This is an awsome idea you have and you have recieved lots of good advice. Check out Rokslide. That forum is rich with info on gear and guys who know their stuff like Aron Snyder. They recently started a thread call gear deals. In it you will find deals that guys have found including discount codes and such. If you put some time in you will be able to outfit him well for that kind of money. The new kuiu packs can be pre-ordered for $350 and some curent models are on sale for $375 I believe. Its hard to beat those packs for that kind of money. Good luck and keep us posted!! Robin