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26''
Frame lifespan doesn't matter unless you want to keep the bike for a century.
Get a 90s steel frame MTB in good condition, it will last as long as you need it to last.
Yes, get a frame that fits you well.
Panniers.
No suspension.
From my own experience, the best bang for your buck is a 90s MTB with a 3x9 transmission and a well-built set of wheels. You really can't go wrong with a 3x9 Deore groupset as it's incredibly reliable and spares are both common and cheap. As for tires, the only universally valid answer is Schwalbe Marathon 2.0.
Some people will tell you that you should stay away from several brands, components or even frame materials. The truth is that it will be fine no matter what you choose. Yes, some components or even frames could fail in a big crash. But in such a crash the least of your worries will be the shape of your bike, as you won't be able to ride anything for a long time.
I did plenty of touring on a 40€ bike from 1993, a Diamondback Topanga. Cantilever brakes, 3x7 groupset, single-wall wheels. And it was fine. It was better than fine, it was reliable and comfortable. A more expensive bike would have given me an even better ride, or a faster one. That's for sure, I have ridden more expensive bikes. But the point is that you can have a touring bike on a budget, and you have one hell of a budget.
Pic related.
