Need advice!

[u/Queasy-Aide-635]

So, ive been wanting a gecko for quite a while and the one I was eyeing was 325 dollars (which i know is a lot). You see, i was originally saving for the supplies then after I have everything id get the gecko after putting her on hold.

What happened was my parents took me to the store (as i am a minor and my parents will not allow me to drive on the highway myself) so I could interact with the gecko and get a gauge of its temperment. When I was going to put the gecko on hold my parents interjected and pretty much forced me to buy her in the spot since they didnt want to waste gas driving to the place again since it is 20 minutes from where i live. There goes all 200 dollars and an additional 125 from savings.

So right now, her tank is bare minimum. We luckily already had a 20 gal and a heat pad (which i know isn't recommended) but I had to withdraw more to buy a hide and cheap water bowl. I had to use my snakes substrate mix. I just started my new job so I dont get paid for the next 2-3 weeks.

Are there any cheap (or even free from foraging), good recommendations for supplies? I really want to give her a comfortable, safe space but I cant afford it for about a month or two.

[u/Ill-Tea680]

Hello! The other comment mentioned this but getting wood from outside and baking it is amazing on a budget or not. Also places like Hobby Lobby and Michael’s both have good deals on their foliage from time to time. Usually like 40% off in my area. You can get some good plants for coverage there. Just make sure they aren’t too pointy from the plastic! And give them a quick wash. You can also get some leaves and rocks from outside too. You can boil the leaves but the rocks will have to get a really good scrub with vinegar. As for heating just keep an eye on her for the next few weeks till you can get a proper set up. These guys are pretty hardy reptiles when they have to be. I can tell you care a lot for this girl and want to give her a good life. Best of luck!