Helpful hints for a beginner trying to buy their first guitar?

i've been there before, and go for something inexpensive for your 1st guitar and amp. i have a $60 vinci strat and a $20 gorilla amp. price doesn't determine the quality sometimes. the size usually doesn't matter. the neck strap matters more. adjust it to a setting you're comfortable with. the price range for a guitar pack goes from $100-$250, while the fancy & brand name guitars go for $200-$2000. the best place for a guitar is your nearest music store. the best deals come from these stores, too. they have used guitars, so they won't cost as much. gearwise, you only need a guitar and amp. nothing fancy pedalwise. it comes later.