The idea of turning an old bus into a tiny home on wheels has become increasingly popular in recent years. Known as the “skoolie” lifestyle, full-time bus living offers the freedom to travel, downsize, and live life on your own terms. But as with most alternative lifestyles, there are plenty of misconceptions floating around about what it’s really like to call a converted bus home.
Let’s clear up a few common myths and give you a better idea of what bus life truly looks like.
1) You Have to Be Rich to Do a Bus Conversion
One of the biggest misconceptions about bus living is that it’s only for people with deep pockets. In reality, it’s often more affordable than you’d think. You can find a used school or shuttle bus between $5,000 and $20,000, depending on the size, mileage, and condition. The conversion itself can range from $10,000 to $30,000, depending on how custom you want your setup to be and whether you do the work yourself or hire professionals.
That means you could have a fully livable skoolie for under $40,000 total—less than the price of most new cars or a down payment on a home. Many bus owners save money by tackling DIY projects, repurposing materials, or upgrading gradually over time.
2) You Can Park a Bus Anywhere
Living on a bus gives you flexibility, but it doesn’t mean total freedom to park anywhere. Many cities and campgrounds have restrictions on large vehicles, and not every RV park accommodates buses. Before hitting the road, research overnight parking options, dump stations, and locations with water or electrical hookups to ensure a smooth trip.
3) Bus Life Is One Long Vacation
While traveling full-time may sound like a dream, bus living requires effort and careful planning. You’ll need to handle maintenance, find parking, manage resources such as water and propane, and occasionally deal with mechanical issues. The freedom is incredible, but it comes with real responsibilities, just like owning a home.
4) People Who Live in Buses Are “Weird”
Living in a bus may not be traditional, but it attracts all kinds of people—families, retirees, digital nomads, and everyone in between. Most choose this lifestyle for the independence, minimalism, and adventure it brings, not because they’re trying to escape responsibility.
5) A Bus Conversion Is a Lifelong Commitment
Choosing to live in a converted bus doesn’t mean you’re locked into that lifestyle forever. Some people live on the road for a few months, while others do so for several years. It’s flexible, and you can always transition back to a stationary home or a different way of life when the time feels right.
Find the Right Bus to Start Your Adventure
If you’re ready to explore the freedom of full-time bus living, start with a reliable foundation. At Northwest Bus Sales, we offer a wide selection of new and used buses that are perfect for conversions. Our team can help you find the right size and style that fits your vision and budget.
Browse our available inventory and request more information online to take the first step toward your skoolie adventure!
