Good choice of rack and panniers?

BUICK

I hope one day to have a dedicated tourer but for now I'm planning on adding a rack and guards to my Spesh Tricross. It doesn't seem that Specialized themselves make these items so I'm wondering what's best to go for. I'm planning on tackling the Pennine route with a pal later in the year and then building towards some longer journeys with the help of info from CTC.

Topeak rear racks look quite robust - and Altura make some good looking, and apparently fairly weatherproof panniers - but this is just letting my eyes decide. I'd be really interested to hear some opinions from other people's experience with touring.

APIII

I've got Tubus racks and Altura dryline panniers for the tandem, but to be honest they've only ever seen light use, so I can't really vouch for their long term durability. That said, I've never heard any negative comments on Tubus.

OnTow

Another Tubus carrier user here. Very nice solid lightweight unit. The black paint does rub off though.
Done about 2,000 miles of light (light rack pack only) use in all conditions - It's been fine.

Altura panniers occasionally - They've been fine, if not entirely waterproof (cheap and old variety - problem solved by using shopping bags).
Have a Carradice rack pack - superb, lightweight, unbelievably waterproof - I turned around once to see a puddle resting atop, but the content bone dry!

Also check out Ortlieb for bust-the-budget luggage - Good but pricey.

willbevan

cant remember what rack i have , but have some of the current 56L altura dryline panniers.

almost didn't bother with the dryline, but glad i did as the weekend after i bought them, i had to ride back in one serious downpoor for 2 hours (not as bad as the flooding in january mind you which i rode in lol), and was worried about the things in side, but no water at all, was very happy with them! 56L i have decided was a bit overkill on space for me though