This might sound cliche, but the best beginner tip is to just go do it. It's easy to get caught up in the planning, researching, and purchasing, but until you get out there you won't have a frame of reference for any of the advice you'll read here. You'll get conflicting advice from people who tour in lots of different ways. Eventually you just need to get on the bikes and go somewhere.

The usefulness of handlebar bags would be my other beginner advice but you already have them so good work on that.

Beyond that think about availability of food. If you're going to a place where you won't need to cook, not having to bring cooking gear and plan and prepare your meals makes trips easier. For short trips as you're just getting started removing one layer of complexity makes it a simpler undertaking, meaning hopefully you enjoy it more and continue with the hobby.