Hi Nat,

as far as good brands go, Leki are the Rolls Royce of the walking pole world but expensive. Blacks do their own cheaper versions, and you can also get them online, eg

http://www.fieldandtrek.com/cat_id/FOOTTREK/product-Stormlite-Trail-Walking-Pole-12299.htm £20 a pair

I felt the same as Mr Hamhead that having poles can make you look like a try-hard Norwegian, but having finally bit the bullet and got poles last year I can't imagine not using two. they really do make walking easier, and take a lot of pressure off your feet, knees and hips

for a rucksack, I have a Mountain Equipment one that I think is great, but you won't go wrong if you stick to decent brands like Berghaus, Lowe Alpine, The North Face etc

have a look here http://www.fieldandtrek.com/category-Day-Packs-EQUIRUCKSMAL.htm

Cheers
Andy