Although most people think of telescopes it may be best to consider binoculars first. They are portable, convenient and relatively inexpensive. Cheap binoculars are better than a cheap telescope. Consider something like 7 x 35 binoculars. The 7 is the magnification produced by the eyepiece, the other number is the aperture in millimeters. This size is light and easy to hold.

Few people have ever looked through a really good pair of binoculars and so they're usually shocked when they see price tags upwards of $2000. So if you're ready to buy one of these quality pieces you should be ready to get your wallet out. Even if you just want a really good one you should expect to spend $300 or more.