From School Bus to Dream Bus: How Sandy Built an Amazing DIY Rig on a Budget

Sandy, a newcomer to the RV life featured on CheapRVliving, shares her incredible conversion of a Chevy Express school bus into a cozy and functional home on wheels. This isn't your typical high-end van build; it's a testament to resourcefulness, creativity, and a 'can-do' attitude. Sandy's journey proves that you don't need a fortune to experience the freedom of the open road.

Ditching the Van Dream: The Bus Beckoned

Sandy initially envisioned van life, but the high cost of vans, insurance and potential repair costs made her reconsider. "I was looking at a van before I got this. I kind of came to school buses kicking and screaming," she admits. However, the practicality and affordability of a used school bus, specifically a 2007 Chevy Express daycare bus, ultimately won her over. She wanted something anyone could work on, avoiding diesel engines for easier maintenance and accessibility.

The bus offered ample space compared to a van, and Sandy prioritized finding a four-wheel drive model with single rear wheels for better gas mileage. This shows a practical mindset, balancing space with fuel efficiency, an essential consideration for budget travelers. The bus Sandy chose also lacked the complex electrical systems of traditional school buses, minimizing potential issues and simplifying the build process.

IKEA Hacks and DIY Magic

Sandy's bus conversion is a masterclass in budget-friendly DIY solutions. Instead of expensive custom cabinets, she opted for a $130 kitchen unit from IKEA, showcasing its versatility for small spaces. "I really haven't seen anybody with buses use them," she says, highlighting her innovative approach. The lightweight metal unit provides ample storage without adding unnecessary weight.

She embraced simplicity, using inexpensive Amazon water containers and a basic five-gallon bucket for a toilet. Cargo nets serve as open shelving, offering visibility and lightness compared to traditional cabinetry. "I also didn't know how to build cabinets, but I could build a shelf," Sandy explained, showcasing her resourcefulness and ability to work within her skill set. Magnets keep the cargo nets secured, demonstrating simple yet effective solutions.

Maximizing Space and Storage

Storage is crucial in any small living space, and Sandy cleverly utilized every nook and cranny in her bus. She built storage over the wheel wells, creating additional space for kitchen items, clothes, and other essentials. A Walmart shelving unit provides more storage, secured with simple latches to prevent items from shifting during travel.

Sandy also built her bed platform high to create a "garage" underneath, large enough to accommodate her e-bike, generator, and cooler. The space under the bed became a carefully organized jigsaw puzzle of essential items. This is a great idea for utilizing space for those essential items and gear you might need.

Power and Creature Comforts

For power, Sandy relies on 200 watts of portable folding solar panels and two Blue Eddie power stations: a larger AC180 and a smaller EB3A. She initially underestimated her power needs, purchasing the smaller EB3A first but finding it insufficient. "This is the first one I got not knowing what I needed, and it wasn't near enough," she shares. The two units make a great backup system for charging smaller items. She plans to eventually install a roof rack and additional solar panels for increased power generation.

A 12V cooler keeps food cold, although Sandy acknowledges the challenge of managing food storage in a small space. She emphasizes the importance of buying only what you need and using leftovers creatively. She is considering a stand-up fridge if she can swing it with more solar, a sign of adapting and upgrading based on her real-world experience.

The Importance of the Tent

Sandy emphasizes the crucial role her tent plays in expanding her living space. The tent serves as her kitchen and living room, providing much-needed extra space. A two-burner propane stove and a Mr. Buddy heater create a comfortable cooking and living environment.

She found the tent for $130 on Black Friday, an absolute steal. "It's my kitchen. It's my living room, especially with the little bus," she explains. The tent not only expands her living area but also offers privacy and protection from the elements, making her small bus feel much larger and more comfortable.

Key Takeaways

• Affordability: You don't need a massive budget to create a comfortable and functional RV.
• DIY is Doable: Simple construction and creative solutions can overcome a lack of building experience.
• IKEA is Your Friend: IKEA furniture is lightweight, affordable, and surprisingly versatile for RV conversions.
• Maximize Space: Utilize every available nook and cranny for storage.
• Trial and Error: Be prepared to adapt and make changes based on your experiences on the road.
• Community Inspiration: Learn from others and pay it forward by sharing your own experiences.

Sandy's school bus conversion is a shining example of how resourcefulness, creativity, and a willingness to learn can transform an ordinary vehicle into an extraordinary home on wheels. Her focus on affordability and simplicity makes her story incredibly relatable and inspiring for anyone considering a similar journey. Be sure to watch the full video on CheapRVliving to gain even more insights into Sandy's amazing build!