John,

As a proud owner of a 1985 Weekender for the last 8 years, I think I can
safely say that you could do quite fine without all the 'xtra' camping
equipment.

The advantage of the weekender over the full camper is you get a larger
bed on the bottom, you don't need to carry the extra weight, less things
to break (this is a big plus, since there is enough to break anyway).

One of the big selling points that people talk about is that it was
'never cooked in'. Well why do you need the stove if all you are going
to do is make coffee. I think most people don't cook much (if at all) in
the van.

Finally, since the weekenders appear to be less desirable, it seems that
You can get more for your money.

Hope this helps.

Tim