I wouldn't buy from BD unless you are very good at doing your own repairs. Any bike will need a tune-up shortly after purchase, as well as periodic maintenance -- especially right before a tour. If you need to alter the gearing, you're basically going to lose out on the deal.

By the way, yes most cross bikes tour just fine (people used them to tour for years, and still do) and yes you'll want the granny gear.

In that case, a Surly Cross-Check or a Bianche Volpe from an LBS is probably a better choice. Steel frame, canti brakes, can take loads without a problem. Tell the LBS you want them to set it up with a triple and a wider cassette; most LBS's won't charge extra for those changes.