[pct-l] Tarp advice

[rmitchell@soe.sony.com (Mitchell, Robert)]

> Subject: RE: [pct-l] Re: Gear Tradeoff -- Tents versus Sleeping Bags
> I'll grant that a tarp/down combo takes a bit more practice
> and knowledge to master than the tent/synthetic combo.

OK. Enough ruffled feathers. How about real advice?

Where do we find information on properly pitching tarps?

What makes a good site to pitch a tarp?
What are the options?

If I was to get a good down bag, what should I consider?
Where is there reliable advice/reviews?


Thanks
bob

PS. Any advice on hiking in New Zealand (likely Novemeber
or early December)