Think of all the time and money you are investing in this. It needs to be right, and right from the beginning, or you will be extremely frustrated.
I would go to a cabinet maker and have him make a Formica top using as thin a piece as he would recommend. If you will be taking it off and on once in a while, it needs to be a little bit sturdy.
You will be happier in the long run if you spend the money and do it right.