Since my multiquote doesn't work:

I'm just going with regular batteries. My battery life is pretty damn long for my camera (I had one before this that sucked them but this one is so much better). I'm bringing extra batteries too, plus they aren't expensive in Europe.

I have a laptop I could bring, but that might be more problems than its worth. The hotel in rome has a safe in the room, but I'll also be staying in hostels in paris. I really don't want it to get stolen, even though its a POS.

Why did my stepdad tell me that the 1gb will hold 8 times as much, and you guys are saying I'll only get 300 pics?

I'm going for an SanDisk, but of course, they aren't on sale right now. They had one for $40 at radioshack a few weeks ago, but not anymore. I'll keep my eye out though. Hopefully they'll go on sale in the next three weeks.