Converting old school buses into full-time tiny homes is a popular trend worldwide. While most conversions are done by individuals or couples opting for vanlife, there are some exceptions, like this young family who chose to adventure in a small bus. Don’t let the size fool you though, as this clever conversion is surprisingly spacious inside.
The Chandlers, a new family to the scene, shared their project with Tiny Home Tours on YouTube. Their converted International 3800 bus is far from entry-level. They raised the roof to create space for a loft over the cab and a king-size bed at the rear. The garage area underneath the bed serves as a space for their two large dogs. This is an impressive feat for even seasoned bus builders, let alone skoolie newbies.
Between the loft and the cab is a kitchen that resembles a sizable apartment rather than a small bus. It features a counter, a full-size refrigerator/freezer, a farm sink that doubles as a small bathtub for the kids, a four-burner stove and oven, and additional countertop space that can be added when needed. The kitchen also includes a trash compactor and a special coffee nook that can be operated using an app. This family may be living on the road, but they definitely aren’t sacrificing comfort.
Opposite the kitchen is a small living space with a table for eating and activities. The full bathroom includes a stand-up shower and a toilet. The bus has a 100-gallon fresh water tank and a 40-gallon gray water tank. On the roof, there are 600 watts of solar power and a deck for relaxation. However, the retractable flat-screen TV and king-size bed in the loft above the cab also provide a cozy space to unwind. The back of the bus has curtains for privacy, while the loft is dedicated to the kids.
The Chandlers, also known as The Sundance Bus, are documenting their adventures on YouTube and Instagram. The embedded post above offers a glimpse into their ongoing journey, including the process of removing and raising the roof of the bus. While not an easy task, the final result is truly amazing.
According to the video, the Chandlers plan to add more power and potentially revise their water setup in the future. For now, they are incredibly happy with their customized home on wheels.