A few days ago, I wrote an article about why ambulances and skoolies are suitable alternatives to camper vans. Regarding ambulances, one of their pros is that you can use their stock interior to build out your living space. However, if you’re not into their stock construction, you’re going to have a hard time removing everything due to the components’ sturdiness.
Many people who do ambulance camper conversions keep at least a part of the interior in their mobile home build. Take Keith and his ambulance as an example – he wanted to take full advantage of what a stock interior offers, so he kept just about everything the vehicle came with.
Keith was interested in the mobile lifestyle but felt he needed something different from a camper van. He started looking into ambulances and found this 2009 model based on a Ford E-350, which used to be a children’s ambulance.
Keith kept most of the storage, electrical, and other stock features. Why? Not only due to their functionalities but also because he greatly respects the rescue services and the technology that goes into these vehicles.
As soon as you lay eyes on the vehicle, you’ll know it used to be an ambulance. Of course, to drive any used ambulance, you’re legally required to remove the emergency lights and other features. Still, an ambulance camper will catch the eye of bystanders – if you like the attention, then it’s not a problem. However, if you want to stealth camp, you might want to check out other types of conversions.
This ambulance is finished in white all around its exterior. Before we move inside, let me tell you more about the numerous exterior features – I won’t talk about each, as that would take too much. Instead, I’ll try to keep it short and sweet by presenting the most notable details.
At the rear of the passenger side, you’ll discover a tall compartment holding a gas/propane heater connected to an outdoor shower, a 42-gallon (159-liter) freshwater tank, a water pump, and a propane canister. Moreover, a drawer on the same side of the vehicle houses the vehicle’s batteries.
One distinctive exterior feature is located at the ambulance’s rear: a lift that can be folded out. First responders used it to bring equipment and place children in gurneys on it. Now, Keith uses it either as an outdoor table for cooking or as a bench. Moreover, it can be electronically lowered and raised.
AMBULANCE-TURNED-TINY-HOME: A UNIQUE LIVING SPACE ON WHEELS
In a stunning transformation, Keith has converted an ambulance into a cozy and functional tiny home. With its unique features and clever design, this mobile living space is perfect for those seeking adventure and freedom on the road.
One of the standout features of this converted ambulance is its power system. Located in a tall compartment on the driver’s side, near the cabin, the system includes a powerful Victron MultiPlus 3,000 W inverter/charger, two 206 Ah batteries, a DC/DC charger for charging while driving, and two 400 W solar panels on the roof. With the ability to also charge via shore power connection, this system ensures that the batteries are always juiced up and ready to go.
Stepping inside, you’ll be impressed by how Keith has maintained the original interior while adding some thoughtful touches. On the right side, there is a spacious closet with a hanging rod, which can also be accessed from the outside. To allow some natural light inside, Keith has added a polycarbonate sheet to the closet door. Above the closet, the original A/C unit still works, providing comfort in any weather.
Moving on to the bathroom, Keith has cleverly incorporated a Porta Potty near the door that separates the living space from the driver’s cabin. This convenient addition ensures that basic sanitary needs are met without sacrificing space or functionality.
The rig’s original electrical cabinet can be found above the pass-through door. Although it may appear overwhelming with its multitude of wires and fuses, Keith assures that understanding the system is not as daunting as it seems. Each wire is labeled, making it easier to identify its purpose and connection.
The kitchen, located on the driver’s side, is a well-designed space with an induction stove, ample storage compartments made from the ambulance’s original cabinets, a large apartment-size fridge, a tall pull-out drawer, and a deep stainless steel sink integrated into a store-bought counter. Keith has added a plastic background tile that mimics metal, giving the kitchen a stylish touch.
In terms of design, Keith has retained the ambulance’s original stickers featuring beloved characters from Sesame Street. These stickers were originally meant to provide comfort and entertainment to children in distressing situations. Their presence serves as a reminder of the ambulance’s noble purpose.
Completing the interior is a swivel table, perfect for enjoying meals or working on a laptop. Adjacent to the table, the rig’s control center is equipped with switches for the lights and other functions. Remarkably, Keith has even kept the original air and oxygen connections, ensuring that they are still functional if ever needed.
Keith’s ambulance-turned-tiny-home is a testament to creativity and resourcefulness. With its well-thought-out design and practical features, this mobile living space offers a unique and adventurous lifestyle on the road.
In a surprising transformation, Keith has turned an ambulance into a cozy living space. The bedroom/lounge area takes up a significant portion of the living space. Keith cleverly modified a sofa bed from Ieka to fit his exact needs, creating a dual-purpose space. Storage is not an issue for Keith, as he utilizes the space underneath the couch and a long overhead cabinet.
One unexpected feature of this ambulance conversion is the interior shower. Although it is not a fixed shower space, Keith has installed a pan on the floor. He can easily pull the shower from a nearby storage compartment through a small door. To ensure privacy, there is also a wall attachment for showering. On the opposite side, additional storage spots can be found in the form of slide-screen cabinets.
But the surprises don’t end there. Mounted to the ceiling is a DVD player with a drop-down screen. Keith has even included a Shrek DVD to entertain children during emergencies or whenever they need a distraction. It’s a thoughtful addition to the space.
Overall, Keith has done an incredible job with this ambulance conversion. By utilizing the existing interior, he has created a functional and cozy living space. This approach not only made the conversion process easier but also helped keep costs to a minimum. While we don’t know the exact cost of this build, it is safe to say that it is much more affordable than a specialized camper van conversion.
