I use the clear Sterilite containers from Walmart and they run me under $10 I used my soldering iron to put the holes in it for airflow (alot of others use wire mesh) and yes it took alot of holes. I have not had any issues with them chewing out. You can get the containers with locking lids as well. For bedding, I use the pine shavings from Wal-Mart as well. 3 cu ft for around $7. I know some people here will say that the pine is unhealthy for the rats, but I have not had any issues and have used it from day one.