Any Experienced Hikers Here?

If you sign up for the co-op option at REI, you can get some good discounts, especially if you're looking to drop some serious coin and get boots, a pack, tent, camp stove, mummy bags, etc.

Only thing I can say about the boots is get what fits your foot right...wide/narrow, high arch/flat feet, ankle problems/strong ankles, etc. What works for me won't likely work for you (I have a pair of Vasque Sundowners that are over 10 yrs old).

As for a pack, I've used both internal and external, and both have their advantages. Gotta get what is comfortable on your back with the amount of weight you'll be carrying and gives you as much protection and accessibility to your stuff as you want. If I remember correctly, REI in Bloomington has weights that you can add into the packs when you try them to simulate the load and how it will fit when you're out on the trail.