Rene, I did two cross country trips ... 1978 and 1979 ... at the age of 19 and 20. I am sure you will get all the assistance you need "gear wise" from others on the board. I used the Grand Tour Kirkland rear panniers and a Kirkland handlebar bag. If I had the chance to do the trip again, I would stay with the rear panniers and go to a low rider front rack and some version of front panniers. I would likely go to a smaller handlebar bag. If you are only out for a limited number of days, keep your load light and make notes for adjustments for the next tour. I started my first trip with 60 pounds of gear and finished the second cross tour with 30 pounds! The number of riders and the level of comraderie you share can help you eliminate duplicate items. We reduced the number of tents, cooking kits and tools. I think the greatest learning experience I had was with the interpersonal relationships I had with total strangers on my first tour and just as interestingly, the stresses and strains to a life long relationship I had on my second tour. The physical views riding cross country were great, but the relationships I "rode" away with are even better. Let us know how things work out.
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