Are USB Flash drives (sticks) a reliabe storage media?

Hi,

I'm about to backup some old CD/DVD's that contain photo's and videos. I'll back them up to a couple of External Hard Drives and new, good quality CD/DVD's. I was also thinking that USB Flash drives (sticks) might be another backup media I could use. The reason I feel they might be quite reliable is a bit unusual. You see, I have a 23 year car that has an electronic immobilizer. Before starting the car I have to insert a device that looks similar to the old 6.35mm audio jack plugs. It stores the unlock code magnetically.

So far, thankfully, the device has always worked. Therefore, my reasoning is that if this magnetic device has lasted 23 years of regular use and being carried around a pocket, tossed on a bench and into a draw etc., and even going through the washing machine a few times, then solid state magnetic storage must be fairly reliable. As far as I know, USB Flash drives (sticks) are classed as a solid state magnetic device. They have no moving parts, and if stored well they should last.

Please correct me if my reasoning is flawed.

Thanks.

PS. I'm also looking at some of the online storage option.