1981 Wayne’s International American School Bus
My 1981 Wayne’s International School Bus – Classic Texas Skoolie, Ready for Adventure
It’s time to part with my pride and joy: a 1981 Wayne’s International School Bus, imported from Houston, Texas and lovingly converted into a one-of-a-kind home on wheels. We’ve lived in it for over three years, travelling across France and building memories. It’s never missed a beat.
This build has been a true labour of love, a full-on project built from the ground up – no corners cut, no expense spared. It’s a classic Texas skoolie with a rare charm and endless potential: whether as a cosy home, quirky Airbnb, or a mobile business (she’s previously run as a very successful coffee bus too!) That is now on the high street as a coffee shop and tattoo studio combined (Rolling Joe Coffee Co) Would be a knock out at festivals or car shows or just as a 1st home as it was for me for many years.
🔧 Specs at a Glance:
Chassis: International Harvester S-Series “Schoolmaster”
Body: Wayne Corporation
Engine: 6.5L International Harvester V8 Diesel
Transmission: Automatic – Left-Hand Drive
Length: ~35 feet
Width: ~96 inches (8 feet)
Fuel: Diesel
License Needed: Standard UK car licence (as it’s classed as a classic vehicle)
MOT & Tax: Exempt – but serviced religiously every year with no skimping
🛠️ Condition & Key Features:
EXTERIOR:
Original Wayne body – renowned for its strength and iconic design
Roof deck: professionally built with a large solar setup hooked unto massive Victron set up see photographs (Never run out of power) + surfboard storage
Custom swing-out motorbike rack & spare tyre holder
Electric awning: pro-installed and wired
New tyres: high-quality, all-terrain ready
Rust-free: No rust or rot – fully undersealed yearly. Made from galvanised steel (unlike modern vans!) and barn-stored
Underslung tanks: 400L fresh water, 200L grey waste
Onboard LPG tank with external fill point
External gas-powered water heater
Light Bar
CCTV all round including reverse camera
INTERIOR:
Entire floor removed, chassis treated/sealed, marine ply installed – no metal rust issues
Fully insulated with spray foam in walls and ceiling
Birch ply flooring, hand-cut and sealed
Full-size kitchen: oak worktop, real tile backsplash, full-size SMEG fridge, gas oven, loads of storage, spice racks, and plug points
Log burner – a standout feature, super cosy
Full-size custom sofa, professionally upholstered
High-end electrical system: Full Victron set-up, 12V usb and Tons of 240 sockets throughout the bus, All professionally installed – run appliances with ease and not have to worry about running out of power with this set up!
His & hers wardrobes with lighting
Art room: custom desk, loads of storage – could be guest room or snug
Massive under-bed dog kennel – give your furry mate their own den
Wet room: proper shower, tiled, basin, composting toilet – gas water heater powered
King-size bed at the rear, smart TV, underbed garage storage accessible via kennel or rear door
Heating: two diesel heaters + log burner – toasty in all seasons
Storage: enormous under-bed garage + accessible tool storage – fully kitted
MECHANICAL:
Fully serviced annually – no faults in 3 years
Driven from Cornwall to the south of France with no mechanical issues
New exhaust, belts, filters, and recent oil change
Mileage available on request
All key work (electrics, plumbing, gas, structural floor rebuild) professionally done – not a DIY botch job
📍 Location: Newquay, Cornwall, UK (originally imported from Houston, Texas)
💰 Asking Price: £75,000
This reflects the rarity, craftsmanship, and cost invested into building this beautiful rolling apartment. It’s not your average van build – this is a fully functional home inside a 1981 American classic.
📞 Contact: 07453 517010
This bus is one-of-a-kind and worth every penny. Happy to send more photos/videos I have a lot, I can only upload so many on here but I am happy to answer any questions – there’s probably stuff I’ve forgotten to mention!
✨ Additional Notes:
Wayne buses from the early ’80s are celebrated for their bulletproof build and nostalgic Americana vibes. I spent months scanning the US to find a rust-free classic like this – and built it with real care.
Selling only because I am learning to sail and planning to buy a boat. I’d keep this beauty forever if I could, but it’s time for her next chapter.
Cheers,
Luke
Excellent condition, has been build since 2020 and travelled around France, All in worked in order and tried and tested on the road and lived in for multiple years, has has fresh paint and is like new
Large double bed, Large Large sofa sleeps 1 and a spare room that could be converted into another bedroom if needed currently a art studio
Please note: Quirky Campers do not inspect the listings for accuracy or check campervans in person. We have asked sellers to provide evidence of certificates and paperwork however you MUST check yourself that the information provided is present and correct. You will need to exercise the normal due diligence when buying any vehicle.
Insurance options are available through our partner, Ripe Insurance.
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