I just thought I'd post a message for anyone looking to get started and hasn't bought anything yet.
This is a list of what I think you'll want/need to buy to get a proper, enjoyable experience out of RC flying.
This is strictly my OPINION based on what I started with.
I wasted a little money upgrading to these things and wish I had just bought them in the first place.
One of the complete packages seems to be the best way to go. We'll use the Nexstar for now. Seems to be the hot ticket right now.

Nexstar About $425.00
1 gallon of fuel $15.00
Starter with attached rechargable battery. about $70.00
twist loc rechargable glow starter about $25.00
hand crank fuel pump $15.00
small fuel bulb (for priming etc) $8.00
10 FT. of fuel tubing (for the hand pump)(supplied tubing usually falls short of desirable)$5.00
at least 1 extra prop (not all landings are great) $4.00
$567.00 + shipping
I'll just say that $600.00 would get you everything you need.

As I said this is just what I'd buy if I was getting started today.
I like the all in one starters and glow drivers for convenience. (that's part of the enjoying the hobby factor)
If you buy the plug in kind and have to buy a field box/ battery/ power panel etc. you'll spend the same amount anyways.
Most of the tools you will need you probably already have in your garage somewhere so I didn't add them in.