I'm looking at getting a cheap tow vehicle, so I don't have to use the family mini-van to take the boat out. My commuter car won't work for towing.

The third vehicle budget is $5000 max and preferably less. It'll be just for fishing and camping. It'll need to hold two car seats and another adult. It needs to be able to pull the boat, and a load of camping stuff.

Older full-size vans, seem like they'd be ideal for now. Especially considering the camping stuff can locked up easily and left ready to roll.

Most of friends that think an old truck would be better. But that is all they have experience with, and no experience with a big van. I don't need to haul loads of dirt, mulch, etc.

What are the disadvantages to driving an older van, vs a older truck? Any other considerations or input is appreciated.