+1 on panniers being great conversation starters. Take them even if you don't really need them! They are a sign that you are part of the touring "tribe," and will attract people who are already part of that tribe or who fantasize about being part of it. Conversations lead to invitations. To successfully engage people in conversation you'll need to have relational skills, of course (which hopefully you already have!), but having that "hook" of being a touring cyclist helps, too.