What type of lens do i need?

I currently own the Nikon D5100 with an 18-55 lens and i'm interested in purchasing a lens with a better zoom, and by zoom i mean being able to capture things that are far away not line zooming way into a flower. What type of lens would best fit my needs and is not too expensive (less than $300)

Look at the 55-200mm AF-S, or something similar from Sigma or Tamron - your dealer can advise you.

The 55-200 VR or the 75-300 G. The 75-300 is not on the "best lens Nikon makes" list.

The best lens that will fit your needs, within your budget, is the Sigma 70-300 f/4-5.6 APO model. Make sure it is the APO version.