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G'day, y'all ... we're long term campers, but now looking to convert a van or minibus for overnight/short stays ... pitching a big tent, plus setting out all the gear, just for a couple of days is getting hard work; sadly, not as spritely as we were!

Went to our tame insurance broker and was horrified by the premiums for self converted vans or minibuses. I'm a cabinet maker and I'm blowed if I want to pay the astonishing prices for some of these so-called professional conversions.

I'm quite keen on the older Mercedes vans and the LDV Convoy SWB minibuses, as I'm not desperate for the shower/loo/wardrobe thingie and the floor proportions are good. Stick on a nice wind-out Fiamma and I'll be happy! My broker-chappie said that Insurance firms need evidence of a 6ft. plus bed, 50 gallon water tank and a wardrobe at least 6ft. tall .... plus a statement from a motor engineer that it has been done "properly". Now I'm not saying he's telling porkies and I'm quite happy to believe that there's a man on the moon, but I just don't believe that all the Transit/VW/Iveco/Citroen/Merc etc. "campers" out there are fully specced up and legally insured for purpose. 

Any of you good, knowledgeable people out there able to point me in the right direction? Would be grateful for any expertise directed my way. Honest, blunt opinions also welcome!

Many thanks in anticipation.

Rick.