A few days ago, I wrote an article discussing why ambulances and skoolies are viable alternatives to camper vans. When it comes to ambulances, one advantage is that you can utilize their pre-existing interior to create your living space. However, if you’re not a fan of their original design, it can be challenging to remove everything due to the components’ durability.
Many individuals who convert ambulances into campers choose to keep at least a portion of the interior in their mobile home build. Take Keith and his ambulance as an example – he wanted to make the most of the stock interior, so he retained nearly everything that came with the vehicle.
Keith was interested in the mobile lifestyle but desired something different from a typical camper van. He began researching ambulances and came across a 2009 model based on a Ford E-350, which had previously served as a children’s ambulance.
Keith decided to keep most of the storage, electrical, and other original features. This decision was not only due to their practicality but also out of respect for the rescue services and the advanced technology incorporated into these vehicles.
Upon first glance, it’s evident that this vehicle used to be an ambulance. However, to comply with legal requirements, all emergency lights and other distinctive features have been removed. Nevertheless, an ambulance camper tends to attract attention from onlookers – if you enjoy the spotlight, this won’t be an issue. However, if you prefer to camp discreetly, you may want to explore other conversion options.
The exterior of this ambulance is entirely white. Before we delve into the interior, let me provide an overview of the various exterior features – discussing each one individually would be too lengthy. Instead, I’ll highlight the most noteworthy details in a concise manner.
Towards the rear of the passenger side, there is a tall compartment that houses a gas/propane heater connected to an outdoor shower, a 42-gallon (159-liter) freshwater tank, a water pump, and a propane canister. Additionally, a drawer on the same side of the vehicle contains the batteries.
One unique exterior feature is situated at the back of the ambulance – a foldable lift. This lift was originally used by first responders to transport equipment and place children on gurneys. Keith repurposes it as an outdoor cooking table or a bench. Furthermore, it can be electronically lowered and raised.
Moving to the driver’s side, there is a spacious compartment towards the rear. It serves as storage for a spare tire and various equipment, with the top part functioning as a pass-through to the interior. Another compartment holds a selection of tools.
The power system of the ambulance can be found in a tall compartment on the driver’s side, close to the cabin. It includes a Victron MultiPlus 3,000 W inverter/charger, two 206 Ah batteries, a DC/DC charger that allows the batteries to charge while driving, and a solar charge controller connected to two 400 W solar panels on the roof. Additionally, the system can also be charged through a shore power connection, providing a total of three ways to keep the batteries charged.
Upon entering, you will notice that the original interior of the ambulance has been preserved, with some additions. On the right side, there is a spacious closet with a hanging rod. This compartment can also be accessed from the outside, and Keith has added a polycarbonate sheet to allow light to shine through when the door is open. Above the closet, the original A/C unit is still in place and functioning, ensuring the interior remains comfortable in any temperature.
Now let’s talk about the bathroom. Unlike other campers, there is no fixed bathroom in this ambulance. However, Keith has added a Porta Potty near the door that separates the living space from the driver’s cabin. It is conveniently located behind a seat that came with the ambulance.
Above the pass-through door, you will find the original electrical cabinet of the vehicle. At first glance, it may seem overwhelming with numerous wires and fuses. However, Keith explains that with some time and understanding of how everything works and where the wires are connected, it becomes less complicated. Each wire is labeled with words indicating its purpose, which is helpful for troubleshooting.
The kitchen is situated on the driver’s side of the interior. It features an induction stove, 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 counter purchased by Keith from a major retail store.
In terms of design, Keith has made minimal changes. He added a plastic tile with a metal-like appearance in the kitchen area. Additionally, he decided to retain the ambulance’s original stickers featuring characters from Sesame Street, which used to bring joy to children in need of emergency services.
Adjacent to the mentioned seat, there is a swivel table that is perfect for enjoying meals or working on a laptop. Behind the induction stove, you will find the rig’s control center, equipped with various switches for lighting and more. Keith has even kept the original air and oxygen connection, which still functions in case of an unlikely emergency situation.
Image: YouTube Screenshot / Tiny Home Tours
The first section of the living area is occupied by the bedroom/lounge. Keith desired a space that could serve multiple purposes and he found a relatively simple solution: a convertible sofa from Ieka that he customized to suit his specific needs. For storage, Keith utilizes the space underneath the couch, as well as a lengthy overhead cabinet.
I admire the fact that Keith incorporated an interior shower in the rear of the living space. Although it is not a dedicated shower area, he installed a pan on the floor and can retrieve the shower from the nearby storage compartment (mentioned earlier) through a small door. He also has a wall attachment that allows for private showering. On the opposite side, there are additional storage areas in the form of sliding screen cabinets.
Lastly, a surprising feature is the ceiling-mounted DVD player, complete with a drop-down screen. It currently contains a Shrek DVD and was used to entertain children while rescuers were attending to their needs or addressing any issues they had.
Image: YouTube Screenshot / Tiny Home Tours
Overall, Keith did an outstanding job with the ambulance. He utilized the existing interior and transformed it into a comfortable living space that is also highly functional. This approach made the conversion process easier and likely kept costs to a minimum. Unfortunately, we do not have information on the exact cost of this ambulance conversion, but I imagine it was significantly less than what a camper van conversion would cost, especially if done by a specialized company.