i recently repaired a nail hole in my rear tire. I used the sticky string with an additional coating of rubber cement. I have carried a pump and repair kit under the seat since the bike was new and finally got a chance to use them. I would advise buying a repair kit with T-handles, because it takes a lot of strength to push the repair tools into the tire. My puncture was from a nail.
The tire pump is also handy for maintaining tire pressure out on the road or at home. I never leave home without it.