If you want to start on a budget, you can start with a 20 qt. canning pot that's enameled, cost here is under $20, and get a 5 gallon paint strainer bag from the hardware store, under $5, and a 5 gallon water bottle. That's it ....... that's all you need to start with. Google how to Brew in a Bag. That's how I got started and have made some award winning beers this way. Good luck and DWRAHAHB !