The tumult of the past few years has compelled people across the country to rethink their careers, homes,  goals, and priorities. USA Today reports folks are increasingly shifting toward nontraditional lifestyles that allow for more travel. At Studio Express, we’ve seen this manifest in swelling demand for South Florida bus conversions, RV renovations, and van conversions. In fact, we’re on the front line of turning those visions into valid options.

“I think prior to the pandemic, most people considered renovating a bus or traveling the country in an RV or #vanlife to be something really only attainable for certain segments of the population,” explained Studio Express CEO Erick Lopez. “But we’ve seen a marked shift in thinking. This isn’t just retirees or social media-obsessed kids. We have families, professionals who can work from anywhere, empty nesters – all looking for a change of pace and scenery. And now, more people than ever have the flexibility to make it happen.”

A home on wheels can be an alternative to “brick-and-sticks” living, but it can also be something individuals or families choose to do on the side, during summers, sabbaticals, or vacations. It’s a way to see the country in way that is affordable, and yet contains all the comforts of home.

South Florida Bus Conversions vs. Brand New RV Purchases

Once a decision is made to plunge into #roadlife, the next question is: How?

Some people appreciate turnkey options, like top-of-the-line Class A and fifth-wheel travel trailers. Those can be great options – if you can afford them. As reported by CruiseAmerica.com though, a brand new, higher-end model can easily top $200,000 – $300,000. It depends on numerous factors, such as the RV class, model year, and included features.

There are also travel trailers (which can be beautifully renovated as well), though customers do need to bear in mind those require a towing vehicle with adequate capacity to ensure safety.

South Florida bus conversions can be a more budget-friendly option that also allows a person to invest specifically in features that are important to them. School buses (aka “skoolies”) and city buses tend to be less expensive than other types of recreational vehicles (some starting at roughly $3,500, depending on size, model year & mileage) and don’t require a towing vehicle. Most schools “retire” buses after about 20 years in service, but as most skoolie owners know – these buses were built to last! Plus, upcycling is often as much about lifestyle as it is about cost savings.

As for customization options, maybe a dishwasher on the road isn’t all that important to you, but you’d love a custom bathtub. Those are the kinds of features Studio Express can custom design and build – at affordable rates. We can make simple changes on existing models or build it all out from the bones up. The layout can be tailored to fit your lifestyle. There are many ways to keep projects within budget – starting with the type of bus you choose, the materials you use, and the features you add (or skip). Our team can help you draft a design that is going to fit your needs while staying within budget and time constraints.

By working with a professional team of designers, construction experts, and painting pros, you have the benefit of a team that not only understands how to do the job right, but also knows how to navigate some of the unexpected roadblocks that can arise in any renovation project.

Studio Express in Fort Myers offers South Florida bus conversions, van conversions, travel trailer and RV renovations – and more! Contact us at (239) 878-0603 or by emailing

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Additional Resources:

Americans are converting more used school buses into tiny homes during the pandemic, July 28, 2020, By Dalvin Brown, USA Today

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