do get a hybrid with a trekking gearset, like a deore or apex 26-36-48 front, rather than a 34-50 'compact' crank... That way you have granny gears for hauling that weight up that long grade at the end of the day .. get a hybrid with a relatively long wheelbase, that helps greatly with stabilitiy when you're carrying a load, plus it keeps your heels from clipping the rear panniers. skip anything with suspension. I'd want 36 spoke wheels, with strong rims suitable for 28-32c puncture proof road tires like Gatorskins, Schwabe Marathon.