Most of the bikes I've looked at have had triple chainrings. This area isn't too hilly. There are some challenging hills, but for the most part there's an alternate route that's mostly flat. I don't think I've dropped into the smallest chainring on my MTB while towing yet... well, maybe just once...

Back when I was young and pain was temporary, top tubes were flat, and shifters were on the down tube, I did several tours with a 42x52 double. Including mountain tours. Ouch. I did a century in the mountains on that same setup. I'm thinking a modern road bike with a triple chainring will seem like a treat.