Emphatically yes. We retired early, in our 40s, primarily because we cycled to work. We live a thrifty life that only allows budget and space for one bike each. Inexpensive vacations by bike fit that lifestyle. Shopping trips and errands around town sometimes require carrying a 40+ pound load, and our favorite vegetable market is nearly 10 miles away (and it's a beautiful bike route/MUP along a creek). Several times a year we had to carry lighter loads to and from work. Touring bikes have always been ideal.