So you've still gotten some different answers and points of view here!I must say I do agree with Matt on some of these things: UTHs are the BEST way of heating for BPs, they do not need UVB light, you do need at least 2 hides for security, and you most certainly can feed your snake in his enclosure if you choose to do so. Matt explained the reasons for these things very well and he's absolutely right about them.
As far as what to use, some of this is going to depend on personal choice. Do you want to use a tub or a tank? Are you getting a baby or a young adult? What is the ambient temp of the room you plan to keep him in? If it's cooler, you may need additional heat sources but if you can keep the ambient temps in the room up around 74ish or higher, then a single appropriately sized UTH should be enough.
When deciding on the particular items, you'll have to pick the brands that you like. For a UTH, ZooMed is ok, but I prefer the Ultratherm from www.reptilebasics.com. They don't get as hot. There are several good brands of the thermostats too - rancos, herpstats and vivarium electronics are all really good. DO NOT skimp on the t-stat! This is probably the most important piece of equipment you will ever get. There is a reason no one here will recommend a cheap version. But the good ones will last a lifetime with proper maintainence. Substrate is a matter of preference too. Some like to use newspaper or paper towels, some use aspen, some use coco fiber, etc. Do what works for you. I like cypress mulch because it isn't "dirty" and it holds humidity well in my tanks but I use paper towels in my quarantine tank and in my rack.
Good luck and share pics of your baby when you get him!
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