Initial costs can be high...

They can also be low.

Go to where your local clubs fly, and hang around, meet the guys, and let them know you are interested. All clubs are different, but several that I have belonged to had a "Club Tainer" plane. We will bring it out to the field, and let "Pilot Wannabe's" fly it on a "Buddy Box" system (This is a system where we link two Transmitter together, so if you get in trouble, the instructor can take over control).

Club members can also point you in the direction of good used equipment at low prices.

Also, while there is a lot of field gear needed, a lot of clubs will have a few people who will be happy to loan you whatever field equipment you need at first until you get established. The only thing we require, is that when the time comes, YOU return the favor to other newcomers.