What is a good starting setup that won't break the bank?

I've been spending more time learning about setups and trying to figure out what makes the most sense without spending a fortune right away.

I know smart telescopes are popular, but for this topic I'm more interested in learning about a traditional setup. I'd like to better understand what someone should start with if they want to learn the basics of the night sky, use eyepieces, find objects manually, and get a feel for observing without relying completely on automation.

There are so many options out there, from binoculars and small refractors to tabletop Dobsonians, full-size Dobsonians, beginner mounts, eyepieces, filters, and accessories. It can be hard to know what is actually worth buying at the start and what can wait until later.

I'm looking for advice on a beginner-friendly astronomy setup that is affordable, useful, and not too frustrating to learn with. I do not need anything advanced right away. I mostly want something that helps me enjoy the night sky, learn the basics, and build confidence before putting a lot more money into the hobby.

A few questions I'd love help with:

What is the best budget-friendly telescope setup for a beginner?

Would you recommend starting with binoculars, a small refractor, a tabletop Dobsonian, or a full-size Dobsonian?

What type of mount is easiest for a beginner to learn on?

What gear gives beginners the best value for the money?

What eyepieces or accessories are actually useful at the beginning?

Are there any beginner telescope kits or bundles worth considering?

What should a newbie avoid buying too early?

How much should someone realistically expect to spend for a solid starter setup?

I'm especially interested in setups that are simple to use, portable enough to move around, and good for learning the basics without breaking the bank.

For those of you who have been doing this for a while, what traditional setup would you recommend to someone starting out today?'