incubator

Look on Craigslist in your area or post a "wanted" ad for one.

You could also make one. They are not hard to make and they work very well.

I lost mine in a house fire but I hatched several batches of chicks with it.
 

Craigslist is a good idea, but for my first, i just went with the cheapest I could find, a Hova Bator, model 1602N.  I got mine for $35 and for incubators, thats cheap. It's a simple syrofoam incubator, you can buy extras like automatic turners, and fans, but I didn't and had 19 chicks hatch out of 20 eggs, so it did a great job. I still use it 5 years later and it still gives me great hatch rates.  Also if you have never hatched before it comes with great step by step instructions made for that particular incubator, which is very helpful.  Thats my opinion.

I bought this http://www.ebay.com/itm/251067340647

but I only paid $26 (including shipping) for it. I think $56 is a bit too much, BUT it is a great set up and I have learned so much during my first 2 very successful hatches.

I just ordered this: http://www.ebay.com/itm/130602069688?ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1439.l2649

to plug in the light socket (you see on top) I have switched around from a 13 watt curly standard efficiency light bulb (most any store) to a 10 watt fish tank light from walmart. I think the 7 watt brooder light bulb will be helpful too.

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All you need is a styrofoam cooler, thermometers (I have a few from walmart fish area less than $2 and one that also measures humidity) a humidity monitor, light bulb power cord, bulb, a small piece of hardware cloth, and plastic. Here are some examples:: this will work http://www.ebay.com/itm/HUMIDITY-AND-TEMPERATURE-INDICATORS-6203-LCC-/29059907ou3622?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item43a90df756  or here is another http://www.amazon.ricom/Display-Temperature-Humidity-Meter-Hygrometer/dp/B003NUHI5O/ref=pd_sim_hi_26    You need a light bulb socket with a cord...this example is not for a standard bulb, but I'm sure you can find one for a standard bulb at a hardware store or lowe, etc http://www.efavormart.com/lanternpowercord.aspx?siorigin=pla

line the bottom of the cooler with a sheet of hardware cloth. I'll give you a picture of mine if you want....

Make some windows. You can use plastic (from pictures frames, etc.) I made a small window/vent that is only covered with plastic wrap. plug in the bulb, pop in the eggs!

That's it!! It is so easy. I am sooooooo glad I went this route instead of a prefab incubator that is supposed to do everything for you. The learning experience is worth it. You do have to monitor temps, humidity, and turn the eggs, but like I said, its a learning experience..

probably about $20 for the setup...

I have one similar but bought in the UK it is just my back up incubator mine cost £35 with shipping, I think the most expensive part is the thermostat to control the temperature, does the one in the US not need this? It is ok to hatch eggs in and will do the job but you need to be monitoring it very regularly, temps and turning, as it can be a bit hit and miss, I love my Brinsea the most! but they are not cheap 

Mine is not controlled with a thermostat. I control the temps...(various bulbs, and extras)

The first week or so, I cover the incubator with a towel or blanket to keep up the temp. During the 2nd and/or 3rd week, the chicks start generating their own heat, and I can remove the towel. Sometimes I will open a vent or just take off the top if it is getting hot (I just ordered a lower watt bulb) During lockdown, I move the setup to the room with the window AC...since I cant open the vents...I'm thinking the lower watt will help avoid extra unwanted heat. In the AC room, I sometimes use the towel again