There are people who want to be always on-the-go meeting new friends and seeing new places. That’s why the idea of ‘mobile homes’ rose to fame and is now becoming a trend for a lot of people and families.
What is a mobile home?
A mobile home, also referred to as a house trailer, park home, trailer, or trailer home, is a premanufactured structure constructed in a factory on a chassis that remains permanently attached. After production, it is transported to its intended location, either by towing or on a trailer.
While mobile homes are utilized as permanent residences or for holiday and temporary lodging, they are often situated semi-permanently or permanently in one spot. However, they have the flexibility to be relocated, and at times, they may be legally obligated to move.
Mobile homes and travel trailers share historical origins, but they have evolved into distinct entities. Today, travel trailers are primarily used as temporary or vacation residences. Beneath the cosmetic additions installed during setup to conceal the base, mobile homes possess sturdy trailer frames, axles, wheels, and tow-hitches.
A family on wheels.
Jeff and Anna, together with their kids, are all traveling and living at the same time inside their skoolie ( a school bus turned into a living space). But they eventually needed a bigger space when their family also started to grow bigger.
In a creatively transformed 40-foot school bus, their family of seven has ingeniously turned it into a home, and has the chance to travel at the same time. This DIY marvel isn’t just a vehicle; it’s a fully equipped home that’s both functional and efficient.
Starting in the driver’s area, a redesigned cockpit maximizes comfort and functionality. Unnecessary equipment is replaced with an iPad for navigation and a backup camera screen. An RV-specific GPS app tailored to the bus’s dimensions enhances the driving experience.
Stepping further inside, you encounter an L-shaped couch that serves multiple purposes: a cozy gathering spot, equipped with seat belts for safe travel, and featuring a mini-split unit for climate control. Storage compartments beneath the couches optimize space.
Jeff and Anna also ensured their children’s education.
A well-stocked bookshelf underscores the family’s commitment to education and literature’s significance in their lives. The kitchen offers a residential feel with full-sized counters, a propane stove, and sturdy plywood cabinets. Convenience is key, with a washer-dryer combo and a pull-out spice rack. Even the refrigerator and snack cabinets are designed for maximum space and travel safety.
The bus’s distinctive feature is its second story, built atop the original structure with metal studs and weatherproof vinyl siding. This impressive addition cost an extra $15,000, bringing the total investment to around $50,000. The bus is equipped with 96 gallons of freshwater storage and a mini-split climate control system. It’s also eco-friendly, boasting an EcoFlow Delta Pro power bank with 3.6 kilowatt-hours of lithium iron phosphate batteries, capable of harnessing 1600 watts of solar power.
Jeff’s workspace is compact, featuring a high-voltage breaker box and a router for Starlink internet service. The children have their own bunks with chalkboard walls for learning and creativity. The bathroom boasts a Nature’s Head composting toilet and a full ceramic tile shower, offering luxury in a small space.
Compact but functional.
The master bedroom is a sanctuary with a king-sized bed that provides additional storage when lifted. The second floor is the children’s domain, featuring individual rooms and a common area for watching TV. Each space is adorned with souvenirs and mementos collected during their travels, adding a personal touch to their mobile home.
For Jeff, Anna, and their children, the bus is more than just a home; it’s a lifestyle. They’ve embraced the challenges and rewards, forging new friendships and learning invaluable lessons along the way. As Jeff aptly puts it, “If you have a dream, don’t let anything get in the way. Just do the dream.”
Take a virtual tour inside their mobile home by pressing the play button below.
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