First-Time Workamper Checklist: Everything Before You Go

By HitchPath Team — 2026-07-28 — 7 min read

Key Takeaways:

Most first-placement problems are avoidable with preparation done 2–4 weeks before departure
Confirm site hookup type, road access, and cell coverage before you drive to a remote location
Have a written position agreement in hand before committing your travel dates
Set up mail forwarding, address updates, and a domicile state before you leave — not after
Stock at least two weeks of supplies; resupply may be farther than expected

How to Use This Checklist

Work through each section in the weeks before your departure date. Items marked ⚠ Critical should be confirmed before you finalize your start date. Everything else should be completed at least one week before departure.

Section 1: Position Paperwork ⚠ Critical

Written position agreement received — includes dates, hours, site hookup type, duties, and compensation
Background check completed (required for all federal volunteer positions)
Volunteer application or employment paperwork submitted and confirmed
Emergency contact information provided to employer
Start date confirmed in writing — including arrival time expectations
Days-off schedule confirmed — which days, whether they can shift during busy weekends
Supervisor contact information — name, cell phone, backup contact
Early departure process understood — what notice is required if you need to leave before the season ends

Section 2: Site and Access Logistics ⚠ Critical

Host site hookup type confirmed — 30 amp, 50 amp, water, sewer (full or dump station only)
Site amp service verified against your RV's requirements
Access road width and length clearance confirmed — especially critical for fifth wheels and long trailers
Cell carrier coverage verified — check carrier coverage maps for the specific location
Nearest propane fill confirmed — distance and hours
Nearest grocery store confirmed — distance and what it stocks
Nearest urgent care or hospital confirmed — critical for remote placements
Site elevation confirmed — affects HVAC performance, propane usage, and weather exposure
Satellite/Starlink viability checked — tree canopy and horizon obstructions at the host site

Section 3: RV Systems ⚠ Critical

Fresh water system checked — no leaks, water pump functional, filters replaced
Grey and black tanks inspected — no odors, sensors functional, dump valves working
Holding tank treatment stocked — at least one month's supply
Slide-outs exercised — all slides move fully and retract cleanly
Leveling system tested — auto-level or manual leveling blocks in good condition
Electrical system checked — shore power cord, adapters (30/50 amp), breakers all functional
Propane system inspected — tanks full, regulator functioning, no leaks
Roof inspection completed — sealant around vents, AC units, and skylights
Generator tested — starts reliably, output clean
Batteries checked — house battery bank state of health verified; solar system (if applicable) functional
Tires inspected and inflated — including spare; tires not older than 5–7 years regardless of tread
Brake system checked — brake controller (if applicable), trailer brakes functional
Hitch and safety chains inspected
Exterior lights checked — running lights, brake lights, turn signals
HVAC system tested — AC cools adequately; furnace ignites and heats; thermostat functional

Section 4: Supplies and Stocking

Food stocked for at least 2 weeks — assume the nearest store is farther than convenient
Medications stocked for at least 90 days — arrange mail-order prescriptions if needed
First aid kit restocked — bandages, antiseptic, over-the-counter pain relievers, blister treatment
Propane stocked — full tanks before departure
Water filtration stocked — filters for any inline or countertop systems
Cleaning supplies — for both RV interior and restroom inspection duties (if required)
Work clothing ready — comfortable outdoor clothing, sturdy footwear, rain gear, gloves
Sunscreen and insect repellent — for outdoor rounds
Flashlights and backup batteries — for early-morning or evening rounds
Small tool kit — basic hand tools for minor RV repairs on-site
Extension cords and surge protector — for shore power
Water pressure regulator — protects RV plumbing from high-pressure campground water connections

Section 5: Finances and Banking

Monthly budget confirmed — know your expected income vs. expenses for the placement period
Direct deposit set up (if a paid position) — confirm payroll bank routing and account info
Credit/debit cards work — verify your cards don't have geographic restrictions
Emergency fund accessible — separate from operating funds; should cover 1–2 months of expenses
Bank has ATM access in the area — or set up ATM fee reimbursement account
Employer tax forms completed (W-4 if paid position; no form required for most volunteer positions)
Health insurance confirmed — in-network coverage verified for the placement state

Section 6: Mail and Domicile

Mail forwarding service set up — USPS mail forward or a private mail service (Escapees, Americas Mailbox, Traveling Mailbox)
Important contacts notified of new mailing address — bank, insurance, subscriptions, doctor
Domicile state decision made — where you'll maintain legal residency (driver's license, registration, voting)
Driver's license and vehicle registration valid in your domicile state
Vehicle registration not expiring during placement — renew before departure if needed
Insurance policies reviewed — health, RV, auto; confirm coverage while traveling

Section 7: Communications Setup

Cell phone plan reviewed — adequate data plan for your usage at a location with limited WiFi
Mobile hotspot functional — backup for spotty cell coverage
Starlink dish setup practiced (if you own one) — know how to deploy and align it
Email and voicemail set up for the employer to reach you
Family contact plan established — how often you'll check in, how they reach you in an emergency
Emergency notification plan — who to call if you have a medical emergency at a remote location

Section 8: Day-of-Departure

RV interior secured — drawers, cabinet latches, loose items stowed
Fresh water tank level set — full if no hookup on first night; mostly empty if full hookups available on arrival
Slides retracted and checked
Hitch connected and safety checks done — chains, breakaway cable, electric connection
GPS route confirmed — especially for the final miles on forest roads or campground access routes
Contact the campground — let them know your estimated arrival time
Arrival day supplies packed separately — easy access to water, snacks, medications, phone charger

Frequently Asked Questions

How many days before departure should I start this checklist?

Start at least 4 weeks out for Section 1 (paperwork — items like background checks can take time). Sections 2–3 (site logistics and RV systems) should be completed 1–2 weeks out. Sections 4–8 in the final week.

What if I can't get cell coverage at the site?

Confirm this before arrival, not after. If coverage is genuinely unavailable and you need connectivity for medical or safety reasons, discuss options with the employer. Some hosts use a cellular signal booster (WeBoost), Starlink, or a dual-carrier setup to solve coverage gaps.

Is it okay to arrive before my start date?

Usually, yes — most campgrounds will allow you to park in or near the host site a day or two before your start date. Always ask first. Arriving early gives you time to get oriented without the pressure of being "on duty."

What should I do if something breaks in transit?

Have a mobile RV repair service contact saved before you leave (RV road service plans like Good Sam or Coach-Net are worth it for this). For major mechanical issues, know the nearest RV dealership or full-service campground on your route that can provide hookups while you wait for repairs.

Continue Learning

Read the Camp Host Pre-Arrival Checklist for duties on day one at your placement
Review the RV Spring Setup Checklist for a full pre-season systems walkthrough
Browse the full Getting Started guide library for position-specific preparation