I went back and forth on this for awhile as well. Ultimately I decided to go smaller tarp and UQP. With a large tarp, I had to take the whole tarp every time on every backpacking trip. So there would always be the extra weight penalty and extra bulk every time. With a small tarp and UQP, I only take the UQP when I'll most likely need it (heavy rains or wind forecast) and I save the 5 oz weight penalty and a bit of room in my pack when I won't need it. Yes I could keep different tarps for different weather conditions, but an UQP is much less expensive. This approach works for me. If one isn't a backpacker, the same arguments aren't as relevant. YMMV.
This topic has a long history of debate on the forum. There are many threads arguing the pros and cons of each approach. Here's just a few recent examples (I'm sure there are many more):
My (long) take on the classic UQP vs Get-a-bigger-tarp argument..from Standing Indian experience
https://www.hammockforums.net/forum/...ian-experience
Underquilt protector-well worth it
https://www.hammockforums.net/forum/...-well-worth-it
Larger tarp with doors or smaller tarp and underquilt protector
https://www.hammockforums.net/forum/...uilt-protector
~ All I want is affordable, simple, ultralight luxury. That’s not asking too much is it?
I've evolved into using a Summer or Winter Sock. Socks also act as a WL Lazy Slug Tube and will keep everything relatively contained as well as all of their other benefits. Personally, I'll never go back.
Formerly McBlaster
The Tent is a Lie
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