Converted school buses, also called “skoolies,” are a popular alternative to RVs and tiny homes. A number of Americans are transforming used buses into tiny homes and it has become a lifestyle trend in the country. There are numerous examples of school bus conversions but once you see Josh and Emily’s version you’ll wonder how a school bus home could look this beautiful.
Named Aurora the Adventure Bus, it is a 40-foot-long 2004 International RE-300 school bus that has been converted into a lavish tiny home on wheels. Engineers by profession, the young couple from South Dakota has taken two years and about $80,000 to complete the project.
The couple has renovated the interior as well as the exterior. One interesting improvement drawing attention is the raised roof that has been lifted 18 inches up which increases the headroom inside the bus.
The exterior of the Aurora Adventure Bus is painted in random orange and cream white that’s sure to catch attention. There are three awnings that wrap around the entire bus and help maintain the interior temperature. Inside; there is a cozy sofa bed, kitchen, two work-from-home stations, bathroom with shower, and bedroom in the middle.
The interior layout looks quite stylish, with a ceiling paneled in wood and walls done in white. The most interesting thing inside the bus is the kitchen which includes a large pantry with a spice rack. Being a cat parent, the couple has included a hidden cat litter box next to the front door. They’ve has even renovated the driving section to make space for storage and a shelf for planters.
Also Read: 20 Inspiring Skoolies to Ignite Your Wanderlust
The couple has built the bus conversion RV for off-grid life since the roof is equipped with a 2,400-watt solar panel system and a 200-gallon water tank. Also, there is an 80-90 gallon fuel and an additional 20-gallon fuel tank for heaters mounted within the body of the bus, with access from the outside. The bus home is powered by a DT466E engine, which is sufficient to tow their Jeep Wrangler.
For Josh and Emily, the life on the road lifestyle gives them opportunities to connect with people and nature. If you want to find out more about the build, you can check the video below.
