O.K.,here's my suggestions,
IMO size matters. I read you'll be pulling a trailer,but to me unnecesary weight is just that. Lighter is better. Also quality gear will pack smaller/easier,& keep you,cooler/warmer & drier than inexpensive stuff.
1.Rent your gear. Go to an outfitter where you can see what is available to you. You'll get quality gear & a wealth of info. to your questions,@ a reasonable price.
Most sell rental gear @ greatly reduced prices if you decide to buy. If @ the end of your adventure,you decide "camping sux" you're not left with a bunch of stuff
I personally own 2 tents,both 4 season.
For solo use i have a KELTY 1 person,4 season.backpackers tent. Has a rainfly & vestibule. Has kept me dry in a tropical storm in the Fl. everglades.
I also have a MOUNTAIN HARDWARE 3 person,4 season tent,for when my Wife travels with me. Have used this tent in Glacier & Yellowstone & have stayed warm with temps in the lo 30's.
Both pack small. 3 person tent,poles,stakes,footprint & rainfly weighs 12 lbs., KELTY weighs 5 lbs.
SLEEPING BAG. I prefer a down filled mummy type bag. I've used mine for over 20 yrs. If it's very warm, I sleep on top of it.
Many different styles & types. Again an outfitter will help out here
2. Air mattresses. We use THERMA REST self inflating pads.Pack small & light. Comfortable too.
3. Flashlights. I use the disposable kind. Available anywhere,inexpensive & put out a lot of light.
4. 1st aid kit. A well stocked 1 can be had @ a camping supply store for about $20.00
5. Food. I/we eat in diners/cafes, & carry snacks to the campground.
We do carry a collapsable cooler for drinks,stopping to buy ice before setting up. I do carry a STERNO stove, instant coffee for the A.M.. Boil the water in a tin can,pour it into a cup add coffe & we're good to go. When i'm by myself, i drink from the tin can.
Where to camp? We/I prefer State/Nat.parks & State Forrests to commercial campgrounds. They are usually quieter & not as crowded & most have hot showers & restrooms.
When i'm camping by myself, all my camping gear is packed in a waterproof bag & carried on the passenger seat.
2 up,camping gear is carried on a luggage rack,1/2 the trunk(Wife gets the other 1/2 + the right sadle bag & 1/2 the left bag). I use an Eclipse tank bag for my stuff.
I can set up camp in about 1/2 an hr. & break camp in about 45 mins.
Takes about 15 mins longer to pack up.
By myself i usually travel from sunup to sundown. With my Wife,from about 7A.M. to 4-5 P.M..
You're headed West in the Summer so you'll have pleanty of daylight 'til @ least 8:30- 9:00 P.M..
Again I suggest renting good quality equipment over buying less expensive stuff.
BTW, I'm 6'4",220#'s & not cramped in any of my gear.
Enjoy your trip, & RWP,
the hobo,
BK VAIII