My first one was a Nishiki Seral. My LBS guy (also a friend) was a Nishiki rep at one time so I got a few frames from him cheap. Got the Seral for $50! Built it up with donated parts except the wheels.

In 1992 a bike shop here was closing and they had a Cannondale touring frame hanging on the wall and I got it for $100. Stripped the Seral and sold it for $20 and had the Cannondale until 2021 when I sold it.
Both bikes were great with a load but the Cannondale felt more solid, more responsive, and more like a road bike when empty.

My ex had a 1420 Trek which had rack eyelets and a triple. She rode it on lots of overnighters and a 9 day tour.