Things I wish that I'd of known....
1)How useless mesh masks are. they may protect your teeth but restrict you from looking down the sights as you would normally which really ruins the day for me (no longer use anything, looking into dust masks but I reckon those may also be a hindrance).
2)how serious some people take it and also how big it is, like full on international mil sims lasting a few days/week.
3)Avon skin so soft face cream. Anyone who plays in woods will understand.
4)which shops to give a wide berth and which sites offer the best gameplay for your money and location.
5)most importantly, especially for new players - talk to as many people as you want, have fun, go solo and sniper, follow a highly regarded team and learn/tag along, try anything you wish, don't feel you have to conform to the rest as they're not always the best.