For new members/new tourers etc. I'd like to give/get info on what to take on a tour.
I divide up my gear into 3 "bags" of near equal weight. 1. Handlebar bag with bike tools, few spare bike parts, and maps. 2. Stuff sack on rear rack with pad, tarp, sleeping bag, cooking gear. 3. Daypack on my back with clothes, odds and ends, food for 3 meals (more or less). All total is usually around 30 lbs, more in winter touring, less in warm weather. I gave up "tenting" and switched to "tarping" for shelter. Only in during strong storms can this be a problem. I camp under a overpass or bridge when this happens. Bug sprays like 60%+ DET take care of most creepy crawlers/fliers and even raccoons. I use a 25 - 40 degree mummy sleeping bag year round usually under 4 lbs. Winters I tour in the southernmost states. Cooking gear I make from tin cans. HEET is my fuel of choice poured over a tuna can 1/2 full of dirt or sand for example. I use a 9 by 12 Mallmart tarp with extra grommets I've added.