Tubes are relatively inexpensive, so it's a good idea to buy a few and keep a couple as backup. For a good quality and well priced tires, look at Panaracer Tour tires. I've been using the 700cx42mm ones for months and besides being comfortable, haven't had any flats yet. If you're having a hard time finding tires locally, check out ebay ot online stores and change them yourself, it's a must to be able to change tires/tubes yourself and really not difficult, there are many videos on youtube.