On the Westy vs.non-Westy selection, I'll add that we found our '87 camper after some searching it was exactly what we wanted and we bought it specifically for camping.� We use the poptop, and we use the stove and sink (many do not), but I've never gotten the fridge to run on propane and we use a cooler anyway so the fridge is dry storage.

However, even we can see the attraction of a van like a Weekender with a wider bed and more interior space.� Depends on what you plan to do and how many are along for the ride.
�
You will pay more (maybe a lot more) for a Westy in comparable condition to a hardtop van, and a hardtop/Weekender might provide for most of your needs.� Whatever you find, buy smart.� Don't necessarily jump at�the first one you find because you have the bug or you're afraid somebody will beat you to it.� �Treat it like any other vehicle purchase and keep a cool eye during the process.� You can always fall in love with it later.
�
Stephen

--- On Mon, 1/17/11, Brad Pauly <bpauly@GMAIL.COM> wrote:

From: Brad Pauly <bpauly@GMAIL.COM>
Subject: Re: first time buyer
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Date: Monday, January 17, 2011, 4:02 PM

Hi John,

Thanks for sharing your experience. This is something I've been
thinking about a lot. With shorter trips in mind a camper might not be
necessary. They sure are cool, but well, we'll see.

Cheers,
Brad

On Mon, Jan 17, 2011 at 11:10 AM, John Rodgers <inua@charter.net> wrote:
> Hi Brad,
>
> Good move - (1) settling on a Vanagon as the basic vehicle, and (2) asking
> this list for advice.
>
> I have three straight Vanagons - no campers.