Couple Transforms School Bus Into Home and Travels Across Parks

Scott Heltz longed for a life of adventure, wishing he could abandon his regular job to tour the nation in an RV. In 2019, his aspirations found a partner when he met Shaquita Riley, envisioning a life journey together.

Riley proposed a unique twist: rather than a conventional RV, they could purchase an outdated school bus and refurbish it into a cozy mobile dwelling, a concept popularly known as a "skoolie." Heltz's passion for construction made this idea captivating. The bus offered ample space for renovation and bespoke design compared to an RV. Six months into their meeting, they acquired a 2004 school bus for roughly $3,000.

Heltz cherished the prospect of exploration. "Travel was always my ultimate goal," the 55-year-old mentioned.

Over the next three years, the couple invested approximately $40,000 in renovations. Their efforts included elevating the roof, adding new sheet metal, and redesigning the interior into a functional living space with a bedroom, kitchen, bathroom, dining area, and vibrant artwork.

Once the bus facilities were functional, Shaquita was so excited she quickly purchased a mattress, marking the end of their stay in a traditional home.

Embarking on their journey in 2023, they left New Orleans behind with no intentions of returning. With their two pets, they have ventured through the western parks of America, currently residing in their bus stationed in Arizona as they look to settle.

A Growing Trend of Nomadic Life

Their lifestyle is part of a broader movement where many Americans choose mobile living over permanent structures, trading labor for parking space and minimal pay. This lifestyle appeals to varied groups, from retirees seeking frugality, families aiming to broaden their children's horizons, to individuals avoiding high housing costs.

Challenges of Bus Living

While the idea of skoolie life might seem appealing online, Heltz warns it comes with difficulties. Repairs and maintenance are common issues, insurance can strain finances, and the work available often involves tedious tasks in the parks they visit.

Reflecting on his experiences, Heltz said, "I questioned my choices when faced with menial jobs far from my usual skills." While their expenses remained manageable, their income decreased significantly.

He noted that this lifestyle, heavily glorified at times, isn't suitable for everyone. "It's demanding and requires resilience," he stressed.

Living in a bus isn't just about spontaneous travel. Essential life responsibilities—financial and otherwise—remain, he emphasized.

Future Aspirations Beyond the Bus

Scott and Shaquita have future plans extending beyond their motorized home. They've acquired a plot in Douglas, Arizona, near the Mexico border, where they intend to construct a container house and pursue a self-sustainable lifestyle. Shaquita dreams of becoming a turkey farmer, while Scott plans to harness solar energy for an off-grid existence.

Amid these ambitions, they've prepared their land but continue working on essential infrastructure like water supply to make their vision viable.

Now residing in an RV park in Sierra Vista, about 50 miles from their land, Heltz is employed repairing vehicles at an RV dealership, aiming to establish his mobile home repair business. Meanwhile, Shaquita, after completing her degree, is on her path to becoming a therapist.

With an adaptable approach, Heltz remarked, "We take things as they come, but we're guided by a plan."