Skoolies

Skoolies or Schoolies is a term that refers to either those who convert school buses into recreational vehicles, or to the converted buses themselves.

Conversion

Most schoolie conversions to RVs involve a specific series of steps, not necessarily in this order:

Removal of seats
Installation of 110 VAC electrical system, generator/inverter, solar system, extra batteries, etc.
Installation of plumbing, including:
- Fresh water tank
- Grey water tank
- Black water tank
- Pump
- Shower
Insulation of the floor, walls and/or ceilings
Installation of replacement flooring
Installation of Furniture, cabinetry and appliances
Exterior cosmetic changes (paint, etc)

Some schoolies also undergo some more dramatic structural changes, often to improve the sometimes limited head room, as the inside of most school buses at the middle is 6'1". Raising the roof on schoolies is a relatively common modification, and some enthusiasts even go so far as to remove the entire roof and replace it with an entirely new custom roof, usually much higher. Some buses also have had other vehicles grafted to them, had RV "slide-out" sides installed, or have included Jacuzzis.

Legality

There are varying regulations in different states in the United States that affect the conversion of a school bus into an RV. Some states require that the bus's signaling equipment (stop sign, flashing lights, etc.) be removed and the school bus yellow paint scheme be changed. Other states simply require that the "School Bus" signage at the top front and rear be removed.

It appears that all states require that the converted bus be re-registered as an RV, and insured as such. Contrary to rumors you do NOT have to have a CDL to drive your not for hire skoolie.

Insurance

Although more difficult to insure than the family sedan skoolies are not difficult to insure. While many large insurance companies have no provision in their automated systems for modified or re-purposed vehicles, numerous insurance companies value the business. In fact the insurance is surprisingly cheap.