You can get USB multimeters and oscilloscopes and the TS 80 soldering iron is nice and compact.
Also - consider local maker/hackerspaces if they're available (and, well, probably in a few months time in any event).
Have you checked out this project [1]? I found this one yesterday too. It’s a project working on an ebook built from various microcontrollers.
I don't know what part of the world you are from but my local library has a 3D printer you can use for free. All you need is a library card in good standing and to take a 1 hour orientation. After that you just need to reserve the printer for the day (no overnight printing).
I just finally branched out from software into hobby hardware and I'm eating up these tinkerer subreddits alive. Thanks for a new one.
I impulse-bought an Arduino Uno (well, the much cheaper Elegoo Uno) starter kit and e-ink display and have been working on my own personal-needs Kindle replacement. Wish I did this as a kid or in uni. Oh well, never too late. Having lots of fun.
The only regret is encumbering my minimalist nomad lifestyle with a multimeter, soldering iron kit, and more when my life had, just a month ago, fit into two duffel bags! A 3D printer is off the table at the moment.