My Cannondale Quick CX has an Alivio-level crankset in front with 48-38-26 chainrings (I think.... but something close to that) and in back 8-speed Alivio 11-34. It gives me gearing down to 0.76:1 at the low end and 4.6:1 at the high end. I put a couple panniers on it with "commuter stuff" or other times a lot of groceries and head up the hill to home. On my ride home even from the closest grocery I have some 10% grades to climb. This configuration works out fine. I understand a loaded touring bike will be heavier, but I think this gearing ought to be adequate.