What do you want to hunt, and do you plan on hunting in your area? Only need a cooler if warm out, or if you won't get the game out right away.
The animal you choose makes a huge difference. Bird hunting is alot different than deer. Lots of walking, good exercise, need to be in so-so shape. Get to see more, so not as boring for some.
Deer hunting around here is a big cultural event. Schools close. You go camp hopping, or talk it up in bars at night. It can be tougher just starting out, depending on area. Blind hunting tends to be more productive, especially starting out. That can be boring for some.
Are you going to hunt farmland or woods? Big difference.
You can spend as much as you want. Some say hunters don't care about cost, because they spend so much. BS. I know lots of hunters that just go pick a good spot in the woods and sit. Only thing they buy every year is tag.
Many like to spend money on gear, it can be fun to do.
Pop up tent blind are easy to set up, and little safety concerns, unless populated area. Then being in a tree has advantages. But those are harder to set up, and need to be careful.
Down there you may be able to go hog hunting easy.
I just reading lots of people stories and questions on sites and books. Just keep in mind, many are just regular folks. Who may not know alot, and may not be able to admit it.
I'd maybe start small game hunting in September, learn the area walking and driving. Then go deer hunting in November. Just realize, unless you live in deer dense area, you may have some slow years. If you know any farmers they like people to shoot every deer they can.