I've never needed front panniers, so apart from a handlebar bag, it's all on the back. Works fine for me.
It's not a case of "needing" front panniers. But once you've tried a 60/40 front/rear split, it's difficult going back to a rear loaded bike. I find that a heavier front load handles better especially if you feel that you need to hurl yourself off the tops of hills...i.e. go downhills fast.