First, I suggest contacting flight school and get the instructor to demonstrate correct procedures.
As a fresh PPL, I submit a Flight plan via NAIPS every time I fly outside aerodrome Training Area (e.g. over ~10nm). It is mandatory if you are flying VFR into C and D controlled airspaces (but not in E and G), for example doing City orbits (AIP ENR 1.10-4 para 2.3, 2.4).
So far I had two phone calls from the Briefing office :)
1. forgetting to cancel SARTIME - local distractions even though I had reminder in phone,
2. not ticking some box in NAIPS plan, but all sorted out over the phone whilst taxiing.
Many of my flights had diversions, so quick radio call to MLCEN with "flight plan amendments, no change to SARTIME" and you fly wherever you want.
Regarding surveillance equipment, you can buy portable adsb-out e.g. SkyEcho2 and be seen by other aircrafts (or your family/friends on the ground). You need ICAO hex address of your aircraft.
For survival equipment, I carry PLB, handheld VHF, Satphone, or marine handheld if close to water...
Regardless, always Aviate-Navigate-Communicate, in that particular order.
Safe landings !
Cheers