My 11+ year old guy weighs 1900-2100 grams, lives in an RBI enclosed 3-tier rack, and eats best (consistently) with hides in his tub. Have experimented over the years with/without hides, with/without stuff to hide behind... dunno... the boy just likes his hides. As long as he seems calm and eats regularly, I figure he can have all the hides he wants.

But that's my guy. Whatever works best for you and your snake's well-being. Good luck!