There is a german couple that travels a lot with a bob. and they run front paniers and a bob, no rear panniers. I think their point was something like they use panniers, then if the load increases they go to front Ps and the BOB, then they load up everything including rear paniers.

I'm not sure how it would be possible to run a bob alone with less effort that paniers alone, anymore than a trike is more effecient than a 2 wheeler. But as long as you keep moving I guess you eventually get where you are going.

Is there a reasonable option for adding brakes to a BOB? The main problem seems to come when the trailer runs forward. This is a problem solved with inertial braking on regular trailers. Seems like that could be easily aranged. Another option for severe occsional downhills where one may need to brake the bike would be some form of droge. Even some part of the luggage arranged to catch the wind, or the flag.

http://home.att.net/~m--sandlin/pad.htm