I like to use the same meter - since it gives me statistics based on 7 / 14 days - and averages. If I was to go back and forth with two meters - then the "true" story of my diabetes #BGnow control would not be reflected.
Always like you say, carry a back up ... just incase.
I always use the sides of my fingertips - the center of our fingertips carries way more nerve endings in it - and I'd rather keep those functioning with being able to detect hot/cold surfaces
So far, I have no neuropathy, even with diabetes as long as I have had it 
Curious - have asked in other areas you have posted (under a different user name) - but are you on insulin or just on meds/diet for control of your diabetes.
Love to meet up with others that whether we have different form of diabetes - we can share how we control our diabetes control.
BTW, I'm having a perfect day of #BGNow - averaging 4.5 mmol/l (x that by 18 if you're an American to get the mg/dl) - that's excellent for all the things my body is going thru' these days with menoopause / thryroid hormone fluctions 