Just a thought, prompted by Matt's improvised tripod...
I used to carry a washer (or key) with a length of string and a 4/20 eye bolt on the other end. Drop the washer on the ground and put your foot on it, screw the eye bolt into the camera and pull the string taut... not as good as a tripod, but with practice it should allow you take shots you couldn't simply hand-hold. Its very lightweight (i.e. great for bushwalking
).
I haven't done it since I've had an IS camera...
It might complement the tripod, but I suggest you have a play and a practice with it.
Al.