You need to workout what you need (and don't need) and what functions you want the bus to have.
I wanted a vehicle with the following characteristics (based on using a previously converted Ford Transit)
I also contacted DVSA and checked whether any other US School Bus had passed IVA. They said there had been one some years ago, but it was not clear if that was as a Motorhome or not. I also checked that I could get parts (like Windscreen glass or tyres)
I wanted a vehicle with the following characteristics (based on using a previously converted Ford Transit)
- Headroom to stand up
- Hot and Cold running water with fresh and waste water tanks
- Blown air heater (gas or electric)
- Shower (external is fine)
- Fridge, Cooker, Sink.
- No Microwave or TV
- USB 12v charging points
- Operate with connected to 240v or with Gas
- One fixed double bed (4' wide)
- "Seal-able" so you can be inside with light on and someone outside would not know
- Drive-able on standard UK car license (under 7.5 tonnes)
- Mostly summer use (festivals like Glastonbury)
- Didn't want too many cluttered cupboards
- Insulation but not at expense of headroom
- No swirly velour upholstery
I also contacted DVSA and checked whether any other US School Bus had passed IVA. They said there had been one some years ago, but it was not clear if that was as a Motorhome or not. I also checked that I could get parts (like Windscreen glass or tyres)
It is worth installing and learning to use Sketchup http://www.sketchup.com/download which is free to use. This was my first plan (not quite what I ended up with, but it helps you visualize what it will look like.
