As a back up to the .dat back up, run this command in the console:
dumpprivkey
The output is your private key for that address from which you can recover coins in a fresh wallet. Use importprivkey .
However, I advise you to store these keys separate from an internet-connected computer.
My private key is in my pants. Rather large, but well hidden. My chick likes me to export my private key repeatedly into her USB port.