So I'm a new guy here too and this was my approach.
1st - scheduled an appointment with Line-X of Houston and had the owner (Dallas) treat my bed to XS-350. If you have any questions PM me or call your local Line-X dealer because 350 is better than the new Platinum they are pushing.
Reasoning - well you should protect your bed and not let it get all messed up
2nd - RetraxPRO
Reasoning - security, convenience, fuel economy improvement, and appeal
3rd - FabFours Bumpers
Reasoning - solid steel construction w/ continuous weld and they look/feel/are tough and driving cross country TX to MD and living in TX you pass deer. But I also got the pre-runner style so my approach angle isn't THAT bad
4th - WeatherTech mats
Reasoning - a healthy truck interior is a happy owner
5th - FORD F-150 licensed bed mat
Reasoning - I own a "few" firearms and while my Pelican 1750 cases are tough, I hate getting them scratched at all so that applies to anything else in the bed
6th - TheStubby Antenna
Reasoning - Clearance issues. No-one forces me to park in parking garages but the easy test is to stick your hand up on your cab and feel for anything lol. Also, if you drive through brush a lot like I do, I hated my stock 31"(?) antenna being taught back - that and to avoid damage to my windshield/A-pillar if I hit the antenna hard enough. It has happened to another user here.
7th - CoverKing Kryptek Tactical Seat covers
Reasoning - I suffered my first leather scratch on my rear seat, it is visible white and only cosmetic but its 4" long and super irritating. I wish someone told me to get seat covers fast especially if you live a fast life.
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All of the above was done in 1 1/2 weeks and literally 4 days after owning Wally (name of my truck). I have now just past the 5th week owner mark.