I've done both. I like how small a hammock packs. I do like a blanket in the bottom of one cause I like a little insulation. Even at 75 degrees at night, a slight breeze thru that fabric of the hammock can feel cold on your bare skin. I remember one time I was standing on an ants nest when putting my strap around a tree. Little suckers ate me up. One time I was woke up by the sounds of claws on tree bark. I shined my light at the pine tree I was strapped to and there were a couple of racoons within inches of my toes. I always keep a light hanging on my ridge line. I like to check the ground before I put my feet down. I'd hate to step on a slithery or crawly critter. The tarp is a must if your under a thick or large tree. Something sure made a mess of my tarp one night, would've been bad if I didn't have one. It it's going to be fair weather and not to cold, I'd rather sleep in a hammock, but cold and dripping with rain I'd rather be in a tent.