Yeah, having someone else to do that is the safest way and just give him few bucks, depends on what amount you will agree. But, of course, make sure you know that someone well. I'm sure you have friends online which can help you out on that.
On the other hand, there are clickbank products which allows you to buy from your own affiliate link. This particularly, for instance, you will ask for a review copy of the product and some vendor will allow you to buy the product through your own affiliate link. But, not all vendors allow it.
As for other affiliate program, not sure...better ask them. I know before there are affiliate programs that don't allow right at the beginning, specially if you're using the same paypal(for example) for both payment and receiving commission payments.