Keep an eye out for good deals on "older" models. I got an excellent deal on a Kodak EasyShare CX6330 3.1 megapixel 10x zoom because they had just come out with a slightly newer version of the same thing.

And look for one that uses "regular" batteries. Mine takes 2 AA batteries. They make special ones for the camera that last much longer than ordinary AA's, but they will still work great in a pinch. VERY convenient!