I was in much the same boat as you over the last 12 months before my first tour, it started at about 30lbs for a sprig tour, then the plan got changed to a Summer tour, so I was able to reduce to about 24lbs. So I had a good hard look at all my gear and got rid of if ALL non essential stuff. even some of the gear that people though was essential, I added a couple of comfort items back in, and it all came to around 12lbs including panniers. You just really have to be strict on yourself. For example I decided to go without any rain gear, as I did get wet and miserable, but not cold enough to cause any health risks.