I was too originally signed up for a co-op with the Argylls in Hamilton....bu then decided to go for a full-time basic training during the summer, which is much better for learning, and for the experience, in my opinion. The full-time exposure to it all really does help.
Digital cams might be nice after basic, to store pics on the comp...but I found disposable cameras were much quicker, easier, and obviously cheaper, if something were to happen to it. It is a lot easier to just whip out the disposable and take a quick snap, rather than taking the time to concentrate on the digi...but if you DO bring a disposable, make sure you keep a close eye on it, some people have a tendancy to be immature and take pictures of....their....well you can figure it out. It didn't happen to me, but a few of my buddies had it happen to them -- then after basic when they go to get their film developed, they have a few surprise photos waiting for them...yuck!