Foodstick and Raptureboy both have good ideas. If sanding bars are little pricey try checking a local aluminum company for some T stock and cut your own. In my opinion the best razor planes are the Master Airscew and a little German built all metal plane I bought about 5 years ago from Hobby-Lobby. Unfortunately, I don't know where you would find it now. If you plan on doing any building from plans invest in a balsa stripper. For just a few strips you can't beat the Master Airscew but if you plan on doing a lot of strips the same size for planking Hobby-Lobby has one that uses a staple blade you can't eat.

Raptureboy I feel your pain. I have been in places where Hobbytown was it and they are worthless!