Sam and Rachel Dix from Bristol turned an American yellow school bus into a opulent mobile home, and if you’ve ever imagined living life on the road, seeing the world, and making priceless memories, you’ve probably had similar dreams. But their journey didn’t end there; they also welcomed their infant son, Bodhi, aboard their unusual mobile home!
The couple’s journey started when they ordered a school bus that measured 37 by 8 feet to be shipped from New York to Southampton and then to a farm in Somerset. This bus, which was once used to transport 72 children, now represents the love and adventure of their growing family.
Sam, a 33-year-old self-employed carpenter, expertly executed their vision while his 32-year-old wife, Rachel, took charge of the interior design of the bus.
It was a labor of love that took over six months to finish; the seats were taken out to make room for gorgeous wooden flooring, a useful kitchen, a comfortable bedroom, and a chic bathroom.
The couple discovered the Motorhome Matt podcast, which provided ideas for their new way of life. This podcast not only provided insights into buying the perfect motorhome but also shared tips for making money while traveling.
Their mobile sanctuary—a bus that provided them with comfort and freedom—became their haven.
Sam even installed a light on top of the bus to help the midwives find them in the dark when Rachel went into labor on the organic farm they were parked on. The midwives arrived at around 8 pm, and just three hours later, Rachel gave birth to their son Bodhi in the cozy living room of their home on wheels.
The birth certificate proudly cites ‘American School Bus’ as the place of Bodhi’s arrival, becoming a testament to the extraordinary journey of the Dix family. Their decision to embark on this adventure was a tribute to Rachel’s late father, who lost his battle with cancer at the age of 52. It was a way for them to honor his memory and fully embrace life.
Sam accomplished most of the bus conversion by himself, with some help from his parents for painting and a professional for the electrical work. Their hard work paid off, as the interior of the bus became a comfortable and inviting space.
From wooden floors to natural materials and plants, every detail was thoughtfully designed to create a cozy atmosphere.
Since their successful conversion, the Dix family has decided to renovate a third vehicle for even more adventures on the road. As a result, they have put their beloved bus up for sale.
Sam has updated the layout and refurbished the interior so that it can become someone else’s dream home on wheels. It could be a perfect fit for an individual or couple, possibly with young children, who are ready to embark on their own adventure.
Sam’s friend, Matt Sims, the head of the Motorhome Matt podcast and CEO of The Motorhome Holiday Company, has proven to be an invaluable source of guidance throughout their journey.
With 30 years of business experience, Matt believes that there are various ways to make money from a motorhome, from renovations to outsourcing. He encourages everyone to do their research and find the best investment that suits their lifestyle and interests.
In addition to their exciting story, the Dix family’s adventure highlights the importance of sustainability and making conscious choices while on the road.
They have incorporated solar panels to reduce their emissions and save money. According to Matt, we can all take small steps to make a positive impact on the planet while still enjoying the freedom of traveling.
So, if you’ve ever dreamed of hitting the road and creating your own unforgettable memories, take some inspiration from Sam and Rachel Dix. Their story proves that with dedication, creativity, and a sense of adventure, you can transform a simple school bus into a luxurious home on wheels. It’s time to embrace the unknown and embark on an adventure of a lifetime! Its exterior, still that iconic yellow, was equipped with solar panels to reduce their electrical bill.
