I built a reliable set of wheels in the mid 80s 40 spoke front , 48 spoke rear ..

back in the 50s S-A made 40 hole 3 speed hubs and paired with a 32 spoke front..

another cheap approach a mid priced 36 spole wheel-set Shimano freehub

if you damage the rim , no biggie, just buy another wheel set of the same in whatever bike shop you get to .
and As its a common repair part shop should have one to sell you..

you at 270+ how much gear aboard?