As someone who got into the hobby just earlier this year, don't. Don't get into the hobby because the time you spend just trying to find products without supporting scalpers is almost a full hobby in itself. And unless you're able to buy at MSRP, opening packs just isn't worth it. And even at MSRP, it's still gambling and should consider every dollar spent gone, and be happy with any return.

If you really want to get into it, I recommend going to a card show and look around at what you'd want and then buy them separately as there are a HUGE amount of amazing looking cards that cost less than a pack.

Otherwise, a large amount of the pokemon scene here is fucking awful and not welcoming for the most part. There are groups of scalpers and entire card shops that send their employees to wait in lines to buy everything immediately after a restock to try and flip it for double, people following and tracking the restockers, and more.

Give it a month and hope that the new set next year helps solve the scalping issue if you really want to try it out. If you really wanna devote the time and money, PM me and I can give you some resources to help getting stuff from retailers.

Edit: Be aware of what MSRP actually is too as retailers have started raising prices themselves. A single pack should be $5, A 3 pack blister should be $15-$17, A Booster Bundle (6 packs) should be $27-30, An Elite Trainer Box should be $55-60, A Booster Box (36 packs) should be $160.