A good tarp makes a world of difference. I learned that after touring Oregon for a month in October.

I set up the tarp sort of as a "porch" so that I could get out of my tent, stand up and have a place to hang wet stuff, cook, etc. Even if your stuff doesn't get dry overnight, you still have a nice barrier so that your stuff doesn't get wet. Its also nice to just have a place to hang out.

Yes, its a little more weight, but it is sooooo much more comfortable.

Good rain gear is ok, but really "you can only get so wet," so rain gear is more about staying warm (at least for me). Its when you're off the bike that you actually want to be dry.