There are lots of places on the web where you can generate your own barcode free of charge
http://www.barcodesinc.com/generator/index.php Quick and easy, nothing fancy
http://www.barcoding.com/upc/ Choose your symbology and output format
http://www.idautomation.com/java/linearservlet.html for every option possible
1. When I go to the hospital I don't have to fill out forms - just swipe this
2. At conference registration and for entry to different sessions
3. To figure out who is eating what in the fridge (swipe and link to a database)
4. In case of emergency - it holds my name and a phone number
5. For entry / exit into clubs and cinemas
6. Entry / exit into festivals
7. Using up coupons, vouchers or cumulative things (swipe and count down)
8. On the machines down the gym, swipe and record my progress
Where I use a barcode now (though it is organisation specific rather than unique to me)
1. At the library
2. Supermarket loyalty schemes
3. Hospital forms (though I am still asked for information)
4. Drug matching in hospital