MEC here in Canada used to sell an inexpensive (20 or 25$) aluminum lowrider front rack, kind of a Blackburn knockoff. I suspect places like Nashbar or other American bike places sell something similar that will work fine if you keep the load in the front panniers down, as my old Blackburn has over the years.

You dont need an expensive rack to have fun, just one that is functional and reasonably made.

others should have suggestions, perhaps check out REI online etc if you are in the States.