Comments on: The VW Bus

By: Janel

Janel — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 14:21:12 +0000

I have owned a 1970 bus for five years. I have not lived in it (thought I want to!) because I have two cats and one dog–when they pass along somewhere along the line, I definitely plan to try my hand at bus life! It truly is simplistic. As far as toilets, etc., sure, one has to tend to that, but with a history of backpacking, this really is luxury camping.

Along the mechanical/automotive side, do your research before you get one to make sure you know some of the basics and what you’re getting into. I bought one with 5 miles on a rebuilt engine and the engine has been strong–goes up mountain passes in 3rd at 40-43 mph–nothing to balk at in a 42-year old vehicle! Sure, there have been other repairs, but they are part of the adventure. That being said, I have a second vehicle for daily driving, and make sure I’m not in a hurry when I take my bus somewhere. Living in Colorado, I drive it only in the spring, summer, and fall due to the lack of heat/defrost. These are just the adjustments you make if you love a vehicle. Its gotta be VW love or you will get frustrated. And, if you’re not a good mechanic yourself, find yourself a good trustworthy one BEFORE you purchase your bus…I found mine two years before I actually got my bus. I sometimes think about moving to a warmer climate simply so I can drive my bus more

By: kenny

kenny — Tue, 15 Nov 2011 22:18:48 +0000

I might be better off with a light weight tent, MSR 1 burner, some good bags…go on a bike tour to Baja.

By: kenny

kenny — Tue, 15 Nov 2011 22:02:02 +0000

I am considering a small camper. Interested in a 71 or late 70′s Bus. However, I am NOT mechanically inclined, really dislike repairing a vehicle ( I bike, everywhere). However, I am interested in a Toyota RV or a Bus for trips along the Baja and stay ont hebeaches as well as visit my Mom’s rentals in Loreto, to CA from OR yearly, the OR coast, etc.
Am I better off avoiding the Bus? I mean, I am happy to have a new engine and having the brakes all sorted,etc… will I still have constant break downs? Need to throw money at it, expenses I do not want? I am also happy to learn how to adjust valves, but not much more than that.
Maybe I would be better off with a late 70′s or late 80′s Toyota motor home or a mid 80′s Toyota Van that i convert to something like a Westy?

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By: lightstar

lightstar — Wed, 14 Sep 2011 19:23:04 +0000

Wow what great stuff.. Am 74 and drive a 74Vw campmobile.. fixen to hit the road one more tip..a bucket list.

By: Grady Lee

Grady Lee — Tue, 13 Sep 2011 19:03:53 +0000

In mid October I am leaving for a 4 week road trip in my 1967 VW camper. I’ll be traveling from East Texas through Memphis, across Tennessee, up through Kentucky, Ohio, Pennsylvania, down through D.C., along the East coast to Savannah, and across the South back home.

I have owned this Bus for 24 years and completely restored it 3 years ago, including a new crate engine. I’ve decided to do this trip before the bus gets too old. “The bus is 45, I’m 65″. My wife says I’m crazy and she gets no argument from me.

I’ll be blogging from the road and sending photos from points of interest.

By: Jack

Jack — Wed, 07 Sep 2011 08:10:24 +0000

Great life!
I had the exact same bus a few years ago. same color and all. unfortunately it was stolen from me a stripped for parts just a few months before i was planning to hit the road full time. it has been a sore spot in my heart ever since.
I am truly envious of your life. someday I will realize my dream again.

By: Jason | BodesWell

Jason | BodesWell — Thu, 25 Aug 2011 00:30:48 +0000

Our family has been living and traveling in a ’71 VW bus for 2 years. Three people living in 50 square feet.

We’re now in our 15th country and I can’t imagine going back to a ‘normal’ life.

By: Todd Sloan

Todd Sloan — Tue, 14 Jun 2011 16:42:57 +0000

I will get pictures of my two VW’s when I get to my other computer. Both look quite amazing for their old age, and miles of smiles.