My touring style morphed greatly over the decades because of some recent experience with ultralight backpacking (on the AT, PCT, CDT and others, including the Wonderland Trail and Pacific Northwest Trail in your area). After hiking the long trails, I went back to bike touring. The first things to go without a second thought were the front panniers and rack, and handlebar bag. My hiking pack "base weight" is in the ten pound range. On the bike, it's closer to fifteen, because the packs are more durable and the bike itself needs more tools and spare parts. With that weight, it's barely noticeable and will go on any bike.

I still use a rear rack and panniers because I have them, and I mostly camp. I like having the ability to carry extra food and water if needed. Total pack weight rarely approaches 30 pounds, which starts becoming noticeable. A friend with a similar style uses either a seatpost rack or a small backpack for mostly credit card touring, and he never carries more than ten pounds.