a specific room type, there might be nights on some trips where this option is not available. For upgrade information specific to your trip, live chat or call our friendly Customer Service team.

If you’re an eager beaver and have 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-of-a-lifetime. For more information on our ‘Freedom to Flex’ booking conditions and Terms & Conditions head here.  

We get it, sh*t happens 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 (minus your deposit). 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 deets here. 

1. Call our friendly Customer Service team – they’ll take your payment securely over the phone. 

2. Transfer the $$$ into Topdeck’s bank account. You’ll find the bank deets at the bottom of your invoice. 

3. 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. To note: 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 should 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:  

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.

Absolutely! It’s a requirement that all Topdeckers 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! Obvs, 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 – you’ll need to budget for the rest of your meals and your personal spending. 

Plus, don’t forget those awesome AF ‘optional activities’ we’ve arranged for you. From gondola rides in Venice to surfing in Bali, there’s something for everyone – so keep them in mind when budgeting. Approximate prices are outlined on your trip page.

Yup! Most of the places we stay offer free Wi-Fi (except in the middle of the Sahara Desert or while sailing on a felucca down the Nile... obvs). 

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 a local SIM upon arrival so you can be connected while you wander. Easy. 

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. So many options! 

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 coaches – however, we make regular break stops while travelling from place to place. 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 – whilst restaurants can usually whip up some delish eats, 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 awesome AF Customer Service team are also available ‘round-the-clock to answer any of your questions. Give them a buzz, send them a message through our live chat or slide into our social media DM’s.

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 to join at the official pick-up location due to any last-minute itinerary changes (and ultimate group social vibes). 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.

For Get Social trips starting in London, you’ll usually meet and check-in around 6am and have your first group dinner in Paris on Day 2. 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.

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.

Check your trip notes to find out where – and what time – your trip finishes. Many of our Delve Deep trips spend the final night in the city of departure.

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, 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 zzzs or practise your high-school French. Dw, there’ll be stops along the way to run the loo and grab some food – other than the snacks you’ve already bought.

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.

There’s a range of accommodation on our Europe trips. To suit the vibe you’re looking for, you’ll just need to pick the trip style that’s right for you.  

Keen to get maximum time to socialise? The hostel stays on our Get Social trips are for you. Prefer time to chill and the privacy of your own hotel room? Our Play & Pause trips give you that. Want to be immersed in local life? Our Delve Deep trips include unique stays in mixed accommodation. Or perhaps the boat life is for you – in which case you’ll want to dive into our Sail & Swim trips. 

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 a hotel, but it’s sharing and caring vibes when it comes to hostel livin’.

FYI: on some Europe trips, we’ll travel on overnight trains and ferries too.

Each Topdecker 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. If you’re sailin’ and swimmin’ with us, storage is limited on the boats, so pack light with a soft backpack or rucksack.

Shorts. Swimmers. Sandals. Sunscreen. Sunnies. Some cutesy dresses. Some mindful shirts. Comfy shoes for walking and a hat to stop your head from overheating. Everything else can be found in your trip notes.

Layerrrrs. Jumpers. Gloves. Scarf. Woolly hats. Jeans. Waterproof jacket and coat. Basically, anything that’s gonna 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) 

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.

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 Topdecker 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 (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. 

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. Plentyyy of thick socks to keep your toes warm. Get the complete lowdown on your individual trip notes.

This depends on the trip style. Our Get Social: New Zealand trip is one of our (you guessed it) Get Social trips – so expect to stay mostly in hostels for max good times with the gang. Our Delve Deep: New Zealand North Island and Delve Deep: New Zealand South Island trips are all about delving deeper into local life, so you’ll stay in a mix of hotels and lodges. There’s even a traditional Māori marae stay on our Delve Deep: New Zealand North Island and Get Social: New Zealand trips. 

To uncover the specifics of your trip-of-a-lifetime, 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.

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 (hint: they're holding a placard with Topdeck on it). Easy.

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 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 zzzs or take in the jaw-dropping scenery. Dw, there’s plenty of rest breaks, too!

Each Topdecker 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 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. Sandals. A full list will be on your trip notes!

For wet season, you’re gonna need raincoats and waterproofs. Those monsoons do not play. Loose pants will also keep you cool when humidity is high. You know where to find 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.

All our Middle East and North Africa trips are Delve Deep trips. Meaning? You’ll stay in a mix of well-equipped hotels and authentic stays that allow you to delve deeper into each unique destination.  

Topdeckers on our 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 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 expected for quite a few things in the Middle East and North Africa but you only need to give a small amount and your Trip Leader will advise you what is appropriate. 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’.

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. A typical breakfast may consist of cereals with milk or yogurt, bread, a mixture of local dishes and a range of spreads with fruit juice, tea or coffee to drink. It is rare to get a hot breakfast, though on some occasions there may be some hot food available as well. Included evening meals are in local restaurants or your place of accommodation. 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 fave 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.

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 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 (sorry, not sorry) – 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 zzzs 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, speedboats in Indonesia, and bullet trains and metros (plus lots of walking) in Japan and South Korea!  

Each Topdecker 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. 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!). 

The less, the better. Nobody wants to lug heaps of clothes around in sticky weather. Light-weight, quick-drying materials are your besties. Add in a couple of thin jumpers for those breezy evenings, too. Plus, the usual suspects: sunnies, suncream, mosquito repellent, hat, tees and shorts etc. Your trip notes have the rest!

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. To suit the vibe you’re looking for, you’ll just need to pick the trip style that’s right for you.  

Keen to get maximum time to socialise? The hostel stays on our Get Social trips are for you. Prefer time to chill and the privacy of your own hotel room? Our Play & Pause trips give you that. Want to be immersed in local life? Our Delve Deep trips include unique stays in mixed accommodation.  

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 a hotel, but it’s sharing and caring vibes when it comes to hostel livin’. 

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 tour.  

Cambodia – Cambodian Riel (KHR) 

Vietnam - Vietnamese Dong (VND) 

Indonesia – Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) 

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.

 

Travel hack alert! 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’. 

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, the USA and Canada are BIG countries – 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 zzz’s 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 small cowboy towns!

Fact: tipping is a way of life in 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’. 

The drinking age in the USA is 21 years. All bars and drinking spots check ID as a matter of routine, either on entry or via the serving staff. For this reason, you should always carry some form of photographic ID (typically your passport) on you if you wish to buy alcohol.

 

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 Topdecker 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. 

Travelling to Canada on our Get Social: Canadian Rockies (Winter) trip? You get a bigger luggage allowance for all your ski gear. Lucky buggers! A quick PSA to double check what your airline’s luggage allowance policy is. Ski and snowboard equipment is available for hire at each mountain if you don’t have your own (or don’t want to carry it on your trip).

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.

USA – US Dollar (USD) 

Canada – Canadian Dollar (CAD)

ATMs are extremely common throughout the USA and 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.