Touring - Arkel T-28s or T-42s?

My SO and I are taking the ferry over and riding our bikes in Nova Scotia for three nights. Being our first multiday bike tour, we are staying at B&Bs, no camping. We are trying to decide on our first panniers also. I'm pretty sure that I'll get the T-42s, but not sure what my GF should have. Are the T-28s big enough capacity with a Tail Rider? She has a Specialized Sequoia XS size and we're concerned that the T-42s might be too big. Any suggestions more than welcome...

I used T-42 and a tail "dry bag" for a two week unsupported tour (no camping). Given that, I would say that the 42's might be too big for just a few days. I would recommend that she get the T-28s. Then if you decide to do a longer tour, you can use the T-28 on the front and then get a second set of 42's for her. I recommend the rain covers. I think that the 28s are a really handy size.....I also recommend small quick disconnecting handlebar bags. The "waist pouch" that stashes on top of the right T-42 proved really useful...T-42 are good bags. have fun!

I used XM-28's for a 7 day off-road tour that didn't require a tent, but did require a sleeping bag liner, toiletries and of course clothes. For 4 days, 3 nights, no problema. One side should fit 3 days worth of biking clothes and some off bike wear while the other side toiletries, extra off-bike clothes then some off bike shoes or sandles strapped to the rack.

Thanks for the tips, very helpful!

I've used the XM-28's and XM-42's for loaded touring inc. solo camping. I needed all the space. I know they are not the same as the T-28/42 but if you have extra space a good feature of the Arkel's is that there are straps to cinch them tight to keep them from flopping around. A final note: your bike will handle better if you can mount front panniers and move some weight forward.

I've used GT-30s on a 4-day trip with tent (on rack), mat and sleeping bag, but no stove. Used T-42s for a trip with camping gear, stove, 4 change of clothes... everything inside the panniers. So the T-28 would be more than enough especially if you have have T-42s. Then you have two different sets for commuting, day rides or fully loaded solo trips.