When I first started serious hiking I bought my items separately but since a few years ago I now try to buy 'intergrated!' For example I don't think sleeping gear works well enough unless they work well together. So for me I use a NeoAir mattress, a fitted sheet, my sleeping quilt and when its really cold I throw over my sleeping blanket. My tent comes into this 'package' as well, can I just slide my inflated mattress in without it getting snagged on the entrance material, can I throw my quilt in without having to get down on my knees to do it, etc, are the tent pockets to hand to just throw item in or take out without having to be a contortionist first? I find it all matters in the end.
My boots for another example, I not only seek out the boots but the boot inserts, the socks and the gaiters as well. I also give more thought to my waterproof/windproof jacket as well, how much space do I need between skin and jacket for baselayer, shirt, warm layer and so on. The hood for me is very important, what hat or head covering is best for it, I just do not like bare plasticky material to stick to my ears when hiking along. I'm maybe getting too fussy in my old age but if it all works well together I feel my long hikes are much easier to deal with.