I definitely feel more exposed in a tarp but like the better ventilation, especially when I don’t have the bug net up. Tent might be better if you plan on hanging out in camp a lot. This setup is hundreds of dollars less though than an equivalently light single wall tent
You could get a gossamer gear 8th inch pad and cut it down and use it as your frame/padding. I cut mine down and it weighs 2 oz and can add a little bit of warmth if I put it underneath my foam pad on colder nights
Compression isn’t likely affecting the already super low r-value of your closed cell foam sleeping pad. Even if so, buying another would only be a temporary solution. Might consider looking into a light inflatable and either ditch the foam one or keep it (full sized or trimmed down) for a sit pad and tent porch (so many uses really). Heavier but appropriately warm for mountain temps. Lots use folded inflatables for frames too.
I only carry a compass if I’m planning on off-trail travel which I’m not on this trail. Between the compass on my phone, the FarOut GPS app, paper maps, and frequent trail signs I feel I have enough navigational tools
