Learning how to hike from the ground up helped me a lot. I started with footware, orthotics, socks, then built myself up one piece at a time. It's not just about gear, it's an evolution of mind, body and spirit. Buy stuff with lifetime warranties and great return policies to assist with this evolution (REI is an option). A comfortable pack and good fitting shoes are so important to me, without which I just can't hike.

But if anyone's hankering for my 2 cents, a supportive external frame pack with lightweight-ish gear is (for me) the best of both worlds cost wise. I don't skimp on a comfotable plllow though, which was eventually a DIYer. That seems to be the key to a good night's sleep, and is supported by research.

Base weight is recommended to be 20% or lesss of your total body weight. The great Andrew Skurka is the benchmark for any thru-hike.