Loading codes?

I'm having trouble coming up with a good way to make loading codes for my map, and I wondered if I could get some suggestions to build off of. For obvious reasons all the maps I have with loading codes involved are protected.

I need to save the hero type, attributes (in case of tomes/such effects), two carried item types (none more), and the level (1-10) of all four of the hero's skills.

How could I do this?

One way I thought of is to use a very long trigger full of if-thens and string variables, where, let's say "t3" meant Hero Type 3, and "i2" meant item two. But that's long and complicated... are there any easier ways to do it?

Actually instead of if thens, use arrays and for loops.

Or you could go complicated like I did: http://www.wc3campaigns.net/showthread.php?t=78825

I'll have a look at the codemaker, thanks!