I'll be using the bike for relaxed touring, so the low gears are needed, and although I'm definitely not a racer, I frequently reach maximum gearing when commuting, so I think the 11-32 cassette, although not ideal, is probably the best solution for me.
The whole drive-train still works fine, with no skipping under pressure, but the crank-set looks pretty worn out, especially the middle and large ring, and I prefer to change things when they're worn out before they start causing problems, especially since I'll be starting my light touring in the coming month.