I've never done anything else but here's how I do it:

I keep my ball python in an 34qt sterilite bin (latches on the short ends) with 5 holes on each side (here, it keeps at about 65% humidity aka perfect sheds every time). He can stay in this for a while longer. He still isn't even close to outgrowing it. If you get a hatchling, I recommend a 28qt.
I don't use anything to keep pressure in the center (mainly because he is still young).

I use 2 medium hides (keep in mind that my ball is a lot bigger than he was when he was a hatchling so, i recommend 2 smalls) from amazon (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00...ilpage_o01_s00)
And this bowl (heavy and and he cant tip it) also from amazon (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00...ilpage_o00_s01)

I've never used heat tape so, I can't advise you on that. But, I use zoo med heat pads (the kind you see at petco/petsmart) with a thermostat from amazon (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00...ilpage_o00_s00)

As far as lifting the hides, a ball python will spend almost all their time in one hide or the other. So, lifting the hides will be almost necessary. As long as you stroke him before you lift him, he should be fine. Give him a couple of days before you feed him (2-3) and then feed him. Wait a day or two then start enjoying your new pet!

Sorry if this really dragged on. I just wish someone told me all this when I first got my python. Have fun!