Lipo batts made from quality cells pay off in the long run by delivering better performance, lasting longer and tolerating more in the way of abuse, either intended or accidental. The name brand cells like Orion, NeuEnergy, PolyQuest, PolyRC, Hyperion and others are made with top quality cells which is why the tend to cost more than others. For a successful lipo brand, price is a good indicator of cell quality.
Chargers - there are lots of good ones out there. Do you want an AC/DC charger or a DC only charger that'll need a separate power supply??