for the coporal:
if u buy everything used, online, over here at the buy and sell section, this is how it works out:
1. EOS 300d with grip: $1000 maximum (or EOS 20d with grip $1700 maximum)
assuming that it comes with at least a charger and at least one BP511 batteries
2. EFfs 18-55: $100
3. EF 70-300 (there are a few versions): from $ 200 to $ 600
4. 380EX: $200 maximum or 420EX $300 maximum
5. 1GB cf card: $100 maximum
then your total cost is anywhere from $1600 to $2800 based on the different combinations available
advise:
1.do not spend money on bags. any simple bag that has enough capacity hold all your gear will be useable. the keyword is useable. photography-dedicated bags (eg lowepro) are a luxury item.
2. do not spend money on LCD protectors, handgrips, neoprene neckstraps, eyecups, omnibounces, lightspheres, and other funny accessories. i have tried them all and....really at the end of the day all i can say is : i eventually realised that i do not really need them and i will never ever need them again and they have never made any difference to my pictures.
you may however like to make your own DIY bouncecard for flash. in addition, you may also however think of investing in a roll of gaffer tape, if u havent already heard of them.
for the flash, i leave it up to u whether to use alkaline or rechargeables