You've all seen the adds

'5' Megapixels!

'7' Megapixels!!

'11' Megapixels!!!

Its like the Megahurtz (pun intended) game processor manufacturers used to play.

Does it really make a difference in print?

It can, but a lot of people cannot tell the difference in "normal" viewing conditions; people forget that the quality of the lens, sensor, lighting and composition matter far more than the raw pixel count.

David is right. I'm also a photographer, and for my friends and family, I recommend a nice 5-6mp camera with a good quality lens and the biggest sensor available at their pricepoint - as they normally print 4x6's or at most 8x12's, they will never see the difference.