As others have said, it does get easier once you are settled in.
I think that patience and some solid planning really helps too. As for water changes, once you have a system in place, it isn't difficult at all. Bigger or smaller, you'll still have to deal with an ATO and with water changes. Once you are setup it is fairly straightforward. I have a waterchange bucket that I fill with DI water and mix a few days before I'm going to make my water change. Then I do it. Yes, it takes a little more time that a FW water change but that is part of the hobby.
I'm very busy, being a teacher and having 2 young kids. I'm away 2-3 weeks a year on various school trips and have trouble keeping up with maintenance sometimes. It has taken me almost 2 years to get my new setup going. This way I can plan and prepare for when I know I'll be too busy for maintenance. I even do this with my FW tanks.
I'd say wait at least 2 months before you get out. Like others have said, you're already setup and running. Just sit back and enjoy what you have for now and then see what happens and how you feel. This hobby really requires patience, planning and a calm demeanor. I've seen so many people on this site and other rush and make some pretty big mistakes. You've done a pretty good job so far so keep your chin up and look at the work you've done so far and just enjoy it...
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