My local Sams Club patches tires for free. I plug as a last resort. I did have a nail right next to the patch and they could not get a patch next to it. So that patch now has a plug next to it.
I use a toolbag to carry along. It is smaller and easier to handle. They do wear out every few years, but you can pick up Craftsman on sale. I just bought some over Xmas for $3.99.