To keep from busting your budget Look up Klymit for sleeping pads . You can typically get them direct from the manufacturer off eBay for $ 50 or so for uninsulated , $ 80 for insulated . Teton Sports makes decent starter backpacks I have the Hiker 3700 $ 70 which works nicely . I would recommend the Trailhead 20 $ 60 from them as a starter bag but you ' re probably tall for that . That said , many companies make long bags . I ' m not positive , but I think the Kelty Cosmic comes in long it ' s a down bag at a decentish $ 150 I think price for what you get . Klymit may have the KSB 20 bag in long but I ' m not sure . I think the hard part for you , and the hardest area to go used , will be getting a long bag , but you may still luck out .