You can also just hang branches on string. I harvest plants by cutting off each branch. If you're using string, there is a way to cut the branches that includes a short segment of the branch above it to use as a hanger. It's going to be very hard to describe in words, but follow a side branch to the trunk. Imagine you cut the trunk 1 inch above and below. That little tail can be used to hook over a piece of string tied to a couple screws.
Simple, cheap, and effective.
You get great airflow this way, but that also means you could dry very quickly. This method does NOT lend itself to drying, sealing, then drying some more. I would always destem when I removed them from the string and put them into jars. I then burp the jars a lot to start and decreasingly as they reach proper cure. For my last batch, I bought some Boveda packs, so now I just stick them in the jars to finish the cure.
I did buy a rack before my last harvest, but I only put the loose "oops" nugs on it. For my next harvest, I'm going to try drying all my buds on them by destemming during trim.
As far as containers, get glass. The jars with the hinges and latches work great, but they cost a lot more per jar. I use plain old mason jars bought at W@lMart. Actually, now I'm using 1 gallon glass jars for storage and curing, but I still use the small ones for my personal stashes
I guess it might depend on how much you're harvesting, and those 'fancy' jars are reusable.