When my brother was getting his CCW he asked for my advice for every day carry and I suggested a Charter arms snubbie in 38sp. Let's face it, most all you will ever have to do with it, is carry it. He got it with the aluminum frame and likes his light weight choice.
Keep in mind we have shot all types of hand guns and he owns several, but it fits his bill well for a carry gun. When he carries it, it is in an OWB Bianchi holster under a loose shirt. I would not say it is the cheapest, but reasonable, and if ever used would not be a heart breaker to lose for a while or at all. Also, if it gets beat up from travel and every day use you haven't hurt the value of a high priced gun.
I, being the nice brother I am, treated him to Crimson Trace Laser grips last Christmas and now he has the enhanced capability of the laser, at a cost still less some handguns alone.