Garrick,

I'd agree with the comment about shipping your stuff instead of making two trips. Wear and tear on the van, plus cost in fuel alone should cover the costs (or close). Factor in trailer rental, buying racks and hitches and I don't think you gain anything by driving it all.

At any rate, If you do the run, I'd look at a few things just to be sure/safe

- Your Vanagon can tow the trailer, but can it stop it? 800lbs dragged behind a full Vanagon is quite a lot of weight to handle, especially when you're in the mountains. Figure out your total weight to make sure it'll work. Have the brakes gone through.

- There are several types of hitches available. I'd err (again) on safety and say NO to a tow loop model and instead get one that mounts to the frame. Bus Deopt, Fast Forward and other list vendors sell different varieties. Gary Lee (who also makes some killer racks) also makes one. Install it yourself, it's easy.

- Instead of putting bikes and stuff on the roof, consider a front or read mount bike rack. Much easier to get to! If you want a roof rack, Yakima sells what you need, or (again) Gary Lee sells safari-style racks.

Have fun on your move!

john