Newbie question: How important to change tire pressure with passenger?

[Juanderer]

Fellow riders,
I'm about 170 lbs, so would keep the rear tire at 29 psi. Somewhat frequently (but unpredictably) I'll have a passenger. I've been just keeping the bike at the higher rear tire pressure but it feels "floaty" when I ride alone. It's a pain to keep changing tire pressure. Is it a problem to carry a passenger at the lower pressure?
Also, I was thinking of trying 2 psi below recommended for improved traction and potholes--will this decrease the number of miles I get from the tires?
Thanks for info!

[olhogrider]

As long as you are aware of the limits that lower pressure impose, you will be ok with the occasional passenger. Just don't do long distance/high speed with a passenger and low pressure. By low, I mean a few psi. Tire wear will be fine.

[Michael]

If you regularly carry a pillion, go for the higher pressure. If not, go for the solo pressure that suits you. For day to day riding it is not something to get too pedantic about; just learn to adapt.

Here in Thailand, where riding three or even four up is common, they tend to pump the tyres up rock hard, and be done with it.