Congrats on deciding to make the change. I would always opt to take the backroads when possible, even if it meant increasing the mileage or ride time (not necessarily a bad thing) by a bit. The best thing about going by bike is you really do have the freedom to explore different roads, paths, and streets on a whim. Everyday can yield a new discovery.

Performance brand Transit rear rack and small waterproof panniers have done the job well for me, and for about $60 total invested. My only gripe about the panniers is that over bumpy terrain, they have the tendency to slide forward on the rack, causing some heel strike. It's simple stop and adjust thing when that happens.

And because of the panniers, I have begun wearing shorts while riding, and rolling and stuffing my work pants and shirts in the panniers, along with a jacket, lunch, patch kit, and pump. I usually keep a towel, face wash, and body spray at my desk. Once in, I just head off into the restroom. Takes about 10 minutes to freshen up.