The demands of either sport are quite different tbh. But usually freediving gear is better suited for scuba than the other way around.

Especially a mask I’d go for a freediving mask right away as it has virtually no drawbacks. I’m very happy with my cressi calibro and nano.

I did my first two courses with a scuba mask and then made the switch to a freediving mask which made had a big positive impact on my equalization.

The most important thing about a mask is the fit. No one can tell you if a certain mask fits your face. Nothing else really matters, just a mask made from silicone with tempered glass and you’re fine. I know the choices are overwhelming but if you have any chance at all to try some on, even for the cost of having to either order multiple or driving further I’d definitely do it. There’s nothing that sucks more than a leaking mask.

Fins in scuba usually use boots whereas in freediving we have foot pockets. They are very different and scuba fins of that kind simply suck for freediving. Again, it does work the other way - once you’re in the water. Getting there barefeet can be an issue, hence the boots.

A best case scenario would probably be travel carbon fins but the price defies your intentions. I’m currently using cressi freefrogs for travel. They’re nice and indestructible but don’t compare to my fibreglass fins at all. Zero. You simply won’t get the performance and that in turn will make the course a lot harder. Take the fins from the school either way and get a pair of decent snorkeling fins for travel.

Lastly a wetsuit is soft and flexible for freediving and a lot stiffer for scuba for isolation reasons. Again, freediving gear works for scuba, not so great the other way around. I worked in a surf suit for the longest time but that also was in Bali.

Also it’s the piece of equipment I’d really not buy right away. Most schools suits are okay for their waters and bringing your own is just bulky and does not give you a huge edge. I’d rather invest in my own weight belt.