I like the idea of a frame mounted front rack. ( note to self: Keep in mind for the Dummy build.)
I have no issues carrying things that I may, or may not, need. I would lot rather have it and not need it, than NEED it, and not have it.
I am also a longtail fan. Just because you never know what you may find and decide to haul home.

Nwmtnbkr, Did you have special/custom hardware to attach the rear rack on the front? I couldn't quite tell from the picture. When I tried to do the same thing, I had to give it up as a lost cause.