Over the years, we’ve seen various DIY camper builds using buses, but most of them start with a large bus. Recently, we’ve noticed more people opting for smaller buses, and this former school bus featured on Tiny Home Tours caught our attention. From the outside, it may look unassuming, but as soon as you step inside, you’ll find a dream kitchen for any vanlifer who loves to cook.
And there’s a good reason for that. This 2011 Chevrolet school bus was built by Racey and Zack, who have turned their van-building skills into a business. However, before that, Zack was a cook. As a result, this converted small school bus features walnut butcher block countertops and a three-burner propane stove with an oven tucked between the sink and a large wardrobe. In fact, the amount of counter space in this bus is probably more than what you’ll find in many apartments. It also offers ample storage space. The kitchen is equipped with a 21-gallon water tank that feeds the faucet. Across from the kitchen, there’s a small dining area that can convert into a large bench or a second bed.
The main bed is a queen bed, mounted sideways at the back of the bus. It fits neatly, with extra storage space on the headboard. The bed is placed high up to create room for a garage underneath, which houses the van’s power and climate control systems. The roof is equipped with 400 watts of solar panels, and underneath the bed, there’s a 200 amp-hour battery and a 50-amp charge controller. In the center of the bed area, there’s a 75-liter refrigerator/freezer that slides out for easy access.
Inside the bus, you’ll find a spacious interior adorned with unique custom touches. A skylight is cut into the bus roof, providing ample natural light. Copper pipes are used to secure shelves and keep items in place. Racey designed and created the wood patterns on the back doors in the bedroom area, and she also made the curtains that cover the kitchen windows.
One notable feature missing from this build is a bathroom, but there is an outdoor shower setup available for use when temperatures permit. The video states that this bus was specifically built to handle all four seasons, and last winter, the couple spent a few months camping in the snow without any issues. The dual rear wheels, along with the bus’s weight and torquey diesel V8 engine, helped them navigate through snowy conditions effortlessly. This camper truly delivered on their winter camping needs.
The video concludes by mentioning that this bus is now up for sale, but the comments reveal that it has already been sold. We’re excited to see what the talented couple has in store for their next skoolie build.
