If you run thick tires, use tipple heavy tubes and Kevlar tire liners punctures should be a thing from the past.
I have had stems blow, but I haven't used a patch kit in over a year as even a carpet tack was stopped before working it's way to the tube.
A thorn or goat head will not get through a well made tire and a heavy layer of Kevlar.
I can't tell you how many times the product below has saved me from getting a flat tire.

http://www.amazon.com/Rhinodillos-OR...lar+tire+liner