15 Things To Know Before Building A Skoolie School Bus Conversion

In this video Zac says Billions a lot, and gets into some things we wish we knew before building out our skoolie. For more, visit www.RollingVistas.com
We're almost finished with our Bus conversion, and we wanted to share some of the things we learned along the way.

[@madnessintomagic]

1:07 - 1 - You’ll get overwhelmed. 2:07 - 2 - You’ll be nickel and dimed 2:50 - 3 - You’ll watch a lot of videos 3:25 - 4 - It takes longer than you planned 4:14 - 5 - Make decisions that work for you. Not someone else. 5:34 - 6 - You’ll go to the hardware store. A lot. 6:19 - 7 - Working on the bus is all you will want to do. 7:17 - 8 - You’ll build skillzzzz 8:17 - 9 - You’ll become more self-reliant 8:56 - 10 - You’ll meet new people. (That’s a good thing) 9:34 - 11 - You’ll overcome obstacles 10:10 - 12 - Enjoy the thrill of the build 11:03 - 13 - You’ll learn new things about yourself (and your partner) 13:13 - 14 - You’ll be proud of your build. No matter how crappy it is. 14:21 - 15 - You’ll be a part of a community full of kind, intelligent, fascinating people. Agree with everyone who says you should keep talking. Very Soooothing.

[@sonson5486]

Thank you

[@explorercats59]

Yes you're so right. For us, there's also the fact that you can plan a lot, but then still have to improvise in the implementation. Therefore, it's good to start with each part as soon as possible! Thanks

[@mikeklakowicz1186]

#16 you're going to be broke for the next two years or as long it takes for your build never mind paying off the cost of your vehicle. Ps i.know because I'm in need deep right now building my project

[@bxnie2047]

Please start a podcast your voice is incredible

[@feralnonsense]

I could listen to him read a phonebook... his voice is GREAT!

[@TheLeiaShow]

What a tremendous voice!

[@johnqglass]

Or at least some voice-over work.

[@millermagnum]

I worked in radio for 15 years...watched this video with my wife, turned to her and said, "that guy has a great voice." She agrees!

[@bjulianaleo3025]

His voice is okay... talks a lot through his nose.

[@KingTesticus]

Good one, Number 3. Yeah, I've watched literally dozens of skoolie vids, and many of them a few times. I just purchased a bus and will pick it up in about a week. I keep switching between psyched excitement to What The Hell Am I Doing, I Must Be Insane. Two thumbs up :-)

[@debbiblakeslee2373]

KingTesticus good for you. Good luck. I want a short bus 🚌. Can’t wait

[@MyahPop]

KingTesticus good luck!!

[@jonathancorcoran9427]

How are things 8 months later? Are you on the road?

[@aneesamariee]

How ya doin in a YEAR

[@faithbillington3129]

Where are you at now???

[@elizabethbentley94]

I'm part of the "checkout people at lowes" and yall are not alone I see some people 6x/day we love our regulars! #loweslife💙

[@NicholaFiles]

Hey, just wanted to say, thanks. I watched your video at the beginning of my skoolie journey and it was great advice, I appreciated the voice of experience then. Your video popped up in a Google search today and I watched it again... good words again in this phase. Thanks for putting it out there!

[@BusyBushyBody]

I’m beginning also. Are you started? I’m looking for people to support each other building.

[@alien_trashpanda]

Thank you so much for all of this. My fiance and I finally decided last night that we are going to start building out our own skoolie and go explore. While I am absolutely terrified, I'm tired of letting that fear hold me back and I am ready for a life change.

[@cliftonsnider1520]

Excellent, informative video. Coming from years of carpentry background I’ve always said that people who don’t know what they’re doing often build a lot more interesting things than people who do because nobody told them they weren’t supposed to do it that way. They just did it and it worked.

[@shellyluthultz9793]

Thank you so much! I'm a 60 year old women who was wrongly evicted from my apartment. I loved your video cuz it helped calm me down about my build. Everything you said I had ran through my mind already. I'm going to be watching your videos for help and encouragement. Thanks very much.

[@windsofmarchjourneyperrytr2823]

What do you mean "wrongfully," exactly? Maybe get a RE lawyer.

[@Wayoutthere]

"Paralysis by Analysis" That one is going on the wall.

[@videomagictv6403]

I know it was a great one i went........"what? whad he just say?" so I backed up and listened to it 3 more times. :)

[@innerviews897]

Video Magic TV that is an OLDY but a goody

[@richdorak1547]

You didn't just describe building a bus, you described building a life. Same principles, pit falls and triumphs. Well done. Thx.

[@angelamiller3445]

You seem very comfortable in front of the camera and talking....as some people have already stated: Your voice is incredible! You should do radio!

[@tallboywitshortpants]

It is rare that I will sit and watch an entire video on KZbin- especially with it being more than 10 minutes. This is solid gold, and gives me yet another reason to love KZbin. Thanks for this Zac. Subscribed.

[@ancientwatchmanTV]

Find a job doing voice overs or become a radio host...you got the perfect time voice for it. Thanks for a the great info. Peace.

[@dehyrkas]

HAVE to add my kudos to this vid!: You have a “million dollar voice” Bro! Very informative and excellently delivered! 👍😁

[@LittleBackpackBigDreams]

So my husband and I just found your channel, this is the first video we found and we have been watching all of your stuff ever since! We actually just bought our first short bus that we have started converting and we couldn’t be more excited! We just wanted to reach out and say hello and thank you for documenting your journey for others!!

[@stink1721]

How is it looking?!

[@LittleBackpackBigDreams]

@@stink1721 we started traveling in our half way converted bus last June ! We travelled for a few months and long story short decided to stop and work for awhile ! We still have a few things to finish on our own bus but will be back on the road with it in August !

[@yeahwhatever1359]

Ive been an active skoolie for over 20 years and have built several and in the process of building yet another with my partner. thank you for your candor and humility with which you present this subject. you're hitting all the salient points.

[@theuglytruckling]

Wow, you have an amazing voice. Considered voice acting?

[@jini9755]

I KNOW!!! He should do video and commercial voice overs! What a totally awesome on the road job! I'd hire him in a heartbeat.

[@campervanelvisitoofonyou8720]

@@jini9755 Let's not exaggerate , he has a voice good enough for a 1000 watt AM radio station.

[@TashaDivine]

I was thinking the same thing

[@DebReed54]

Yep. Commercials, voice overs, animated movies. Great voice.

[@windsofmarchjourneyperrytr2823]

@@campervanelvisitoofonyou8720 I disagree. There's some work involved, but I know at least three pro radio DJ's...that's what I would have guessed.

[@TranscendExistence1111]

Those are absolutely some great tips and some well thought out info....thanks guys! Your bus is going to be fantastic when complete!!

[@cqangie29]

I LOVE everything about this video!! I really needed to hear it. I will be beginning my build this summer in TX. I am a single mom with 4 sons, so we will be converting a 40 foot bus. I feel so passionate about this new journey. It feels so right but I am terrified lol. Mainly scared of breaking down and being left stranded with my boys somewhere. But I know I can do the physical work, it won't be easy or perfect, but I'm so excited for the challenge. I have been really enjoying your videos. You and Tiffany are super sweet people and have shared so much. Thank you!!

[@92yankee52]

Where in Texas? There was a nice one in Austin being sold for a good price

[@ConnieJuneau]

You are doing an amazing thing for your children. Good luck!!

[@cqangie29]

Tattooed Soldier Dallas fort worth area. But I can't afford to buy converted. I want to buy a retired school bus and do the conversion ourself. Thanks for the tip ,😊

[@cqangie29]

Connie Juneau Awww...thanks Connie! So sweet!

[@jeannunez5999]

Angela I want a place to call mine I keep having this thoughts but I feel like people are going to call me insane I'm a single mother with 2 beautiful kids I'm saving $2000 but I know that it won't be enough I live in Houston TX good luck ❤

[@BeechGirl76]

Love the video. Working on my box truck conversion has really given me a cool experience. It's great to watch others who are also "growing" through the process. Have fun at the festival!

[@yokohamamike1041]

Wow, thanks for taking the time to make this, somehow you make this arduos task seem obtainable. Pleasant journeys, man!

[@1607rosie]

Man I got to hand it to you for taking on the challenge. I Mean I got the skills but that is a huge undertaking to follow thru. But your right the knowledge you have attained is valuable in more ways than one. Now you'll be ready to build your own house! You've done it on a small scale.

[@starrsy]

Thanks for all the videos so far. I just bought my bus and hope to convert and then travel full time. Your videos have given me lots of ideas and information. You have a great presentation style.

[@TrevorMarty69]

We just finished our van build last year and found a lot of the same things you just mentioned. We also discovered that if we are planning on living on the Rd. we need a bigger situation. We're looking for bus so thanks for your well thought out "Fifteen things to know".

[@TheSilenceWhispers]

Thanks for all of these helpful videos! My goal is to convert a skoolie and live out of it by the time I finish college, and your content has been great as I begin trimming down my belongings and searching for a bus to buy. Best of luck to you guys!

[@Rainy..Day.]

Thank you for making this. My husband and I are looking into building a Skoolie. It's our dream to travel and this this seems to be the perfect solution.

[@Mr.Beastforpresident]

Can you do a video on what would you do different? As-in wish you would have put this here and that there etc... do you know the best builder of Skoolies?

[@EatSleepVan]

Excellent points! I’m one year into a van build, not full time, but not far off it. I can’t imagine doing a whole bus!

[@Tiffinklea]

I could listen to your voice all day, everyday. Thanks for the info! So thoughtful and helpful!

[@marlana.bright]

This was so sweet! Thank you for not making a discouraging video... I just bought a bus today and I was almost scared to click this. I am that much more excited and ready for the project! Doing it all on my own with next to no experience. :)

[@steveknight1177]

OMG. Thankyou sir. I watched this vid over again. In the process of a build. Lost motivation. Thought it was me. From Australia . Luv u guys. Thankyou for your support. XOX.

[@BryanKipke]

Thank you foe the advice. The bus looks great. We will be starting ours at the beginning of next year.

[@ladysharkey]

Thanks so much I’m getting started on my journey. Still in the very beginning stages.

[@lavonnejohnson4692]

Thank you so much for this video! Just started the tear down of our skoolie and I’ve almost dehydrated from crying. At least I know my frustration with this is normal. 😃

[@ashlynrimsky1291]

Thank you so much for sharing your experience! I am working on a mini bus conversion by myself and your words gave me some much needed encouragement!

[@annemettemertz2421]

I am in it right now and yes! I can understand all off these. We are 5 months in and hope to move in this year. Might have to adjust it again but we will see. But we miss the community living in Europe.

[@jennyidols7128]

I've been spending the last few months obsessed with learning about school bus/van/truck conversions. I'm at a point where it's Now or Never! At any rate I find your videos/channel one of the most - perhaps the most - useful. Thanks ... keep them coming.

[@JohnHReed-xp4dy]

Thanks for the insight, brochacho. I start my shuttle build, this weekend, so I am just consuming as much content as possible, and your videos help a lot.

[@bryan_beyond]

I clicked on this randomly even though I'm already knee deep in my bus build, and your 15 points are great! This is amazing advice to be taken to heart by anyone curious of the process.. first tip is first for a reason, " you will become overwhelmed, and it is ok." Great stuff my friend...

[@paprincess297]

I can not express how GREAT every video has been so far. You and Tiffany are (imo), by far, THE BEST on providing information and documentation combined with great footage and superior audio. I love it! I appreciate all of the time and effort the two of you invest into your channel. Thank you SO MUCH!

[@kelsiejohnson1847]

Thanks for the words of advice! I kind of made an impulse buy of a bus this weekend while garage saling and decided I want to convert it

[@Gusinabus]

I agree with most of this but for the overwhelmed remark. i bought a bus and began sleeping in in within days, followed by full time living within a month. I did this as simply and as cheaply as possible, in order to avoid additional time or expense. It all in setting realistic goals. But your doing a great job, keep up the good work. :)

[@MeaEubanks1225]

I work at a hardware store, a fact that is hugely helpful with my skoolie conversion ❤🚌 I've also renovated an RV, which sucked, which is helpful.

[@GM-pr6vx]

Well done, thoughtful introspection into life, specifically and generally, the bus project became a conduit in dealing with life, our relationships

[@chaddhendrickson2258]

Love how you give a realistic view into the build. Great video! Thanks

[@Katokwe5]

Thanks for all the advice. I'm ready to shop around for my bus.

[@michaelhanson7764]

Thank you for this video🙏🏻🙏🏻 all the tips made 100% sense, I feel more prepared and I’m even more excited about my build to get started, nice work!!

[@Mordrayso]

Love the video as always and your video content is always helpful as well. So well spoken, educated and professional. Quality always shines through. Thanks for sharing. Be safe in your build and your adventures.

[@journeywiththelight5284]

And yes, I agree that your voice is wonderful. Soothing, yet commanding. Reassuring too.

[@SpiritualStuntman]

Dude, I’m halfway through and your tips are like a mellow Zen way to do life. Thank you and Namaste Brother🙏🏼♥️ Keep up doing you!!

[@MultiScrappydo]

I’m so glad I found this. I’ve watched out of sequence so I already know what happened at the Tiny House Festival and it makes these things that you talk about even more important somehow. I’ve followed the Tiny House Movement for many years and if it weren’t for the fact I want to travel I would have built a tiny house. It’s already so true that we are overwhelmed now with buying a bus. We started with the usual Craigslist and EBay options and now we have found govt surplus sites and auction sites and now the choices are endless. Also love the idea of working on separate projects. It just made me feel better to know that it’s ok to feel overwhelmed. And I will pay attention and enjoy the journey now so thank you for this! I look forward to your official tour.

[@brooktanzania4201]

why hasn't anybody started a little company building this school buses for some of us that neither have the inclination or the talent to go through this project? at first I thought it was a wonderful idea and the more of those videos I watch I think it's just a bad idea for me, I wouldn't have anybody to bail me out if I needed it. That's not to say some of this tiny bus houses are not cute as a button., Then I started thinking about the problem so where to park it in I realize that I wasn't in this big of a hurry as I once thought I was.

[@tomleonard6177]

You have a great outlook on life and the process of learning.

[@TheUtopiansBus]

Just subbed after watching this video. Looking forward to watching more. Thank you for talking me off the ledge, since we are a month away from closing the sale of our home and will soon be bus shopping. The mental preparation is one of the things we are struggling with, so videos like these help put it all in perspective. Anxious and excited to get started on our own skoolie dream. Right now is our call before the storm.

[@cackleberryfarm4598]

We've been watching Tiny Homes (and now Schoolie) videos on youtube for a few years now. I realized watching this video that everything you had on this list pertains to our small organic farm operation. It felt REALLY good to hear this from someone else. It was a shot of motivation at a time when it's in the 100s here in Boise, ID and we currently can't grow anything because it's TOO hot for seeds to germinate in the ground. But this video helped me go back and reflect on why we started doing this 11 years ago, to begin with. So you can take this video and translate it to your own current life and find that it might help in these crappy times :-) Thanks.

[@JohnnyMullet]

Totally agree on all points! Thanks for the update.

[@dee9443]

Thanks for this introspection.

[@ocean_kin1922]

I'm thinking about converting my own bus in the next year or so (for several reasons the main one being cost of living) and I'm so glad I found this channel! thank you so much!

[@juanitaskelton448]

Thank you so much...you are such an easy voice to listen to...besides sharing the must human aspect of doing a project as a team member. I think one very important part of the build is the motivation behind it. Two or more angels coming together to create something that has profound impact on life these days, is the part that truly matters. You and Tiffany have accomplished much more than you are even aware of. Please stay healthy and wise and safe. Hearing from you helps others. Sharing and caring about ideas that help people to move and grow in a safe love is so valuable. Thank you again, dear hearts. Great job! BRAVO....AND...YAY!!!

[@mastersmoosh9496]

Good advice for life in general. Thanks for your videos. Positive & encouraging. 🚙

[@heatseekerbus]

Another great video, I'm starting my build. So many setbacks. frustrated but no turning back at this point.

[@tbruce7909]

I do electrical work by trade and can completely relate to the skills and overcoming obstacles related to what you're working on. That's really awesome that you are having that experience. It builds confidence and you learn to enjoy it like a new favorite hobby. Congrats to you guys for getting through this to the point you are at now. Great video man.

[@fransoldman841]

Very very very good and true video. Am always amazed at the attitude of people who do these. There is a positive, contagious spirit that is either gained or possessed by doing something outside the realm of "normal". Yall rock. God bless and good luck.

[@sarahbeauchamp3902]

Loved this, very helpful for anyone no matter the experience on this topic and appreciated how genuine you come across. Thank you! Subscribed!

[@tonyastamm5417]

Just now bus shopping, cannot wait to get started!

[@ama409573]

Motivation comes after you get started, just get started. Great advice 👍

[@danigallagher5640]

It's all so truuuuuuuuue! Thanks for this caring video. In the thick of my build ...two years later with a big gap of relapse due to overwhelm. About to jump back at it in a serious way. I think some people just expect it to be like an episode of a tv show with a before and after in two weeks time

[@666lame666]

Great video. You could not have made a better video for people taking on the Skoolie lifestyle. I've already experienced some of the 15 things that has happened to you and others. This was a deep breath for me and an exhale of relief knowing I'm not alone in the trials and tribulations that come along with converting a school bus. You have earned a subscription from me. Best of luck to you both and hope to see you out on the road soon.

[@pugnado7779]

I am thirteen years old and hoping to build a schoolie. Love the vids. Keep up the great work.

[@rabbit22o]

Super awesome advice. My husband and myself want to build a skoolie. This advice helps hugely. 😊👍

[@KrisH-kp9vx]

Absolutely love your attitude! Was hoping for more of a tech video but feel much more informed on attitude and bravery! Thanks! Keep up the great work!

[@hydechrastina6348]

Thank you thank you thank you! We're starting our build in August and cannot wait to dive in. We have a ton of stuff in common with you guys and find ourselves relating to a lot of the stuff you post, so thank you for putting yourselves out there and motivating us even more! ALSO we'll see you at the CO Tiny House Festival on the 22nd!! :D

[@humanconnectionflores]

Thank you for sharing, you and your partner stay well.

[@TheDanareynolds777]

Nicely done! Straight to the point, which is so fresh!!! We are beginning our skoolie build😊

[@damselflybus2413]

Love your videos. Thanks for helping us new to the school bus conversionworldfigure out where to start. You both have great taste so appreciate the inspiration

[@gsxyukon]

just starting to look into a Skoolie build, thanks for this video!

[@VjCClass]

Thank you a million for this video. My fiancé and I are in the beginning stage of schoolie life and we are already experiencing the overwhelming Ed’s...purchased our bus on Edam, flight to Minneapolis, rental car to South Dakota, got the bus, heading home to NYC, made it 200miles of the 1,110+mile journey, radiator busted, unscheduled three day vacation till the repairs can be made so that we can back on the road. Collecting our thoughts will push on thanks to knowing this is to be excepted. We are new followers of your channel now. 👍🏾

[@VjCClass]

Update: We made the best of our five day stay in Dells & then Janesville Wisconsin. Long story short, part arrived Friday picked up bus Saturday 1pm and pulled in to NYC our home state at 5:30 am Sunday. The bus runs great! I hope to vlog and post to the tube soon. We will have a family meeting to figure things out as far as name, color(s), floor plan, etc...I don't have to tell you. Thank you for the encouragement. Side note, me and my fiance are 5th grade sweethearts as well. LOL.

[@onetruebob_tj]

Thank you. Great list of considerations.

[@HaydenNightingale124]

Thank for you this video!! It's unrealistic to think any major project is going to be all rainbows and butterflies. #5- you have to do what's right for yourself. YES! I'd add that there will also be a lot of nah sayers trying to talk you out of things. The hardest is when it comes from the people closest to you. There's a reason not everyone follows their dreams, it ain't easy, but it is absolutely worth it.

[@dougdemaree1963]

I just bought a bus......I am a professional carpenter..... I have about $200.00 in repair and renovation expenses so far and it is really going my way.......this is going to be real easy and fun. It is already my daily driver........I love it. It has extraordinary potential........

[@BusyBushyBody]

How is your skoolie? Do you help others build? Looking to help someone and be helped

[@dougdemaree1963]

I will be glad to help others build....I have good skills. We need a Bus convention in the Eastern U.S...... Tennessee is a good central location. Lets do a bus builders rally in Pigeon Forge........let me know what you think.........

[@BusyBushyBody]

@@dougdemaree1963 love that idea 🥰

[@ebranham123]

Dudes voice is so soothing...i can conquer the world now, Thank you. Lol

[@billydemarco5328]

Very informative thank you, we just bought a bus last Sunday,

[@christinekilar502]

My husband and I have been together since he was 15 and me 14. We have been married 34 years 2. Kids and 3 grandchildren later and we still love and respect each other. Makes me so proud to see others doing this also. 🥰 you guys are a inspiration.

[@lakelili]

Going to be listening to this again. Some great advice!

[@tishishappy]

Thanks for this! Perfect timing!! I’m just starting the in depth research process. I’m going to sell my house in a few months and buy a bus!!

[@TurtleX2000]

I just started looking into Skoolie homes. I’ve been pricing materials and hope to get started within the next 6months. I’m looking forward to we’re this path takes me in life.

[@parepidemosproductions4741]

Yes! KZbin University!!

[@westmountainadventures3606]

Precious Pecans Youtubiversity!

[@fionafiona1146]

My university is good too the 300€ a term price tag keeps it well worth it

[@graystone3048]

Wow you seriously need a career in radio or voice over!

[@amandac6681]

Hi Tiff & Zack, its Amanda here from the UK, great topic and words of encouragement, I think your advice was spot on and as you know from my email to you, what I am about to do regarding coming over from the UK to buy and convert a bus into my tiny house is scary, but I do believe a famous saying life begins at the end of your comfort zone and your email reply and offer of help if I get stuck or scared makes me feel like I am not alone and your not the first to offer this, so I definitely agree and believe that the nomadic / tiny house community is full of wonderful people and I am so happy to be part of this community! Keep up the great work - Hugs and positive vibes Amanda x

[@Ahmad-dy8cp]

the best video I have ever watched on this topic ....you should be proud .. hats off.

[@WizardOfCause]

Been a KZbinr for a while and I'm coming around to looking at skoolie life in the next year or so. Glad to have found your channel.

[@MamiFarr]

I love your channel guys. Your channel is one of the first I subscribed to while planning our skoolie build.

[@DoodleOnAMotorcycle]

This is looking awesome... seriously so impressed

[@GordonDolbyII]

Thanks for the heads up and Inspiring words

[@MyahPop]

Thank you for sharing this. I’m 23 year olds female looking to embark on this crazy adventure. These were all great tips.

[@BusyBushyBody]

Have you done it yet? I’m starting. Looking for help building one. I’m willing to help build someone else’s

[@karensmith208]

Thank You! I totally appreciate how you presented the 15 things to consider/ know about skoolie conversions... I am so looking forward to viewing more of your videos :-D

[@thankfultolive2819]

Thank you for the tips!

[@meredithmccain8484]

Thank you so much for putting up this video! it was so helpful and interesting, I can not wait to get started on our build. We are still in the very beginning and looking for the right bus to buy! we have been together 8 years and are getting married this year so the part where you said you had been together so long and are still getting to know each other during this really connected with me. I was laugh so hard because we are the same way, we do thing SO different and for the life of us we can't explain one idea to the other so doing some projects we do together can be very difficult but in the end it fun and great memories to do together! Love keeping up with you guys! Also, not to make things weird but you have a great voice lol. its very calming

[@dizheller2101]

Great points, very thoughtful! Thanks!

[@surfcityreds7097]

I have been checking out these builds just for fun. I enjoyed your video here and you seem like a very nice, well spoken guy. I wish you and your lady all the luck in the world and a very safe and exciting adventure.

[@TerryManitoba]

I've lived and 100% agree with your points. I'm about 9 months into my Transit van build and have experienced it all.. Next, I need to sort out my solar and all the electrical wiring that comes with it. I find that sleeping on it, is huge - prototyping is huge - living with the current design then updating it is huge and oddly enough when taking a trip to a supply store you get ideas by just browsing around, that been surprisingly helpful.

[@TerryManitoba]

THX - I have to give you a heads up on this item, since I have to deal with even tighter spaces in the van. I installed a Lagun Table bracket just the other day ( so I'm still pumped) - it worked beyond my expectations. highly recommended for a table that stores and easily gets out of your way - Cheers.