I skimmed through some of the replies, it looks like you are getting some great advice.
Not having a lot of money - I reduced my pack weight on the cheap:

Very happy with my O-lab UL sleeping pad (inflates with much fewer puffs than my old heavier ones, and was only $41 on Amazon Prime, free shipping, weighs 1 pound).

I also got a GeerTop UL1 tent (only $100, 2.3 pounds, plenty roomy but requires trekking poles to assemble, I already had those).

I'm curious about the AegisMax UL sleeping bag (30 degrees F, $80, 1 pound)...

About 8 years ago I got a lighter weight backpack: GoLite Pinnacle, 1.7 pounds, I think there are better options out there these days...