By the time you spend the money to buy camping stuff, you could probably just have spent that on a hotel. I guess it depends on what you already own and know how to use, and what you have to buy.
Helinox makes an awesome cot. When we were in Moab, one of the stores had them on sale for like $150. Scour the internet, you'll find one for a good price. From what I've seen, that's a way better option than a sleeping pad.
I will also say this: a good tent is very important, if that's all you have and are absolutely depending on it. I have a cheap Ozark Trail 2 person dome tent that we got at Walmart. Cheap, very light, very small, and perfect for a guy and gear. Since you will have the option to camp, or look at the weather and think a hotel is better, maybe go that route. A small tarp helps keep the bottom dry; although, I've never had an issue with water coming in that tent. Also never used it in a downpour. Lol...
As soon as you say camping around here, people like to pretend they are hiking Mount Everest. You are not. Get stuff that isn't crazy expensive and can be easily replaced if broken or lost. Except for the sleeping bag and pad or cot. Make sure those two items are comfortable and do not forget a shovel.
