Shuttle Bus Conversion vs. Traditional RV: Pros, Cons, and the Real Costs of Ownership

Hey there, fellow adventurers! If you've ever daydreamed about hitting the open road with all the comforts of home, you're not alone. RVs have been capturing the hearts of travelers for years, and if you’re here you’re probably familiar with the traditional RV alternative of shuttle bus to motorhome conversions. In this article, we'll dive into the world of shuttle bus RVs and traditional RVs, comparing their pros, cons, and costs, so you can make the best decision for your home-on-wheels. So buckle up, and let's explore your options together!

The Pros and Cons of DIY Shuttle Bus RV Conversions:

Shuttle Bus Pros

1. Customization: One of the primary advantages of converting a shuttle bus into an RV is the opportunity for customization. You have complete control over the design, layout, and features, allowing you to create a living space tailored to your specific needs and preferences.

2. Affordability: Shuttle buses are often more affordable than traditional RVs, making them an attractive option for budget-conscious adventurers. The initial cost of purchasing a used shuttle bus can be significantly lower than that of a new or used traditional RV.

3. Durability: Shuttle buses are built to withstand the demands of daily transportation, often resulting in a more robust construction compared to traditional RVs. This durability can translate to fewer repairs and longer-lasting components in your converted shuttle bus RV.

4. Unique Aesthetic: A shuttle bus conversion allows you to create a one-of-a-kind living space that reflects your personality and style, making your RV stand out from the crowd (you can see ours here!)

Shuttle Bus Cons

1. Time and Effort: Converting a shuttle bus into an RV is a time-consuming and labor-intensive process. Depending on your skills and resources, you may need to invest a considerable amount of time, effort, and even money into the project - ours took 9 months, but many builds take far longer than that.

2. Limited Amenities: A shuttle bus conversion may lack some of the built-in amenities found in traditional RVs, such as slide-outs or integrated appliances. To include these features, you will need to invest additional time and money into the customization process, and that can be a challenge.

3. Resale Value: While there is a niche market for shuttle bus RVs, they can be more challenging to sell than traditional RVs and may have a lower resale value. This will partially depend on the quality of work you do in your conversion as well as the bus you choose to build in.

The Pros and Cons of Traditional RVs

RV Pros

1. Convenience: Traditional RVs come fully equipped with all the necessary amenities and comforts, making them a convenient option for those who want to hit the road without the need for extensive customization or modification.

2. Resale Value: The established market for traditional RVs often results in higher resale values and a larger pool of potential buyers when it's time to sell, providing a more straightforward selling process compared to shuttle bus RVs.

3. Financing Options: Purchasing a traditional RV typically comes with more financing options and loan terms, making it easier to secure funding for your purchase.

4. Warranty and Support: New traditional RVs usually include manufacturer warranties and dealer support, providing peace of mind and assistance in the event of any issues or repairs that may arise.

RV Cons

1. Cost: Traditional RVs can be expensive, with higher initial investments than shuttle bus conversions. The price of a new or used traditional RV can be prohibitive for some buyers, especially if you want one with custom features or a lot of bells and whistles.

2. Depreciation: RVs are known to depreciate quickly, which means they can lose a significant portion of their value over time. This depreciation can impact your return on investment when it comes time to sell.

3. Maintenance: Traditional RVs often require more maintenance than shuttle bus conversions due to their specialized components and systems. This additional maintenance is often expensive and can usually only be performed by specialized RV dealers.

Other Elements to Consider

Initial Investment

The initial investment for a shuttle bus conversion is typically lower than that of a traditional RV. Used shuttle buses can range from a few thousand dollars to over $20,000, depending on the make, model, and condition. In contrast, traditional RVs can range from $10,000 for older models to well over $100,000 for new, luxury models.

Conversion Costs (for Shuttle Bus RV)

The cost of converting a shuttle bus into an RV varies greatly, depending on the level of customization and the materials used. A basic conversion can cost as little as $5,000, while a high-end, fully-featured conversion can easily exceed $50,000. Our conversion was somewhere in the middle - check out a full cost breakdown here.

Maintenance and Repairs

Maintenance and repair costs can differ significantly between shuttle bus RVs and traditional RVs. Traditional RVs often require more maintenance due to specialized components and systems that can be costly to repair. Shuttle bus conversions, on the other hand, may have lower maintenance costs due to their durable construction and more accessible parts.

Insurance

Insurance costs for shuttle bus RVs and traditional RVs can also vary. Converted shuttle buses might have higher insurance premiums due to their custom nature, while traditional RVs may have lower premiums due to standardized construction and features. It's essential to shop around and compare insurance quotes to find the best rates for your specific situation. Something else to keep in mind is that each state has different rules about insuring buses as motorhomes, so it’s imperative you know what the process is like in your home state before you get started.

Depreciation and Resale Value

Depreciation is a significant factor in RV ownership. Traditional RVs are known to depreciate rapidly, losing a considerable portion of their value over time. Shuttle bus conversions may hold their value better, but they can still be more challenging to sell due to a smaller niche market, potentially resulting in lower resale values.

Personal Preferences and Priorities

Consider your preferences and priorities when deciding between a shuttle bus RV and a traditional RV. If customization, uniqueness, and affordability are essential to you, a shuttle bus conversion may be a better fit. If convenience, warranty support, and financing options are more critical, a traditional RV might be the right choice.

Budget

Your budget will play a significant role in your decision. While shuttle bus conversions often have lower initial investments, the conversion costs and potential higher insurance premiums should be factored into your overall budget.

Intended Use and Frequency of Travel

How you plan to use your RV and the frequency of travel can also influence your decision. If you plan to travel frequently or full-time, a traditional RV might offer more convenience and support. However, if you want a unique and customizable space for occasional trips, a shuttle bus conversion could be an excellent option.

Skills and Resources for Conversion (for Shuttle Bus RV)

If you're considering a shuttle bus conversion, evaluate your skills, resources, and willingness to undertake such a project. Converting a shuttle bus requires time, effort, and potentially specialized skills. If you're not comfortable with this level of commitment (it sounds easier than it looks! A conversion is an absolutely massive project), a traditional RV might be a better choice.

So Which One Is Better?

Both shuttle bus RVs and traditional RVs offer unique advantages and drawbacks. Shuttle bus conversions provide customization, affordability, and durability, while traditional RVs offer convenience, warranty support, and financing options.

So which is better? Ultimately, the decision between a shuttle bus RV and a traditional RV depends on your unique needs, preferences, and budget. Both have plenty of advantages and disadvantages, and there is no wrong answer. It’s all about what fits your needs best, and that’s the best part! Choose what aligns best with your travel wants and needs and you can’t go wrong.