This will be my first tour and I really do not have a strict budget in regards to the gear I take. I was more focused on the amount of room taken and weight.

I was planning on carrying all my gear in my panniers so I may have to consider compression sacks. I will also look into a down quilt and see what is out there.

I currently have an REI membership and have a store 25 miles from me. I will visiting the store several more times before leaving for SD, I will also be visiting the REI in SD when I get there.