You know, all of things needed aren't very expensive. I setup my enclosure for less than $150.
I simply used small basic flowerpots with holes cut out of them for hides--2 of them from Lowe's was about $3.00.
My UTH was only $23 from Petco. (I bought the 10-20 gallon size]
A thermostat could be a bit expensive so a Lutron lamp dimmer switch would be a decent temporary alternative for $12. (with a UTH you will absolutely need a thermostat or at least a dimmer..temps can hit over 120 degrees without one.)
An Accurite thermometer/hygrometer from Wal-Mart is only about $15.
Perhaps instead of plants, you could temporarily use crumpled newspaper? It doesn't look the best but it works and crowds up the tank....