>>1636507I've borrowed around a ton. For the first time I went camping I borrowed a rucksack from my father in law, a sleeping bag from my mother. I slept in a 10€ hammock with a 6€ polytarp covering it. For food I had one those freeze-dried expedition meals, canned stuff and nuts. I boiled water in my steel cup over campfire.
I think hammock camping is easier on a budget and also /diy/ friendly. If you can operate a sewing machine you can make all of the sleeping gear yourself; hammock, tarp, over- and underquilts.
Also for entry level gear, check out you nearest military surplus supplier. Some notable stuff in surplus are
-Self contained sleeping systems (modular sleeping bag + bivvy bag, which is essentially a boneless tent. You don't really need else for sleeping, although you might want a sleeping pad inside)
-Rucksacks. Berghaus makes lot of the European gear, they have neat stuff I can vouch for. Not sure what you have in the US but I reckon you've got it good based on the military budget
-Mess kits, I like the German mess kit with the added inner bowl. Holds three bowls steadily in one hand and also can be used over fire if you're not too concerned about aluminum.
-Battle uniforms and cheap goretex. It's usually great for camping too. Same goes for military footwear.
