Touring bike options

After seeking advice and talk to people, we conclude with 3 options.

1. Get a new touring bike with budget of RM 1500 (include rack and pinion), but I am not sure whether will I like touring or not. If I like bicycle touring after this trip, it would be a good investment. Otherwise, it would be a white elephant. Furthermore, I still have to consider the storage after travel.
2. Modify a cheap mountain bike by changing the tyre to touring bike tyre and add rack and pinion and bag, walaa….i have my bike. But still have to concern about storage after the trip.
3. Use my existing scott bike (which is the most economical way) and add rack and pinion to it. However, bike shop people do not recommend me to do so as it might break the frame easier if meet with accident. The tyre will not be big enough to support the additional weight.

Every option comes with pros and cons. I need to explore further.....