Instead of a tarp to go along with my tent, I have used just a tarp and bug bivy, Jardine style, and that works great. The whole setup is only 18 ounces. The tarp can be set up as high as the weather allows, or as low as the weather demands, and gives you a whole lot more floor space than any 1 or 2 person tent. You can walk around under the tarp and enjoy a roomy, comfy camp. In the morning, everything gets packed up and ready to go; the tarp comes down last and you're on your way (hammocking has that same advantage).