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I didn't mention that I use a tarp bivy combo and deal with bugs fine. I use a variety of combos ranging from about 14 ounces to about 20 ounces or a little more depending on a variety of factors. The various parts are:

• Borah Side zipper ultralight bivy - 7 ounces
• Ti Goat Ptramigan Bug Bivy - 5.3 ounces
• Sea2Summit Escapist M 6'6" x 8'6" - 12.3 ounces
• Integral Designs Siltarp 1 - 7 ounces
• MLD Dog Tarp (half tarp) - 4.9 ounces
• 2 ounces of stakes and cords

I used to use a heavy bivy that weighed over a pound and used the half tarp to only cover the upper half. I pretty much gave up on both the half tarp and the heavy bivy.

I was pretty happy with the Siltarp 1 and either the Borah Side zip or the Bug Bivy depending on the expected weather, but since decided that the larger tarp was a nice splurge and worth it especially in bad weather. It means that I don't have to pitch the tarp so low in bad weather in order to have good shelter.

When it isn't buggy and the weather is nice I like to sleep on top of the bivy and sleeping bag and climb in as needed. I often don't pitch the tarp if the weather is good, but keep it handy and pull it loosely over me and my gear if an unexpected shower pops up.