Quote Originally Posted by Bogertophis View Post
That last part is what is important to me: if you can't see in easily, that means every time you want to check on your snake you have to disturb them, which isn't ideal for them, IMO.

And while bad situations are usually (& hopefully) rare, they can become much worse when not seen & caught in time, so for me, it's a safety thing too. Besides, that's a big part of why I have snakes- to watch them.
There are pros and cons to either choice, but I wouldn't choose clear over opaque for visibility. Visibility through clear plastic is poor. If your snake is right up against the side, you'll be able confirm that it's in there. Other than that, it'll appear as a dark lump indistinguishable from a hide. If you want visibility, you need glass.