AdamDZ.. It does take time. I had a very extensive backpacking and mountaineering background before I ever started bicycle touring. So from the start all my stuff was low weight and volume. None of it cheap either but because it was purchased over many years it didn't seem so bad.

I'd still suggest you try and stick with panniers though. I have had both a burley nomad and bob yak. Great for groceries but I sure never wanted to tour with them. YMMV though.

One thing that you can't really do with a trailer is paceline into stiff winds. Person following will end up losing almost all the benefit of sucking your wheel. I solo tour most the time but it can be nice taking turns pulling when touring with others.

kyakdiver