15 Things To Know Before Building A Skoolie School Bus Conversion

[@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

[@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?

[@prettikhaotic]

How ya doin in a YEAR

[@faithbillington3129]

Where are you at now???

[@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.

[@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!

[@BusyBrainyBody]

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

[@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.

[@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.

[@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!

[@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.

[@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.

[@pugnado7779]

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

[@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 !

[@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

[@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!

[@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. :)

[@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.

[@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. :)

[@yokohamamike1041]

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

[@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 ❤

[@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!!!

[@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

[@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.

[@ebranham123]

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

[@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.

[@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. 😃

[@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?

[@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.

[@dee9443]

Thanks for this introspection.

[@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.

[@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!

[@sgudekunst]

What is the upkeep like with one of these? Cost of tires? Engine work, etc.

[@kimberluna2226]

A maintenance breakdown!!?

[@windsofmarchjourneyperrytr2823]

It would depend, tho. Maybe save up 15-20k, jic. Come in handy for the next pandemic, too.

[@MyahPop]

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

[@BusyBrainyBody]

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

[@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!

[@chaddhendrickson2258]

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

[@TheDanareynolds777]

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

[@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.

[@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!

[@abtomdandad]

Wow, As someone who's getting ready to pull the trigger on a bus, I've already been watching the countless KZbin vids to which you refer. Your's has the best combination of tone, information and specificity that I needed to level my expectations. I look forward to watching your other videos.

[@ama409573]

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

[@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........

[@BusyBrainyBody]

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.........

[@BusyBrainyBody]

@@dougdemaree1963 love that idea 🥰

[@Ahmad-dy8cp]

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

[@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

[@MamiFarr]

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

[@tomjustice7610]

I really enjoyed the video. I'm at the other end of the age spectrum from you and your wife and I will retire in 2 years. I've just started looking at the possibility of converting a school bus, and am really glad this is one of the first videos I've watched. Thank you so much.

[@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.

[@Tiffinklea]

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

[@Katokwe5]

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

[@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!

[@billydemarco5328]

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

[@James_taylor810]

I’m building my third van and I’m still binge watching van life/bus life conversion videos.

[@BusyBrainyBody]

Do you help people build a skoolie? 🥰

[@sarahbeauchamp3902]

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

[@ourhumblecommode]

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.

[@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...

[@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.

[@feralnonsense]

Thanks for being here. your experience is appreciated!

[@comfortablynumb9342]

What a helpful video. Thanks. I'm trying to figure out how to live cheap and this is looking like a good option.

[@GM-pr6vx]

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

[@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.

[@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!

[@heatseekerbus]

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

[@tdk1246]

Well said. Applies to many types of projects. I'm working on my sailboat and can say everything you said is true.

[@BIMMERKID2]

I am starting a bus build soon. Picking up the bus on this coming friday:) Its a 2003 Freightliner FS65 with a 7.2 Cat and a allison 2500 pts transmission 5 speed w/ overdrive automatic.. had the chance to test drive it prior to buying it. I am a school bus driver by trade.. its what I do for a living. Looking forward to converting it to a part Camper part Mobile amateur radio shack on wheels :)

[@brokerbabe08]

Can someone guide me on the best engine to look for with a short bus?

[@jewelhenry6693]

Central Wi Skoolie can you share where would be a good place to start to look for a bus?

[@metalman69201]

@@brokerbabe08 Yes, I have put together some very valuable information on the best buses and the best engines compiled by chatting with bus mechanics and bus drivers. [e-mail] if you want to email me and I will send you the information I have compiled so far. :-)

[@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.

[@TranscendExistence1111]

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

[@Maddiehere89]

love your voice

[@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.

[@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.

[@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!!

[@ladysharkey]

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

[@barbaralindsey9304]

first of all I love this mans VOICE, it kept my interest and I fidget all the time! heck the Bus trans formation!!! being Co-vid bound his voice was sooothing to me, my significant other has a hold on me too so I mean no harm to this married gentleman, next, thoroughly enjoyed watching but I do wonder about where can you find land or places for parking, gas prices, raining, septic tanks for plumbing etc. much love

[@onetruebob_tj]

Thank you. Great list of considerations.

[@GordonDolbyII]

Thanks for the heads up and Inspiring words

[@motalove1968]

Congratulations to Dillon for scoring a sweet deal on a bus today! Happy Birthday❤️

[@dizheller2101]

Great points, very thoughtful! Thanks!

[@valeriegriner5644]

Great video! I love your voice, too. You should be a Life Coach. "Paralysis by Analysis,"...that's me...my entire life. Enjoy your youth(I'll be 61 on 05/14/18). Go for it! I acquired a LOT of skills during my life...by necessity. I couldn't afford to hire "professionals" for EVERY job, so I just jumped into things and learned by trial and error. (This was BEFORE the internet and KZbin). Thanks so much for your videos! Your conversion looks great1

[@loiscarey9404]

Valerie Griner b

[@a.c.6426]

Awesome vid man.. I'm in just looking at jumpin in on this, in fact it was my wifes idea.. we are flipping our first house and I've gained so much from that this kind of thing doesn't seem as scary as before. I dig your vibe bro, super chill.. Thanks for posting. Cheers from Canada.

[@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".

[@campbellvonjordan68]

Videos like this only motivate me and inspire me to make a skoolie. As a drummer who needs constant access to his drum set for solo practice I have a unique set of challenges in that a large part of the bus would be taken up by a room or area designed specifically for a full-volume drum set. The first challenge is finding a bus large enough to accommodate my living space as well as the necessary space for my drums. Regardless, as I've grown older and contemplated home ownership I am rather frightened at the thought of having to deal with property taxes, home owner's insurance, constant up keep, crappy neighbors, etc. I don't always have the opportunity to travel but if I had a skoolie I would be able to travel more easily whenever I get the chance. Not only that, I love the idea of living in a small, easily manageable space. Also, as I am currently involved with two bands that travel often it would be much easier to travel with a bus made for living in than borrowing or renting a van or bus.

[@AMentorway4u]

Great information. Loved the video. You have the best voice. You have a radio voice for sure.

[@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!!

[@gerbos87]

Wonderful, Thanks.

[@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.

[@medorakea7327]

I've been watching skoolie videos for years in preparation for my own skoolie build in two years and this is by far one of my favorite videos (especially on the what-you-wish-you-would've-known topic)

[@mastersmoosh9496]

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

[@lakelili]

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

[@omarkaroush3723]

'When somebody tells me your doing something wrong....i do soul searching" loooooooooooolllllll

[@Rolling_Vistas]

Lololololololol

[@thepowerofyou6065]

Lounging in my new gutted school bus while watching. Thank you!!!

[@Bosslady0202]

Thank you! Great radio voice.

[@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.

[@3sunskellym]

Thank you. I'm only just starting research

[@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.

[@humanconnectionflores]

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

[@shaibychohan1025]

Thank you so much for being so kind , thinking about others , I wish and hope to make a tiny bus house Inshaa ALLAH soon , my prayers , wishes and lots of flowers are for your family , love from Pakistan , take care ciao !

[@germanevision]

Motivation comes from the work you start doing. That should be etched in gold

[@NeverSayNeverCreations]

Thank you for this! We are about a year away from finding a location to build and buying a bus, and videos like these help SO MUCH. Now, we've found some great people on KZbin, but what blogs or pages or people do you recommend researching?

[@jimskewes8337]

Great advise. Planning is essential.

[@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

[@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.

[@BryanKipke]

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