Which paint? If you find a shade you like from one company whose paint you don't want to buy, you can match colors from the chip in other lines of paint.
Don't skimp on...
Brushes. Look for bristles that taper and that are well attached to the base.
Rollers. Synthetics tend to disintegrate into your paint job. Lambs wool holds paint well and keeps the paint in line.
Masking tape. Upgrade to Scotch Blue Painter's Tape (about $3).
Dropcloth Paint will seep through that old sheet you've been saving for your next painting project, so it's better to buy plastic sheeting ($6-$7) or a real canvas drop cloth.