I think it's really important to get a feel of it or you might not be happy, especially if you're switching to a DSRL for the first time. As it's a lot heavier than a point and shoot, it should feel right in your hands. Being in a shop and taking the different cameras in your hands and just shooting, tells you a lot about how it's going to be to handle. After all you should be comfortable with your new gear!
Generally current DSLRs all do a great job, so you can't really go wrong with whatever you decide to buy. If you're set on buying lenses too, check out lens prices though. Some have brands have more variety than others and usually where there's competition there's good prices
