Only real tips I can give you is.... don't buy the very latest gear.
Always go for 'tried and true', one generation back is ideal, it will most likely be 6 months old, but because of that there will be *lots* of reviews and lastly, research research research.
Go 'net surfing and find out what people are saying about what you plan to buy and just don't look at what industry groups are saying, try and find out what 'the man on the street' is saying out the items you are going to buy..... which is what you are doing here. good move :p
good move :p