What weight do you carry?

[Banjo]

Re Ticktocmy. If doing more than one or two nights I would go for a set up like yours.even with not carrying much food there's no spare space in the panniers.My sleeping bag fills one pannier I could put it in a waterproof bag and tie it on top maybe.I don't really want front panniers because I know I will fill them up with non essential stuff just because I have the space.

 

[willem]

The alternative would be not to spend money on a front rack and front panniers, but spend it in a more compact sleeping bag and maybe mattress. You will be amazed about the possibilities. The PHD sale is almost over, I think, but their bags are stunningly compact (but also a bit narrow - ask them for a wider one, which they will do). The Alpkit Pipedream is the same idea; not as spectacular, but much cheaper.
Willem

 

[Ticktockmy]

The alternative would be not to spend money on a front rack and front panniers, but spend it in a more compact sleeping bag and maybe mattress. You will be amazed about the possibilities. The PHD sale is almost over, I think, but their bags are stunningly compact (but also a bit narrow - ask them for a wider one, which they will do). The Alpkit Pipedream is the same idea; not as spectacular, but much cheaper.
Willem

I agree with Willem, at the end of the day, something nice to be able to crawl into a nice snug warm down sleeping bag, well worth the money. Buy a 3 season one, which will cover most requirements for cycle touring. and a moden lightwieght mattrest will leave you roasty toasty, snug as a bug.