The Qcell batteries I got a few weeks ago have NFC and work the same as the OEM. They were the only aftermarket battery with NFC at the time, but I believe some of the others (maybe Anker, Hyperion?) are producing NFC batteries now.
To the OP, I would get a pair of replacement batteries w/charger, that is what I did, I always have at least one charged battery nearby/in a pocket. You don't need to avoid all the accessories/cases built for these phones, and you can essentially always have an extra charged battery available.