I second the third gen (1996-2002) 4runner. Rock solid Toyota reliability with better fuel economy than the land cruiser 100 (about 18mpg unloaded). Though not as big, it still has plenty of room for a two person expo build (I plan on expoing with our family of four in ours).
It's plenty capable off-road, and a smooth pleasure to drive on-road. Although it's 14 years old, my 3rd gen really doesn't feel like it. Plenty of comforts without going over the top on plastic and failure-prone gadgetry.
A good, rust free 4runner can be had down here for about $6-7,000, which would leave you $3-4000 to refresh the maintenance and add whatever upgrades you want.
Parts are also readily available, which will allow you to get back on the road quickly when you do manage to break something.
I'd also be remiss if I didn't point out that they also look awesome. There is something to be said about the "parking lot factor"; that feeling of satisfaction when you're walking back to the truck and you think "damn, that is one good looking truck."