Designed for carrying significant amounts of stuff for long distances, touring bikes are the pack mules of cycling
Robust frames and wheels, and steady handling make touring bikes ideal commuting bikes too
Touring bikes always have clearance for mudguards and they're often included in the package, along with one or more racks to carry your stuff
Like low gears? You're more likely to find them on a touring bike than just about any other category because they're essential fr climbing with loads
Their combination of tyre clearance and braking power made cantilever brakes standard on touring bikes for decades, but disc brakes are taking over