I have been debating this myself, but I think that the poncho/tarp is quite the option.
I haven't yet found a poncho I'd like to get/use for this purpose, but I am looking. I would use it for my BOB, but also for my recreational hikes (several days). It saves me from having to get much rain gear (cheaper and less stuff).
I am not sold on SilNylon (the silicon impregnated stuff). Perhaps others could comment, but it doesn't stay water resistant with too much pressure, and it wears down very easy. After a few uses wind can blow through it, and water with force (as in heavy rain, or using it as a ground cover) will allow wetness through it.
I haven't yet found a poncho I'd like to get/use for this purpose, but I am looking. I would use it for my BOB, but also for my recreational hikes (several days). It saves me from having to get much rain gear (cheaper and less stuff).
I am not sold on SilNylon (the silicon impregnated stuff). Perhaps others could comment, but it doesn't stay water resistant with too much pressure, and it wears down very easy. After a few uses wind can blow through it, and water with force (as in heavy rain, or using it as a ground cover) will allow wetness through it.
