I recognize your point and often do the same, it makes good use of thrift store finds. I also prefer plastic backed, so a depend over a cloth covered cheapie is a great way to go.
As to comparing the ability or value of one way to the other, the circumstances you live in seem to lend themselves to make a pack purchase for a trip a better idea all around.
If I understand your question, it was "do I know of store brands that seem better or worse". After many brands I have used, I find the all pretty much the same, doubled or singled, with the depends ahead a bit due to plastic backing, as well as a bit better capacity than most. I would say I won't grab any "wings" brand unless they are near free, they just don't seem to have any SAP.