Pat, I did opt to get a card reader since I have 2 cameras with different cards. To me it's just easier (but then some think it's easier to plug it up to the compuer) and doesn't use up your batteries.
And I did get a warrenty on my first camera, but of course I never used it so I didn't get it with either one of the ones I have now. I figure I can get a new one for close to the price the warranty will be.