Has anybody from this region ever toured to Chicago from Cleveland? Or from anywhere east of Cleveland?

I'm looking for a good/safe route to take because I'm biking to Chicago in May/June of this year. It will be my first tour and I'll gladly take any advice that anybody has to offer.

I plan to ride about 70-80 miles per day. I also plan to camp at night.

Here are a few questions I have:

1) Should I have a company professionally map a route for me? If so, what are some companies?

2) Is it more beneficial to use a cart or panniers?

3) What is the minimum amount of gear I should take? I would like to bring as little, as possible.

I will appreciate any alternative information or advice that anybody has to offer.

Thanks!