I usually have 2 cameras with me
my Nikon FM2 is my go to with a small zoom lens or a wide angle
my other is a pentax k100 with a godly large zoom
cost depends on if you have the materials like a temperature controlled tub for developing, enlarger, etc. paper and chemicals are pretty cheep after that.
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/browse/Darkroom/ci/4942/N/4288586562when B&H discontinues it's darkroom section i will probably retire from photography