Hmmm...
I think everyone here has good points. OP it kinda looks like you already have an answer in mind and are looking for someone to side with you (I could be wrong). I think that you are going to do what you like, and I guess you'll have to see for youself if that's the case
To chime in my opinion, I think that mimicing the snake's natural habitat would be the least stressful for them, so why not spend the extra buck on substrate (or even newspaper or paper towel if you've already got it; at least it's something other than cool plastic), and have less work for yourself to do? If it's a money thing, substrate really isn't all that expensive because snakes don't go through a tonne of it - compared to other small animals that use it, that's for sure!
If it's a looks thing, there are many options out there that you may find appealing.
Good luck with whatever you choose.
Reply With Quote