[Klazu]

My answer probably went a bit overboard with information that is not so applicable to your situation, but sounds like you made a good deal. If the tripod is sturdy, you are good with it.

Since you have a T3i which is a APS-C sensor with 1.6x conversion factor, keep in mind that a 16-24mm lens will actually be 26-38mm which is not super wide. Since my 5D has full size sensor, my wide-angle les is 16-24mm also in practise.

If you want to have the same (so a really wide angle), you should consider a 10-20mm lens that Canon makes. It's not expensive and very good for its price.

Please note that a lens this wide is only very useful if you are shooting tall buildings or inside. For nature and landscapes you probably want to have a bit more zoom.