I agree. I carry mine everywhere and have yet to change the batteries after a year. It takes watch batteries (ones that look like a quarter) and I have an extra set in the case for when I need them. Small, bright, multiple settings.

As a side note, my wife got me one of these for Christmas (not necessarily advocating this supplier, just the first link I could find - she picked mine up at Lowes and it does take AA batteries):

http://doitbest.com/Flashlights+and+batteries-Stanley-model-95-112S-doitbest-sku-324107.dib

It would work to change a tire. When stowed, it is similar to a normal flashlight. But just push a button and it the tripod snaps out and the head pivots to where you need the light directed. And it has 3 brightnesses.