A basket pipe is generally fine to start with. What I would advise is a couple of cobs for rotation and more open smoking. As far as starter tobaccos? Dunhill EMP and Escudo are famous for a reason. Also, don't discount Prince Albert and Carter Hall. There was a time in the beginning that I thought these were "ghetto" tobaccos, but they're really excellent to start with and occasionally smoke forever. Plus, they won't dessicate in the desert. Enjoy your journey!
Oh, and Thank you for your service!!!
