My new bike (used) has a standard 39/50 double crank. I live in a hilly area and I need some lower gearing. My hybrid has a triple and I'm used to that. I guess there are three ways I could go. But I'm not sure which is "best".

I could change out my standard double for a triple. Or I could change it out for a compact crank. Lastly I guess I could just change the 12/26 9-speed cassette for 12/30 or even 12/32.

I know many of you diehards HATE triples -- but I don't.

What would be best? Or cheapest? Or most sensible?