Levelling shouldn't be a big problem with the exp multipliers. For loot, we have a pretty good event runnin' right now. You can try to join some open parties and try your luck. At some point, we will have Christmas Event as well, which is very good too.
If you need some low key stuff to start, people may have some spares (I've gifted most of mine, but others will probably have some), feel free to ask in lobby!