Grand Canyon National Park - Backcountry Permit Change (U.S. National Park Service)

Grand Canyon National Park - Backcountry Permit Change (U.S. National Park Service)
Plotting out the basics of my 2011 road trip. First things first...making sure I can get backcountry permits for the dates of travel I need....October. According to the NPS, I have to apply by June 2011 for the permits if I plan on hiking in October. I printed out and filled out the form already, so it's good to go and I don't forget it.
As of now, I am planning on two nights at the Phantom ranch Campground, and planning on traveling the Bright Angel Trail to the bottom of the canyon.
I plan on paying for the meals as well in Phantom Ranch, which should keep me from bringing too much food down in the packs. I figured on one good meal the day of arrival (dinner), and a good breakfast on the day of departure. I may throw another dinner in there for good measure and good energy replenishment.
Planning on keeping the costs WAAAAY down on this trip. The drive route will be the same as Road Trip 2010, as will the hotels in Lafayette and Amarillo. I plan on staying in Williams or Flagstaff instead of my original plan of near the south Rim, because the hotels are WAAAAY to pricey.
I am guessing on about $500 for gas again, and about 2 weeks off. Driving will be 6 days altogether, and then 3 days for the hike. Another 5 days is going to be for kicking it in Page or Sedona or both. I am leaning toward Sedona because of all the hikes and things to do there.
I have to start purchasing gear for the trip also. Needing nice backpacks for both of us, small sleeping bags and sleeping mats, a small tent, and a small camp stove. Items like dehydrated food and a magnesium flint stick will be purchased little by little. I am a bit hesitant on spending too much, just in case the backcountry permit is denied.