Same goes for our moses basket.
Our cot was given to us by an auntie, its the nicest cot I've seen and its 25 years old but still in perfect condition.
We also went with one of the microwave steriliser jobbies, haven't tried it yet but looks good to me.
Only thing left to get is a breast...
Our first is due on Sunday and I will be keeping my season ticket. Concerning the money issue, which stand are you in? If there's a cheaper stand maybe consider moving.
If you're missus is cool with it then I see no problem with a few hours away now and then, you still need time to yourself.