Of course you don't have to be in great shape to tour. It will greatly increase your enjoyment though. A good amount of base miles will go far when it comes to any long distance riding.

If your commuting now you are getting that base. I would try and add some miles if possible and work on intensity/interval training if possible.

You will find that your enjoyment is increased if your suffering less and enjoying more. It can be hard to get lots of base miles if your life is busy. The best way to increase your fitness if that is the case is the intensity level you put in. Time yourself to work and home. Use that as motivation and try and beat that time. Get your heart rate up. Repeat.

Consider the pain your putting in now will be worth it when the hills come.

Great way also would be to find a Saturday group ride if your not doing one now. I promise that this will increase your level of fitness quick unless your riding with a slow group. A little competition will go a long way in motivating your to get stronger.