Best tampons?

I've always been wanting to use tampons, I should be getting my period tomorrow (fingers crossed I don't!!) I tried the kotex brand last month didn't like them and a few friends told me they didn't either. What's a good brand for tampons? And just to be safe is there any pads I can wear with thongs? That's the reason I want to start wearing tampons I love wearing thongs not old regular panties