I have a ton of things that use AA and AAA batteries (game controllers, wireless keyboards, flashlights, bike lights, etc.) I primarily use the Sanyo Eneloop NiMH rechargeables and an excellent smart charger. If you use rechargeable batteries smart chargers are a must. They can recondition your batteries and remove memory and other wear issues. It extends the life of the batteries a lot.

We also stocked up on rechargeable batteries. We had maybe a dozen or so AAA's and AA's but lately have spent a pretty penny on C and D batteries.

The sellers of electronic-related baby products sure have a large contribution of customers to the battery industry.

But you can sit on your porch and throw them at passers-by, which makes it all worthwhile.