You can actually pick up a reasonable camcorder for around $500 at any electronics store, i know places like Best Buy in the US have regular sales on camcorders that will be more than enough for what you need it for where their prices come down below $500.

Go to one of your local electronic retailers and ask one of the clerks there if they can offer you any discounts or, as Basshick mentioned, find a rental place

Regards,

Lee