I've traveled in a variety of ways too, including vans / campers and back packing. Started with Surf trips to Mexico in early 70's. Fun stuff and a good education on how to Car camp.

Folks traveling in Vans /campers end up having their own problems. Did two major trips through Mex./Cent. America in a big camper and then in a VW camper van. Vans and cars get broken into ... and many car people have trouble finding secure parking and trouble securing their things inside the vehicle.

LOTS of passing Gringos got broken into during my two years living in Guatemala and El Salvador. Since I lived there ... I avoided the risks tourists could not see as I knew the "ropes".

I built a "Strong Box" bolted to frame inside the VW. All windows had locks. But we never left the VW for long in cities, always in private compound or lot. (yes, you have to PAY)

I met Germans in Mexico with a UNI MOG who basically were prisoners to their rig. They never seemed comfortable getting too far away from their $100K plus USD investment. They rarely spoke to locals (beyond gas stations) almost never stopped to explore towns or eat in local markets.

They brought all their own food and ate most meals in the UNI MOG. They loved to explore but were fearful to go out off the grid too far ... for fear of a hi-jacking. (which can happen)

The good thing about Van/Camper travel is often times you can just PULL OVER AND GO TO SLEEP ... but sometimes you end up in a BAD place in the morning!

So no system is perfect.
You've got it right Ted regards traveling light. But paring things down is a fine art ... a talent most don't possess.

I would NEVER lug hard bags in and out ... I don't even haul my soft panniers. INNER BAGS are the way to go. Leave those bloody panniers on the bike! Inner bags: Light, fast, easy ... and keeps your stuff cleaner and dryer. (I use re-usable plastic grocery bags)

I've been following a Canadian riding a DR650 through S. America. He's packing a HUGE load ... camping stuff and lots more. 2 Hard Alu panniers, Hard Givi top box, plus 3 soft panniers on top of Alu boxes!!!

Photo by Dave Ranson

Dave is now in Chile after a few months. He finally used his camping gear ... for ONE NIGHT ... it was last used in Alaska!!!

I just don't carry it. If, on rare occasion, I have to beg shelter in native hut ... so be it! Requires better planning but saves carrying an extra 15 kgs. I would never use.