For the problem of missing the puncture with the patch, here's what I do. In my kit, I carry a couple of toothpicks. after scuffing the area, carefully poke the toothpick into the puncture, apply glue, wait the proper amount of time, then poise the patch over the puncture, pull the toothpick out and apply patch. This really cuts down on the missing. If its a snakebite, break the toothpick in half.

When carrying an alcohol stove, I use a little denatured alcohol to clean the area after scuffing. I have had the best luck with Rema glue as well, but also buy cans of glue at the local NAPA, and occasionally have a patching party in the garage.

Also in the twenty+ patches on a tube camp. I flatted once on a group ride, and pulled out a tube with over 20 patches. The ration of crap I got from the freds was pretty incredible, until I told the loudest that as each patch equaled the cost of a new tube, this one was worth over $100! Other than a little "if you cant afford new tubes that's fine" posturing, he shut up. I learned that day that four of the six riders I was with had never patched a tube, including the guy giving me the most grief! Just kept buying new ones.

Thought I would add, when a patch get to the 20 + point, its generally old enough that I discard it.
and on topic, I have used walmart tubes with no real issues, though I generally buy ten or so tubes at a time from Nashbar. The price is better, and again, no issues with those either.