ENCLOSURE
You have three main options to consider when selecting housing for your new ball python:
Plastic Container / Tub
The first option is a plastic container. The plastic container, or tub for short, is a rectangular shaped plastic box. The tub gives you several advantages. Tubs can be easily found and are very affordable. Tubs come in a wide array of sizes allowing you to customize the enclosure to your snake's requirements. Many keepers disagree on the exact size needed for a ball python. Most believe the tub length added to its width should be equal to the snake's length. The snake should be able to stretch out along the short side continue around the long side and about a quarter to a half of the other short side of their enclosure. The tub is very light and easy to move for cleaning.
The humidity can be controlled easily by simply drilling holes into the sides of the tub. The tub is not completely clear in most cases, giving the snake some added security. The tubs stack, so a large collection can be kept in a small area. The ability to stack the tubs or place them into a rack is one of the reasons breeders and people with larger collections use tubs. The tub is also very easy to maintain and the proper parameters are much easier to maintain in a tub.
There are two main disadvantages to tubs. The first disadvantage of the tub is you can not view your snake clearly. The tub not being clear is an advantage to your ball python creating a cave like environment. The second disadvantage of the tub is your heating options are limited.
Glass Aquarium
The second option is a glass aquarium. This option is cheap and easy to find. The main issue with a glass aquarium is they are designed to hold water and allow for unobstructed viewing. Ball pythons are very shy snakes that like tight dark spaces. The openness of an aquarium can cause your shy ball python stress. You can take extra care to clutter the enclosure with hiding places and foliage to keep your ball python from feeling exposed.
Another problem with housing your ball python in an aquarium is humidity. Ball pythons require humidity of 50% to 60%. The aquarium needs an escape proof lid or your ball python will soon be selecting their own housing anywhere in your home. Most keepers select a screen top which works very well for adding heat or lighting. However, this allows all the humidity to escape the enclosure thus leading to difficulty maintaining the right humidity level.
Another issue with the tank is maintaining the proper tempature through out the tank.
Melamine or PVC Enclosure
The third option is an enclosure built for reptiles. It has solid walls and clear front panels. The enclosure is usually made of Melamine or PVC. It usually has a plexiglass front opening door. These enclosures work well because the snake feels less exposed, but you still have great viability. It maintains temperature and humidity very well. The main problem with these enclosures is price. They are, by far, the most expensive. It can easily cost hundreds of dollars. The enclosures come in a few different sizes. If you own several ball pythons, the space needed for all the enclosures can become a problem. These enclosures are not easy to clean.