A.) I generally use my UGEE direct interface tablet that I can draw directly on to. I utilise a smaller wacom tablet when travelling.
I also use a HUION drawing glove from Amazon (sweaty hands ain't good on that tech!)
and I started my digital drawing work on FireAlpaca (a free drawing software!). Now, I just purchased Clipstudio Pro (around £40), from money earned via commission's, so I can pursue my dream of publishing a manga! I recommend Clipstudio greatly, as the software is easy to get in to, and very user friendly.
In essence, having good tech for digital drawing is, of course, a bonus. However, there are many ways to draw and save money - FireAlpaca costs me nothing, and I create many of my artworks from that. Worth a peek!