Getting Bored Playing the Stock Game.....

[Folducker]

So, I downloaded the stock game 1.0 (Then purchased it from NewEgg for $8.00). I haven't finished my first war patrol yet, and I am thinking about mods.
Tell me if this is the correct thing to do:

Purchase the U-Boat add on, I take it that this will give me 1.5.

Install the JSGME mod pack.

Go to Mod Heaven....

How do I back up what I have done so far?
Thanks