What It’s Like To Live On a Converted Bus

Do you know what it’s like to live on a converted bus? You’re about to find out!

Are you a wanderer who would love to live on the road? RVs aren’t your only option. Here’s what it’s like to live on a converted bus for “skoolies” and anyone else.

If you find that you love life on the road, it’s tempting to invest in an RV. But more nomads are converting used school buses and trying out the “skoolie” lifestyle. There’s a growing community for this alternative mode of travel. Here’s what it’s like to live on a converted bus—the good and the bad.

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What’s It Like To Live On A Converted School Bus?

First, did you know there’s a name for that? What is a Skoolie? Someone who lives on a renovated school bus.

Related: Why Tiny House Living is Healthier

Live On A Converted Bus

People live on converted school buses for a variety of reasons. Some use them as “tiny houses” to reduce their carbon footprints, and others want to live off the grid. Preowned buses cost less than a first home, so younger buyers consider them the first step toward that. And then there are the road-trippers—the wanderers who want to see as much as possible on their own terms.

You’re Independent

You don’t have to rely on travel itineraries, flight delays, or nightmare passengers—you are literally in the driver’s seat. The pandemic has necessitated travel restrictions, and you might be going stir crazy.

It Is Not Cheap To Live On A Converted Bus

A preowned bus isn’t cost-prohibitive, especially if you do your homework ahead of time and decide on what amenities are necessities and which are optional. No, the conversion can get pricey, depending on what you want. Even if you’re handy and can do it yourself, you’ll probably spend around $10,000. Many budgets go beyond $40,000. That’s quite an outlay even before you get on the road. And don’t forget, these old buses can be gas-guzzlers.

Get Creative

Will you ever get to design the ultimate dream house and build it? Maybe. But you can be your own architect, interior designer, and artistic visionary when you convert a bus. As you browse online for ideas and inspiration, you’ll be in awe of other ways you can renovate an RV or school bus or anything else like it, for that matter. Have fun with it.

Living On A Converted School Bus Is Challenging

Have you ever tried to park a bus at a grocery store? Well, get used to it. Parking can be rough. Not all campgrounds can accommodate buses. Not all routes are suitable for a vehicle that can’t go off-roading. If you don’t have practice with a bus license, there will be a learning curve.

A Converted Bus Is Spacious

Have you seen before and after photos online? There’s enough space to split it up into rooms for privacy. You can include every amenity you need. Many people live in apartments the same size. You can build in a full kitchen, bathroom, a large screen TV, and anything else you consider essential.

Skoolies who learn what it’s like to live on a converted bus are pretty honest about the ups and downs, so look for some veterans who can answer all your questions. But don’t dismiss the idea altogether. The world is changing, and if you want to see more of it, you’ll have to adapt.