Johnny got his bus for $3,000—and it needed a lot of work, especially regarding rust! A year and a half later, he was able to move into his truly beautiful skoolie, which he calls Miles O’ Smiles.
He made sure to keep his two large dogs in mind when building, creating a comfortable under-bed lounge area for them and ensuring he could keep the temperature comfortable for his fur babies. He has a unique couch and dinette design that provides both comfort and functionality, so be sure to watch the video for the details!
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Digital Nomad Home Built for Man and Dogs
Images via Tiny Home Tours
Oversized Daybed-Style Couch for Lounging
Images via Tiny Home Tours
Generator-Free Living with Solar Power System
Images via Tiny Home Tours
Video Tour: Miles O’ Smiles Skoolie Conversion
Design Details
- Vehicle: School bus (skoolie)
- Name: Miles O’ Smiles
- Builder: Johnny (DIY conversion)
- Bus Cost: $3,000
- Build Time: 1.5 years
- Major Challenge: Extensive rust repair
- Power: Solar system (no generator)
- Seating: Unique oversized couch/daybed with convertible dinette
- Pet Features: Under-bed dog lounge area, climate control for two large dogs
- Lifestyle: Digital nomad
- Travelers: Johnny and his two large dogs
Lessons from This Build
- Cheap Buses Need Rust Work: A $3,000 bus often comes with hidden rust issues—budget time and money for proper rust repair before building out the interior
- Design for Your Pets: Johnny built a dedicated under-bed lounge for his large dogs and prioritized climate control—your pets’ needs should influence your layout
- Solar Can Replace Generators: With careful planning, a well-designed solar system can meet all your power needs without the noise, fumes, or maintenance of a generator
- Oversized Seating Adds Comfort: A couch that doubles as a daybed provides lounging space that feels more like a home than a vehicle
- Take Your Time on the Build: Johnny spent 1.5 years on his conversion—rushing leads to regrets, while patience leads to a build you’ll love living in
Learn More
Related Stories
- Solo Travel in Her A-Frame Camper
- Their Amazing Budget Shuttle Bus Conversion
- Howling Wanderers: Bus Life with Four Dogs
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Alex
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Lovely bus! You did a great job!