Rechargeable batteries might seem odd, but they can actually save you in some dire situations while traveling or stuck at the airport. You can use them for many different things like a camera, flashlights, or a remote to an AC unit in a hostel. They are also better for the environment because you just charge and reuse them. It may seem random, but they are a great emergency item to have.
Just don't forget, you should always carry the battery charger with you so that you don't have to keep purchasing new batteries, and you're good to go.