My dad said YES!!

[artgecko]

Skip the tank and go with a tub setup... Just make sure it has enough floor space for the size of snake you want and that your UTH covers about 1/3 of the bottom. I would also suggust getting some binder/bulldog clips or luggage straps to help secure the tub lid (just in case).

A hydrofarm thermostat (on-off type) will work as well if you can't afford the more expensive proportional ones... I started with a hydrofarm and it still works well (I have since gotten several herpstats and LOVE them). There is also a good thermometer/hygrometer combo sold on amazon by accurite (think it is an indoor outdoor thermometer) that will measure your ambient temp, your hot spot, and your humidity in one unit. These are great.

Another thing to look at is feeder cost and what type of feeders you will be using (live, f/t, etc.). I HIGHLY suggest f/t, especially for a new snake owner. That said, BPs can be very picky, so make sure that you get with a good breeder who can tell you if the animal will take f/t. I purchased my first several snakes online and the breeders were all willing to try offering the snake a f/t rodent for me to ensure that they would feed on f/t before they shipped the snake to me. Not all breeders will do this, but you can ask how good of a feeder the animal is, what they typically feed, etc.

When I got my first snakes (I purchased online but picked up at a show) I purchased f/t feeders at the show..I calculated how many and what size I needed for several months worth. I now buy f/t feeders in bulk (6 months worth at a time) online from big cheese or perfect prey. Feeders can be pricey, so keep in mind that you will have to calculate that and make plans ahead of time. If you do want to buy at the show, I would plan on buying feeders there too and bring cash to do so (and a cooler). They run out of sizes fast, so you would need to hit them up first or very soon after buying your snake.

If you plan on buying at the show, see if you can find a vendor list online. You can then search those vendors on Google, here, and on the BOI forum on fauna classifieds to see what their reputation is. It is also good to buy from an actual breeder vs. a store or re-seller because you can get more detailed info from the person who bred the snake.

If you don't buy at the show (that's not a bad thing)...get business cards from breeders you like. Ask if they attend the show often or if they offer shipping, etc. Begin able to see / talk to them in person is great, even if you will have to wait and purchase from them online.

Lastly, if you are interested in buying from a breeder, but am unsure about them, feel free to post here on the inquiries forum to ask if anyone has purchased from them before and what their experiences were.