free file encryption software recommendations

[Guest]

I am going to attend some college classes this spring, so I want to encrypt some sensitive files and folders on my laptop and USB key. Does any have a favorite (searched the web, but can't sort through all the hype)? I prefer free, but could spend a few dollars for something really good.

Thanks
Scott

[Chewy]

http://www.7-zip.org/

7zip is free and will compress and password lock