RE: field equipment
Start with the bare bones, if you are flying at a club. You will find that you may have to borrow something now and then, if it seems like you need to borrow an item frequently go out and buy it. Most of the time it is all just used occasionally. I never needed more than a glow igniter and a hand crank pump until I got into more elaborate setups. A small tool box with apropriate tools to tighten, loosen or adjust anything on the plane (usually a couple different drivers and needle nosed pliers) a small bottle of glue, tape and cleaning supplies is all you usually need.