Looking for something like this but less expensive or DIY

[DogterB]

Basically, I am looking for something like this flood and drip shield from Floraflex. I'm on my 3rd grow and first run with multiple plants. I currently use 5gal pots with soil. I saw these and thought it would be great to fill and walk away from, but they are $20+ apiece. Does anyone know of something similar to this but not as expensive? Or have any DIY solutions? My problem is that I take forever to water (low and slow), and being a full-time med student, every spare minute matters. Any ideas?