JG, Just an FYI, the temperature rating on sleeping bags is more of limit where you wouldn't shiver to death, not the temps you can sleep comfortably in. So if it's 30 deg in your tent, you want a 20 deg bag, or lots of added layers. The size of your tent and amount of mesh will effect how warm/cool the tent is.

IMO, a good outfit starts with the best rain gear you can afford. REI has plenty to choose from if you don't already have that.

Lots of good advise so far. Have fun shopping and tripping with your own stuff. Keep a journal and note what works for you as you go.