A 26-year-old woman has transformed her childhood dream into reality by renovating a mini school bus into a fully functional home, spending nearly $35,000 in the process to avoid paying rent.
The woman’s intriguing story was first covered by PEOPLE.
Danielle, who asked for her last name to remain private, said she always wanted to live nomadically and embrace life on the road. By May 2021, she had graduated from college but was still living at home with her mother, hesitant to fall into what she called the “cycle of paying rent.”
Determined to break free, she purchased a mini school bus in September 2021 and began a three-and-a-half-year renovation journey.
Danielle handled about 85% of the work herself, including installing insulation and custom builds, while occasionally hiring help for more technical tasks like seat removal and solar panel installation.
The renovation included a $3,000 solar power system and $900 spray foam insulation kit. She chose a short bus for easier maneuverability and customization, along with a flat roof that allows stargazing.
Danielle, who had been chronicling her progress on TikTok, officially finished her project in March 2025 and has since been living full-time in the bus.
She parks at campgrounds, Walmart parking lots, truck stops, and national parks, often chasing cooler climates for comfort.
Her family, initially skeptical, now admires her independence, while friends describe her lifestyle as “very cool.”
Though she admits living in a bus isn’t for everyone, Danielle encourages others not to let fear prevent them from pursuing their dreams.
“This lifestyle is meant for someone comfortable with change and giving up certain luxuries,” she told PEOPLE. “People see the romanticized version, but it’s important to understand the challenges, too.”
Currently, Danielle supports herself with savings and odd jobs while seeking a remote position to fund her travels.
