My first tour, in the mid 80s, was on a high end department store bike that was a bit of a frankenbike.

I suspect it was made in Canadian Peugeot factory. The frame had the proper mounts for a rear rack but not the fork. But the wheels were Wolber Super Champion, 27 x 1 inch, brakes were centrepull, quickly upgraded to Koolstops.

So I bought a large handlebar bag, rear rack, big rear panniers and that was it.

I did flat out on the second day after bunny hopping railroad tracks after a long downhill. (yes my fault)

Next day, I found steel belted Michelin tires in the right size and never had an issue after that.

I'm too old to tour without a triple or compact double now, but back then I was fit enough, and I went light - light 2 person tent, light sleeping bag, couple changes of clothes, small camera.