I think that it depends; if you want a display tank, you might be able to find a deal on a used one. Most pet stores really highball the prices on tanks compared to their at-cost cost.
Shows can be fun. It could be a great opportunity to buy from a reputable breeder and at the same time, get to see and hold the exact snake you will buy. Personally, I see nothing wrong with buying from photos online (and have with great results) but if I had the choice and lived near the breeders I bought from or their shows, I would have loved to do that!
The only show I have personally been to was in Buffalo, and there were not many breeders there BP-wise. But I did pick up my normal female advertised as, and thinking she was, male.. for a dirt-cheap price.
If you're looking to buy cage accessories cheaply though, nothing beats the internet IMO.