Bivvy bag is currently en route to me via ParcelForce and so now I need to think about a tarp of some sort. I was having a look over on backpackinglight.co.uk where there is a bewildering assortment. I'm only after a 1-man thing and, as usual, cheap & light would be appreciated

I'm also assuming I'll need some guys - is the 1.5mm Dyneema sufficient and is there any advantage is having some shock-cord for windier pitches?

TIA

is the 1.5mm Dyneema sufficient

More than.

is there any advantage is having some shock-cord for windier pitches?

No, it'll just flap about all over the place. Aim to get it pitched as tight as possible, if it starts to rain re-tighten everything as sil' tends to stretch when it gets wet.

Buying a tarp is battle between budget, weight and size, plus waterproofing, usability and, if we are honest, aesthetics. Ive got a few tarps but the go to jobbie is the DD Hammocks solo, which isnt overly light at abt 500g but is plenty big, has lots of attachment points (so heaps of pitching options) and is pretty tough. Nice and cheap on eBay too.