As long as you're repairing the tubes with a vulcanizing patch kit, the patch will last as long as the tube.

Think of it this way - - Vulcanization is the same bonding process that is used in the manufacture of the tubes (it's how they attach the valve).

The glueless patches are a different story. They aren't worthless, but they aren't permanent, by any means. I do carry them for emergency fixes, on the road but I replace them with vulcanized patches, when I get home.