[Closed] Advice on creating slacker gear ratios on Croix de Fer

I am after a little advice on creating some better gear ratios for hill climbs on my Croix de Fer. I am doing a long tour this year and the 50/34 isn't

going to cut it for me, especially with fully loaded racks front and rear. I have already changed the cassette to an ultegra 12-30 which helps a little, but I'm after a "big jump" in gear ratios to make my life easier with all the extra weight on the bike. I don't want to kill myself unnecessarily as I have 10 back to back 100 milers to ride.

I considered a potential quick win of a new rear mech and mtb cassette such as an 11-36. Not sure about Tiagra 10 speed shifter compatibility here though. Also it will probably look ridiculous and I don't think this will give me much of a jump.

So I see possible options as...

[b]Triple road setup[/b]
Change to a triple road setup (50/39/30), though the smallest ring at 30t might not be the jump I am looking for going from 34t, especially for the cost of changing to a triple shifter, front mech and chainset. Maybe I am wrong as my understanding of gear ratios is limited to say the least.

[b]Triple trekking setup[/b]
Change to a triple trekking setup (48/36/26). Smallest ring at 26t sounds ideal in my head. Don't think I need to go as small as 22t and run an mtb triple. Also I like the idea of a 48t as I wouldn't be loosing too much top end speed from the current 50t.

I am currently favouring a change to a triple "trekking" setup at the moment. I am little unsure about compatibility with road shifters and chains, which is where I am hoping someone here can advise. Is there anything I should watch out for in terms of compatibility or would anyone favour an alternative option to creating easier ratios? (yes I am already cutting back on the pies)

It would also be a bonus if I don't add too much weight to the bike.

Many thanks,

Tom