Amazing U-Haul RV conversion for under $800

By Cheri Sicard
Reuse advocate Alex Eaves and tiny house expert Derek “Deek” Diedrickson built an amazing U-Haul RV conversion for less than $800 (excluding the truck). The truck itself, an old U-Haul, cost $7,900.

This creative reuse project turns “garbage” into something special while minimizing waste and inspiring others to do the same. Check it out in the video below from Jenna, on the Tiny House Giant Journey YouTube channel.

Deek and Alex initially bonded over their shared passion for sustainable living. Deek, a builder, author, and former HGTV host, has been reusing and repurposing materials since childhood. Alex, who’s been promoting reuse through his work and documentary films, found a perfect partner in Deek to craft a home and message rolled into one.

At first glance, the truck’s exterior might not look fancy, but everything you see has a backstory. A half-sliding door that once headed to the trash is now a window, cushioned with foam to survive bumpy roads. The oversized trim gives it a quirky-yet-practical look, all held together by repurposed materials.

Even the truck’s original garage door has been cleverly adapted. While part of it was removed for headspace, what remains now serves as a worktable or even a stage for events.

Go inside the U-Haul RV conversion

The interior of this tiny home is a masterclass in creative storage and design.

Living room and hidden storage: The living room is home to a rebuilt early 1900s canning cupboard repurposed to store Alex’s clothes and personal items. Hidden features are everywhere—a small library disguised as an art box, storage under the couch, and even a “coffin-like” compartment holding inventory for Alex’s clothing brand, Stay Vocal.

Bedroom: The cozy sleeping loft offers a simple setup, complete with shelving that creates the illusion of depth. A window brings in natural light, keeping the space from feeling cramped.

Kitchen: Every item carries a story, like the sink made from Alex’s grandmother’s lobster pot, giving new life to an old family heirloom. A piece of furniture from his great-aunt now serves as the foundation for the kitchen space, blending practicality with nostalgia. Even the cabinet pulls are unique.

Hidden closet: A hidden closet, painted to match the walls, keeps things organized and out of sight. Inside, an old latch from Alex’s childhood home adds a personal element. For his shoe collection, Alex repurposed his used skateboard as a rack for his favorite Chuck Taylors—a creative and space-saving solution.

Multi-functional bathroom: The waterproof bathroom doubles as a shower. Its composting toilet can be moved into the hallway during showers, allowing the entire bathroom area to stay compact yet practical. A solar bag system serves as the shower, with hot water easily prepared by mixing boiled and room-temperature water.

Office: A large storm door salvaged from a home renovation now serves as a window, offering beautiful views from wherever the truck is parked. Whether looking out at a beach or an animal sanctuary, Alex enjoys a workspace that feels open and connected to the world outside.

This U-Haul RV conversion is much more than a home—it’s a statement on living creatively, sustainably, and affordably. With its 99% reused materials, clever design features, and inspiring backstory, it proves that you don’t need a massive budget to create something incredible.

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