I don't think the stuff in kits is "garbage" if you get the right one. Top-fin makes GREAT stuff...you should check this out.
Top Fin® 29 Gallon Starter Kit - Aquariums - Fish - PetSmart
its a 29 gallon kit that comes with the glass aquarium, full hood with lights, a top fin 30 power filter (works great), an adjustable 100w heater, a thermometer, a net, and samples for fish food, water care, and bacteria starter.
things you might want to buy that don't come with it are air pumps, gravel/another substrate, more fish food/conditioner/bacteria starter then the sample provides...but this is great for the price and doesn't contain garbage stuff.
i took another brand back because it sucked and got top fin and it works GREAT with quality products inside.