I have some advice that could come in handy in your endeavors, as this is what I have been doing.
1. Get a notebook and start off with the HakTips, I only took notes on about 25 of Darren's, none of Snubs' as they're more optimization than hacking/cracking.
2. If there are local businesses around, walk in and ask to speak to an I.T. Director or Sysadmin and see if they are willing to release any boxes to you, through this method I acquired a Poweredge 2600 Server and 7 Optiplex GX280s to set up a lab in. If you do find someone willing to release materials (normally they just throw them in a dumpster) be sure to maintain contact with them as they can email you when something of possible use comes in.
3. I, personally, don't have the money for the offensive security classes (I'm only graduating high school this year.), but I know I have found a LOT of information in books, the things with the pages! Go check in a local library, or on amazon.com for titles that you should buy.. if you choose to do so. I hear a good method from a few people so far is to read some CompTIA prep books, such as the A+ (even if it is hardware) Security+ and Network+, as well as the official Nmap book.
I know, I'm not an expert, so you can choose to ignore my advice if you wish, once I finish up getting enough power routed for a lab and internet access, if you want to get in touch (Steam, Skype, Facebook) it's always good to learn something with a partner or small group within your same skill level, that's how I learned how to use windows server 2003 so quickly, shoot me a PM if you're interested.
