Just dove down this rabbit hole myself yesterday. I decided I wanted to be up and running with my Meshtastic device sooner than later and with little headache, so I went and got myself a RAKwireless WisMesh Pocket v2 that was pre-assembled. (Bought from Rokland, if you're in the US.) I decided to go with it as it has an OLED screen, GPS radio, rechargeable battery , and an external antenna with bluetooth. Possibly more than I'd ever need, but I'm excited to get it and try it out.

Unfortunately I'm in the EU, but also looking for a pre-assembled option (not as much free time on my hands as I used to have....) I'll look into your suggestion and see if I find a local retailer Thx!

Seeed SenseCAP Card Tracker T1000-E is a good out of the box start. Budget version are Heltec LoRa V4 kits.

Will look into it Thx

I've been using it for about a year, and I seriously suggest the Heltec MeshPocket since it doubles as a USB power bank for your phone.