How to Buy a Skoolie: A Comprehensive Guide

Your Guide to buying the best Skoolies

Overview

A Skoolie is an RV made from a converted school bus. Buying a Skoolie is a great way to get into the RV lifestyle, as it is a much more affordable option than buying a pre-made RV. This guide will provide you with information on the different types of Skoolies available, how to find the right one for you, and what to look for when buying a Skoolie. With the right knowledge, you can find the perfect Skoolie for your needs and start living the RV lifestyle.

Key features

  1. Size: Measure the area you plan to store the Skoolie to determine the size you need to purchase.
  2. Layout: Decide what kind of layout you prefer, such as a bus with a large seating area or a motorhome with individual rooms.
  3. Chassis & Engine: Choose a chassis and engine that are reliable, fuel-efficient, and cost-effective.
  4. Fuel Source: Decide between a diesel or gas engine and choose the type of fuel you will use.
  5. Interior Design: Consider all aspects of the interior, such as appliances, furniture, and storage space.
  6. Exterior Design: Look at the exterior design, including the paint scheme, windows, and any other features.
  7. Safety Features: Determine the safety features you want in your Skoolie, such as fire extinguishers, first-aid kits, and smoke detectors.
  8. Cost: Compare the cost of different Skoolie models to find the one that fits your budget.
  9. Maintenance: Research the cost of regular maintenance for Skoolies and choose one that fits your budget.

See the most popular Skoolies on Amazon

Important considerations

Pros

  • Affordability - Skoolies are typically cheaper than traditional RVs and require less maintenance.
  • Flexibility - Skoolies offer a wide range of customization options, from layout and size to design and features.
  • Durability - Skoolies are built with durable materials and often have more heavy-duty suspension and drivetrains than traditional RVs.
  • Fuel Efficiency - Skoolies tend to be more fuel efficient than traditional RVs due to their smaller size and lighter weight.
  • Versatility - Skoolies can be used for a variety of activities, from camping and road trips to off-grid living and more.
  • Community - There is a large and growing community of Skoolie enthusiasts dedicated to helping each other out.

Cons

  • Cost: Skoolies can be expensive to buy and convert, since they are usually used vehicles and require a renovation process.
  • Size: Skoolies can be quite large and hard to park or drive, making it difficult to get to certain areas.
  • Aging: Skoolies are usually older vehicles, which can mean more frequent servicing and potential for more extensive repairs.
  • Weight: Skoolies tend to be heavy, which can make them less fuel efficient and more difficult to move.
  • Space: Due to their size, Skoolies can have limited internal storage and living space.

Best alternatives

    Tiny Houses - Smaller, portable homes constructed on trailers, often designed for off-grid living. Fifth Wheels - Similar to RVs, but with a more unique design and construction. RVs - Recreational vehicles meant for more comfortable living on the move. Motorhomes - Self-contained travel vehicles designed for long-distance travel. Camper Vans - Smaller motorized vans modified for camping and travel. Camper Trailers - Small trailers designed for camping and travel. Houseboats - Boats modified for living aboard, usually for short-term or long-term stays.

Related tools, supplies, and accessories

  • Flooring - There are various types of flooring available for Skoolies, including vinyl plank, carpet, and laminate.
  • Ceiling - Depending on the size and type of Skoolie, your ceiling may be made of wood, metal, or fiberglass.
  • Windows - Windows are usually made of vinyl, metal, or tempered glass.
  • Electrical System - Electrical systems for Skoolies vary depending on the size and type of the vehicle. They can include wiring, outlets, switches, and fuses.
  • Solar Panels - Solar panels are a great way to provide power to your Skoolie without relying on traditional sources.
  • Furnishings - Furnishings can include furniture, mattresses, curtains, and storage solutions.
  • Plumbing System - Plumbing systems can include tanks, pumps, and piping for a Skoolie.
  • Insulation - Insulation is important for keeping the interior of a Skoolie warm in the winter and cool in the summer.
  • Ventilation - Ventilation systems are important for keeping odors and humidity at bay.
  • Air Conditioner - An air conditioner can help keep the interior of a Skoolie comfortable, especially during the summer.
  • Heating System - Heating systems for Skoolies can include gas-powered furnaces and electric heaters.

Common questions

  1. What is a Skoolie? A Skoolie is a repurposed school bus that has been converted into a recreational vehicle. It can come in a variety of sizes and styles, and be customized to fit the user's needs.
  2. What are the benefits of owning a Skoolie? Owning a Skoolie offers a variety of benefits, including cost savings, the ability to travel long distances, and the freedom to modify the interior to your liking.
  3. How much does it cost to buy a Skoolie? The cost of a Skoolie can vary depending on the size and condition of the bus, as well as the amount of customization done. Generally, a basic Skoolie can cost anywhere from $5,000 to $20,000.
  4. What are the different types of Skoolies? Skoolies come in a variety of sizes and configurations. Common types include flat-nose buses, rear engine buses, and mid-sized buses.
  5. What should I look for when buying a Skoolie? When shopping for a Skoolie, be sure to inspect the condition of the bus, including checking for any rust or damage to the body and engine. Additionally, check to make sure the bus has all the necessary safety equipment, such as fire extinguishers and first aid kits.
  6. What should I consider before making a purchase? Before purchasing a Skoolie, consider the size and layout of the bus, as well as the amount of work and money that will need to be invested in the conversion process. Additionally, make sure to check the local laws and regulations regarding vehicle registration and insurance.

Trivia

One funny fact about Skoolies is that a former Skoolie owner drove his bus across the US border into Mexico without being questioned by border guards. The story made international news and was covered by outlets such as The Guardian, ABC News, and The Daily Mail. The bus had been converted into a tiny home and the owner had a special permit allowing him to drive it into Mexico. The border guards were so surprised that they waved him through without asking any questions. Source

Disclaimer: This buying guide was not created by humans, and it is possible that some of it's content is inaccurate or incomplete. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this buying guide. Additionally, the images on this page were generated by AI and may not accurately represent the product that is being discussed. We have tried to convey useful information, but it is our subjective opinion and should not be taken as complete or factual.