Do your homework.
When anticipating buying a new camera, naturally most people are filled with eagerness and lots of excitement, so it's easy to overlook things.
Google XYZ camera what's in the box for a reference. If it's supposed to be in the box, it HAS to be there and no one should try to take or retain ANYTHING, not even a piece of paper or cable. Some shops try to pull fast ones like saying they must keep the warranty card to register for you etc etc etc. It's all BULLSHIT!
SEARCH carefully on CS's listings for an idea of prices at different shops.
Don't get seduced by the quantity of freebies - most of them are cheap useless junk that you pay for in terms of inflated package pricings.
SEARCH here in CS for blacklisted shops and feedback. Even some of the so-called 'reputable' shops will seize an opportunity to chop head a newbie who don't know street pricings and practices. They are only reputable because the people that patronise them know prices, brands and products and cannot get conned.
Don't be tempted to save a bit only to find out later that you should have bought better accessories and then end up wasting your own time, get frustrated and pay more in the end.
RESEARCH what are acknowledged to be established and reputable brands. For example, don;t fall for the "I tell you ah ... A-1 filter is the best in the market lah! Only real photographers know about it! That's why you don't see it sold everywhere because it's soooo good, that very rare! Aiyah...Hoya and B&W all is used recycled glass one lah! Here, since you look like someone that can appreciate quality, I give you special price: 52mm UV A-1 filter is ONLIIII $95!"
If it's too good to be true, it probably isn't true.
