Hi vk2amv
I had an 8" reflector on dobsonian mount for my first year's observing. I always had to travel from the suburbs to get dark skies. I loved my 8". Fitted easily in my small car. I've now moved up to 12" and have to pull a trailer to move scope and related bits and pieces.
If you are setting up in your backyard, then transport is less an issue. The 10" is still relatively easy to carry. Others have set up a hand trolley to move the entire scope from home to backyard.
My 8" (and now 12") are the Bintel-branded GSOs. No one has yet given me an acceptable reason to pay the extra for the Skywatcher-branded scopes. I believe that you would be happy with the GSO models (Bintel and Andrews are two main retailers, but check around).
The bundled package you get will get you started, but, either immediately or in time, you will find that you do need more. A collimation tool, a better eyepiece or two, some form of nebula filter. And the usual stool, red light torch, planisphere, atlas etc. So if you have a strict budget, going with the 8" and having a hundred or two hundred dollars in reserve might be a good move.
Watch the for sale entries below. You can get eyepieces, filters, even collimation tools for a significant discount off new. Even telescopes. I have had three telescopes now - all second hand off this forum. Happy every time!
Eric
