I'm really into bikepacking and I do all of my builds on tried and true component sets. Primarily they are always Shimano XT/XTR 2x10 components. I have extra chain rings around so that I can tweak the front end up or down to adjust ratios as needed.
My fun mountain bike has 24/36 up front.
My bikepacking bike has 24/40 up front. It is at the edge of what should work but it gives me a good top end on smoother surfaces
Our mountain tandem has 22/36 up front. Great when we have to grind up a 10% grade when loaded.