Originally Posted by Trakhak

Pakeboi's carbon Diamondback Haanjo EXP pick is probably what I'd go with, too (Pakeboi's link: Here Are The 12 Best Touring Bikes You Can Buy In 2020). But the writer notes that "my other lightweight bike of choice is the flat bar Salsa Journeyman"; aluminum, $800 cheaper. I'd be inclined to take either of those over a steel bike, especially for loaded touring, since I've never cared for the way heavily laden steel frames tend to wallow down the road, especially when pedaling out of the saddle.