I used a borrowed, near bottom of the line, Sony Handi-cam. It's easy to get a camera for under $300, the price starts to go up when you start getting into different needs, like digital, or compatible with a Mac, etc.
Most people say, "nothing fancy - just something to record with and easy to use." It ain't that easy.
My Sony Handi-cam that wasn't digital, was Hi-8 did exactly that and it still works great today. Problem is I can't get ANY of my old videos onto the computer without having to find a top of the line camera that will act as a VCR and "pass-through" my video to the computer. There are alternatives, but my point is that there came a day when I had all of this video that I wanted to put on the web and I couldn't without spending money on equipment.
So now I am borrowing a university digital camera so I can easily put it on the web.
I spotted this one as entry level and basic - but digital:
http://www.bestbuy.com/site/olspage....=1130983394389
One rule of thumb I try and follow is not use anything that doesn't use standard equipment like video cards, batteries, etc.
I would definitely go digital, but if you just want a camera to "capture the moment", visit your local best buy, circuit city, etc., and look for something that fits your budget and isn't some oddball product. I've had luck with Sony and Samsung, as well as JVC. Check out the Sony Handi-Cams. I wouldn't buy anything that's new and experimental, or being discontinued.
G'luck!