I've read the zombie survival guide, as well as the World War Z audiobook.
#1 weapon: Shaolin spade. wide shovel on one end, crescent on other. About 7-8' long.
Think of it as a polearm designed to decapitate with both thrusting and slicing blows.
No fuel or ammo needed. Pretty quiet.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shaolin_spade
#2 weapon: heavy chu-ko-nu. A chu-ko-nu is a chinese repeating crossbow.
If one was fitted with a strong modern prod and materials, and very simple bolts were utilized- say, one-piece steel rods with sharpened tips, you'd get these benefits:
-skull-shattering.
-cheap/easy ammo
-very quiet
-fast rate of fire
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chu_Ko_Nu
#3 weapon: machete/falchion. Can wear it at all times. Great for taking things off.
Again, no fuel or ammo needed, and pretty quiet.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Machete
Armor:
articulated vacuum-formed polycarbonate, based on medieval patterns.
-mass-produceable.
-impervious to zombie claws and teeth
-quiet
Helms would probably be bubble-shaped, and special attention would be paid to the neck protection.
Gauntlets can be leather, with polycarbonate plates over knuckles and wrist areas- lets you operate machinery and use weapons.
Vehicles:
Horses, maybe wagons. If zombies break out, the supply chain is gone, and local alternative energy is nonexistent in the States. Horses are nice and easy to feed. Way quieter than a car or truck. If used in combat, barding armor is a must, and they work best in large groups.
Where to go:
#1:
Mountains. Rocky terrain and scarcity of prey discourages zombies. Cold freezes them. Lots of rock to build a stronghold. Fresh water in places. Open land means that watchmen can get a bearing on anything incoming.
#2:
A barrier island with fresh water. Near to industrial center or civilization is also a plus. Set up home base on a wide beach, construct defenses with natural areas where zombies will congregate, then smash their heads in from atop your battlements. Make raids on surrounding countryside for food, supplies, and machinery.
If the right barrier island is picked, the current between you and the mainland will take care of any bottom-walkers.