Depending on the mix of volunteers at the guest house, meals are prepared individually or on a shared rotating basis. Volunteers must have their own health insurance. Volunteers must pay for non-work related transportation on the Big Island and travel to neighboring islands. Many volunteers make trips to various locations on the Big Island by renting a car over weekends and extended holidays. Government vehicles and mountain bikes are provided for travel between the guest house and the Observatory, for work in the National Park and elsewhere, and for all work-related activities.
Volunteers are responsible for all other travel costs.
A farmers' market in Volcano every Sunday morning provides the opportunity to purchase a variety of locally grown fruit and produce. The nearest place for complete shopping is Hilo, the county seat of the Big Island. It is usually possible to arrange an occasional ride to town with someone from the Observatory or the Park.