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Hi,
EDIT: I just got a 20 gallon for pretty cheap. Way cheaper than even used ones, and I bought it new at Petco.

So far, I bought a turtle dock, thermometer, and a lamp w/ the clamp. The lamp was the most expensive thing, and I was wondering, should I return it? Is it okay to use just a regular lamp, or is it a special type?

I ask this becuase if it's not necessary to get a special bulb/lamp, I could get a filter.. as well as other little things for the tank. Is this a good idea?

Welcome. Equipment that's meant to suction to the sides of a tank (like heaters, some filters) tends to not stick as well on plastic. And, tanks are meant to hold water, plastic containers aren't. With bigger ones, the sides will bow out if they aren't supported. And there is also the possibility of the container developing cracks on the bottom from the weight of the water. Plastic containers are OK as temporary enclosures, but if you're in the planning stages, I think I'd try to wait and get a tank.

If I were you, for a hatchling, I'd look for something like a 20-gallon long tank in the classifieds, garage sales or online at places like www.craigslist.org I lucked out this past weekend and found a 20-gallon long tank in great condition at a church tag sale with a screen and assorted goodies for $5.

marisa wrote:Welcome. Equipment that's meant to suction to the sides of a tank (like heaters, some filters) tends to not stick as well on plastic. And, tanks are meant to hold water, plastic containers aren't. With bigger ones, the sides will bow out if they aren't supported. And there is also the possibility of the container developing cracks on the bottom from the weight of the water. Plastic containers are OK as temporary enclosures, but if you're in the planning stages, I think I'd try to wait and get a tank.

If I were you, for a hatchling, I'd look for something like a 20-gallon long tank in the classifieds, garage sales or online at places like www.craigslist.org I lucked out this past weekend and found a 20-gallon long tank in great condition at a church tag sale with a screen and assorted goodies for $5.

Bought a 20 gallon .. but I have more questions..

The lamp is a basking lamp that gives off heat or a flourescent UVB light? If it's the basking light, you can use a regular light bulb for heat and save a bit of money. Your turtle still needs a UVB light, though. Both lights need to be positioned over the basking area.

You got a tank at the $1 per gallon sale Petco sometimes has?