travel tripod for olympus

The best travel tripod for 2024: finest lightweight tripods for your camera

The best travel tripods are super-portable camera supports

• Best overall
• Best for budget
• Best Premium
• Best Design
• Best Versatility
• Best Lightweight

How to choose the best travel tripod for you

How we test travel tripods.

1. The list in brief 2. Best overall 3. Best budget 4. Best premium 5. Best design 6. Best for versatility 7. Best lightweight 8. How to choose 9. How we test

Compact size and lightweight build are the name of the best travel tripod game, persuading you to pack one for outdoor adventures rather than leave it at home or in the studio, unlike the best tripods which can be very heavy and unwieldy. 

In 2024, there's the question of whether you need a tripod in the first place. After all, today's best cameras give plenty of reasons to leave the tripod at home , such as excellent high ISO performance and in-body image stablization. But believe us, there's still plenty of reason to fork out for a decent tripod . 

All of the models in this guide stand firm for long exposure photography, sharp photos and hands-free video while being small enough to be stowed in your camera bag . Most options included here are available in aluminium and pricier carbon fiber versions. Because travel tripods are quite small already, the minimal weight saved by using carbon fiber might not be worth the extra outlay of their aluminium counterparts. 

We've tested more than our share of tripods over the years, utilizing them while we're testing cameras and lenses – so we know if one offers incredibly stable shooting and decent value for money. Within this guide, we have gathered the best travel tripod you can buy right now and included further buying advice at the end of the guide.

Tim is TechRadar's Cameras editor, with over 15 years in the photo video industry and most of those in the world of tech journalism, Tim has developed a deeply technical knowledge and practical experience with all things camera related. He’s also worked in video production with clients including Canon, and volunteers his spare time to consult a non-profit, diverse stories team based in Nairobi.

The quick list

Short on time? Use our quick round-up below to find the best travel tripod for you. Use the links to jump to our full write-ups for more in-depth coverage.

The best travel tripod overall

The 3-Legged Thing Punks Brian 2.0 boasts a full height of 73.2 inches / 1.86m and a stylish design. A truly impressive specification for the price.

Read more below

The best travel tripod for a budget

If you're looking for your first ever tripod, Manfrotto's budget friendly offering ticks all the boxes when it comes to delivering the basics at a good price.

The best premium travel tripod

Smooth operation and build quality that will last a lifetime make this the best option for those who are happy to pay for the best. 

The best travel tripod design

As one of the most compact travel tripods around, the Peak Design makes for a great travel companion, albeit at quite a high cost. 

The best travel tripod for versatility

With an articulating center column, this heavy travel tripod is able to capture unique angles while providing great stability.

The best lightweight travel tripod

A basic offering from Manfrotto that is incredibly lightweight and therefore perfect for taking on your travels.

• ^ Back to the top

The best Travel Tripods in 2024

Why you can trust TechRadar We spend hours testing every product or service we review, so you can be sure you’re buying the best. Find out more about how we test.

Below, you'll find full write-ups for each of the best travel tripods in our list and a link to a full review. We've tested each one extensively, so you can be sure that our recommendations can be trusted.

1. 3 Legged Thing Punks Brian 2.0

Our expert review:

Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

When it comes to price and quality, the 3-Legged Thing Punks Brian 2.0 is hard to beat. For the price, you get an incredible level of versatility with the Brian 2.0, which can transform into a standard tripod, a tall monopod, or even a tabletop tripod when combined with the separately sold Vanz footwear.

The carbon fiber frame is lightweight at 3.70lbs / 1.68kg and provides a maximum height of 73.2 inches / 1.86m. This might be too tall for some, but it's always good to have the option – you don't need to use all the leg sections. Folding away to 16.5-inches / 42cm makes it easy to attach to a bag or throw in a suitcase.

As is custom in the Punks Brian 2.0 range, the tripod is available in either orange, blue, or black, depending on how much you want to stand out.

• Read our 3 Legged Thing Punks Brian 2.0 review

2. Manfrotto Element MII

The Manfrotto Element MII is a fantastic budget option that does all the basics really well. At only $155 / £109 / AU$259 you're guaranteed to get everything that Manfrotto is known for, including great build quality and a well engineered head. 

The Element MII has replaced the Element Big, a change that sees a reduction in leg sections from five to four. These changes make it easier to set up and pack down. Unfortunately, it's only available in aluminum, which makes for a heavy package considering it's such a compact design.

By offering a fairly basic specification, Manfrotto is delivering simple tripod technology at a great price. Through the Element range of tripods, Manfrotto is trying to appeal to beginners and those on a budget. 

• Read our Manfrotto Element MII Aluminium review

3. Gitzo Traveler Series 1

Professional users looking for one of the best travel tripods should look no further than the Gitzo tripod Traveler series 1. All the boxes are ticked with a lightweight and excellent build, with an impressive extended height.

Oftentimes, with travel tripods, the parts don't function as smoothly as their larger counterparts. This is not the case for the Gitzo Traveler Series 1. Moving from folded to extended is a breeze, and the head is as strong and reliable as you'll ever need it to be. The ball head features separate pan locking, and its 32mm ball diameter is just about large enough to support a full-frame DSLR.

All of this premium quality comes at a price. The Traveler Series 1 costs $680 / £539 / AU$1,154 . 95. If you're in the market for a travel tripod that will last a lifetime and you're prepared to pay for it, then the Traveler Series 1 is a great choice.

• Read our Gitzo tripod Traveler series 1 review

4. Peak Design Travel Tripod

The Peak Design oozes a unique design that results in it being one of the most compact and lightweight options on the market. Thanks to the shape, the legs fold neatly into each other, which provides a super slim overall diameter.

The head is integral to the tripod, which takes a little bit of getting used to, and it lacks functionality. However, ultra-low-level and tabletop shooting is possible thanks to the centre column design, so although it isn't in the 'best for versatility' category, it would easily be competing for the top overall spot.

With great design comes a high price, especially if you opt for the lighter carbon fiber frame rather than the aluminium alternative. The 5 sectioned legs are strong, delivering all the stability you could need as you're out and about.

• Read our Peak Design Travel Tripod review

5. Vanguard VEO 3T+ 234CB

The Vanguard VEO 3T+ 234CB is heavier and bigger than most of its competitors, something that will put a lot of people off, especially if they're doing a lot of travelling by foot. But with this weight and size comes a high level of stability that is ideal if you're shooting long exposures or time lapses.

One of the main things we love about this travel tripod is the articulating arm , which makes it possible to shoot at ground level. This is great for capturing unique and creative camera angles that would otherwise be impossible without defaulting to handheld.

Thanks to the ability to unscrew one of the legs, this travel tripod is also a very capable monopod, making it a highly versatile offering.

• Read our Vanguard VEO 3T+ 234CB travel tripod review 

6. Manfrotto Befree Advanced Carbon Fiber

At 1.25kg, this carbon fiber travel tripod is as lightweight as it gets, perfect for taking with you on your travels. It can also fit into small spaces, with a foldable length of just 41cm. If you're after a tripod that blends into the background and doesn't bother you on long journeys, then Manfrotto Befree Advanced will be great.

The lack of weight and size usually results in poor stability, something that isn't the case with this tripod. The legs are rigid and robust, which is not always guaranteed on a travel tripod.

There is no getting around it; this is a basic tripod with limited features. With no monopog leg option and a limited maximum height, it might be worth going for the slightly heavier 3 Legged Thing Brian 2.0 Travel Tripod. But if all simply need a basic support, which is true for most photographers moist the time, then this is a great option.

• Read our Manfrotto Befree Advanced Carbon Fiber Travel Tripod review

What to look for in a travel tripod

Choosing the best travel tripod isn't just about selecting the smallest and lightest model. Indeed, picking the lightest legs isn't always the best plan. Marginally heavier alternatives won't be a noticeable burden, but they can provide much more rigidity and versatility. 

Most of these tripods use a carbon fiber construction to save weight, but this ups the price. Some models also have aluminum counterparts. Each includes a compact ball head, but check carefully: a ball that's too small for a larger DSLR will become a precarious balancing act.

What makes a travel tripod

A neat trick shared by the vast majority of current tripods is that the legs swing fully upwards for stowage. The idea is that you first extend the centre column, then swing the legs up, so that the tripod’s feet end up encircling the head. This reduces the overall carrying length by up to 10cm or 4 inches. Indeed, many of the best travel tripods shrink down to about 30-40cm, making them small enough to fit inside a camera bag or rucksack, rather than needing to be tethered to the outside causing your bag to be unbalanced.

To give them a useful operating height, despite their small carrying size, most travel tripods feature four or even five telescopic sections per leg. Some go further still, with a two-section extending centre column. This naturally enables a greater maximum operating height, so you can be sure no matter how high your camera needs to be it will be able to get the shot you want.

The drawbacks are that each telescoping joint is an area of potential weakness, reducing rigidity, and the bottom leg sections are likely to be quite thin and spindly. A large number of twist or clip locks for all the sections also demands more time for setting up the tripod and folding it down again. 

Do I even need a tripod?

Today's very best mirrorless cameras and computational photography modes especially in smartphones and the OM System OM-1 that go a long way to eliminating the need for a tripod. We list 5 reasons why photographers no longer need a tripod that includes super-effective in-body image stablization for handheld shooting even with professional high-resolution cameras, in-camera HDR modes so you no longer need to do multi-shot exposure stacking, plus improved image quality at high ISOs. 

However, there are times and photography effects that still require a tripod. Tripods can be crucial for studio photography and for video work in general where you can lock off the camera in position for long periods and free up your hands. The same goes for long exposure photography, staging group photos, plus the times you need free hands to attach or remove accessories from your camera, like lens filters and mics. 

Significant advances in camera tech have put the once necessary photography accessory under threat, but there will still be a place for tripods for a long time yet. 

Tripods only have a fairly limited number of features. Despite that, we like to make sure we've tested every single part and compared them to others to see where each one stands apart from the rest.

We make sure to test our travel tripods over a period of time using a range of different cameras and lens combinations. Some tripods will be fine with specific cameras, but not others. By testing multiple types, we're able to see how ubiquitous each one is.

The process of folding and unfolding travel tripods is something that travellers have to do all the time. We therefore go through this process numerous times to see how each one feels and functions. 

Some tripods have features that are truly unique, such as the articulating center column on the Vanguard VEO 3T+ 234CB. Whatever the feature, we put it through its paces to see if it puts it above its competitors.

We do all of this while travelling around and thinking like photographers on the go. This helps us to make comments that are helpful for making informed buying decisions.

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Tim is the Cameras editor at TechRadar. He has enjoyed more than 15 years in the photo video industry with most of those in the world of tech journalism. During his time as Deputy Technical Editor with Amateur Photographer, as a freelancer and consequently editor at Tech Radar, Tim has developed a deeply technical knowledge and practical experience with cameras, educating others through news, reviews and features. He’s also worked in video production for Studio 44 with clients including Canon, and volunteers his spare time to consult a non-profit, diverse stories team based in Nairobi. Tim is curious, a keen creative, avid footballer and runner, and moderate flat white drinker who has lived in Kenya and believes we have much to enjoy and learn from each other. 

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7 Best Travel Tripods for Your Next Trip – Lightweight & Strong

Traveling with a tripod may not be convenient, but it can open the doors for creative photography or video. Here are 7 great options that won't weigh you down.

Camera Gear Guides | Tripod & Monopod Guides | By Mark Condon | Last Updated: April 2, 2024

To find the best travel tripods of the year, I tested over 50 different models from various brands at different price points

From the latest lightweight carbon fiber tripod to budget aluminium models, this guide will help you choose the best way to stabilise your camera while not sacrificing weight and space.

Great stability, useful features and compact design takes up less space in your travel bag. Available in carbon fiber or aluminium with life-time warranty.

A good camera tripod will let you blur flowing water or star trails for beautiful long-exposure photography, create an engaging time-lapse video, capture panoramic landscapes, or even take a self-portrait.

Tripods allow you to get sharper and clearer photos than shooting handheld, especially in low-light environments.

A great tripod for travel should be strong, compact, and lightweight to carry mirrorless and DSLR cameras with long lenses attached with minimal vibrations.

The top models should also offer unique features to make your shooting experience more efficient and enjoyable.

Based on my testing and independent research, here are the tripods you should consider for your next trip.

(I’ll update this list as new models are released, so keep checking back.)

Table of Contents

I’ve been a professional photographer for over 10 years, having traveled all over the world to shoot weddings.

Whenever I fly, I like to pack the lightest tripod available with a height and sturdiness that suits my needs for the event.

Over the years, I’ve used many different tripods, from budget to high-end.

For this guide, I reviewed a mixture of tripods I own alongside those supplied by various brands.

This is a summary of what I consider to be the best tripods for traveling the world, based on various essential factors outlined below.

Stick to the travel tripods on this list to narrow your choices to the top options for the average traveling photographer/filmmaker, and remember the following factors when choosing:

• Size (when folded) – The smaller, the better for packability.
• Height – closest to the user’s eye level is best if sturdiness/strength is maintained. Min height allows macro/close-up work.
• Weight – the lighter, the better if sturdiness/strength is preserved. Between 1 and 1.5 kg offers good strength to weight.
• Build – a carbon fiber travel tripod is lighter and stronger than the aluminium equivalent, but also more expensive.
• Sturdiness is measured by rigidity under load vs. maximum weight capacity and the number of leg sections (less is better).
• Value for money – the price is justified based on overall quality. It is within the budget of the average travel photographer or backpacker.
• Additional Tripod Features – anything unique that adds value.

The best portable tripod will be different for each person reading this article – only you will know which of the factors above are most important to your needs.

What is the Best Travel Tripod in 2024?

1. peak design | best travel tripod for mirrorless or dslr cameras.

Material:  Carbon fiber or aluminum alloy | Maximum height: 153cm / 60.2″ | Minimum height: 14cm / 5.5″| Folded length: 39cm / 15.3″ | Weight: (Alu) 1.56kg / 3.4 lb (CF) 1.27kg / 2.79lb | Feet: Pads (spikes optional extra) | Number of leg sections:  5 |  Max load: 9kg / 19.8lb | Further Testing: Peak Design Travel Tripod Review

• Ultra-compact storage
• Well-built and durable
• Quick to deploy
• Unique & innovative features
• Feels great to use
• Good maximum extended height
• Often out of stock
• Carrying case is tight
• Size: 10/10

The standout feature of this highly portable tripod is its unique ability to collapse into a tubular unit, similar in diameter to a can of beans.

When folded, there’s none of the ‘dead space’ which is typical of other tripods – it’s svelte enough to slide into the water bottle holder of the Peak Design travel backpack , with no protruding ball head and ultra-compact quick-release plate. Folded height is impressive, at only 39cm.

Users of travel tripods are sensitive to the packed volume of the tripod – this is where the Peak Design tripod excels.

• Max Height: 9/10

At full extension (153cm), it’s among the taller tripods for cameras tested – tall enough for comfortable usage while still retaining good rigidity. It’s best to avoid extending center columns if possible, particularly on windy days, but this is the case with all lightweight tripods.

• Weight: 8/10

Both the aluminum and carbon fiber travel tripods are relatively lightweight – there are certainly lighter products, but they often sacrifice strength and rigidity. The 29g weight saving for the carbon fiber tripod for camera use may not be worth the extra price

• Build: 10/10

As with all Peak Design products, the Travel Tripod is very well-designed and built. There’s also a lifetime guarantee – perfect peace of mind for backpackers and frequent travelers. Also great as a tripod for spotting scope use.

• Sturdiness: 9/10

Despite having 5 leg sections, the stiffness and damping of the Peak Design Travel Tripod is impressive.

With a maximum load capacity of 9kg, you can safely support any camera + zoom lens. In high winds, there’s a hook beneath the center column to hang a weight, like your backpack.

It’s the best tripod for mirrorless camera users based on average mirrorless body sizes and lenses. Some flagship DSLR cameras combined with heavy telephoto lenses may unbalance it, but these are minority cases.

• Features: 10/10

Innovative features that don’t exist on other travel tripods. (Bottom left: smartphone holder concealed in centre column.)

In testing, I found that the Peak Design tripod still has the most unique and useful features of any other lightweight tripod.

It’s undoubtedly the best camera tripod for anyone who values original design quirks, despite the fact that other DSLR tripod brands have frequently mimicked it since its release.

The stem of the ball head nestles between the tops of the tripod legs when collapsed, ensuring no protrusions and compact storage.

Lever locks can be controlled with one hand while you adjust the camera angle with the other, making adjustment of locking angles fast and efficient.

Legs slide in and out smoothly, and leg locks are strong yet easy to open – full deployment of all 5 sections is very fast.

The Center column hook conceals a mobile phone holder  neatly tucked away.

Rubber feet are replaceable for spikes, and the column can be inverted for macro photography camera setups. Even the protective case is well-designed, with all-over padding and not an inch of superfluous material.

The unique rounded design with legs that tuck away neatly makes this my pick of the best backpacking tripod.

Sliding it in and out of a side pocket is so much easier than even the most compact travel tripod – since nothing is ‘sticking out’, it’s almost like you’re stowing a smooth waterbottle.

• Value: 8/10

Reddit users agree that the Peak Design Tripod is worth it despite the high price.

This is by no means a budget tripod – you’re paying for a unique design and innovative features that don’t exist on other models.

A lifetime warranty is a huge benefit, making the price tag more justifiable.

The aluminium model is the best bang for your buck, although carbon fiber feels/looks better and has a slight weight advantage (I own the carbon fiber tripod).

Final Score: 64/70

Truly one of a kind, beating all other travel tripods with a unique space-saving body / ball-head design, fast leg deployment, impressive strength-to-weight ratio, and overall good looks, giving it that desirable x-factor. Lifetime warranty is a huge benefit. Highly recommended as the best lightweight tripod for backpacking.

Check the latest price >>

2. HEIPI 3-in-1 | Best Travel Tripod for Stability

Material: Carbon fiber (aluminium sub tripod) | Maximum height: 149cm / 59″ | Minimum height: 14.5cm / 5.7″| Folded length: 44.5cm / 17.5″ | Weight: 1.35kg / 2.97lb | Feet: Pads and spikes | Number of leg sections:  5 |  Max load: 25g / 55lb | Further Testing: HEIPI tripod review

• Stable and solid construction
• Useful and unique sub tripod
• Efficient locking ring
• Impressive maximum load
• Hidden mobile mount
• 2 tripods for price of one
• Currently available on Indiegogo only
• Slightly larger/heavier than Peak Design’s

With a similar tubular design to the Peak Design travel tripod, the HEIPI saves space in your backpack by eliminating any gaps between folded legs and retracted ball head.

Everything tucks in perfectly, allowing it to slide into its carrying case easily (much better than Peak’s overly tight one).

150cm is decent as a maximum height, but as with the other options, it still means tall photographers will need to stoop a little.

With a carbon fiber body and aluminium subtripod, the HEIPI is light at 1.35kgs (1.2kgs without the sub tripod).

This is a sweet spot for lightweight travel without sacrificing on stability in higher winds or grassy/unlevel ground.

However, for truly lightweight travel, there are lighter options.

The HEIPI feels very well built, with the legs sliding in and out smoothly and leg locks securing everything in place with confidence.

The ball head is robust and durable and looks like it can stand consistent outdoor use and the rigours of travel.

All 3 component pieces work with 3rd party accessories (3/8″) – slider, ball heads, tripods, etc.

• Sturdiness: 10/10

Here’s where the HEIPI excels and is unique among the tripods I tested.

A separate aluminium ‘subtripod’ is set inside the main tripod, adding to its rigidity when retracted.

When extended, since there are 3 legs in place of a regular singular centre column, it’s 3x as stable as other travel tripods.

Due to the increased stability, I consider it to be the best tripod for astrophotography at this price.

It’s also the best travel tripod for DSLR users who need something strong while remaining portable.

The subtripod is extended and deployed by a centre column lock ring, easily rotatable with a couple of hand twists.

Opening it completely releases the subtripod, which can be used for low-angle, macro photography, or even as a mini tripod for use on a table.

When used in conjunction with the main tripod, the subtripod adds rigidity far superior to using a single centre column. This is currently the only travel tripod with this feature.

Rubber feet can be screwed open to reveal spiked feet for use on sand, ice, grass or snow. You also get 3x hex keys, a water-repellent soft case, and a quick-release plate.

The detachable ball head is like an extra accessory that can be used on either tripod—the main one or the sub one.

There’s a handy bubble level and even a counterweight hook which allows you to add some extra stability by hanging your bag under the tripod.

By no means a budget tripod, the HEIPI is a high-quality product and is priced accordingly. It’s great value for a carbon fiber tripod with this many features.

Remember that you’re essentially getting two tripods for the price of one (the mini tripod is useful and unique, fitting snugly into the main one).

It’s currently only available on the HEIPI site, but it’s still a good deal cheaper than the equivalent carbon fiber Peak Design Travel Tripod.

Final Score: 65/70

Innovative one-of-a-kind concealed subtripod design provides stability when extended and retracted and offers two-for-one functionality. Excellent maximum payload means you can attach heavier cameras and telephoto lenses with no issues. Compact, space-saving design is perfect for backpacking.

3. 3 Legged Thing Punks Corey | Best Tripod for Backpacking

Material: Magnesium alloy | Maximum height: 147.5cm / 58″ | Minimum height: 18.5cm7.2″  Folded length: 35cm / 13.67″ | Weight: 1.5kg / 3.4 lb | Feet: Pads (spikes optional extra) | Number of leg sections: 5 (+ 2 section column) | Max load: 14kg / 30lb | Further Testing: 3 Legged Thing Punks Corey Review

• Multiple attachment points
• Stylish design
• Strong legs
• 14kg maximum load capacity
• Bubble level
• Colours not for every taste

Designed specifically for travel and lightweight backpacking, the Punks Corey packs down to an impressive 35cm / 13.67″, with the legs folding back 180 degrees over the center column, helping to create a slim overall packed diameter for your camera bag .

• Max Height: 8/10

At (147.5cm / 58″) extended height, the 3 Legged Thing is tall enough for comfortable usage while still having good rigidity.

Legs can be positioned at multiple locking angles or splayed close to the ground for low-angle or close-up travel photography .

At 1.5kg / 3.4 lb, the Punks Corey is a lightweight travel tripod for photographers who prefer to travel carry-on only. Its size/weight make it ideal as a backpacking tripod.

Aircraft-grade magnesium alloy construction is unique for travel tripods, offering excellent durability and one of the best strength:weight ratios. Excellent ball head design.

With 5 leg sections and a unique 2 section center column, the 3 Legged Thing Punks Corey maintains great rigidity. A unique detachable d-ring under the column allows you to hang extra weight for increased stability. Impressive maximum load capacity of 14 kg / 30 lb.

Unique design and useful details make for a fun and functional tripod for backpacking.

Twist locks offer fast leg deployment. Double center column increases rigidity and allows efficient fine-tuning of overall height. Fast-adjusting AirHed Neo ball head with grippy knobs.

Precision-engineered leg lock system offers excellent stability and rigidity. 2 spirit levels (head/leg) for precise leveling. Ergonomic ‘bubble’ grip leg locks for all-weather use. Detachable monopod .

Invertible column for macro camera setups. 1/4″ screw foot with multiple accessory options. Tri-mount plate with hollowed spurs for clipping on accessories. Durable drawstring bag. ‘Toolz’ multi-tool, including hex key, coin key, key ring, carabiner, and bottle opener! Available in multiple attractive colours.

• Value: 9/10

Good value to suit most budgets. 5-year limited warranty against manufacturing defects.

Final Score: 63/70

Detachable monopod leg, the ability to splay the legs completely for low-angle work, unique detailing, friction control knob design, excellent strength:weight ratio and overall efficiency in use. Highly recommended lightweight travel tripod for backpacking.

4. Leofoto LS224C | Best Lightweight Travel Tripod for DSLR or Mirrorless Cameras

Material: Carbon Fiber |  Maximum height: 127cm / 50″ | Minimum height: 119cm / 47″ | Folded length: 47.5cm / 18.7″ | Weight: 1.42 kg (3.14 lbs) | Feet: Pads & Spikes | Number of leg sections: 4 | Max load: 6kg / 13.2 lb

• Lightweight & compact
• Sturdier than competitors
• Great ball head
• Unique removable centre-column
• Spiked feet included
• Lighter max load

At a folded length of only 47.5cm / 18.7″, the Leofoto tripod folds down nice and compact with everything fitting snugly into its included carry bag.

Since the centre column is removable and optional, there’s no negative space between all 3 legs, meaning that the folded tripod occupies much less volume when folded up.

The Lefoto tripod’s height is around 127cm / 50″, which is average among the tripods we tested. As with all travel tripods that focus on weight-saving and compactness, it’s not advisable to use the centre column for optimal stability unless the ground is completely even/stable and there’s zero wind.

• Weight: 10/10

The Leofoto LS224C is the lightest travel tripod I tested and much lighter than most others at its price point. Available only in carbon fiber, it weighs in at an impressive 1.42 kg (3.14 lbs) with the ball head installed, making it perfect for all-day backpacking or tight airline carry-on luggage allowances while traveling.

If you need an ultralight tripod for backpacking or solo travel, this is the model to get – it’s the best lightweight tripod for traveling I’ve come across.

• Build: 9/10

You may not have heard of Leofoto, but it’s a brand of Laitu Photographic, a manufacturer that has been making tripods and accessories since 2014. The LS224C is very well built and feels great when extending the legs. The leg hinge joints are nice and stiff, inspiring confidence when setting the Leofoto up.

Everything feels very stable on the Leofoto when the legs are fully deployed, and the centre column is unattached.

Obviously, this will reduce the tripod’s overall height, but it’s a small sacrifice for the greatly improved stability.

Source: The Center Column

As can be seen in the screenshot above, David from the Center Column rated the LeoFoto’s stiffness alongside much more expensive travel tripods.

• Features: 9/10

The LS224C is one of the few travel tripods we’ve seen that haven’t been designed around a centre column.

This is a great space-saver when packing light since the tripod can have its legs folded closer together, reducing the overall volume it occupies.

The twist locks on the leg joints don’t need to be twisted more than 1/4 of a turn before the legs release, making the tripod deployment fast and simple.

Leg locks can be pulled out to unlock the legs for them to be splayed to 55, then 85 degrees for close-up photography.

The rubber feet can be replaced with the included steel spikes for use on grass or soft ground – a nice feature not commonly seen on travel tripods at this price point.

Overall, this lightweight camera tripod ticks a lot of boxes making it a great buy no matter what genre of photography you’re involved in.

• Value: 10/10

With this kind of performance and features from such a light tripod for travel, it’s surprising to hear that the LS284C is available for under $200.

For such a compact tripod that weighs less and performs better than others twice its price, it’s incredible value for money.

Great build quality, impressively lightweight and stiffer than its competition. If you can get past the relatively unknown brand name, it’s an absolute bargain.

5. ZOMEI Z699C | Best Budget Travel Tripod for Beginners

Material: Carbon fiber |  Maximum height: 152cm / 60″ | Minimum height: 35cm / 3.7″ | Folded length: 35cm / 15″ | Weight: 1.3kg / 3.3lb | Feet: Pads and spikes | Number of leg sections:  5 | Max load: 15kg / 33lb | Further testing: Zomei Z699C Review 

• Great value for money
• Great for beginners
• Folds up nice and small
• Super light weight
• Converts to monopod
• Low quality protective bag
• Not ideal for cold weather/gloved operation

Folded up, the Zomei Z699C is compact enough to suit any small camera backpack . Folded height (35cm / 15″) makes it the smallest travel tripod I tested. Having a small tripod is great for traveling carry-on only, which is my preferred way to fly.

At full extension (152cm / 60″), the Zomei tripod is tall enough for comfortable usage while still retaining good rigidity.

Legs can be locked at multiple angles, or splayed close to the ground for low-angle or close-up travel photography.

• Weight: 9/10

At just 1.3kg / 3.3 lb, the plastic tripod head helps keep weight down. Carbon fiber construction offers the best weight savings.

Carbon fiber tripods are stiffer, lighter, more weather/corrosion/scratch-resistant, and in general, stronger than aluminium. They also look and feel nicer.

• Build: 7/10

Legs slide smoothly, and locks on each leg can be deployed all at once with one hand.

Grips could be larger/grippier for cold-weather / gloved operation. Leg grips are a nice addition and provides padding when in transit.

The plastic ball head is basic but includes bubble level. The protective bag feels low-quality but does its job.

Good rigidity and center column hook for additional stability.

Surprisingly sturdy considering its lightness – max load of 15kg / 33lb can support any camera/lens combination.

• Features: 7/10

The Zomei features everything most traveling photographers need.

Reverse folding design. Monopod conversion. Multiple leg angles, including inverted macro. Contoured rubber feet for flat and metal ‘spikes’ for outdoor/uneven surfaces.

Twist locks are great for fast deployment.

The Zomei Z699C is a great-value compact carbon fiber tripod . You won’t find carbon fiber at this build quality for less. It’s the best cheap travel tripod when you still need high quality and the best budget tripod for travel I’ve come across so far this year.

Final Score: 61/70

If you’re looking for great bang your buck this is the best affordable travel tripod. Details aren’t as impressive as higher priced rivals, but operation is decent and size/weight/strength are competitive. Easy and enjoyable to use for beginners.

6. Manfrotto Befree Live | Best Travel Tripod for Video

Material: Aluminum / Carbon Fiber |  Maximum height: 150cm / 59.06″ | Minimum height: 40cm / 15.75″ | Folded length: 40cm / 15.75″ | Weight: (Alu) 1.76kg / 3.9lb (CF) 1.36kg / 3lb | Feet: Pads | Number of leg sections:  5 | Max load: 3.9kg / 8.8lb

• M-Lock twist-lock system quick and convenient
• Fluid head tripod for smooth video panning
• Included carry bag
• Levelling ball joint for accurate alignment
• Hook for attaching accessories
• Fluid arm position can be adjusted
• No convertible feet
• No friction adjustment for panning

When folded down, the BeFree Live is a relatively compact tripod, especially considering it has that all-important fluid head and lever for smooth video panning movements.

However, the legs and head do not rest snuggly against the central core, making the entire volume of the unit larger than the other travel tripods we tested,

You could remove the tripod head completely to allow the legs to sit closer together if you want to pack it even tighter.

At 150cm / 59.06″, the maximum height is comparable to other travel tripods at this price point.

With its compact folded length of only 40cm / 15.75″, the height should be good enough for most travel photography.

The head itself weighs only 380g (0.84 lbs) which is really light for a fluid head and can hold up to 3.9kg / 8.8lb. As for the total weight of (Alu) 1.76kg / 3.9lb (CF) 1.36kg / 3lb, these are respectable for travel tripods for video.

There’s no need to opt for the carbon fiber model unless owning the most lightweight tripod is a top priority to you.

• Build: 8/10

Being a Manfrotto tripod, the BeFree Live is well-made and feels good in the hand when deploying the twist-lock leg sections.

The inverse foldable leg design is easy to operate, and everything sits nicely in the included carry bag.

• Sturdiness: 8/10

We tested the Manfrotto BeFree Live with a Sony a7IV and 24-70mm f/2.8 lens in average winds, and it performed well.

Unless you’re using a camera/lens setup that exceeds the max load, you shouldn’t have any issues with how sturdy it is.

• Features: 8/10

The arm of the fluid head can be fully adjusted, so it’s in the right position when you’re positioning the tripod.

When using the tilt control, there’s a tightening knob to open it up fully for a nice and smooth tilting movement.

The fluid head fits onto other travel tripods, so if you need to swap it for whatever reason, it’s simple to do so. There’s also a bubble level for precise setups.

It also features a feature called ‘Easy Link’ (standard 3/8” attachment) for optional accessories and a hook to attach a weight for stabilization.

At around $270, the BeFree Video is excellent value for money if you’re looking for travel tripods with fluid heads for shooting video.

Sure, you may be able to find cheaper, but it won’t be from such a reputable brand as Manfrotto. It’s the best video tripod at this price, and highly recommended.

Final Score: 57/70

The BeFree line of travel tripods is enormously popular, and this is the version intended for video shooters. Manfrotto is synonymous with making high-quality tripods, and the BeFree Live is no exception, available for a great price for backpackers who need a decent travel tripod for video.

7. Joby GripTight One GorillaPod | Best Phone Tripod for Hiking

Material: Plastic/Aluminum | Dimension: 1.34 x 1.57 x 6.50 in  Weight: 71 g (0.16 lbs) |  Max load: 325 g (0.72 lbs)

• Flexible legs
• Fits all smartphones
• Durable build
• Works as hand grip for vlogging
• Only 1-year warranty

As a mini (aka tabletop) tripod kit, the Gorillapod GripTight One is a lot smaller than other travel tripods and takes up little room in your travel bag – it’s so small, in fact, that it can fit easily into your pocket.

This makes it my top pick as best hiking tripod, when you don’t want to burden your backpack with a full sized light weight tripod.

• Height: 5/10

A small camera tripod such as a Gorillapod doesn’t have a fully extended height since it’s intended to be used with the legs partially splayed or bent to wrap around thin objects. It’s also an ‘attached’ ball head tripod, meaning that you can’t change the ball head for another.

Either way, you’ll usually be either crouching down or trying to find something higher to secure it to or balance it on.

It’s the best compact tripod if you’re really limited in space in your backpack or just need something to carry in a jacket pocket.

Weighing in at a tiny 71 g (0.16 lbs), this flexible tripod can be taken on every travel adventure without a second thought. It’s the best hiking tripod, so long as you don’t mind the lack of extension.

Made from ABS Plastic, Stainless Steel and TPE, the Gorillapod is the best tripod for travel when camera bag space is at a minimum. Obviously, it’s not as robustly built as some of the heavy-duty tripods , but it doesn’t need to be.

• Sturdiness: 7/10

The GripTight is designed for any smartphone, with or without a case (56mm – 91mm), such as all the modern iPhones and Samsung Galaxy devices. Leg joints are stable and strong, but you’ll need to find thin tubular objects to wrap them around or flat surfaces for optimum stability (since all leg lengths are identical).

The base of the mount features a 1/4″-20 standard tripod mount meaning that you can attach it to other travel tripods if you need some extra height.

Other than that, the key feature is the ability to wrap the legs around thin objects or use them all together as a handy grip while filming.

If you’re after the most portable camera tripod, nothing beats a Gorillapod, which can fit in a jacket pocket.

If you’re looking for the best tripod for hiking that is able to stand up taller like a traditional tripod, you’ll need look elsewhere on this list.

At less than $25, the GripTight One is amazing value for money, and the 1-year warranty is adequate for regular travel. This makes it the best mini tripod for anyone on a tight budget.

Final Score: 59/70

Gorillapods allow you to secure your camera to objects for a variety of shooting angles and added convenience when traveling alone. Rubberized ball joints provide grippy finger placement for one-handed selfies and vlogging.

FAQs about Travel Tripods

Do I need a tripod for travel photography?

Yes, a tripod will help you take better photos in low light when traveling by stabilizing your camera and reducing movement. This will allow you to use a slower shutter speed to capture more light without having to rely on a higher ISO which can introduce noise into your images.

A tripod can also be useful when taking timed shots or self-portraits, allowing you to include yourself in your travel photos.

That said, you can use any nearby object as a camera stand – rocks, walls, even the ground – as long as you don’t need adjustable elevation or optimal stability, you can use pretty much anything as a make-shift tripod.

How heavy should a travel tripod be?

It’s important to have a lightweight tripod for travel, so the usual trade-off between having a stiffer/more stable tripod that is heavier isn’t so relevant. As long as the tripod is strong enough to hold your camera and lens without swaying, try and find the lightest tripod you can – this will make your traveling experience more enjoyable.

How do travel tripods differ from regular tripods?

They are typically lighter, have more compact dimensions when folded, and are designed for easy transportation. Regular tripods might offer more stability and height but are usually heavier and bulkier.

Can travel tripods support DSLR cameras?

Yes, many are sturdy enough to support DSLR cameras and lenses, but it’s important to check the tripod’s weight capacity to ensure it meets your gear’s needs.

How do you stabilize a tripod?

You should set up the tripod on stable ground and only extend the number of leg sections that are absolutely required – try and avoid the centre column at all costs. If your tripod has a hook, hang something relatively heavy from it, such as your camera bag – just don’t exceed the maximum weight capacity.

Also, you obviously already know how many legs a tripod has , but do you know why they have 3 legs? It’s for optimum stability.

Are travel tripods stable in windy conditions?

While they are designed for portability and may not be as stable as heavier studio models, many come with features like hook weights for added stability in windy conditions.

Can travel tripods be taken on airplanes?

Yes, they are designed to fit into luggage or attach to backpacks, making them suitable for air travel. However, always check with your airline for specific carry-on restrictions.

How do I maintain my travel tripod?

Regular maintenance includes cleaning the legs and joints, checking for loose parts, and, if necessary, lubricating the moving parts according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Always ensure it’s dry before folding it away to prevent rust or corrosion.

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Mark Condon is a British wedding photographer and editor of Shotkit. When he’s not taking photos or reviewing the latest camera gear and software, Mark can be found cycling around the northern rivers.

50 Comments

Hi, Thanks for this amazing piece of product. Last morning I was trying to find out which tripod is the best lightweight tripod that I should go for. Your article was very useful in this regard.

I started to learn about photography recently, but mostly by myself with the help of the internet. And I’m looking to buy a tripod for it. But until now I have no idea which type I should take on. Because everything looks good nowadays. I might buy the small and the big one, as I wanted to try vlogging and even take photography more seriously. I really want to think before investing money on them, because I have a problem with budgeting sometimes especially when everything seems like a good item to invest in.

Ah yes, paralysis of decision! I know it well, Lala… Why not just go for my number one recommendation, or the second option on the list (which is slightly cheaper)?

Sirui T025X. Only 752grams and folds to 30.5cm. Max height 1.3m. Great for mirrorless. I’ve been using it for couple years now and its always with me everyday.

Ah yep, some Sirui reviews coming here soon actually Izham. They’re great value for money.

A great comprehensive review thanks for sharing

Glad you liked it, David :-)

What would be your thoughts on this tripod? My friend told me to give it a try but I’m not sure if it would be good from my small camera (the camera is pretty light).

Thanks in advance

Hey Roland! What is your camera/lens? It looks like an ok tripod, but depends on what weight you attach to it.

After reading the travel tripod reviews I purchased a ZOMEI Z699C tripod for my travels. On the first trip the bottom section of one leg dropped off. It rolled off a jetty and was lost in the sea so I couldn’t recover it. Zomei is not responding to my emails concerning either a warranty claim or the supply of a replacement leg for a repair.

Hey Robert – when you say it dropped off, did you loosen the leg to the point where it came off? All tripods listed here will behave in the same way if you keep twisting and twisting a leg. I can reach out to Zomei on your behalf, but it depends on the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Hi mark, you have put great effort but please also guide me that which is best shooting tripod among these with good quality and affordable price.

What are your criteria Rachel?

Thanks for the write up! I just purchased the Manfrotto MTPIXI-B PIXI Mini which was actually surprisingly cheap for a Manfrotto product. I plan on using it for Vlogs and my upcoming trip to NZ

Sure thing Lewis. I have that Pixi too – it’s a great alternative to the Gorillapod when you need something a little simpler.

I suppose there is a mistake in data about Gorilla weight.

Great spot Gienio! Thank you – I’ve fixed it now.

Here is my issue. I want a more compact version of the alta pro, something that is more between 3 and 4 lbs. Just not gonna happen. LOL.

Season’s Greetings! While the Oben CT3535 Carbon Fiber Tripod is good for a mirrorless or small DSLR with a smaller lens than the typical 70-200mm zoom, a much more robust Carbon Fiber Travel Tripod than CAN handle any 70-200 f/2.8 zoom on any DSLR or mirrorless camera, is the FLM CP26. It is absolutely Awesome, and the ball head has numerous features, some of which are unique to the brand, such as a Pan function that can ratchet 360 degrees in 15-degree increments…great for precise panoramas! It is superbly well made, a marvel of engineering and design! Highly recommended. FLM-Canada supplies the US. Happy Holidays!

If i’m not mistaken, the vanguard pro isn’t a travel tripod. This review is a bit misleading.

Actually, I stand corrected – maybe I should of read the start of the review!

Great review btw.

Is the Zomei review of the 669 or the 699? Obviously you mention the 699 a lot but the link and specs seem to be for the 669.

Hey Irvin, it’s the 699. I’ll double check those links – thanks for pointing that out!

Where are the tripods from 3 Legged Thing? I’ve got three different of them for different purposes. :)

Hey Peter, I intend to update this list in 2018 with a couple from 3LT – great tripods, I agree.

I spent ages assessing tripods before buying one a couple of years ago, so I was pleased my decision of a MeFoto Roadtrip was validated by your review which I just read now.

I’m completely happy with it, but I have to say, I bought a third party swiss arca plate. The one that comes with the tripod is virtually useless. Not only do you need a tool to tighten it, as you point out, but the rubber grip doesn’t protrude enough from the base to actually provide any traction. Which is a fancy way of saying it kept falling off. The plate I bought was this one:

https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B008S6G09S/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o04_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

It has served me very well.

I also want to add that the two fixed positions of the legs hasn’t restricted me one bit, especially as you can take out the central column of the tripod and put it back in upside down, so the camera actually hangs underneath the tripod to get really close to the ground.

Thanks for sharing that Paul – good to know there’s a better plate out there for the Roadtrip.

The Velbon Ultra Voxi L is the best travel tripod that I have used. It’s folded length is only 36cm and I can set up and put away faster than any other tripod on the market.

I’ll add it to my list to review – thanks Dennis!

Very helpful thank you, I’ll be using it while I’m out in the field conducting research so really need to save space, the Pedco looks perfect for what I need.

What about 3 legged thing tripods? These are awesome, very well made, and I think outstrip a few of these recommendations… from a pro and amateur perspective. They also have the best customer support…

I’m due to review their new ‘Leo’ soon for this list actually Robin :-)

Good article Am going to try the OMEI-Z669C-PROFESSIONAL-CARBON-FIBER-TRIPOD Monopod important for me Thx

Mark, a good article, though I realize that selecting a tripod, like cameras or camera bags, is a subjective thing indeed! John, check out the Oben CT3535…it’s a sturdy little carbon fiber travel tripod that converts to a monopod. See specs online, but I can say that it’s great for a mirrorless kit, or even a small DSLR with a wide or mid-range zoom. The quality is quite high. IMHO, I’d avoid the cheaper tripods with a fixed center column or leg spread. They won’t work at all on uneven terrain!!

Hey Steve – thanks for the tip re. the Oben CT3535 – will check it out!

I’m a fan of the Rangers 55″ tripod/monopod; it’s simple, inexpensive, and gets the job done.

Ah yes, I need to add this one to the list Matthew – only came across it last month, but have been hearing lots of great reviews about it. Here it is for anyone interested.

Not sure how you could have possibly missed the most popular in terms of coverage (YouTube, forums, reviews, etc) the Sirui T-005X (or the carbon version Sirui T-025X.

What about the Sirui T-025X Carbon with C-10S Ball Head??? I heard is no less than the MeFOTO Aluminum Roadtrip, maybe even better.

I’ll have to check that one out, Omri – thanks for the tip.

Has anyone tried K & F Concept tripods?

manfrotto 190 290 vanguard veo

I have no access to camera shops locally, so this is very useful. The reviewer with Tiger were amazing. Thanks for sharing. ( Annice)

Bradley, yes, I agree that Gitzo is the best in terms of build quality and reputation, however, for about 1/3 the price, I find that the Oben CT3535 Travel Tripod is great for a mirrorless or small DSLR system. It is carbon fiber, with all metal control knobs, and quite well built.

The Vanguard Alta Pro is seriously the best tripod out there. I freaking love mine. To be able to shoot from directly above is great for product photography and stop motion.

Daniel/Mark, While I have no experience with the Vanguard tripod, and have no doubt it serves your purpose, I recently came across a unique and extremely high-quality travel tripod…the FLM “CP26 Travel Tripod”. It has super-strong 10x Carbon Fiber legs (26 lb load capacity!) with well-made twist locks, and a ball head that has several unique features that I’ve not seen in my 35 years of photography using tripods…For example, the “Pan” function permits butter-smooth normal panning, but in addition, adds a 15-degree ratchet function that is fantastic for us landscape/panorama photographers! There is also a “Tilt” knob that locks the ball head so that only one vertical/up/down plane is available. And finally, there is a “lock” function that locks the ball head from panning/turning, so that it can easily be unscrewed and/or mounted solidly. The kit comes with very well-made screw-on metal spikes, and folds up to a compact 15.5″ for travel. Quite ingenious and precision design overall, and highly recommended for travel!!  Bottom line: This FLM tripod simply exudes Quality. Here’s the link to that awesome tripod: https://www.flmcanada.com. Please tell Ari that Steve sent you. Thanks, and I think you’ll find the FLM CP26 Travel Tripod stunningly robust, and a work of art!

Hey Steve, thanks for that – very interesting indeed. I’ll see if I can get my hands on the FLM tripod you mentioned to review later this year.

I’m also a big fan of the CP-26 Travel. I have this and a CB43-FTR ball head and it’s excellent. I’ve taken it hiking in the Scottish Highlands, and regularly use it for my Sinar Norma large format camera. For me it’s perfect because of the load capacity and the exceptional ballhead. The friction control is very smooth, and when you have a heavy camera it’s also very important.

Hi, I think you are making a mistake of one order of magnitude in your weight difference calculation. For example, the weight difference of the two peak design tripod is 290 g, not 29 g. If it was only 29g, the carbon would not be worth it at all. 😊

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ABOUT YOUR EXPERT

Mark Condon has been a professional photographer for 10+ years and has used and reviewed hundreds of tripods for backpacking around Australia and overseas travel. He prefers to fly without checked luggage (carry-on only), so a lightweight tripod is essential.

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• Peak Design Tripod
• HEIPI 3-in-1
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The 12 Best Travel Tripods for Your Next Adventure

No matter where your wanderlust takes you, you’ll capture the moment better with this essential piece of gear.

Gear-obsessed editors choose every product we review. We may earn commission if you buy from a link. Why Trust Us?

However, that premise goes out the window as soon as the shooting conditions change. If you want to shoot with a long exposure time, shoot in low-light or nighttime conditions, shoot video , or just want to take nice solo photos when you're traveling alone, you'll want a travel tripod.

While tripods are useful, they also tend to be bulky and heavy, so having a specific tripod for travel makes a big difference. Compared to standard tripods, travel tripods are usually smaller when collapsed, weigh less, and have smaller secondary parts like hinges, feet, and handles.

Not all travel tripods are created equal, though. Some are better suited to large DSLR cameras , while others may only work with smartphones. Here are the best travel tripods to consider for your upcoming vacation to suit all budgets, camera types, and experience levels.

Best Travel Tripods

Best Overall

Peak design carbon fiber travel tripod.

Geekoto Tripod, Camera Tripod for DSLR AT24EVO

Best Travel Tripod for Professionals

Dji osmo mobile se intelligent gimbal.

Best for Smartphones

Atumtek selfie stick tripod.

Best Travel Tripod for Heavy Cameras

Sirui am124 carbon fiber tripod.

Best Ball Head

Manfrotto element traveller 5-section tripod kit.

Best for Action Cameras

Gopro max grip + tripod.

Best Flexible

Fotopro flexible camera tripod.

Most Compact

Bze selfie stick.

Best for Video

Manfrotto travel video tripod.

The Expert: I'm a freelance travel writer and editor who focuses primarily on adventure travel, which means I often take photos for stories in challenging conditions. While landscape photos may seem easy, I often shoot scenes with moving water, night sky, and time-lapse shots, which all require a tripod. I've used many tripods while traveling and am very conscious of weight and size as I often come close to airline weight limits with my bags, especially if I'm already carrying a heavy camera and lenses.

What to Look for in a Travel Tripod

Not every travel tripod will be marketed as a travel tripod, so when selecting one to use during travel, there are a few specific factors to consider.

One of the two most important considerations is weight. Every pound counts when you're working against airline baggage weight limitations, especially on smaller planes or airlines with lower-than-normal weight limits. Sturdy studio tripods can easily weigh into the 15-plus-pound range, but for a travel tripod, you'll likely want to keep it somewhere around 4 pounds or less—roughly the weight of a pair of boots. Plastic travel tripods will probably be the lightest but potentially the least durable. Carbon fiber is extremely strong and lightweight, but much pricier.

Our Pack-and-Go Picks: Best Travel Accessories | Best Travel Bags | Best Travel Gifts

The second most important factor is size. Traditionally, tripods have (as the name belies) three telescoping legs. Travel tripods still have that feature, though many have uniquely shaped legs or modified center columns and handles to make them thinner and shorter when compressed, at least compared to a tripod not designed for travel.

Next, consider the weight capacity/limit: If you find an inexpensive tripod with small measurements, look at the weight rating before you buy it, especially if you have an SLR camera with heavy lenses. Every travel tripod should say the maximum weight it can hold. Keep in mind there are risks to exceeding the weight rating. Either the tripod will break or, more likely, the weight of your camera and lenses will cause it to tip forward, potentially damaging your camera.

Finally, look at the device that attaches your camera to the tripod (called a mount, or mounting plate) and make sure the mount will work with your camera. If you're buying a smartphone travel tripod, get one with a smartphone mount (usually a spring-loaded hook that grips across the back of your phone). If you're looking for a travel tripod for a DSLR, make sure your camera has a threaded hole on the bottom.

Look for a tripod with a quick-release plate to make mounting and removing your camera much. Quick release plates stay screwed into the bottom of your camera and snap onto your tripod, so you don't have to thread your camera in each time.

Note: You can buy tripod mount adapters, but you'll still have to deal with weight limitations—so you can usually mount lighter cameras to smaller tripods, not the other way around.

How We Selected These Travel Tripods

To choose the best travel tripods, I relied on my personal experience using travel tripods and talking with other photographers on their preferred brands and tripod features. From there, I narrowed down my potential picks, then researched user reviews, materials, and features for each.

Once I had a roundup of the top travel tripod options, I finalized my selections based on the best for each superlative below, intentionally choosing from a variety of brands, price points, and photography experience levels.

Peak Design doesn't make dozens of products within each category, but the ones it does make are incredibly well designed and engineered, and very intentional—there’s a reason behind every material and feature selection.

That seems true of the brand’s highly awarded travel tripod, which packs features like a hidden phone mount, a ball head with a twistable lock, extra clips for straps and attachments, and legs that can lower into an almost-flat position into a very lightweight package.

It may look like a standard tripod from the outside, but what makes Peak Design Travel Tripod so great for travel is its compact circumference. When packed, the tripod’s legs, ballhead, and adjustable central column fit together like puzzle pieces, allowing it to be much thinner than most travel tripods. Peak Design is also a B-Corp, is a member of 1% for the Planet, is climate neutral, and has a gear resale program to keep used gear out of landfills.

If you’re not hung up on name brands or particularly care about having a tripod that’ll be able to handle extremely tough conditions, consider the Geekoto AT24Evo. It may not be made with ultralight, ultra-durable materials like higher-end travel tripods, but you get features of much more expensive options in a relatively inexpensive package. That includes a ballhead for a full range of angles, a tall maximum height, a detachable monopod (akin to a selfie stick), and a quick-release plate.

This is an ideal budget tripod for tall shooters as it has an impressive maximum height of 77 inches, though that does come with a relatively long (19 inch) packed length.

Tripods with gimbals—weight-balanced devices that allow cameras to smoothly pan and rotate even while moving—were once solely the provenance of big-time Hollywood videographers. But now, with so many travelers making their living as professional content creators, travel tripods with gimbals have become much more common—and much more affordable.

This unit moves on three axes and the DJI app has built-in templates for easy shooting and editing. Features include motion stabilizing, single-finger controls, snap-on phone connectivity, and gesture control so you can stay in charge even when you’re in front of the camera.

The only downside is that the actual tripod part is fairly short, but that’s a fair trade-off considering it’s a travel tripod, camera gimbal, and selfie stick in one package small enough to fit in a jacket pocket.

For those who mostly take pictures on their smartphone, this unit has a convenient 2-in-1 design that’s ideal for traveling. It weighs less than 1 pound and folds down into a compact 12 inches, yet as a tripod, it reaches 51 inches tall. It can also be held as a selfie stick for those times you want a group photo.

This tripod is compatible with most popular smartphones, including iPhones, Samsung Galaxy, Google Pixel, and more. It comes with a rechargeable Bluetooth remote—a big bonus—that you can use for self-portraits while traveling solo.

It’s possible to find travel tripods that hold more than 26 pounds—but unless you’re a Hollywood cinematographer shooting on a massive video camera, they’re likely going to be overkill. The weight rating on the SIRUI AM124 Carbon Fiber Tripod is more than enough for heavy cameras with massive lenses, and I love that it has extra stability-focused features like retractable spikes on the feet and a central hook to add extra weight for counterbalancing the camera.

Aside from the price, the biggest downside is that photographers will have to make due with just a til-and-pan mount, or pay nearly $100 extra for the ball-head version .

The aluminum ball head on this travel tripod allows you to easily adjust your camera’s angle to capture any shot, with an independent 360-degree pan. It weighs less than 1 pound and extends to more than 56 inches, thanks to its five-section telescopic legs, which can also be positioned independently to accommodate any terrain.

The travel tripod has a maximum weight capacity of 8.8 pounds, making it best suited for small DSLR cameras, and a spring-loaded hook at the bottom of the center column to add weight for extra stability. It also comes with a carrying case for easy transport.

One of the reasons action cameras are great for travel is they can be mounted on almost anything—helmets, chest straps, underwater handles, and even the tips of skis and snowboards. But having multiple mounting options is useless if what you really need is a way to hold it still for time lapses or on-camera video recording.

Fortunately, the GoPro Max Grip + Tripod is both an extendable selfie stick and a tripod in one, and its compact size is one of the smallest I’ve seen. I keep my action cam mounted to it throughout my travels as the twist-locks are easy to deploy and the magnetic legs keep the tripod secure when I’m using it as a selfie stick.

The slim design is ideal for keeping the tripod mostly out of the frame on 360-degree action cameras, but it’ll work with any type of action camera that uses a similar mount.

This tripod doesn’t offer the height of a standard model, but its unique flexible (and waterproof!) legs can be wrapped around any surface—including trees, fences, poles, and more—allowing you to capture unique angles. The tripod comes with attachments for a standard camera, smartphone, and GoPro, and it has a ball head that easily rotates 360 degrees.

This travel tripod weighs just a few ounces, plus there's a Bluetooth remote control included for selfies. With a reasonable price point, the package is great value for all you get.

This selfie stick is as lightweight and compact as they come, allowing you to easily take photographs of yourself and your travel companions. It’s designed to hold smartphones, including popular iPhone, Android, and Samsung models, and it extends to 40 inches for good wide-angle shots. It also comes with a small tripod base and Bluetooth remote.

Keep in mind that this selfie stick is designed for smartphones only, not a heavy DSLR camera.

Capture stunning video footage while traveling with this tripod, which extends to nearly 5 feet and offers 360-degree panning for incredibly smooth images, thanks to its fluid video head. It also supports cameras up to 8.8 pounds.

Other top features include lever-style leg locks for fast setup, as well as a leveling ball joint to ensure perfect horizontal alignment on uneven ground. It has a removable pan bar and two camera adapters, and there's a carrying case included.

K&F Concept Concept Camera Tripod

Most tripods have a maximum height around 60 inches (5 feet), but this one extends to 69 inches, allowing you to capture those high-angle shots. The tripod weighs just over 3 pounds, and it has a high, 22-pound maximum weight capacity.

The aluminum-alloy tripod features a 360-degree ball head for panoramic shooting, and one of its legs can be removed to convert it to a monopod. Its inverted central axis allows for low-angle shooting, as well.

National Geographic Travel Tripod Kit

This travel tripod is your best bet for backroad adventures. Constructed of lightweight carbon fiber, it weights less than 3 pounds and easily converts to a monopod for nature photography. Plus, it comes with a durable carrying case.

Other highlights include five-section legs with twist locks, a 360-degree ball head, and three leg-angle stops for better stability on uneven terrain. Its 90-degree column mechanism allows you to shoot from ground level or directly overhead, and there's a spring-loaded hook on the tripod's bottom to hang it.

Travel Tripods that Go the Distance. Expert Suzie Dundas Offers These Buying Tips!

PM : What is the biggest difference between a budget travel tripod and an expensive one?

SD: The difference can vary quite a bit. Think of travel tripods as having three main points to evaluate: weight, size, and strength. You can generally have two of those without paying a lot. If you want it to be lightweight and small, it may not be very sturdy. If you want it to be sturdy and lightweight, it may not be that small.

If you want it to be small, sturdy, and lightweight, you’ll probably have to buy a more expensive one. So the biggest difference between an inexpensive travel tripod and a pricey one generally comes down to which of those qualities you’re going to sacrifice (or not).

PM : How important is thickness of a tripod?

SD : Thickness doesn't matter at all—what matters is the sturdiness. In general, it’s fair to say that thicker tripods will be more stable, but that’s not to say that there can’t be thin, stable tripods, especially if they’re made with strong materials like carbon alloys. The actual thickness of the materials is secondary.

The only exception to this may be if you choose a travel tripod with plastic legs (which will likely be an inexpensive option). You may want to go with something a bit thicker to reduce the chances of it breaking or getting bent if it accidentally gets sat on or smashed in your suitcase.

PM: Twist or flip?

SD : With telescoping legs, you’ll find two methods of locking the legs when extended: twist locks or flip locks. Twist locks are easy to use: twist the locks in one direction to lock them, twist them in the other direction to unlock (and collapse) them; It’s essentially a wringing motion.

Tripods with twist locks are generally less bulky, setup is quick, and the lack of extra levers means they’re less likely to get snagged or caught on straps and bags. However, it can be easier to think they’re locked when they’re not, and they can trap abrasive materials like dirt and sand in the mechanisms if not cleaned occasionally.

Flip-style locks have some kind of lever or tab you’ll flip to switch between locked and unlocked. These levers may add a bit of extra width or bulk to your tripod, and they’re a bit slower to set up as most tripods will have at least six of these levels on the legs.

However, buyers who are new to using travel tripods will likely benefit more from flip-style locks, as it’s much easier to tell with a glance if they’re locked or not, eliminating accidental falls. Twist locks also tend to be a feature of higher-end (i.e. more expensive) travel tripods.

PM : How much is too much to pay for one of these?

SD : How much is too much to pay for a travel tripod is an impossible question to answer, except in very broad strokes: plan to pay somewhere between $30 and $1,000.

Travel tripods designed for phones and action cameras will generally be cheaper than travel tripods for professional-level cameras. You can get a high-end, durable travel tripod for a phone for less than $100, and likely less than that.

However, if you’re shooting on a more expensive camera, you don’t want the device holding that camera to be too inexpensive or poorly made. You also want to ensure your travel tripod for a DSLR can maintain its integrity and strength even when knocked over on rough ground or airplane storage bins, banged around in your luggage, or handled roughly in transit. Cameras are expensive and you want to be able to trust your tripod to protect them.

That’s not to say you need to go much beyond the $300 range, but it does mean DSLR shooters won’t want to consider price as the most important factor. And if you’re shooting professional-level content with extremely long or heavy lenses, you’re probably looking more at the $500 range, especially if you add a DSLR gimbal attachment.

PM : What are some extra features to be on the lookout for?

SD : Travel tripods are certainly not as complicated as the cameras themselves, but there are a few features you need to consider. If you plan on shooting video, you’ll likely want a pan handle. It’s just what it sounds like—a grippy handle you can use to smoothly pan the camera.

Another feature on many, but not all, travel tripods is an adjustable center column. They allow you to adjust the camera height without adjusting the legs. They’re especially useful on travel tripods with flip-style locks that take longer to adjust or for taller photographers.

You’ll also want to look at the tripod head: the apparatus that allows you to move and swing the camera while still attached to the tripod. Many higher-end and professional travel tripods will have ballheads, which can rotate your camera at virtually any angle between 0 and 180 degrees.

The other most frequent travel tripod head is referred to as a “tilt-and-pan.” These generally allow you to move the camera to the left and right, plus forward and backward, but only at 90-degree angles. Travel tripods with ball heads offer a much wider range of flexibility for shooting and are quicker to adjust.

Originally from the East Coast, Suzie Dundas is a Lake Tahoe-based freelance writer and editor who now splits her time between enjoying the outdoors and writing about them—she's the senior outdoor editor at Matador Network and a regular adventure and travel contributor at TripSavvy.com . She has written feature stories for publications like Outside Magazine , SkyLife Magazine , Playboy , Frommers, INSIDER, and more, and contributes couples travel and honeymoon content for TheKnot.com . Suzie co-authored Lonely Planet Sustainable Travel Guide and is the author of 2021's "Hiking Lake Tahoe." She has undergraduate degrees from the University of Maryland and an M.A. in media and political communication from George Washington University. Follow her on Instagram at @HikeUpYourSkirt or find more of her work at suziedundas.com . 

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Home » Gear » best travel tripods

The 10 BEST Travel Tripods (Up Your PhotographGame in 2024)

So you just bought your new pride and joy: a travel camera worthy of capturing your epic adventures. But now you’re out shooting and the moment comes when you can’t seem to get a good image. Perhaps there isn’t enough light or maybe it’s too windy; regardless, all of your pictures just look blurry, dark and just don’t seem to capture the epic scene laid out before you.

Other times, you may see some photographers’ work and think: “Wow! How did they get the milky way in their pictures” or wonder “how did they make those waterfalls look so smooth and dreamy?” Well, my friends, the secret is out: A good travel tripod is the reason. 

Admit it, you’ve seen photographers carrying around a tripod or pitching up at a viewpoint and wondered what on earth they need them for. Well, now you know and now you’re taking your travel photography seriously you’re ready to join the pros. When it comes to taking high-quality images, a lightweight travel tripod can be just as important as the camera itself. A great travel tripod might just be the thing that takes your photos to the next level.

Now you’ve decided to take the leap, get ready for a sea of confusing terms, endless options and various different price ranges. When it comes to the best travel tripods, it’s easier said than done to pick the right one for your trip and photography style. Which is why we’ve put together this guide so you can find the perfect travel tripod that fits your style.

Let’s jump into it!

Quick Answers: Best Travel Tripods of 2024

The best travel tripods of 2024, #1 vanguard alta pro, best overall travel tripod, #2 mefoto roadtrip, best travel tripod runner-up, #3 manfrotto befree, best travel tripod for backpacking, #4 zomei z818, best budget travel tripod, #5 gitzo traveler series 1, professional travel tripod, #6 mefoto globetrotter, best professional tripod runner-up, #7 joby gorillapod 5k, best tripod for under $100, #8 benro aero 4 travel angel, best travel tripod for video, #9 3 legged thing punks corey, best budget travel tripod for dslrs, #10 manfrotto 290 carbon fiber monopod, best travel monopod, what to consider when buying the best travel tripod, how we tested the best travel tripods, faq about the best travel tripods, final thoughts.

• Overall Best Tripod –  Vanguard Alta Pro
• Best Budget Travel Tripod –  Zomei Z818
• Best Professional Travel Tripod –  Gitzo Traveler Series 1
• Best Tripod for Under $100  –  Joby Gorillapod 5k
• Best Tripod for Video –  Benro Aero 4 Travel Angel
• Jump to ->   The List of 10 Best Tripods of 2024

Vanguard Alta Pro

• > 15.4 lbs capacity

Gitzo Traveler Series 1

• > 22 lbs capacity

Joby Gorillapod 5K

• > 11 lbs capacity

Benro Aero 4 Travel Angel

• > 8.8 lbs capacity

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• Load Capacity:15.4 lb
• Maximum Height: 68.1?
• Minimum Height: 56? but this is a misleading number
• Folded Length: 28.1?
• Weight: 5.4 lbs
• Leg Sections: 3 – Flip Locks

Though the Vanguard Alta Pro is almost 6 years old by now, it’s still one of the best tripods on the market today! Since the release of an updated version – the less than stellar Alta Pro 2 – the price of the Alta Pro has dropped even further as well, making this already budget-friendly travel tripod even more affordable.

The Vanguard Alta Pro uses an innovative system – referred to as MACC (Multi-Angle Central Column) – where the center column can be rotated on its axis up to 180 degrees, allowing for a horizontal and upside down compositions.

With such flexibility, you can position your camera in ways that would normally be awkward, like near to the ground and poking out to the side. The system is fairly intuitive and setting-up should take no longer than any other tripod.

• Innovative design that is still useful today
• Excellent price these days
• Well equipped to handle most cameras
• 15.4 lb load capacity may be a liberal number
• Will need maintenance
• Fidgety quick release plate

The legs of the Alta Pro are constructed of 3 sections and can be laid out nearly flat. Combined with the MACC, this ensures that you’ll be able to achieve some pretty crazy and unique angles. The legs use flips locks, which are convenient but will require periodic tightening as they are used.

The Vanguard Alta Pro is a little heavy because it’s made from aluminum. It’s rated to a hold up to 15.4 lbs but many users have commented that this number may be skewed as wobble can still be a problem with oversized DSLRs. Avoid using this tripod at its full extension.

The Vanguard Alta comes equipped with an SBH-100 ball head that is fairly sturdy. The quick release plate is not as smooth as other tripods – like the Manfrotto – but this is a minor gripe. Below the ball head, there is a bubble leveler as well.

Is the Vanguard Alta Pro For You?

Do you want one of the most innovative and praised tripods in recent memory? Want to take advantage of its recent price cuts? Then there is no better time to invest in the Vanguard Alta Pro! This tripod is very capable and has become well-loved over the years; in many people’s minds, it still one of the best tripods for backpacking.

The team are massive fans of this tripod and just love its versatility when it comes to positioning, in particular, the ability to adjust the centre column is priceless when you need to get down low. They also felt it was pretty light and its weight was a good compromise between being light and also being stable in windy conditions.

• Load Capacity: 17.6 lbs
• Maximum Height: 61.6”
• Minimum Height: 15.4”
• Folded Length: 15.4”
• Weight: 3.6 lbs
• Leg Sections: 5 – Screw Lock

For those who want a slightly lighter tripod than the Vanguard Alta Pro, the MeFOTO Roadtrip is an excellent alternative. This lightweight travel tripod is very adept and can still handle most photographic situations. It may not be as nifty as the Vanguard but the MeFOTO Roadtrip still has the cuts to get the job done.

Like most tripods, the MeFOTO Roadtrip’s legs can be set to three different positions: wide, standard, and free, the third of which is usually used for folding the legs up for packing.

I find that the second option is usually the most useful as it creates a base that most photographers will find optimal. The first is mostly used for getting the tripod low – though not so low as the Vanguard Alta Pro – to the ground. Changing the position of the legs is simply a matter of pushing and retracting a button.

• Quite light and packable.
• Can still hold larger DSLRs
• Can be converted into a monopod
• Can still suffer from wobble at times
• Legs are not as durable as others

Of note is the MeFOTO’s ability to be converted into a monopod, which is an increasingly popular feature in modern tripods.

By removing one of the legs, detaching the central column, and then connecting the two together (BOOM!) you have a monopod. This arrangement is great when you want to run and gun and don’t want to worry about carrying around a cumbersome three legged monster.

At 3.6 lbs, the MeFOTO is quite light. It’s rated to hold over 17 lbs of equipment though many photographers do complain that the MeFOTO still suffers from wobble especially when fully extended.

This is most likely a consequence of the tripod’s light weight in addition to the fact that the legs are broken into five sections, which is not ideal.

Is the MeFOTO Roadtrip For You?

Do you want a lightweight tripod that can handle a heavier DSLR a bit better? Do you like the idea of using a monopod? Then the MeFOTO Roadtrip may be the travel tripod for you! This sturdy tripod will give you that extra rigidity for your camera that, even though it’s not quite professional yet, should handle most situations.

The team loved how quick and easy this tripod was to deploy and adjust with the screw-able leg locks rather than clips, these are also a lot more durable too. The weight of this tripod though was the real selling point for the team and it made them feel like they were much more likely to want to take it with them on their trips.

• Load Capacity: 8.8 lb
• Maximum Height: 56.7?
• Minimum Height: 13.4?
• Folded Length: 15.75?
• Weight: 3 lbs
• Leg Sections: 4 – Flip Lock

If you’re looking for a conventional tripod that is very light and doesn’t sacrifice too much durability, then I suggest the Manfrotto BeFree. This reliable and lightweight tripod is great for wilderness backpacking in addition to demanding professional shoots. It has the usual bells and whistles that a good travel tripod should have and all at a great price.

The Manfrotto BeFree is very straightforward travel tripod that is not overly complex to use.

The legs can be arranged into the usual positions (wide, normal, and free) though the Manfrotto uses a slightly novel latching system to achieve this; it’s unique though in no way inhibitive.

The legs are composed of 4 sections and are locked via flip mechanisms. Like the Alta Pro, you’ll have to periodically tighten these locks. The feet of the tripod are made of rubber, which is good for gripping most surfaces. In my personal experiences, I find the feet like to fall off quite often, which easily fixed via replaced parts though still a little irritating.

• One of the lightest (aluminum) tripods available
• Very quick and easy to use
• Probably not suitable for larger DSLRs
• Can be unstable when fully extended – lack of a hook doesn’t help
• Feet like to fall off

The BeFree is remarkably light given that’s made of aluminum – ultralight photographers can upgrade to a carbon fiber version , which cuts about a half pound as well. The BeFree is rated to hold nearly 9 lbs, which makes it most ideal for mirrorless shooters.

Full frame DSLR shooters who use this travel tripod notice some wobbling in the frame especially and complain further that the lack of a hook on the central column, which is used to weight the tripod, leaves much to be desired.

For videographers, the Manfrotto BeFree can also be converted into a great travel video tripod via special video head sold separately. This accessory, the Manfrotto 502 Video Head , is very effective and does a great job panning.

Is the Manfrotto BeFree For You?

Do you want a lightweight travel tripod without sacrificing too much stability? Are you still looking for something affordable? Then check out the Manfrotto BeFree Travel Tripod! This tripod is easy-to-use, very packable, and won’t break your back or the bank at all. It has been my go-to for many years and I have no problem saying that it’s one of the best backpacking tripods out there!

Personally, this has been my go-to tripod of choice for the past few years and I’ve been super happy with its versatility, durability and weight. It easily fits inside my big backpack and honestly still keeps the weight down to a reasonable level for backpacking or short trips. I use this with my Sony A7III and 24-105 f4 lens and I have always found it super stable even in windy conditions.

• Load Capacity: ?
• Maximum Height: 65?
• Minimum Height: 22?
• Folded Length: 18?
• Weight: 3.7 lbs
• Leg Sections: 4 – Twist Locks

At around $100, the Zomei Z818 is a screaming deal. With a solid build quality, useful features, and the ability to convert into a monopod, this baby can compete with every comparable tripod out there.

I’m going to cut to chase here and say that the Zomei Z818 is very similar to the MeFOTO Roadtrip – shockingly so actually.

Many of the features found in the MeFOTO are also found in the Zomei like the screws locks, the hook in the center column, and the ability to be converted into a monopod. Even the locking mechanism for the Zomei’s legs is eerily similar in mechanics to the MeFOTO.

The Zomei Z818 is a slightly larger travel tripod than the MeFOTO Roadtrip. The Zomei’s maximum height is about 4 inches greater than the MeFOTO and the minimum height is about 7 inches difference. The Zomei is consequently heavier than the MeFOTO but only just barely.

The team felt this was their best backpacking tripod for a DSLR on a budget. They loved that for the price it was all made from high-quality aluminium rather than cheap plastic which made it feel much more durable. The fact that it can be turned into a monopod too really impressed them for such a well priced tripod.

• Cheaper than the competition
• Very similar to the MeFOTO Roadtrip
• No official load capacity?
• Suffers from some wobble with heavier loads
• Can’t be commended for being very original (I guess)

Oddly enough, I couldn’t find any official numbers for the Zomei’s load capacity anywhere on the web. Since it is so similar to the Roadtrip though, I imagine that the load capacity for the Zomei would be around 17 lbs.

I would also guess that it suffers from the same wobble as the MeFOTO does when using a heavier camera but this part I’ve yet to actually test.

Long story short, the Zomei Z818 is a great travel tripod, one that is comparable to the already impressive MeFOTO Roadtrip. The fact that it is $50 cheaper than the MeFOTO is the most alurring factor though. Those in the market for the best budget travel tripod will have to consider the Zomei Z818.

Is the Zomei Z818 For You?

Do you want a great tripod for an amazing price? Did you like what you saw with MeFOTO Roadtrip? Then give the Zomei Z818 a chance! Considering its functionality and low price, this guy takes the award for best budget travel tripod currently on the market.

• Load Capacity: 22 lb
• Maximum Height: 60.2?
• Minimum Height: 8.6?
• Folded Length: 16.7?
• Weight: 2.3 lbs
• Leg Sections: 4 – G Lock System

If money isn’t an issue for you, then the Gitzo Traveler Series 1 is the best tripod, period. It’s one of the lightest, sturdiest, most intuitive, and most attractive photographic accessories that you can own.

There is no special, groundbreaking technology involved with the Gitzo Traveler Series 1 – it will not blow you away with new or futuristic features. No, the Gitzo does so well because of the quality of its parts and manufacturing. Like the best Italian food that you ever had, it’s all about the ingredients.

The Gitzo Traveler Series 1 is made from high-grade carbon fiber materials, the quality of which the company insists is cut above the competition. Unlike many other tripods in this guide, the Gitzo Traveler is actually quite good-looking, fashionable even, thanks to the stylish finish on the carbon fiber.

• The best that money can buy
• Very light and very sturdy
• Just all around easy-to-use
• Very, very expensive

The legs are made from 4 sections and are locked in place by the company’s own patented “G Lock System.” This system is very efficient and quite inconspicuous, which only adds to the tripod’s already gorgeous appearance.

The Gitzo weighs a paltry 2.3 lbs and is rated to hold 22 lbs. It’s minimum height of 8.6” is one of the lowest on this list not including the GorillaPod.

I’d go further into the Gitzo’s construction but it’d be futile. I can only say that this is simply one the best tripods that one can buy. You will pay (a lot) for it but, in time, you’ll probably forget about the price. Note that the standard version of this Gitzo doesn’t include a ballhead – if you’re willing to spend the extra cash, you can buy a full set here .

Is the Gitzo Traveler Series 1 For You?

Do you want the absolute best possible travel tripod? Is money no issue? Then go buy the Gitzo Traveler Series 1. With near-perfect engineering and materials, this tripod is, in many photographer’s eyes, not just great for travelling, but everything.

I mean, the team were of course, very impressed by this tripod. But did they feel it was worth almost 500 quid, well, some of them did! The members of the crew who were photography aficionados felt that if your budget stretches this far, then you won’t be disappointed. The carbon fibre construction, twist lock extendable legs, and versatile positioning just make it feel like a real premium product and on top of that, it’s light AF and super compact… what’s not to like. Oohh, yeah, the price!

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• Load Capacity: 26.4 lb
• Maximum Height: 64.2?
• Minimum Height: 16.1?
• Folded Length: 16.5?
• Weight: 3.7 lb
• Leg Sections: 5 – Twist Locks

The MeFOTO Globetrotter is the larger, more capable version of the MeFOTO Roadtrip and is meant for professional photographers with heavier equipment. Made of carbon fiber and rated to hold a staggering 26.4 lbs, the MeFOTO Globetrotter can handle just about anything you or mother nature can throw at it.

When considering the MeFOTO Roadtrip vs the Globetrotter, the two function in many similar ways. Both have twist locks on the legs, three different orientations, and use the same button-like mechanism to set the legs.

Due to its carbon fiber construction, the MeFOTO Globetrotter suffers less from the wobble that the Roadtrip reportedly does while still remaining light. The MeFOTO Globetrotter retains the ability to turn into a monopod and, thanks to sturdier build, may even be used as trekking pole if you’re so inclined.

• Light for how sturdy it is
• Very cheap compared to the competition
• Can handle heavier loads and more adverse conditions
• Still $300+
• Little heavy for a carbon fiber tripod

The MeFOTO Globetrotter still uses the twist lock system as the Roadtrip. Again, whether or not you like twist locks or not – as opposed to flip – is a matter of preference. Granted, the Globetrotter’s weather sealing seems to be very effective and its joints do not appear to loosen as quickly as the Roadtrip. This travel tripod is built to last.

The most impressive part about the Globetrotter is the price though – at nearly half the cost of several of its competitors, the Globetrotter performs near equally as well.

At 3.7 lbs too it’s still reasonably light but this is where it falls short compared to the competition. Many carbon fiber tripods will come in at less than 3 lbs, which is why you buy the premium material in the first place and, thus, kinda defeats the purpose.

Is the MeFOTO Globetrotter For You?

Do you want a professional-grade tripod for a good price? Mind if it’s a little heavier than other carbon fiber ones? Then head come on down and get yourself a MeFOTO Globetrotter! This upgraded version of the Roadtrip will stand up to whatever you throw at it and won’t cost too much.

The team were pretty happy with this tripod for the price, it had that feel of a premium product without the extortionate costs in all honesty. The price vs weight vs stability made this tripod feel like it has really hit the sweet spot. The team also felt the red accents the tripod is available in was also a nice touch that made it stand out against the rest.

• Load Capacity: 11 lb
• Maximum Height: 15.2?
• Minimum Height: N/A
• Folded Length: N/A
• Weight: 17 oz
• Leg Sections: N/A

The Gorillapod 5K is Joby’s newest addition to its lineup and maybe its best yet! The 5K is a streamlined version of their previous Focus edition and expands upon its predecessor’s prowess.

With a very sturdy build, unbeatable lightness, the ability to get into otherwise hard-to-reach places, and great price, the Joby GorillaPod 5k is not only the best tripod for under $100 but also the best ultralight tripod.

Gorillapods have been around for a while. I’m sure that you’ve seen them wrapped around a railing or clinging to some tree at least once in your travels. Over the years, they’ve had a bit of a mixed reputation – though novel in their design, they just couldn’t hold up under harsh conditions or heavier loads; neither could they excel in composition because of their short stature.

• Remarkably sturdy
• Eminently light
• Very flexible
• Maximum sturdiness requires just the right leg setup, which can be tedious
• Limited to low angle shots
• Expensive if you’re buying the Joby ballhead too

The Gorillapod Focus and its current iteration, the Gorillapod 5K, have changed that. Built with high end plastics, rubber, machined aluminum, and stainless steel, the Gorillapod 5K is not the cute little tripod that you saw before. This thing can hold a serious amount of weight for its size – 11 lbs – and can support many high-end travel cameras.

The legs of the Gorillapod 5K are their usual flexible selves – being able to wrap many objects for stabilization – though these feel very rigid, perhaps too rigid much for some. You may find it a little tedious to adjust the legs, a process that was already frustrating enough in past models. Tediousness aside, this rigidity is a good thing though as that’s how the Gorillapod is able to hold more weight.

I’ve used the Gorillapod 5K several times while backpacking and feel very happy with it. I was still able to get good shots with my Fujifilm XT2 and certainly didn’t mind the lack of weightiness.

Is the Joby Gorillapod 5k For You?

Do you want the lightest possible tripod that can still handle your heavy equipment? Are you okay with using a tripod that’s only a little over a foot tall? Well then maybe it’s time to give Gorillapods a chance. The Gorillapod 5K is one of the best models ever produced by Joby and is devoid of many of the inherent flaws that has plagued its precursors.

Despite being Scottish slang for poop, the Joby was a roaring success across the team. The tiny, light and compact design meant it was suitable across the board for those using their phone to others using mirrorless cameras. What is also a massive selling point is of course how it can grip on pretty much anything, which the team felt in practice actually worked well, especially on lighter cameras.

• Maximum Height: 65.2?
• Minimum Height: 21.9?
• Folded Length: 21.7?
• Weight: 5.8 lbs
• Leg Sections: 3 – Flip Lock

Dedicated travel vloggers will need a specialized tripod to create the highest quality videos. One of the most useful tripods specifically for video right now is the Benro Aero 4. With a well designed video head and a sturdy set of legs underneath it, the Benro Aero 4 is more than capable of helping to create gorgeous videos.

The body of the Benro Aero 4 is designed very similarly to many other tripods in this guide. The legs and central column are made of tough aluminum.

The tripod is quite steady and doesn’t have much jitter too so long as your camera is no more than 9lbs. At almost 6 lbs, the Benro Aero 4 is a bit on the heavy side though not as heavy as some other professional grade cinematography tripods.

• Well-performing tripod head
• Still has the functions of a normal tripod
• Easy to set up and pack away
• Videographers are probably limited to shooting Micro Four Thirds and APS-C
• Some users report that the screws of the quick release plate are a little wonky
• Quite heavy

The legs are made from 3 sections and can be locked into fixed positions via a flipping mechanism. The legs can be arranged into the usual angular distances. Note that the widest angle that the Benro Aero 4’s legs can be set-up to is not as wide as other tripods though, thus the relatively high minimum height.

Like many other tripods these days, the Benro can be converted into a monopod as well. Simply remove one of the legs and attach it to the central shaft; easy as that!

The most important part of a good travel video tripod is the head though. The Aero 4’s flat video head is excellently designed and very efficient. Using the built-in handle, which is essential to capturing good video, the head pans very smoothly. There are several other knobs to control resistance further. There’s a quick release plate as well so you can mount your camera and start shooting in a single quick motion.

Is the Benro Aero 4 Travel Angel For You?

Are you a videographer who needs a specialized tripod? Do you use a smaller camera for video? If these sound right to you, then check out the Benro Aero 4! This is one of the best travel video tripods right now thanks to its compact design and superb flat video head.

The team felt this camera was a little niche but for those wanting to produce good-quality videos on their trip, this is the perfect solution. Often video tripods can be pretty heavy and sure, this one is compared to others on our list, but at the same time, compared to other video tripods, it’s not! The larger than normal ball head also neatly tucks away which the team were pretty impressed by.

• Load Capacity: 30 lbs
• Maximum Height: 58?
• Minimum Height: 4?
• Folded Length:13.7?
• Weight: 3.4 lb

The 3 Legged Thing Punks Corey is a brawler of a tripod that swings way above its weight class. At 3.4 lbs this travel tripod is rated to hold up to 30 lbs, which is a huge number. With a robust design and atypical central column that can be converted into a monopod, the 3 Legged Punks Corey is a real contender.

The Punks Corey is made from rubber, aluminum, and titanium materials. The legs are composed of 5 sections and are locked via a twisting mechanism. The rubber grip for the twists feel good in your hands and looks pretty cool too with a gator-skin like pattern. The legs can be locked into three positions: 23 degrees, 55 degrees, and 80 degrees.

• Very strong
• Unique central column design
• Some may really like cosmetics of this tripod
• Tripod must still be set up properly to hold 30 lbs
• Removing central column can take some time
• Some may really not like cosmetics of this tripod

At its greatest extension, the Punks Corey is 58” high. Note that a tripod will always be more subject to shake as maximum extension is reached.

The Punks Corey’s central column can be removed, which can then be converted into a monopod – in conjunction with one of the legs – or to allow the tripod itself to get as low to the ground as possible. Without the central column, the ball head is rescrewed directly onto the tripod and the minimum height becomes 4”.

To be able to hold such a great weight, the ball head must be strong. The Punks Corey is AirHed Neo ballhead is just that.

Is the 3 Legged Thing Punks Corey For You?

Do you want a beast of a tripod that can handle heavy loads? Want something that is functional as well as convertible? Then look no further than the 3 Legged Thing Punks Corey! It’s better equipped to handle heavy DSLRs and is still able to perform all the usual duties that befit a great travel tripod.

The team felt this was a winner for their best budget travel tripod award (DSLR category of course!). The rubberised twist lock system was particularly appreciated especially when it came to shooting in inclement weather. The ability also to switch the central column to shoot underneath the tripod without any real fuss was also a huge selling point.

• Maximum Height: 59.4?
• Minimum Height: 19.3?
• Weight:1.1 lb

To be honest, this one kinda feels like cheating because this isn’t a tripod at all; it’s purely a monopod – a tool that only uses one leg instead of three. Don’t think that it’s inferior though; in the right hands, the Manfrotto 290 Carbon Fiber Monopod can compete with any tripod. Trekkers can pack it away easily or even use it as a trekking pole, making it one of the best tools for wilderness photographers.

A few tripods already mentioned in this guide have had the ability to convert into monopods – let’s look at now why monopods are just as convenient as their three-legged compatriots.

With three legs, tripods offer near complete stabilization across two planes – a monopod only covers one. For many photographers, that single plane of stabilization is all that is required for getting good pictures. For those who are more active shooters, like hikers, sports photographers, and wedding photographer, a monopod is perfect.

• The lightest tripod/monopod in this guide
• Very, very sturdy
• Very packable
• Not as much stabilization as a conventional tripod
• May or may not save your hide
• Long exposures will be very difficult

The Manfrotto 290 is an exceptional monopod. Built from high-end carbon fiber, it would take a lot to break this thing. Its 4 sections are locked by flipping latches that are equally as reliable.

So strong is the Manfrotto 290 Carbon Fiber Tripod that some photographers may even use it as a trekking pole – there’s even a loop for your wrist.

Note that while the frame is secure, there’s always a chance that it may break should you take a nasty fall. It is, at the end of the day, meant to steady your camera and not save your life. Whether or not you choose to use it as a walking stick or hide it in your bag, the Manfrotto 290 Monopod will integrate seamlessly into your backpacking and camera kit.

Is the Manfrotto 290 Carbon Fiber Monopod For You?

Do you hate the idea of lugging around a tripod? Think you have the steady hand to manage with just one leg? Then give the Manfrotto 290 Carbon Fiber Monopod a shot. It’s a very well-made piece of equipment that monopod enthusiasts will approve of and it’s a great deal.

The team acknowledged how a monopod is maybe a little more niche and of course, has different uses, but they felt this was an awesome option for those wanting to go super light. They did however feel that it was light, stable and quick to adjust on the fly.

Now, you  could spend a fat chunk of $$$ on the WRONG present for someone. Wrong size hiking boots, wrong fit backpack, wrong shape sleeping bag… As any adventurer will tell you, gear is a personal choice.

So give the adventurer in your life the gift of convenience: buy them an REI Co-op gift card!  REI is The Broke Backpacker’s retailer of choice for ALL things outdoors, and an REI gift card is the perfect present you can buy from them. And then you won’t have to keep the receipt. 😉

Why Invest in a Travel Tripod?

To me it’s a no-brainer: why buy an expensive travel camera if you can’t get the most out of it? With a tripod, you can do just this – unlock the full potential of your camera and get the best pictures possible.

With a tripod, you can shoot photos in conditions that would be near impossible if you were simply holding the camera in your hand. Selfies, light trails, long exposures; all of these and more are possible while using a tripod.

A good tripod will create maximum stability for your camera. Granted, some photographers get away with using features like image stabilization and lens stabilization – but these will only get you so far. At a minimum, you should at least have a small, lightweight travel tripod that will allow some sort of rigidity in certain circumstances.

With maximum stabilization comes maximum image quality. Where some novices may struggle in the wind, the dark or when trying to get that artistic composition, you will succeed. With the best possible travel tripod, you will take some of the best photos of your life.

As you dive further into the photographic world, you may even discover whole new ways of taking photos thanks to your travel tripod. Advanced techniques like HDR, focus stacking, and nightscapes will all be available to you thanks to your new travel tripod.

With this guide, you’ll receive lots of tips on what to look for in a great tripod and what constitutes a good investment. This guide has a ton of options, but I’ve made it easy to navigate so you’ll easily be able to identify a tripod that best fits your style.

So, first thing is first… what is your style?

What are you looking for in a travel tripod?

Are you looking for something small and easy? Maybe you are in need of something a little taller and sturdy?

Let’s dive deeper…

There are many factors to take into consideration when looking for the right tripod.

But the good news? It doesn’t have to be overwhelming.

A good tripod will be sturdy, reliable, flexible, and not weigh too much or be too big at the same time.

Sounds easy, right?

Ha, not always.

Most tripods will only be able to do a few of these things well; to have the perfect tripod would mean spending a lot of money, which many of us broke backpackers don’t have.

You obviously can’t have everything when choosing a tripod so you’ll have to be picky. Maybe you need something light or maybe you need something rock solid. Perhaps you’ll want a tripod that can bend in unheard of ways or perhaps you just want something simple.

Take into consideration the following points when looking for a tripod. Pick and choose which features are most important for you and then go for it!

Size and Weight

These are perhaps the most important aspects to consider when choosing a tripod for traveling as both have far-reaching repercussions. How you pack your tripod and how much of a burden it is are dependent on its size and weight.

Generally speaking, a larger tripod will be more able to handle heavier loads and adverse conditions. With size comes weight though and carrying around those extras pounds will fatigue you after a while.

If you want to cut weight, a smaller tripod will have the benefit of being lighter in addition to being less expensive. With a smaller tripod comes other compromises though: you will not have as much freedom when it comes to composing your shot and stability can sometimes be an issue.

You can have your cake and eat it too but it’ll cost quite a bit of cash. There are several professional-grade travel tripods that are physically large enough to be effective yet still weigh very little at the same time. These will be much more expensive though as they are almost always made of premium materials.

I personally think about these issues all the time and it’s a constant battle between preparedness and minimal weight. I have actually invested in two tripods – a Manfrotto BeFree and Gorillapod 4K – and alternate between the two depending on the shoot.

Material and Durability

As previously mentioned, material will play an important part in weight and price as well as overall durability. To put it simply: more expensive materials will be lighter, stronger, and more expensive while cheaper ones will be heavier, weaker, and less expensive. So unfortunately a cheap travel tripod might just weigh you down significantly!

Aluminum is the most common alloy used in the construction of tripods. It is a cheap, ubiquitous material that handles the elements well. Even though it’s technically weaker than carbon fiber, it’s still very durable. Most of the best budget travel tripods will be made of aluminum.

Carbon fiber is a stronger composite that is lighter and stronger than aluminum. It is a very reliable material that is used to manufacture all sorts of products that require the utmost durability like cars, safety vests, and even spaceships. Because it is hard to produce though, carbon fiber is markedly more expensive than aluminum.

Unless you are very adamant about cutting weight and are willing to pay the price, aluminum is a perfectly fine material . When used properly – as is the case with all of the tripods on this list – it’s very reliable. I’ve personally taken aluminum tripods into some very hairy situations and they’ve never failed me.

Load Capacity

Certain travel tripods can hold certain amounts of weight depending on their size, build, and overall quality. Lighter tripods may be less able to hold heavier weights but, then again, heavier tripods will be a burden on your back.

It is important to have a travel tripod that can properly hold your camera as it will ensure maximum image quality. A tripod that is struggling under the weight of a heavy camera will start to shake and sharpness will be affected. The tripod may even fall over, in which case you have a serious problem – fallen tripods can mean broken cameras.

Most travel tripods can handle a standard DSLR. Only in extreme situations do you need to worry about load capacity i.e. if you’re using a really bulky DSLR with a hefty lens or if you know you’ll be shooting in very windy conditions. In these cases, it would be wise to a travel tripod that is rated to carry more.

But especially if you’re looking for the best budget tripod for a DSLR, the weight of your equipment has to be a consideration.

Ergonomics and Ease of Use

Tripod technology really has come a long way. I remember using my parent’s old video camera tripod and thinking how rudimentary it was – the range of the leg’s motion was barely 45 degrees, the ball head was fitted with quark, and the metal construction felt like a bleacher seat.

How shocked was I when I bought a modern travel tripod and found out that it could do things like fold up and even be turned upside for extremely low perspective shots!

A good modern tripod will be malleable and have the ability to be set up in numerous configurations. Thanks to a system of adjustable legs and flexible hinges, travel tripod can do just this.

A tripod must be easy to use as well. All of those tricky motions and creative setups will mean nothing if it takes too long to get ready. Thankfully, most travel tripods do not suffer from such shortcomings. Only in special circumstances can a tripod be forgiven for being unwieldy.

Another important point: a tripod needs to be able to packed down to fit in your bag. If it’s too large or too cumbersome, you’re going to have problems traveling with. Thankfully most camera bags have special loop that can accommodate most tripods. Check out our guide on the best camera bags for good examples!

Tripod Head

Finding the best tripod head is just as important as finding a great travel tripod. A tripod head will enable even more customizable compositions and contribute to aspects such as weight, ergonomics, and load capacity.

A good tripod head will have a full 360-degree range of motion. Most modern-day ball heads allow for this. Ball heads will be free floating until locked into place by several clamps. Clamps come in the form of nobs or larger winged screws. Some photographers will prefer one of the other but I find this distinction to be negligible.

Other signs of a good travel tripod head will be features like a quick release plate, panoramic markings, and bubble leveler. Quick release places allow for optimal mounting of a camera and I always prefer having one. Panoramic marking will help guide you and maintain even composition while making panoramas. Finally, a bubble leveler will help make sure that an image is level to the ground.

Legs play an important part in tripod stability. Generally speaking, the more sections that a tripod leg has, the lesser the sturdiness. Try to find a tripod with as few leg sections as possible – around 3-4. Should you find that the legs are often shaking – for whatever reason – try investing in a stone bag , which will weigh down the tripod and limit shakiness.

The length of a tripod leg can be adjusted via a series of locking mechanisms. Most of these mechanisms come in two styles: screw and flip locks. Screws locks require a twisting motion to adjust while flip locks require, as the name implies, a flipping action.

In terms of usability, the difference between screw locks and flip locks is a matter of preference; some photographers find twisting to be a natural motion while others prefer flipping. Really, it’s up to you.

There a couple of disadvantages to take into consideration when choosing between locks. Flip locks will loosen over time and so will require periodic tightening. Twist locks will need to be used appropriately; if you twist the leg too loose, it may fall apart.

In the end, cash rules everything around us. How much are you willing to spend on a tripod? You get what you pay for, as they say, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get what you need and for a good price. Weigh all of the aspects highlighting in this section and then figure out what it’ll take to get the best possible travel tripod for you.

There is no perfect or exact science when it comes to testing out the best travel gear. But when it comes to finding a good travel tripod for your next trip, you’ve come to the right place. Here we’ve got a team of folks with various different experiences that have tested these 3 legged beasts out all over the world!

So each member of the team took each tripod out for a proper test drive over the course of a few weeks and on various trips across the entire bloody globe yo! They paid attention to things like how heavy each one was, durability, packability, size (both when fully extended and also when packed away).

We also looked at how it fulfilled its primary purpose, which is, of course, holding your camera! So that includes stability, manoeuvrability, ease of deployments and things like how many positions it can put your camera in … get your mind out of the gutter guys!

Finally, we also take into account how an item is priced – It’s alright wanting to find the best cheap travel tripod, but we’ve got to still way up whether it offers good value for money! The more expensive gear was scrutinised to a higher level given its price tag.

Still have some questions? No problem! We’ve listed and answered the most commonly asked questions below. Here’s what people usually want to know:

What is the best packable travel tripod?

While you can simply strap all travel tripods to the side of your backpack, the MeFOTO Roadtrip is the lightest and easiest to pack.

What makes a good travel tripod?

That depends on your personal need. These are the key features you need to think about: 1. Size and weight 2. Material and durability 3. Load capacity, ergonomics and easy use 4. Cost

What is the overall best travel tripod?

We’re very impressed with the quality and value of the Vanguard Alta Pro . It’s one of the most affordable tripods and ticks off all of the important key features.

Which travel tripod should professionals buy?

A professional tripod needs to be a bit higher in quality and offer great value. That’s why the Gitzo Traveler Series 1 is the ideal tripod for pros.

Our GREATEST Travel Secrets…

Pop your email here & get the original Broke Backpacker Bible for FREE.

A tripod should be the first piece of equipment that you buy after purchasing a camera (then a camera backpack – check out the WANDRD PRVKE 31 ). They are perhaps the most useful tool in a photographer’s arsenal. As such, you must think wisely about what kind of tripod you buy for your travels.

Each travel tripod will appeal to a certain type of photographer. Mirrorless shooters who want something portable and inexpensive may want to invest in a Manfrotto BeFree. Perhaps you want something a little more suitable for a DSLR? In that case, maybe the MeFOTO Globetrotter is best. There really is a travel tripod for everyone out there.

Hopefully, we’ve covered all aspects so you can make an informed decision, whether that’s to pick one of the best cheap travel tripods or one of the more expensive numbers.

Figure out your needs and choose a travel tripod accordingly. With this guide, you’ll gain the necessary info to understanding what is best for you. Study it well and then waste no time in finding the best tripod for your travel needs! This is the beginning of your illustrious photographic adventures.

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

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If you have one of these cameras or have decided you’re you get one, there’s not really a need for a tripod. Pipe clamps for fitting and aligning stainless-steel pipe and fittings are just about every one of the same. Camera bags appear in lot of different size and shapes, so finding one ideal for you guessed it-your camera isn’t a struggle to accomplish, and receiving a good video tripod can be a breeze to perform, so anybody who desires to shoot professional videos just like the professionals do, they’re able to get a tripod that will assist them do it.

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The best travel tripod in 2024: from full-size sticks to bag-sized mini-tripods

The best travel tripods have to be small enough to pack, light enough to carry, and sturdy enough for shake-free photos!

• Our top picks
• Best tripod overall
• Best for versatility
• Best budget tripod
• Best for low angle
• Best for selfies
• Best for hybrid use
• Best small but stiff
• Best for compact use
• Best for full frame
• Best for serious shooting
• Best for vlogging
• Best looking
• Best for video
• Best unusual design
• Best for monopod mode

TABLETOP TRIPODS

• Best tabletop tripod
• Best phone tripod

How do the best travel tripods differ from any other set of sticks? Well we all like to travel light, and conventional full-sized tripods tend to be big, heavy, and unwieldy – so we often leave them at home, which is a surefire way of making them completely useless. 

1. Best tripod overall 2. Best for versatility 3. Best budget tripod 4. Best for low angle 5. Best for selfies 6. Best for hybrid use 7. Best small but stiff 8. Best for compact use 9. Best for full frame 10. Best for serious shooting 11. Best for vlogging 12. Best looking 13. Best for video 14. Best unusual design 15. Best for monopod mode 16. Best tabletop tripod 17. Best phone tripod

By contrast, the best travel tripods literally take a load off. They’re made to be compact and lightweight but, in the past, they’ve often been notorious for being flimsy, relatively unstable, and too small to offer a useful operating height. The new breed of travel tripods aims to give you the best of both worlds.

The vast majority have legs that swing upwards for storage, so that the head is encircled by the feet. This typically reduces the folded height by as much as 4" / 10cm. Some also include as many as five sections in each leg, and a two-section extending center column, reducing the folded height even further, while still enabling reasonably lofty shooting. The downside is that setup takes longer, at least for taller operating heights, as there are more clamps to release and refasten.

Most travel tripods are sold as kits, complete with ball heads. Again, there’s a space-saving advantage with ball heads, as they bypass the need to have multiple locking levers that stick out from the head or need to be removed to pack the tripod away. Even so, they’re not short on sophistication – and many feature independent panning locks and adjustable friction dampers, in addition to the main locking knob. Here are some of the best buys on the market right now…

Best travel tripods: Our top picks

It's the first tripod Peak Design has ever made, but it's the best travel tripod I've ever seen! There is an aluminum version that's a massive 40% cheaper, however, which has all the same design features but just a little less vibration resistance. Read more below

This is no ordinary tripod; it folds down to just 35cm, opens to a height of 146cm, and has a huge 30kg payload. Its detachable monopod leg can be used as a mic or camera boom, and it has a Tri-Mount system for adding accessories. Read more below

The Benro's 6-in-1 billing could fool you into thinking that it's all about versatility, but it's a very good travel tripod. Even at full height, it's impressively stable, and it packs extra features that could come in handy whether shooting on a camera or a phone. Read more below

If you love shooting at low angles then this will give you the flexibility you need to make dramatic shots without the fuss. Read more below

If you love taking selfies as much as you do shooting landscaped this all-in-one kit could be right up your street. Read more below

If you love taking stills and videos of stunning landscapes while out hiking this is your best bet with a built-in three-way video head. Read more below

Matthew Richards is a photographer and journalist who has spent years using and reviewing all manner of photo gear. He is Digital Camera World's principal lens reviewer – and has tested more primes and zooms than most people have had hot dinners! 

His expertise with equipment doesn’t end there, though. He is also an encyclopedia  when it comes to all manner of cameras, camera holsters and bags, flashguns, tripods and heads, printers, papers and inks, and just about anything imaging-related. 

In an earlier life he was a broadcast engineer at the BBC, as well as a former editor of PC Guide.

The best travel tripods

Why you can trust Digital Camera World Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out how we test.

Best travel tripod: Best tripod overall

1. Peak Design Travel Tripod

Our expert review:

Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

The Peak Design Travel Tripod may be the first tripod that Peak Design has made, but it's hands-down the best travel tripod that I've ever used! There is an aluminum version that's a massive 40% cheaper, however, which has all the same design features but just a little less vibration resistance. A couple of the other tripods here will go higher, but the Peak Design will still go to eye level for an average-height person, and it packs down to just 39cm in length. 

It's designed to cut out the dead space between the legs and the column when packed, which means it's not just short when folded but very slim too – you could put this IN your camera bag or cabin bag as well as strap it to the outside. The low-profile ball head is simple but brilliant, there's a phone holder hidden inside the center column, and best of all this tripod feels seriously rigid.

Read our full Peak Design Travel Tripod review for more details

Best travel tripod: Best for versatility

2. 3 Legged Thing Leo 2.0 + AirHead Pro Lever kit

The 3 Legged Thing Leo 2.0 is no ordinary tripod. It folds down to just 35cm in length but opens out to offer a maximum height of 146cm and a huge payload capacity of 30kg.

 It has a detachable monopod leg which can also be used as a microphone or camera boom, a Tri-Mount system for adding accessories, and an innovative two-section center column. You can buy the legs on their own but we’d recommend getting it as a kit with 3 Legged Thing’s new and improved AirHed Pro Lever ball head. 

The Leo 2 is not the smallest travel tripod you can get, and not the cheapest, but its ratio of folded length to maximum height, combined with its all-around versatility, make it one of the best.

Read our full 3 Legged Thing Leo 2.0 + AirHead Pro Review for more details

Best travel tripod: Best budget tripod

3. Benro MeFoto RoadTrip Pro Carbon Fiber

The 6-in-1 billing of the Benro MeFoto RoadTrip Pro could fool you into thinking that it's all about versatility, but it's also a very good travel tripod. Even at full height it's impressively stable for its build, and it packs a few extra features that could come in handy whether you're shooting with a camera or a phone. 

It's an excellent travel tripod, and the built-in monopod and mini tripod are genuinely valuable additions. It's great that things like the hex key, small tripod legs, and smartphone clamp are contained within or attached to the tripod, because you're unlikely to forget or lose them – but it does mean that the tripod is a little heavier than it needs to be.

Read our full Benro MeFoto RoadTrip Pro Carbon Fiber review for more details

Best travel tripod: Best for low angle

4. 3 Legged Thing Punks Corey 2.0

All of the Punk tripods from 3 Legged Thing are travel-friendly, but the Corey 2.0 is the smallest and easiest to pack for the journey. It has swing-up legs with five sections in each, plus a two-section head, enabling a decent maximum operating height but a very small stowage size. 

It ticks another two boxes on our wish list by easily converting to a monopod, and enabling ultra-low-level shooting with the option of attaching the ball head directly to the canopy (leaving the center column out of the equation). All three legs are removable, and Vanz footwear (sold separately) transforms the Corey 2.0 into a stylish tabletop tripod.

Read our full 3 Legged Thing Punks Corey 2.0 review for more details

Best travel tripod: Best for selfies

5. Vanguard VEO 3GO 235CB

With five sections in each swing-up leg and a two-section center column, this Vanguard folds down to just over a foot long yet gives a reasonable maximum operating height. It’s also very lightweight although, as expected, the alternative aluminum version is a little heavier. The bottom leg sections are quite spindly, with a diameter of just 11mm, but stability is pretty good even at full stretch. 

As well as giving a typically quick and easy change to monopod configuration, the Vanguard is more unusual in coming complete with a smartphone adapter. This enables the monopod mode to double up as a selfie stick.

Read our full Vanguard VEO 3GO 235CB review for more details

Best travel tripod: Best for hybrid use

6. Manfrotto Befree 3-Way Live Advanced tripod

The Manfrotto Befree 3-Way Live Advanced is a lightweight photographer’s travel tripod paired with a three-way video head. The fluid head uses a hydraulic damping system to make it easy for smooth, fluid camera movements. The tripod, meanwhile, provides a good balance between capacity, weight, and price. It’ll take 6kg of kit and only weighs 2kg itself. We’ve tested lighter and stronger tripods, but they tended to be more pricey than this one.

It’s not as tall as some of the other tripods on this list, and we did find during testing that sometimes the design interfered with routine operations like changing the camera battery. But, for the vast majority of purposes, this is an impressive all-around package and merits serious consideration for any traveling photographer or videographer.

Read our full Manfrotto Befree 3-Way Live Advanced tripod review for more details

Best travel tripod: Best small but stiff

7. Benro Rhino FRHN05CVX20

The Benro Rhino FRHN05CVX20 is the smallest of Benro’s four new Rhino travel tripods, but we found that it’s remarkably stiff for such a compact tripod – and Benro’s new VX ball heads and their secondary pan axis just under the camera plate are a triumph. Travel tripods have limitations, such as a lower working height and longer ‘unfolding’ time, but this goes with the territory and we can’t criticize the Rhino for this.

This Benro doesn't extend that high, and it soon gets wobbly if you use both center column sections, but with a single column extension or no center column it's as rigid as much bigger tripods.

Read our full Benro Rhino FRHN05CVX20 review for more details

Best travel tripod: Best for compact use

8. Vanguard VEO 3T 235CBP

The Vanguard VEO 3T 235CBP has an 8kg payload rating and a compact 41cm closed length, while carbon construction keeps total weight down to a reasonable 1.6kg. The included head has a removable pan handle to allow greater control while filming, and a new Arca-compatible quick-release plate can hold a camera or smartphone up to 85mm wide.

It packs down quickly and neatly for easy transport, the leg locks feel great and do their job perfectly, you get spikes to swap out for the standard rubber feet, plus there's even a Bluetooth remote control for iOS or Android .

Read our full Vanguard VEO 3T 235CBP review for more details

Best travel tripod: Best for full frame

9. Manfrotto Befree Advanced Twist

The Befree Advanced Travel Tripod Twist is all about travel but offers extra support compared to most similar products. Its safety payload tops out at 9kg, though in our tests we found that it was able to take an awful lot of gear – we’re talking full-frame cameras with heavy lenses. Still, its key feature is that it weighs a mere 1.49kg, and when packed up it's just 40 cm long (though its ball head adds another 14cm). That’s compact enough to fit into most luggage.

The Befree Advanced Travel Tripod Twist comes bundled with Manfrotto’s compact Advanced 494 aluminum center ball head, which has three independent ergonomic controls. Factor in the super-sturdy center column – complete with a locking mechanism – and this travel tripod has an excellent ability to remain solid and steady.

Read our full Manfrotto Befree Advanced Twist review for more details

Best travel tripod: Best for serious shooting

10. Benro GoPlus Travel FGP18A

Ticking just about every conceivable box on our wish list, the Benro GoPlus has a modest folded length and generous operating height, coupled with a hefty maximum load capacity. It’s one of a handful of tripods to feature a pivoting center column, enabling a range of locking angles in small increments, through a complete 180-degree arc. 

Bubble levels are fitted to the tripod platform for easy leveling, and interchangeable rubber feet and spikes are supplied, along with a padded soft case. One leg can be unscrewed to use as a standalone monopod. However, while it was once sold as a kit with a head, you'll now need to order a ball head to go with it (if you don't have one already). The Benro B0 or IB0 would be a good match.

Best travel tripod: Best for vlogging

11. Joby RangePod Smart

For vloggers and content creators, choosing the right tripod can be a real minefield. Unless you're well versed in photography accessories (and even if you are!), the sheer volume of tripods and heads can be overwhelming. Enter Joby , maker of the GorillaPod range, to provide creators with a straightforward solution that ticks all the right boxes. The Joby RangePod Smart is the manufacturer's first full-size tripod and is a worthy travel offering in its own right. 

However, this aluminum number is ideal for those who shoot on their phones; it includes a phone clamp with a pair of quarter-inch attachment points to mount your phone horizontally or vertically, so you can quickly switch between regular recording and upright shooting for Instagram or TikTok . With a quick-release Arca-Swiss plate, it's just as adept if you're using a DSLR or mirrorless camera – and its 8kg payload means it can handle chunky lenses with no problem. With a maximum 160cm height, it's also taller than many travel tripods – making it perfect for presenting to the camera at near head height. 

Best travel tripod: Best looking

12. Gitzo GT1545T Series 1 Traveler with ball head

Gitzo tripods are the Rolls Royce of camera supports, and the Traveler series combines light weight, superb build and design, and disarmingly simple operation. The GT1545 Series 1 model has 4-section legs, but there is a GT1555 version with 5-section legs – it all depends on whether you favor a speedy setup (fewer sections) over a shorter folded length (more sections).

The prices don't look too bad until you factor in the cost of the admittedly brilliant Gitzo 82TQD center ball head. It's an excellent travel tripod, but its price stops the Gitzo from getting to the top of our list – especially since there are a number of equally good tripods that don't have the glamor of the Gitzo brand, but are a lot cheaper to buy. But secretly we all want a Gitzo, right?

Best travel tripod: Best for video

13. 3 Legged Thing Jay with AirHed Cine

It's not just stills photographers that need travel tripods! The Jay and AirHed Cine are a pretty specialized combination, but they cater to a growing population of serious videographers and one-person filmmakers who don't need a massive professional video tripod but still require proper, portable support. 

The 3 Legged Thing Legends Jay has no center column (this is video, not eye-level stills photography), but it does have a leveling base – a huge time-saver for setting up panning shots and keeping the camera level. The AirHed Cine is as compact as the Jay and feels like the perfect partner. It has a firm but controllable fixed drag action and a screw-on handle for precise control. The Jay is not too pricey on its own, but if you add the AirHed Cine the price takes a leap. The combination is really compact, though, and just oozes quality.

Best travel tripod: Best unusual design

14. Manfrotto 190go!

Unlike many current travel tripods, this Manfrotto doesn’t feature swing-up legs. It also has four rather than five sections in each leg, and a single-section center column. The upshot is that it doesn’t fold down particularly small, but is relatively quick and easy to set up. 

It’s also unusual for a travel tripod in featuring a pivoting center column, which you can use as a horizontal boom. That’s good news for macro photography, really low-level shooting, and for ultra-wide-angle shots. It’s generally sold as a set of legs with no heads but is available in some regions as a complete kit with a high-performance Manfrotto 494 Ball Head. Either way, both aluminum and carbon fiber versions are pricey but a top buy.

Best travel tripod: Best for monopod mode

15. Manfrotto Befree 2N1

Unlike some in the Manfrotto Befree range, the 2N1 is only available in aluminum, but you can choose between clip locks and twist locks for the 4-section legs. We prefer the ‘M-lock’ clamps of the twist-action edition, which have a very simple and speedy action. 

The tripod has good build quality and an appealing finish, along with a smart ball head that features an adjustable friction damper. It also boasts an Easy Link socket for attaching accessories and has a refined locking mechanism for its multi-angle legs. The quick-release plate is specially shaped to be Arca-Swiss compatible but the ball head platform isn’t, instead being designed to accept Manfrotto’s popular 200PL plate.

Best travel tripod: Best tabletop tripod

16. Benro TablePod Flex Kit

If you're looking for a versatile tabletop tripod that isn't solely confined to a tabletop, look no further than the Benro Tablepod Flex. It has flexible legs stored inside its metal legs that enable you to secure it to surfaces that aren't flat – and can also be used to simply extend the length of the legs.

It packs down really small, can be used as a selfie stick or monopod, and is suitable for either a small mirrorless camera a compact or a smartphone (a phone mount is included). If you like to shoot video it also comes with two accessory arms, which means you could attach an additional light or microphone. It's more expensive than most tabletop tripods but it does so much more – so we think it's worth it.

Read our full Benro TablePod Flex Kit review for more details

Best travel tripod: Best phone tripod

17. Manfrotto Pixi Evo

The Pixi Evo is an advanced version of the original Manfrotto Pixi model and is just as fast to use – you flip out the legs to use it as a tripod or push them back together to make a camera grip – with a ball head that’s released and locked with a simple push button. It's one of the best phone tripods .

What the EVO adds is two-section legs (yes, really) and two leg angles for low-level shooting. You can get an optional smartphone clamp but its ball head fits directly into regular camera tripod sockets, and it can support compact cameras and small DSLRs, and mirrorless models. Yes, the maximum height is restricted, but it’s super-fast to set up and you can keep it in a jacket pocket! This, or a mini-tripod like it, is the best travel tripod for those who don't want to carry a full-size version.

How to choose the best travel tripod

It’s good to be choosy when picking your perfect travel tripod for your needs and budget. Here’s a few things to bear in mind…

Carbon fiber is pricier than aluminum, but is it worth the extra?

Up-market tripods are usually made from carbon fiber instead of aluminum. They have a more luxurious feel, a smarter looking finish, and can be slightly more resistant to vibrations. Carbon fiber can also feel less cold to the touch. But the main advantage of carbon fiber is that it’s more lightweight than aluminum, giving it a clear advantage when you’re trying to shed weight. However, there can be diminishing returns. Although the weight-saving can be substantial in full-sized tripods, it’s much less noticeable in relatively small tripods. For many travel tripods that are available in both aluminum and carbon fiber options, the latter typically only saves around 200g in weight, little more than 10 per cent. Considering that the carbon fiber editions are often about 50 per cent more expensive to buy, aluminum travel tripods can be more cost effective.

How small is the tripod when folded?

A decade ago, the Giotto’s company launched a series of Vitruvian tripods, named after Leonardo da Vinci’s drawing, ‘The Vitruvian Man’. As in the drawing, the legs swing upwards but, in the case of the Giotto’s tripods they swung up completely, adopting a vertically upright orientation for stowing away. The trick was that, by fully extending the center column before swinging the legs up, the tripod head no longer extended beyond the length of the legs, making the carrying size much smaller. Many recent travel tripods fold down small enough to fit inside a bag or backpack, rather than needing to be tethered to the outside.

Can I save space by using a tripod as a monopod as well?

A neat trick of many recent travel tripods is that you can unscrew one of the tripod legs, detach the center column, and join the two together for use as a monopod, complete with ball head. That can be a real space saver if you like using a monopod as well as a tripod, as you only have to carry one bit of kit.

What’s so good about multi-angle legs?

Pretty much all travel tripods these days have legs that can be locked at multiple angles to the center column. Typically either two or three alternative angles are available, in addition to the legs being able to swing up vertically. This can help when you’re shooting on uneven terrain, or when there are obstacles in the way. For example, you might need to use one or two legs in a near-horizontal orientation and place the feet on a wall or table to get into your desired shooting position. Another bonus is that, by splaying the legs to a wider angle when shooting at low operating heights, you can increase stability and reduce the risk of the tripod toppling over if knocked.

How low can you go when shooting with a tripod?

Multi-angle legs help to reduce the minimum shooting height but the limiting factor is generally the point at which the center column touches the ground. The minimum height is therefore the height of the center column plus the ball head. A two-section extending center column can help to further reduce the minimum operating height, as well as the carrying height.  Some tripods are supplied with a short, stubby ‘low angle adaptor’. You can attach this to the tripod head and use it instead of the center column. The center column is also removable in most tripods, so you can invert it and shoot from between two of the legs with the camera upside down, right down at ground level.

What’s best for feet, pads or spikes?

Rubber pads are the normal footwear for tripods these days. They work well on solid ground as well as on grass and sandy areas. For soft surfaces like carpet, spikes can offer a more assured footing. Some tripods are supplied with both rubber pads and metal spikes, so you can swap between them as needed. Another option that used to be more common in the past is rubber pads on a threaded mount, so you can screw them in to reveal metal spikes beneath.

How we test travel tripods

We measure the maximum operating height of each tripod and its folded height for carrying, complete with head attached. We also measure the combined weight of each set of tripod legs and head, using electronic scales, and measure the diameter of all leg sections, from the widest to the thinnest, using digital calipers.

We check the ease of use, smoothness and precision of all available adjustments in each set of tripod legs and heads. This ranges from adjusting leg sections and pivot facilities (where available), to the locking mechanisms of the head, as well as independent pan and friction damping adjustments, where fitted.

To check overall stability, we shoot with a range of camera bodies fitted with wide-angle, standard, telephoto and macro lenses. We look for good resistance to flexing and vibrations throughout the whole range of operating heights, including the tallest available settings with the legs and center column fully extended.

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Best tripods for your camera in 2024 – assessed for various applications

When stability matters, photographers and video makers need a three-legged, supportive friend..

In the review

Need a tripod for your camera? Angela Nicholson and the AP team pick the finest supports from Manfrotto, Benro, Vanguard, Peak Design, Gitzo and more, with options for all budgets.

Photographers of any experience know the value of a good tripod. Providing rock-steady support for pin-sharp pictures, a tripod opens up shooting opportunities that simply aren’t possible working hand-held. You may want to introduce smooth sideways panning movements, or use ultra-long shutter speeds that would defeat even the most advanced stabilisation system. Alternatively, you may be a video creator, and need a support for locked-off shots. In these cases and more, a tripod is what you want.

What to look for in a tripod

Tripods often see use in still life photography or macro photography , where sharpness is essential, and careful composition is paramount. Similarly, those who are well-versed in landscape photography will inform you that a tripod is an essential piece of kit for capturing those golden moments in all their glory.

If you’re wondering how to choose the best tripod, it’s mostly a matter of weighing up size, stability, features and price . How heavy your setup is will dictate how strong a tripod you need, and the specifics of what you shoot may mean you require certain features. For instance, some tripods can convert to a monopod for those moments you need to be more nimble. Others are designed to be able to put the camera incredibly close to the ground in order to shoot tiny subjects and macro shots.

Carbon fibre or aluminium?

We’ve mostly focused on photography tripods in this guide, but many of the options here will also work well for video (check out our guide to the  best cameras for video if you’re crafting a vlogging setup). Tripods tend to be constructed from one of two materials: carbon fibre (strong and lightweight, but expensive) or aluminium (cheaper, and able to take a kicking). We’ve included both types in this guide.

Other ways to use a tripod

Whilst the primary need for most will be to use the tripod with your camera, whether that’s mirrorless camera or a DSLR , you can also use a tripod as a support for any additional lighting, or accessories you may need, such as a flashgun, or reflector. If you’re looking for a tripod for your smartphone, have a look at our guide to camera phone tripods .

Need a quick recommendation? Here’s our quickfire list of the best tripods to buy in 2023, along with links to the best prices:

• Best tripod for photography: Vanguard VEO 3+ 303CBS – buy now
• Best premium tabletop tripod: Benro Tablepod Flex Kit – buy now
• Best multi-function tripod: Benro MeFoto RoadTrip Pro Carbon Fibre Tripod – buy now
• Best travel tripod: Peak Design Travel Tripod – buy now
• Best budget tripod for mirrorless: Vanguard VEO 3GO 235AB – buy now
• Best large tripod: Kingjoy SolidRock C85 tripod – buy now
• Best premium tripod: Gitzo GK1555T-82TQD Traveller Tripod Kit – buy now
• Best tripod for landscapes: 3 Legged Thing Punks Billy 2.0 – buy now
• Best tripod for macro: Manfrotto 190 Go! – buy now
• Best workhorse tripod: Manfrotto 190XPro4 Tripod – buy now
• Premium travel tripod: Gitzo GT1542 Mountaineer Series 1 – buy now
• Best video tripod: 3 Legged Thing Legends Tommy Tripod – buy now
• Cheapest tripod: Manfrotto Pixi Mini Tripod – buy now

Continue reading to find out why we’ve chosen these as the best tripods you can buy…

Best tripod for photography: Vanguard VEO 3+ 303CBS

Price: $499 / £499

Amateur Photographer verdict

• Tilting centre column
• Friction adjustable ball head
• Sturdy build

At a glance:

• $499 / £499
• Supplied BH-250S ball head

A recent tripod that earned a full five stars in our review , the Vanguard VEO 3+ 303CBS is a large carbon fibre model that’s ideal for landscape, wildlife and macro photography . It’s a little bigger and bulkier than other tripods on this list, with its 2.6kg (5 pounds,11 ounces), so if you’re looking for a compact option for travel then you may want to scroll on. However, the sheer versatility that this Vanguard tripod offers is absolutely top-end. The three legs can be set at independent angles for dealing with uneven terrain, including basically flat to the ground, and the central column can be set to basically any angle the user desires.

We also appreciated the supplied BH-250S ball head . It’s got a satisfying weight to it and feels like a premium piece of kit. There’s a friction adjustment control to deal with loads of varying weight, and the dual panning design features a rotating base and a rotating Arca-Swiss type camera clamp.

The Vanguard VEO 3+ 303CBS is straightforward to use once you’ve worked out what all its dials and knobs do. Its stability is rock-solid enough for basically any photographic setup you can imagine.

Best for: a great all-rounder but especially useful for Landscape and Macro

Read our Vanguard VEO 3+ 303CBS review .

Best premium tabletop tripod: Benro Tablepod Flex Kit

Price: $159 / £140

• Lightweight
• Converts to a selfie stick
• $159 / £140

A tabletop tripod option, this versatile camera support comes in a kit with both rigid and flexible legs that allow it to be creatively positioned in all sorts of ways. While it’s clearly designed principally for those using a smartphone, it is very light weighing only 430g (15 ounces), but perfectly capable of holding a mirrorless camera and lens. In our testing, we even found it held up the full-frame Sony Alpha A7R IV and a 24-105mm f/4 lens without issue.

The Benro Tablepod Flex Kit is highly versatile. The flexible arms can also be attached to the legs to allow for the use of additional accessories like lights or a microphone, making it a great choice for video creators. Some clips are thrown into the kit to help with attaching the bendy legs to poles or branches, and the tripod also converts to a selfie stick. All in all this is a surprisingly fully featured package for a tabletop tripod.

Best for: small mirrorless cameras

Read our Benro Tablepod Flex Kit review .

Best multi-function tripod: Benro MeFoto RoadTrip Pro Carbon Fibre

Price: $220 / £139

• Very versatile
• Phone clamp
• Shorter centre column
• $220 / £200
• Supplied with a smartphone clamp

Benro bills the MeFoto RoadTrip Pro as a 6-in1 tripod, which might raise concern that it’s a jack-of-all trades and master of none, but it’s actually a very capable travel tripod with a maximum height of 152.5cm and 1.5kg (3 pounds, 4.9 ounces) weight. Two of its other functions include transforming into a monopod or a mini tripod, both of which are genuinely useful. It also comes with a smartphone clamp that fits in the head for when you’re not using your main camera.

If you want to save a bit of cash and you don’t mind carrying the extra 270g (9.5 ounces) Benro also makes an aluminium version of the MeFoto RoadTrip Pro tripod that’s available for around $175 / £119.

Read our Benro MeFoto RoadTrip Pro Carbon Fibre Tripod review

Best travel tripod: Peak Design Travel Tripod

Price: $649/£599 (carbon fibre), $379/£329 (aluminium)

• Incredibly compact
• Fast set up
• $649 / £559 (carbon fibre), $379 / £349 (aluminium)
• 1.27kg(carbon fibre) / 1.56kg (aluminium)
• 5-section legs

The price of the carbon fibre version of the Peak Design Travel Tripod is enough to make you choke on your coffee, but it is very good, and at 1.27kg (2 pounds,12 ounces) it’s 290g (10ounces) lighter than the aluminium version. That doesn’t sound like much, but you can tell the difference even when you’re carrying it in a fully-laden backpack. Nevertheless, the price of the aluminium version makes it the most attractive tripod from Peak Design, and it doesn’t disappoint.

Both tripods have 5-section legs , extend up to 152.4cm in height, have a minimum height of 14cm and can support a load of up to 320oz/9.1kg. There’s also an unusual (but effective) integrated ball head. This can be replaced with a standard one using the Universal Head Adapter, although this will push up the price even further.

Peak Design opted for an unusual shape for the tripod’s 5-section legs but it means it’s very slim when folded down, so it slips easily into a drinks bottle pocket and is just 39.1cm long . It’s also very stable for a travel tripod and can even deliver sharp long exposures when a 70-200mm f/2.8 lens is mounted on a mirrorless camera.

Read our Peak Design Travel Tripod review .

Budget tripod for mirrorless: Vanguard VEO 3GO 235AB

Price: $156 / £129

• Super lightweight
• Smartphone Bluetooth remote
• Only 4kg rated load
• $156 / £129
• Arca-Swiss compatible

This five-section aluminium tripod is ideally suited for a mirrorless camera setup. While it weighs just 1.24kg (2 pounds, 11 ounces) and folds down to a slimline 33cm in length , it can still reach a pretty decent maximum height of 136cm . Other tripods go higher, but with tilting screens more or less ubiquitous, it’s a lot less essential than it used to be for a camera to reach eye level on a tripod.

As we found in our testing, out in the field the Vanguard VEO 3GO 235AB works well. It’s quick to set up, owing to the fact that all five locks on a leg can be undone in a single twist. We appreciated how large and user-friendly the controls are for such a small tripod, and its broad compatibility scores it plenty of points – we tried a bunch of Arca-Swiss plates and L-brackets with the camera clamp, and it accepted them all.

Read our Vanguard VEO 3GO 235AB review .

Best large tripod: Kingjoy SolidRock C85

Price: $693 / £449

• Very stable
• Supports large cameras
• 164cm extended
• Tricky to adjust height without centre column
• $693 / £1449
• Four bubble levels
• www.kingjoyuk.com

It may be a pricey proposition, but the Kingjoy SolidRock C85 tripod mightily impressed us when we gave it a full review. Reaching a whopping maximum height of 163.8cm , this four-section carbon fibre tripod is a newbie to the UK photo accessory market, and is one of the biggest supports on the block weighing 2.65kg (5 pounds,13 ounces). A useful levelling base with no fewer than four bubble levels can be controlled using a large twist lock in the centre, and is a godsend for capturing landscapes on uneven ground.

Stability is in general very impressive. We tried it out using a full-frame camera with attached battery grip and a 100-400mm zoom, and it had no problems at all. If your setup isn’t that beefy, this may be overkill for you, but it’s a hugely impressive tripod for those who need this level of support.

Read our Kingjoy SolidRock C85 review .

Best premium tripod: Gitzo GK1555T-82TQD Traveller Tripod Kit

Price: $719 / £549 

• Reversible legs
• 10 kg payload
• Short centre column
• Ball head could be better
• $719 / £549
• 10kg maximum payload

This luxurious travel tripod has carbon fibre legs with 5 sections . This means it can be packed down to just 35.5cm in length yet it has a maximum shooting height of 148.4cm . It comes with a short centre column section that can be swapped out for the standard one to enable low-level shooting

The kit includes a GH1382TQD Center Ball Head Series 1 Traveller. This is the slimmest head in Gitzo’s professional range and the combined weight with the legs is 1.42kg (3 pounds, 2 ounces).

Gitzo rates the kit’s maximum payload at 10kg (22 pounds). Furthermore, Gitzo recommends focal lengths up to around 135mm with 200mm as a maximum. This tripod is built to last and comes with an extended 5-year warranty (when registered).

Read our Gitzo GK1555T-82TQD Traveler tripod kit review .

Best for landscapes: 3 Legged Thing Punks Billy 2.0

Price: $279 / £224

• Impressive 18kg load capacity
• Detachable legs
• Carbon fibre
• $279 / £224
• 18kg maximum payload

All three of the 3 Legged Thing Punks Billy 2.0 carbon fibre legs can be unscrewed and converted into a mini tripod with the addition of the option Vanz footwear (£53). There is also an option to attach one of the legs to the centre column to create a monopod or a microphone boom.

The Billy 2.0 can bear a maximum load of 18kg (39 pounds,10 ounces) but weighs just 1.57kg (3 pounds, 7 ounces) with the AirHead 2.0 ball head. 3 Legged thing also sells the Billy 2.0 legs only, but the head is a worthwhile inclusion.

Thanks to the chunky rubberised leg lock grips, and the fact that they are close together when the tripod is collapsed, the Billy 2.0 can be deployed quickly. It extends to a maximum height of 1.66m and folds down to 45.5cm in length.

Read our 3 Legged Thing Punks Billy 2.0 .

Best for macro: Manfrotto 190 Go!

Price: $159 / £149

• Solid build quality
• Quick release twist locks
• We struggled to find any
• $159 / £149
• Rotating centre column

Manfrotto’s aluminium 190 Go! (MT190GOA4) can be picked up at a great price. It weighs 1.66kg (3 pounds, 10 ounces), packs down to 45cm in length, has a maximum working height of 152cm and has a recommended maximum payload of 7kg (15pounds, 6 ounces) although it can handle weight up to 15kg (33 pounds, 1 ounces).

Thanks to its M-lock system which requires just a 90° turn to unlock and lock the legs, the tripod can be setup in seconds. These twist locks also have no protruding parts, which means the 190 Go! Slips into a bag easily.

The Manfrotto 190 Go! also features a centre column capable of rotating through 90° into horizontal orientation, making it ideal for flat-lays and macro photography . And there’s an Easy Link connector. This enables an accessory arm to be attached to the shoulders of the tripod to hold a light or similar accessory, such as a power bank.

Read our Manfrotto 190 Go! review .

Best workhorse: Manfrotto 190XPro4

Price: $386 / £199 (with XPRO ball head) 

• Quick power locks
• Easy link plug
• $386 / £199
• 175cm maximum working height

The Manfrotto 190XPro4 (MT190XPRO4) is a 4-section aluminium tripod is available to buy by itself or in a kit with the excellent XPro Ball Head with 200PL plate for £269 or the X-Pro 3-Way Head for £289.

It’s a solid and dependable tripod a maximum working height of 175cm and its folds down to 57cm . The recommended maximum payload is 7 kg (15 pounds, 6 ounces), but it can also cope with weights up to 15kg (33 pounds, 1 ounces).

Like the Manfrotto 190 Go! , the 190XPro4’s centre column is mounted through a pivoting section that enables it to be tilted through 90° to horizontal orientation. That’s useful for top-down shooting and copy work. There’s also an Easy Link connector for mounting an accessory arm.

Premium travel tripod: Gitzo GT1542 Mountaineer Series 1

Price: $719 / £659

• Excellent build
• Detachable centre coulmn
• Very expensive
• $719 / £659
• 159cm maximum height

The design of Gitzo’s carbon fibre Mountaineer tripods combine rigidity with low weight, portability and robustness. They are for landscape photographers who like to walk to their shooting locations. With all that in mind, the 4-section GT1542 weighs 1.28kg (2 pounds, 13 ounces) (legs only), has a maximum height of 159cm with the centre column up, 135cm with it down, and a minimum height of 15cm . It can also support loads of up to 10kg (22 pounds).

The GT1542 is also available as a kit with the GH1382QD Center Ball Head for $1079/£999. Gitzo states that the focal length should be limited to 200mm or less but recommends 135mm or less. Like the other Gitzo tripod mentioned, this comes with an extended 5-year warranty.

Designed for video tripod: 3 Legged Thing Legends Tommy

Price: $679 / £583

• Super stability
• Can convert to tabletop use
• High Payload
• $679 / £583
• 60kg maximum payload

3 Legged Thing’s beefy Legends Tommy carbon fibre tripod comes without a head or a centre column but it has a maximum height of 162cm , weighs a substantial 2.59kg (5 pounds, 11 ounces) and measures 73cm when it’s folded down . However, it can carry a staggering 60kg (132 pounds, 4 ounces) load. It means you get a very stable shooting platform that’s ideal for hefty cameras when shooting stills or video.

The Tommy is supplied with a flat plate and a 75mm bowl. This means it can be used with either a regular type of tripod head or a levelling head for video-shooting. It also comes with a 5-year warranty against manufacturing defects.

Cheapest: Manfrotto Pixi Mini Tripod

Price: $24 / £24

• 1 kg payload
• 1kg maximum payload

Provided you’re not planning to use a long, heavy lens, the Manfrotto Pixi is a useful little support that’s perfect for low-level shots and won’t break the bank. What’s more, as it weighs just 190g (6.7 ounces), you won’t mind slipping it in your camera bag ‘just in case’ and it can cope with loads to 1kg (2 pounds, 3 ounces), which is enough for many camera and lens combinations.

The Manfrotto Pixi has a simple design with an integral ball head that’s released with the press of a button. The legs are also shaped so that when they are closed, the Pixi creates a comfortable handle that’s useful if you’re shooting video .

Text by Angela Nicholson, with contributions from Joshua Waller, Jon Stapley and Michael Topham. 

Related articles:

The ultimate guide to tripods

• Benro launches TablePod Flex and KoalaPod Mini
• Best camera phone tripods and mounts
• Best camera bags

Follow AP on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram , YouTube and TikTok .

Angela is a former Technical Editor of AP and a widely respected editor, writer and reviewer, she’s used and reviewed a huge range of photographic kit. She’s also a CAA-qualified drone pilot and the founder of SheClicks, a community for female photographers. Angela is a judge for the British Photography Awards, Pink Lady Food Photographer of the Year, Potato Photographer of the Year and Landscape Photographer of the Year.

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Best travel tripods 2024: Lightweight and compact tripods

The best travel tripods are lightweight, easily transportable and versatile to cater to a photographer's every need while shooting — here are our favorites.

The quick list

Best overall

Best for height

Best compact option

Best lightweight option, best for videographers, best for content creators, best stylish option, best budget travel tripod, best value for money.

• Travel tripods: FAQ
• How we test

1. The list in brief ↴ 2. Best travel tripod overall 3. Best for height 4. Best compact option 5. Best lightweight option 6. Best for videographers 7. Best for content creators 8. Best stylish option 9. Best budget travel tripod 10. Best value for money 11. Best travel tripods FAQ 12. How we test

Take one of the best travel tripods on your next big adventure and see how easy it is to take breathtaking photos. These space-saving tripods are great for astrophotographers hiking out to remote locations, or travel photographers trying to keep their backpacks light. When combined with the best cameras and best lenses you'll be surprised at just how great your photography can look.

Our team of expert reviewers have put these tripods through their paces in real-world conditions, taking note of their weight and dimensions so you can determine if they'll fit into your bag. Typically crafted from carbon fiber for lightweight durability, these tripods often feature telescopic design, collapsing to a compact size that easily fits into your carry-on luggage or one of the best camera backpacks .

We've made sure to highlight any trade-offs you may have to make for the lighter tripod, as some tend to have a more restricted payload than one of the full-sized best tripods . But overall, they can cut your overall kit weight right down and take up far less space than a traditional tripod.

The Peak Design Travel Tripod is a novel travel tripod that is so narrow it can fit into cabin luggage. It is night-friendly and can support full-frame DSLRs and even smartphones.

Read more below

One of the best tripods we've seen, it comes with a detachable monopod and built-in phone mount. The carbon fiber tubes keep it relatively light.

This tripod is incredibly slimline and great for travel, but the lack of a center column brings pros and cons. It's not the tallest tripod out there, but it's lightweight and easy to transport.

A very light and compact tripod which can fold down to 13.6 inches, small enough to put in your cabin bag. We like the smooth operating ball head too.

The Manfrotto Befree Advanced Travel Tripod's aluminum rig is as light and as solid a travel tripod as you’re likely to find, making it great for full-frame astrophotography gear.

The Joby GorillaPod 3K Pro Kit is a unique take on a tripod that can wrap around almost anything to hold 6.6 lbs (3 kg) worth of photography gear.

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An excellent quality premium tripod that looks stunning and performs just as well, but it does come with a premium price tag.

Best budget option

A 6-in-1 option, the Benro MeFoto Road Trip Pro converts into a variety of styles to suit different styles of shooting. The legs utilize a twist and lock function.

The Punks Corey 2.0 is lightweight but it can support over 8x its own weight, and you can remove the legs to make it a monopod.

• Back to the top ⤴

Best travel tripods we recommend in 2024

Why you can trust Space.com Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test and review products.

Best travel tripod overall

Peak design travel tripod.

Our expert review:

Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

✅ If only the best will do: This is an exceptional, thoughtfully designed tripod for photographers on the move. We found it hard to fault.

❌ You need more height: You'll only be able to reach a height of 60-inches with this travel tripod.

🔎  Peak Design Travel Tripod:  An exceptionally narrow and compact design makes the Peak Design Travel Tripod a key piece of kit for traveling astrophotographers after something highly mobile and with a fast set-up and takedown. ★★★★½

The Peak Design Travel Tripod earns the top spot on our list due to its slim, compact design that doesn't sacrifice stability, even with heavy DSLR cameras. When folded, the three legs and ball head seamlessly meet without any gaps, resulting in a compact package measuring just 3.125 inches in diameter and 15.4 inches in height. This makes it easy to stow away in luggage or camera bags. Additionally, it comes with a soft padded case featuring a waterproof zip and convenient carry handles.

We loved this tripod's speedy setup and takedown during our Peak Design Travel Tripod review , although we were slightly less fond of the camera attachment. The ball head (one of the most compact we've seen) comes with a tripod plate that attaches to your camera using a hex tool. While this was incredibly stable for long hours when shooting star trails, we can't help but feel that a tool-free D-ring plate would have been easier.

A hook at the bottom of the center column twists to reveal a folded-up smartphone clamp, which we thought was a neat additional feature. The five leg sections allow it to reach 60 inches/152.4cm when fully extended, which might be a bit of a stoop for taller people as it's not the tallest tripod out there, but helps to save on weight when traveling.

You can buy this tripod in either an aluminum or carbon fiber version, but there's a steep jump in price to carbon fiber when the aluminum model is already a very light 3.44lbs/1.56kg. To be honest, we'd be happy enough with the aluminum version.

• Read our full Peak Design Travel Tripod review

Benro Rhino FRHN24C+VX25 Head

✅  You want one of the tallest travel tripods: This one reaches a maximum height of 66.3-inches. ✅ You want a detachable monopod: Monopods are better in certain situations, like sporting events where you have limited space. This model comes with a detachable one.

❌ You're sticking to a budget: This is another premium tripod, though it's a great long-term investment. ❌ You want something super lightweight: It's not heavy, but there are certainly more lightweight options out there.

🔎  Benro Rhino FRHN24C+VX25 Head:  Although it's not cheap, for passionate photographers who need a lightweight, portable tripod capable of providing more height than most, this is a fantastic option. ★★★★★

The premium end of Benro's travel lineup is represented by the Rhino series, and with a detachable monopod, an included phone mount and carbon fiber tubes, the Benro Rhino FRHN24C tripod is one of the best tripods we've seen, as we stated in our Benro Rhino 24C Two series review . Its sleek design, reliability and portability make it a fantastic choice for studio work or travel.

When the four leg sections are completely extended, it measures 169cm (66.3-inches). It folds down to 19.3-inches, so it's also TSA-friendly and easy to carry around in a backpack or suitcase. You can also configure it into a monopod by removing one of the legs and attaching it to the removable center column, providing versatility for different photographic styles.

Although this tripod is more expensive than others on this list, many professional travel photographers would find it to be a wise investment. And the great thing about Benro is the range of height and size options available for each product. The Rhino comes in four different sizes and a choice between either 4 or 5 leg sections, so photographers can choose whichever size suits their needs best. 

We found it easy to set up and take down in the dark, the rubber grips were soft on the hands and the interchangeable feet were a nice touch — we found that swapping to the spiky feet helped with stability when we were shooting in windy conditions. The VX25 head also has some neat safety features to prevent your camera from slipping off or being dropped, something a lot of other tripod manufacturers don't tend to think of. 

Overall, we absolutely loved this tripod and gave it 5 stars. Although it's certainly an investment, we think it'll last you a very long time.

• Read our full Benro Rhino 24C Two series review

Benro Tortoise 24C x GX30 Head

✅  You want to shoot low to the ground: The legs can splay out to almost 90-degrees, which is great for those shots where you need to be as low to the ground as possible.

❌ You want height: There's no center column, so it can't reach the heights that other tripods can.

🔎  Benro Tortoise 24C Tripod x GX30 head:  A sturdy and reliable tripod that will last you for years to come. It doesn't sit at the affordable end of the market, but for photographers who need something lightweight and user-friendly, you can't go wrong. ★★★★

When we first looked at this tripod in our Benro Tortoise 24C Tripod review , we couldn't figure out why it wasn't their primary travel tripod due to its weight and compactness. The Rhino wins out overall, but if these two particular factors are more important to you than height and versatility, we'd recommend the Benro Tortoise. 

There's no center column, so it can't extend particularly high (our 5'4-inch reviewer even had to stoop down when using it at full height), but the lack of a center column means it folds down much slimmer than other tripods, making it a great option for strapping to your camera bag when traveling or if you need to save on space. This also enables you to shoot extremely low to the ground with the legs splayed out at almost 90 degrees.

The GX30 head features two safety elements to prevent the camera from slipping off when you're putting it on or taking it off, but we thought overall the head was bulkier than it needed to be. The main ball adjustment knob protrudes out a fair amount when, in our opinion, it doesn't need to. That said, it's not impractical, we just think it could do with being smaller.

• Read our full Benro Tortoise 24C Tripod review

Vanguard VEO 3 GO 204CB Carbon Fiber Tripod

✅  Being lightweight is important: This tripod weighs less than 2 lbs but still has a maximum payload of 6.6 lbs. It folds down to 13.6 inches, too. ✅   You want an affordable carbon fiber tripod: This tripod is excellent value for money and a great price for a carbon fiber model.

❌ You're looking for a lot of height: This one can extend to a height of 51.6-inches which may be a bit small for some.

🔎  Vanguard VEO 3 GO 204CB Carbon Fiber Tripod: You won't find a travel tripod much lighter than this compact option from Vanguard. It would be ideal for those dark nights when you have to hike to get to your chosen location. ★★★★½

The Vanguard VEO 3 GO 204CB tripod is one of the lightest full-size tripods we've ever come across, and it's the lightest on this list by a long shot, weighing in at just 1.8 lbs. It can extend to a height of 51.6 inches, which is not the tallest of the tripods in this guide, and hold a load capacity of 6.6 lbs (just about 3 kg). 

We think this tripod is perfect for travel or hiking, particularly if you're going to those remote locations to shoot astrophotography under the glorious dark skies. It can collapse down to just 13.6 inches in length, which is quite impressive. 

Although it may not be as tall as other tripods, its lightweight and compact design makes it an attractive choice. Photographers on the go will also appreciate its smooth-operating ball head, and overall we think the build quality is top-notch.

Another thing to note is the Vanguard VEO 3 GO 204CB tripod is also really affordable, especially for a carbon fiber tripod. There is an aluminum version available, but it's actually not that much cheaper and you'll be bumping the weight up by a few ounces to 2.1 lbs. It can also be converted into a monopod or selfie stick, making it a solid choice for vloggers and social media content creators who use smartphones. 

• Read more: Best mirrorless cameras

Manfrotto Befree 3 Way Advanced Tripod

✅  You're a videographer: The three-way ball head employs a hydraulic dampening mechanism to ensure the camera moves smoothly.

❌ You will get frustrated having to take the camera off your tripod: We found that we sometimes had to remove the camera from the plate to access the battery and memory card doors.

🔎  Manfrotto Befree 3 Way Advanced Tripod:  At 3.28 lbs, the Italian-made Manfrotto Befree Advanced Travel Tripod isn’t ultra-lightweight, yet this aluminum travel tripod is not much heavier than its far pricier carbon fiber rivals. As travel tripods go, it’s not as compact when collapsed as others, yet it’s as advanced as any we’ve come across. ★★★★½

The Manfrotto Befree 3 Way Advanced Tripod is a lightweight aluminum tripod that makes a cost-effective alternative to more expensive carbon fiber travel tripods. In our Manfrotto Befree Advanced Tripod review , we thought had fantastic build quality with a very strong center column that proves sturdy and reliable in the field, and it comes with a handy red and black carry case.

This tripod can reach a maximum height of 59 inches and collapses to 15.7 inches when packed up. It has a reverse folding design which works fine for transportation, but it's not as compact as some other tripods on our list, and there are noticeable gaps between the legs which could waste space when packing it in a suitcase.

It comes with a new and improved ball head that features 360-degree flexibility and the 200PL PRO base plate attaches easily to your camera using a D-ring, which can be done anywhere and requires no extra tools, which is great when you're using it in the dark. 

The four-section legs are versatile, with three angled positions that click neatly into place and sturdy rubber feet to provide grip. While it's not the smallest or lightest travel tripod out there, it's great value for the quality you get.

• Read our full Manfrotto Befree Advanced Tripod review

JOBY GorillaPod 3K Pro Tripod

✅ You'll be shooting from uneven surfaces: The unique flexible legs can bend around almost anything — a branch, handrail, fence post and so on. It can also be manipulated to be steady on rocks and uneven land.

❌ You have a lot of heavy kit: The payload is a pretty small 6.6 lbs (3kg). This is still enough for most casual shooters, but it's more suited to lightweight gear.

🔎  JOBY GorillaPod 3K Pro Tripod:  The Joby GorillaPod 3K Pro Kit is a lightweight yet surprisingly sturdy travel tripod that enables you to shoot anything, anywhere. The ideal tripod for traveling and vlogging. ★★★★½

The JOBY GorillaPod 3K Pro is an unusual looking tripod that is very lightweight and surprisingly sturdy. The design of the legs means that you can attach it to almost anything, allowing you to shoot from any position or vantage point and opening up a world of creative possibilities — we had a lot of fun with this during our JOBY GorillaPod 3K Pro Kit review .

The main selling point of the GorillaPod is that it's extremely portable, weighing only 8.7 oz/463g and measuring 12 inches/30cm. It can carry a payload of 6.6 lbs/3kg, which isn't the most generous, but it's certainly enough for a mirrorless camera and lens setup. This makes it an attractive option for travel photographers, vloggers and content creators, who can buy a separate mount to attach their smartphones to it.

As well as the unique legs, it comes with an Arca-Swiss compatible ball head that offers precise panning of 360 degrees and 90 degrees of tilt, allowing you to capture shots from any angle you like. It lacks a spirit level for ensuring straight shots, but many newer cameras come with this built into the screen anyway.

Make sure to evenly distribute the weight when setting it up to prevent any equipment from tipping over. Once everything was in position, we found it to be very secure and stable, even with a telephoto lens attached to the camera. Overall, it's an interesting alternative to conventional tripods and is highly portable for outdoor use.

• Read our full JOBY GorillaPod 3K Pro Kit review

Gitzo Legende Traveller Tripod Kit

✅  You want a stylish aesthetic: This tripod has been designed with a beautiful aesthetic in mind, and it performs just as nicely as it looks.

❌ You don't have a big budget: Though it is beautiful to look at, most of the tripods on this list do the same job but for a fraction of the cost.

🔎  Gitzo Legende Traveller Tripod Kit  If you have the money, we believe this is a pretty nice tripod to use, but we do have one criticism: there are many tripods on the market, including several that are included in this list, that can do the same tasks for a lot less money. ★★★★

Gitzo's Legende series offers a premium and visually appealing lineup of travel tripods and camera accessories. The Legende Traveller Tripod Kit not only boasts an attractive design but also delivers excellent performance, thanks to its well-crafted, smooth knobs, dials and adjustments.

The Legende Traveller Tripod Kit impresses with its meticulous attention to detail, including features like the custom-designed matte silver aluminum Center Ball Head and the stylish leather strap, enhancing its premium feel. 

It extends to a maximum height of 65 inches with the central column extended and collapses down to a compact length of 16.9 inches when folded. With four leg sections, it can support loads of up to 17.6 lbs.

If you're willing to spend the money on it, we think it's a good tripod. However, we do have one criticism: there are many other tripods available, many of which we've mentioned in this list, that can perform the same functions at a much lower cost.

• Read more: Best camera accessories for astrophotography

Benro MeFoto Road Trip Pro

✅  You want versatility: This is really a six-in-one model — it works as a tripod, monopod, selfie stick, high hat (that allows for unique camera placement) and a table tripod.

❌ You want a super speedy setup: The twist and lock function works well, but setup time might take longer (as you have to twist and lock each section).

🔎  Benro MeFoto Road Trip Pro:  This 6-in-1 tripod from Benro really can do it all — it can be a tripod, monopod, boom pole, selfie stick, high hat and tabletop tripod. ★★★½

This Benro option may hold less weight and have a more compact design compared to professional-style setups, but it still offers impressive performance among travel tripods. With five leg sections extending up to 60 inches (155cm), along with a central column featuring two sections, we think its versatility is impressive. 

Weighing just 3.6 lbs and collapsing down to 15.4 inches, it's lightweight and portable. Additionally, it can be configured in six different ways: as a tripod, monopod, boom pole, selfie stick, high hat and tabletop tripod.

We find the tripod's graduated panning scale quite handy because it helps you maintain a level position for smooth panning in video or capturing panoramic shots of the scenery. The twist locks work effectively, but it might take more time to set up if you have to twist or unscrew each one individually. Nevertheless, it's a hassle-free choice that won't strain your budget, making it an excellent option for amateur travelers looking to take photos.

• Read more: Best cameras for beginners

3 Legged Thing Punks Corey 2.0

✅  You have heavy kit: The 3 Legged Punks Corey 2.0 can hold a whopping 30 lb (14kg) payload, that's 8x it's own weight.

❌ You don't like the look of it: We mean aesthetically — it certainly stands out, but it isn't for everyone. ❌ You need more height: The maximum height is 54.3 inches, which is on the shorter side of the scale of tripods in this guide.

🔎  3 Legged Thing Punks Corey 2.0:  The Punks range is ultralight and ultra-compact and, amazingly, they can still support 30 lbs of weight, which is over 8 times their own weight of 3.95 lbs ★★★½

3-Legged Thing started as a grassroots business in the UK. Danny Lenihan, the company's creator, used his knowledge in lighting and photography to create extremely versatile, lightweight tripods and other equipment.

The Punks series of tripods from 3 Legged Thing is designed with travel in mind, featuring a lightweight and compact build crafted from magnesium alloy. Despite their portable size, they boast an impressive weight capacity of up to 30 lbs, surpassing their own weight of 3.95 lbs by more than 8 times. 

The 3 Legged Thing Punks Corey 2.0 Tripod can extend to a height of 54.3 inches and collapse down to just 14.2 inches, ensuring easy packing in your carry-on luggage for flying. You have the flexibility to swap out the feet for low-level or tabletop setups, or even remove the legs entirely to transform it into a monopod or selfie stick.

Even though we liked the tripods' vivid colors, strong designs and general performance, some seasoned amateurs or professionals might be looking for more bells and whistles, such as more complex head systems.

• Read more: 3 Legged PUNKS Brian tripod review

Travel tripods: Frequently Asked Questions

What is the lightest travel tripod.

The lightest travel tripod we have tested is the Joby GorillaPod 3K Pro Tripod ; it weighs just 1.02 lbs (463g). However, it's worth noting that it is a unique model that is designed to wrap around objects such as branches and fences. 

The lightest 'standard' tripod in our guide (which has extendable legs and can be used on the ground) is the Vanguard VEO 3 GO 204CB Carbon Fiber Tripod, which weighs 1.6 lbs (725g). 

Can I use a travel tripod with my smartphone?

The answer is yes, you can. Some travel tripods come with a phone adapter, such as the Peak Design Travel Tripod , Benro Rhino FRHN24C+VX25 Head and Benro MeFoto Road Trip Pro, but if they don't, you can also purchase a tripod smartphone mount separately. This is especially useful for content creators who mostly shoot using smartphone cameras. 

Should I buy a Carbon fiber or aluminum tripod?

Carbon fiber tripods generally weigh less than their aluminum counterparts but cost more. Some models will cost significantly more, so if you want to save money on a tripod look to purchase an aluminum model. However, if traveling light is your priority then opt for a carbon fiber model.

For example, the Peak Design aluminum travel tripod costs around $380 at time of writing, whereas the carbon fiber version costs $650 which is $270 or 1.7x more expensive. However, the Vanguard VEO 3 GO 204 aluminum tripod costs $130, and its carbon fiber version costs $150, just $20 or 1.25x more.  

What is the best travel tripod for astrophotography?

This depends on the overall payload (weight) of your camera, lens and camera accessories. We'd recommend the Peak Design Travel Tripod as the best travel tripod overall if your budget stretches. But a more budget-friendly option which we still rate highly would be the Vanguard VEO 3 GO 204CB.

It's important to add up the weight of all the gear you will be place on any given tripod because all tripods have a maximum payload; see below.

What is a tripod maximum payload?

A tripod's maximum payload is the maximum weight a tripod is designed to hold rock steady when taking photographs or video footage. To calculate this, add up the weight of everything you will place on the tripod, which may include: The camera , a lens and camera accessories like an intervalometer /remote shutter release, flash, filter, or a star tracker mount .

If it is just slightly over the manufacturer's stated maximum payload for the tripod there's a chance things will be fine. But bear in mind that there are no guarantees for its stability, especially in high winds. If in doubt, go for a tripod that is designed to hold the maximum payload of your camera gear, even if it means investing a little more money.

Travel tripods are designed to be lightweight and compact, so it may be that none on this list will support your maximum payload. If this is the case, we'd recommend a bigger, more generalist tripod from our best tripods guide.

How many leg sections should my tripod have?

Between three and five leg sections is typically the most common. The leg sections are designed to extend to increase or decrease the tripod's height to aid composition. The Benro Rhino FRHN24C+VX25 Head has four leg sections and reaches a maximum height of 66.3-inches. However, the Joby GorillaPod 3K Pro Tripod which has a maximum height of 11.8-inches with just one leg section, but this is intentional because it's designed to wrap around and onto tall objects so 

If you're trekking or want to set up your camera on uneven ground, it's worth testing out tripods with multiple leg angles and the ability to adjust quickly. Usually, a small pin or lever at the top of the legs can be pulled out to increase the leg angle and therefore change the height and stability of the travel tripod.

How we test the best travel tripods

To guarantee you're getting honest, up-to-date recommendations on the best travel tripods to buy here at Space.com we make sure to put every travel tripod through a rigorous review to fully test each product. Each travel tripod is reviewed based on a multitude of aspects, from its construction and design, to how well it functions and its performance in the field.

Each travel tripod is carefully tested by our expert staff or knowledgeable freelance contributors who know their subject areas in depth. This ensures fair reviewing is backed by personal, hands-on experience with each travel tripod and is judged based on its price point, class and destined use.

We look at how easy each travel tripod is to operate, whether it contains the latest up-to-date material, and also make suggestions if a particular travel tripod would benefit from any additional equipment to give you the best user experience possible.

With complete editorial independence, Space.com are here to ensure you get the best buying advice on travel tripods, whether you should purchase a travel tripod or not, making our buying guides and reviews reliable and transparent.

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Jacob Little is a photographer, writer and communications professional based in Bristol and Cornwall. His main inspirations come from outdoor adventure, travel, rural living and wild ways and crafts. Passionate about weaving the core principles of storytelling into his images, he approaches brand and copywriting work in much the same way. Conveying a compelling narrative is one of the main drivers behind much of his work.

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The Best Travel Tripods for Any Budget

A lot of photographers pay attention to the camera they’re using. In most cases, the importance of having a reliable tripod falls is overlooked. But the best travel tripods are just as important as the camera you use. After all, they’re our three-legged metal friends that keep our priceless camera equipment in place. But even though they’re crucial for taking great photos, the high price tag of top-of-the-line tripods dissuade most people from upgrading their current tripod.

Those on a budget might have even resorted to simply balancing their camera on their knee, holding their breath, and staying as still as possible. Tripods tend to be overlooked at times, but investing in a durable tripod for travel will not only protect your camera body and lenses—it’ll add stability to your shots and add a new dimension to your shots when working with shutter speed and exposure elements.

Ideally, your camera tripod should be small enough for you to pack and light enough for you to carry. Find out what the best tripod for travel is with our definitive guide. Whether you’re a hobbyist or a pro, you’ll be sure to find one for your needs here.

Why you need a travel tripod

No one wants to travel with large, bulky equipment—especially when they’re traveling by plane. But if you’re a professional photographer or simply someone who enjoys taking professional-looking pictures whenever you travel, it’s definitely going to be inevitable. You’re going to have to pack some heavy stuff, like your DSLR camera, some accessories like lenses and extra batteries, and of course, a tripod.

If you travel frequently, then you’re definitely going to want to reduce the weight of your luggage as much as you can—especially when traveling by plane, where every single pound (and inch) counts.

One way to cut down on weight is by choosing accessories with travel-friendly features. For instance, tripods are notorious for being heavy and bulky. But in reality, not all of them are. In fact, some of the best travel tripods are designed to be compact, lightweight, durable, easily adjustable, and versatile enough to be used for a variety of situations.

If you need a sturdy, reliable travel tripod that won’t weigh you down, we’ve picked some of our top tripod recommendations to help you narrow down your choices. But first, there are several key questions to keep in mind when choosing the right camera tripod for your needs.

Factors to consider when choosing the best travel tripods for you:

• Size : Will it fit in your carry-on luggage? Or in other words, does it measure less than 24 inches when collapsed?
• Weight : Is it light enough for you to carry without tiring you out?
• Payload : Can both the tripod and head handle the weight of your travel camera , your heaviest lens, and other camera accessories?
• Durability : Is it constructed well and made of durable material (and are you willing to compromise on this if cost is a factor)?
• Height : Can a tripod that collapses into a small package also extend tall enough?
• Cost : Can you find the right answers to all of the above and stay within your budget?

Best Travel Tripods for Any Budget

3pod wander aluminum travel tripod.

This tripod was built for easy transport and quick setup. It can collapse to no larger than a one-liter water bottle, yet it’s still able to hold payloads up to 33 lbs. It’s legs can move 180° for space-saving compact folding and storage, which can extend to total height of 68.5 inches. At just four pounds, this is an affordable, lightweight option for travel photographers.

Key features:

• Can hold up to 33 lbs.
• 180° movement in legs
• Abrasion-resistant aluminum appointed construction
• Weighs only 4 lbs.

3 Legged Thing Leo 2.0 + AirHead Pro Lever kit

The 3 Legged Thing Leo 2.0 + AirHead Pro Lever kit has impressive features that match its cool look. Made of carbon fiber, it comes with three detachable legs, knurled lock caps and collar for enhanced leverage and grip, and leg-lock anti-rotation for best-in-class stability and rigidity.

Its three detachable legs can function as monopods or boom arms. When replaced with 3LT’s range of footwear, you can create a table-top tripod. It has a payload capacity of 30 kg, making it a suitable fit for any set-up, whether you’re using a mirrorless camera or DSLR and medium format system.

• Three Detachable Legs
• Knurled Lock Caps
• AirHed Pro Lever Ball Head
• Patented Tri-Mount plate
• Variable Load Capability of 30kg
• Pure, eight-layer Carbon Fiber construction

Manfrotto Befree GT XPRO Travel Aluminum Tripod

The Manfrotto Befree GT XPRO Travel Aluminum Tripod is designed for professional macro photographers who work with extreme angles. It’s all-around versatility means you can use it to achieve creative angles in challenging circumstances.

The tripod features a kitted 496 ball head with independent panoramic and friction knobs for full movement control. It also features a 90-degree column mechanism so you can shoot from ground level or directly overhead with minimal fuss.

With a closed length of 16.93″, minimum height of 3.54″, and payload of 22.05 lbs, the Manfrotto Befree GT XPRO’s compact reliability is one of its strongest suits.

• 90º center-column system
• 496 Ball Head with independent panoramic and friction knobs
• 22.1-pound load capacity
• 200PL-PRO plate
• M-lock twist locks and side-pull selectors

Benro Travel Angel FTA28CV1 9X Carbon Fiber Series 2 Tripod

A personal favorite of AdoramaTV host and globetrotting photographer Mark Wallace, the Benro Travel Angel 9X Carbon Fiber Series 2 Tripod Kit is part of the line’s most advanced range of compact, travel-friendly camera tripods. Like most of the other Benro travel tripods, the Travel Angel FTA28CV1 is full-sized and features legs that can be inverted and folded back 180-degrees for easy packing and carrying. It can also be converted into a compact monopod, and you can easily switch back and forth between a tripod or a monopod without having to use any tools.

Other features include rubber feet and stainless steel spikes to provide traction on a variety of surfaces, and a center ballast column hook that allows you to hang your camera bag from it to provide more weight and stability to the tripod when shooting.

Benro camera tripods are available on their own or as part of a kit, and you can choose to buy either the less expensive aluminum versions, or the sturdier, lighter, but more expensive carbon fiber ones.

Key Features:

• 22 lb-load capacity
• 66.9 in maximum height
• Weighs 4 lb (1.8 kg)
• Arca-Type Compatible Head and Quick Release (QR) Plate
• Triple Action Ball Head

3 Legged Thing Legends Jay Carbon Fiber Travel Levelling Base Tripod

As the name suggests, the 3 Legged Thing Legends Jay Carbon Fiber Travel Levelling Base Tripod features a levelling base system so you can set up quickly and smoothly on challenging terrain. You can use the friction control feature on the underside to adjust the position of the base during your outdoor shoots.

The tripod’s three detachable legs can be converted into monopods or boom arms. You can also convert the leveling base into a foot stabilizer for the monopod with optional 3LT footwear. Thanks to its improved leg lock design and O-pads, you can count on it for greater stability and anti-rotation.

• Three detachable legs
• Quick set-up levelling base system
• Legs formed from 8 layers of 100% pure carbon Fiber
• Precision engineered leg lock system with raised O-Pads
• Rapid Latch leg latch system,
• Supports up to 30 lb (14kg)

Benro Go Plus FGP18A 4-Section Aluminum Travel Tripod

Want a compact travel tripod with a versatile center column? The Benro Go Plus FGP18A 4-Section Aluminum Travel Tripod is constructed from top-grade aluminum and magnesium alloy. It features three reverse folding legs that wrap around the center column, letting you carry and transport it with ease.

The center column can be removed from its vertical position and swung through a 180-degree arc before being locked into place.This makes it ideal for low-level macro photography.

• Reverse folding legs
• Versatile and laterally adjustable center column
• Built-in monopod
• Easy-to-use twist leg locks
• Screw-in rubber and stainless spiked feet

Manfrotto PIXI Evo 2 Section mini Tripod

Portable and versatile, the Manfrotto PIXI Evo 2 Section mini Tripod is the perfect companion for entry-level photographers who want diverse framing possibilities. It includes two different leg angles compatible with the sliding selector. It also features two-section legs to stabilize your shots when shooting on uneven surfaces.

The tripod lets you take impressive portraits, thanks to its ability to tilt at a full 90-degrees. Designed for entry-level DLSRs, it can support devices up to 2.5 kg.

• Sturdy aluminum structure
• Adjustable two-section legs
• Portrait mode tilts camera to a full 90 degrees
• Supports devices up to 2.5 kg

Benro Slim Tripod Kit with Ball Head

The Benro Slim Tripod Kit with Ball Head is a lightweight tripod with a slim profile. The legs feature easy-to-unlock aluminum twist locks and includes a center column that prevents twisting while in use. You can also rely on the tripod even when shooting in extreme conditions because it features a weight hook under the center column.

Moreover, the tripod includes a lightweight magnesium shoulder with three different leg positions. You can position these legs when filming on uneven surfaces.

• Made of Carbon Fiber
• Slim profile shoulder
• Maximum weight capacity of 8.8 lbs
• Anodized aluminum twist locks
• Removable single action ballhead

Vanguard VEO 2 GO 235AB Travel Tripod Kit

The Vanguard VEO 2 GO 235AB Travel Tripod Kit with 5-Section Aluminum Tripod is perfect for on-the-go photographers seeking a compact, lightweight, and affordable tripod. Its ARCA compatible ball head T-50 can carry cameras up to 4 kg. Since the tripod can be extended up to 55.5”, the possibilities are endless during low-level shooting.

The T-50 ball head offers separate pan control for seamless 360-degree imaging. On top of that, the QS-64 mount quickly and efficiently so that you can easily set-up your tripod at a moment’s notice.

• Inverted five-section aluminum legs
• Rubberized Twist leg locks
• Sturdy Ball Head T-50
• Arca compatible QR plate
• Secure head lock system
• Independent Leg positioning at 3 different angles
• Two-section reversible telescopic center column

What about tripod heads?

While some of the camera tripods listed here are sold with at least one head, some are not. In those cases, you will need to buy a head in addition to the tripod itself to enable you to attach your camera. The good news is, any tripod head is compatible with just about any tripod, so you can mix and match brands if you want.

A sturdy ballhead takes up less room in a carry-on bag than a pan head , which requires more space to accommodate the tilt and pan handles, which stick out. Choose a tripod head that can handle the weight of your camera with its longest lens, and then some, just to be safe.

Nathan Lee Allen

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Best Travel Tripods [2022]

Aug 12, 2022 | Travel , Tripods

The Best Travel Tripods in 2022

The criteria for the best airline tripods are slightly different from those for the best tripods. When folded, they must be compact enough to fit easily into a bag or at the very least latch onto one. They must also be portable enough to be carried about all day without putting too much strain on the user, whether hiking up hills or touring city streets.

They should ideally do all of this while also meeting the criteria for the ideal tripods(opens in new tab): solid, simple to assemble, adaptable, and robust enough to hold the weight of your cameras and lenses.

As a result, concessions must be made, as one would anticipate. While a decent portable tripod will be capable of almost all those above, it may not be as tall as a more traditional tripod. Carbon fiber is often used in the construction of travel tripods since it is more durable and lightweight than aluminum but also more expensive. A tripod will collapse more quickly with more leg pieces, which will increase the cost.

It’s a compromise, of course. Nothing is. The key to choosing the finest travel photobooth is to determine which characteristics are crucial for you and which you can live without, then make your plans accordingly. Because of this, we’ve included a wide selection of goods in our article on the leading travel tripods, including tripods at various pricing ranges. There will be a backpack tripod here for you, no matter your needs or budget.

The Top Portable Tripods for 2022

1. manfrotto befree 3-way live advanced tripod.

It makes sense to get a portable tripod that works for photography and filmmaking as more and more producers combine the two mediums. With a lightweight travel tripod and a three-way video head, the Sling strap Befree 3-Way Live Sophisticated tripod is made with this objective.

The fluid head employs a hydraulic dampening mechanism to enable the operator to move the camera smoothly and easily. The tripod, on the other hand, offers a decent compromise between capacity, weight, and cost. Despite just weighing 2kg, it will need 6kg of equipment. We’ve tried stronger, lighter tripods than this one, but they were often more expensive.

It’s not as tall as some other tripods on our list, and testing revealed that the design might sometimes obstruct common tasks like replacing a camera battery. But for the great majority of uses, this is a strong all-around package that any traveling photographer or cameraman should seriously consider.

2. Benro GoPlus Travel FGP18A

The Benro GoPlus checks almost all of the boxes on our wish list and offers a sizable maximum load capacity. It has a compact folded length and a big operational height. It is one of only a few tripods with a pivoting center column, allowing for various fastening angles in tiny increments over a full 180-degree arc. For simple leveling, bubble levels have been installed on the tripod platform. Indistinguishable rubber shoes and spikes, along with a protective soft bag, are also included. You may use one leg as an independent monopod by unscrewing it. It used to be available as a kit with a head, but if you don’t already have one, you’ll need to get a puck head(opens in a new tab) to go with it. A suitable match would be the Benro B0 or IB0.

3. Peak Design Travel Tripod

Peak Design has just released its first tripod, so it better be excellent given that the carbon fiber one we saw cost more than almost all of its competitors except for a Gitzo. However, an aluminum variant is significantly 40% less expensive but has slightly lower vibration resistance. Several other tripods available will reach higher, but the Peak Design, which packs down to only 39cm in length, will still reach an average-height person’s eye level. You may place this IN your travel bag or bedroom bag in addition to strapping it to the outside since it is meant to eliminate the “dead volume” between the leg and thus the columns when packed. The phone holder is tucked away into the central column, the low introductory tip is simple but fantastic, and this tripod feels quite sturdy.

4 . Benro Rhino FRHN05CVX20

This is the lightest of Benro’s four new Zebra travel tripods, but it is surprisingly stiff even though it is tiny. Benro’s new VX ball heads, including a secondary pan axis directly below the camera plate, are also successful. Since they come with the territory, we can’t fault the Benro for its restrictions, which include a lower socio-economic height and a lengthier “unfolding” time. The Benro doesn’t reach very high, and using both center column sections makes it quickly shaky, but using just one center column extension or not using one at all makes it as sturdy as much larger tripods.

5. 3 Legged Thing Leo 2.0 + AirHead Pro Lever kit

The Leo tripod is not your typical one. Even though it unfolds to a total elevation of 146 cm and a massive cargo capacity of 30 kg, it only folds to a length of 35 cm. It boasts an unusual two-section center column, a detached monopod leg that doubles as a mike or camera boom, and a Tri-Mount system for mounting attachments. Although the legs are available separately, we advise purchasing the set with 3-Legged Thing’s upgraded AirHed Super Lever ball head. We like the additional Vanz kit, which includes a set of three new feet/legs. The strongest, gnarliest tabletop micro tripod you’ve ever seen is created by unscrewing the standard legs and screwing in these. Although the Leo 2 is neither the smallest nor the cheapest travel tripod available, its ratio of folded length to maximum height and its overall adaptability make it one of the finest.

6. Manfrotto Befree Advanced Twist

The Befree High Travel Tripod Twist focuses only on travel yet provides more support than most comparable items. In our testing, it was able to carry a tonne of gear—we’re talking entire cameras with hefty lenses—even though its safety payload limit is 9 kg. However, its main selling point is that it is just 1.49 kg and 40 cm long when packed (though its ball-head adds another 14cm). That can fit in the majority of suitcases. Manfrotto’s Advanced 494 aluminum center ball head, which has three separate ergonomic settings, is included with the Befree Advanced Touring Tripod Twist. When you consider the durable middle column, which has a locking mechanism, this portable tripod nevertheless retains a superb capacity to stay firm and stable.

7. Joby Smart RangePod

Choosing the best tripod for vloggers and video producers may be a genuine minefield. The sheer number of reflectors and heads might be confusing if you aren’t familiar with photography gear (but if you are!). Joby, the company behind the GorillaPod line, steps in to offer developers a simple solution that checks all the appropriate boxes. The Joby RangePod Smart, the company’s first full-size tripod, is a respectable travel option. It has a phone clamp with two quarter-inch abutments to place your phone horizontally or vertically, allowing you to rapidly switch between standard recording and upright filming for Instagram or TikTok. However, this metal model is perfect for individuals who shoot on their phones. With a faster Arca-Swiss plate, it works as well with DSLR and mirrorless cameras, and with an 8kg payload, it can easily accommodate large lenses. It is ideal for presenting to the camera at close to head height since it can reach a maximum height of 160 cm, which is also higher than many portable tripods.

8. Vanguard VEO 3T 235CBP

In addition to offering “all you’d expect in a high-quality travel tripod,” Vanguard claims its VEO 3T line also contains “added features that enable anybody obtain the greatest outcome for their videos with a camcorder or smartphone.” Stronger variants in the lineup have an amazing 12kg weight capacity, but we believe the 235CBP version, with its 8kg load capacity, is more than capable of handling the task. The reduced capacity, therefore, results in a shorter closed length of 41 cm, and the carbon construction reduces the overall weight to a manageable 1.6 kg. A new Arca-compatible quick-release plate can accommodate a camera or smartphone up to 85mm wide, and there is even a Bluetooth remote control for IOS or Android. The supplied head features a detachable pan handle to give you more control when recording.

9. Gitzo GT1545T Series 1 Traveler with ball head

The Rolls Royces of camera supports, Gitzo tripods combine low weight with exceptional construction and design and deceptively easy operation in their Traveler line. If you want a quick setup (fewer pieces) over a shorter folded length, you should choose the GT1555 version with 5-section legs instead of the GT1545 Series 1 model with 4-section legs (more sections). The costs don’t seem TOO awful when you don’t include the price of the Gitzo 82TQD center ball head. Although the Gitzo is a fantastic travel tripod, its high price prevents it from being at the top of our list. This is particularly true given that many other similarly outstanding tripods are available for far less money than don’t bear the Gitzo name. However, we all secretly want a Gitzo, right?

10. 3 Legged Thing Jay with AirHed Cine

Travel tripods are necessary for more than just still-image shooters. The Jay and AirHed Film are a very specialized pair. Still, they serve the needs of an increasing number of series vloggers or filmmakers who may not have a huge professional video tripod but want suitable, portable support. The 3 Chibi Thing Legends Jay doesn’t have a center column (because this is the video and not eye-level still photography). However, it has a leveling base, which may save a tonne of effort when setting up panning views and maintaining the camera’s level. The AirHed Cine seems like the ideal mate and is just as little as the Jay. It features a set drag action that is forceful yet manageable, and the handle is screwed on for fine control. The Jay may not be too expensive, but the price increases significantly when the AirHed Cine is included. However, the combination is very small and exudes luxury.

11. Manfrotto PIXI Evo

Welcome towards the 21st century if your only experience with traditional table-top tripods was the discomfort of shaft legs and shaky camera mounts. The PIXI EVO is an improved version of Manfrotto’s original Screening- model and is just as quick to use. You can fold the legs to use them as a tripod or bring them back together to create a camera grip. It also has a tripod adapter that can be ejected and locked with the touch of a button. The EVO adds two-foot directions for low-level shooting and two-section legs (really, really). Although a smartphone clamp is optional, its ball head is compatible with compact cameras, tiny DSLRs, mirrorless models, and standard camera tripod connections may support it. The maximum altitude is limited, but it sets up quite quickly and fits in a jacket pocket! The finest portable tripod for those who may not want to carry a full-sized one is this or a similar mini-tripod.

12. Adonit Photogrip

This device is necessary if you use a smartphone for your vacation photos. A spring-loaded grip extends wide enough to accommodate even a large smartphone and grips tightly around it. And with legs folded in, you can use this as a firm grip. The base has a tripod connector for a standard tripod or the compact pocket tripod that comes with the set. The Bluetooth shutter button on the top is a little remote you can pull out to operate the shutter from a distance. This is pure brilliance, albeit larger phones must be carefully positioned in the clamp to prevent the little tripod from toppling.

About The Author

Cameron has been a photographer for over 10 years and has extensive experience with different types of cameras. He loves to travel and has been to many different parts of the world, photographing everything he sees along the way. Cameron is a natural teacher and loves to share his knowledge with others, helping them to capture stunning images of their own.This experience has meant that Cameron has had extensive hands-on experience with many different types and brands of cameras, lenses, and other gear, and he is now here to share this information with you.

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Why I’m Never Taking a Tripod on Vacation Again

I’m never taking a tripod on vacation again. Last year I took a lightweight compact travel tripod to Japan but never used it once. This was because shooting long exposures on the OM System OM-1 was a breeze. The camera boasts incredible 7 stops of image stabilization, increasing to 8 stops with compatible lenses.

In this article, I’ll show you examples of long exposures I took with the OM-1: I was able to smooth water, blur crowds, and create traffic trails in images—all handheld.

The Evolution of My Travel Kit

I've always traveled with two camera bodies ever since my film days. In the 90s, I traveled with two Canon EOS 500N cameras, a long zoom, a short zoom, and a bag full of Kodak Elitechrome.

In recent years, I've traveled with many of Fujifilm X Series cameras: every model from the X-T1 through to X-T5, and even the X-T10 and X-T20. I love telephoto lenses, but I must admit I got tired of lugging my Fujifilm 50-140mm f/2.8 on trips.

I became intrigued with the idea of using a Micro Four Thirds camera, all because of the smaller lenses.

My Latest Travel Kit 

For my November 2023 trip to Japan, I took

• OM System OM-1
• 12-40mm f/2.8 II Pro lens
• 40-150mm f/4 Pro lens
• Ricoh GR3 as my pocket camera
• A tripod I never used.

I don't usually like taking just one camera body as I hate changing lenses on location, but I'm pleased to say it all went smoothly.

Using ND Filters at Kurobe Gorge

Let’s start off with photos taken in the north of Japan, near the city of Toyama. Kurobe Gorge is a remote location that is absolutely worth the journey. A stunning narrow-gauge railway with bright orange carriages runs through the mountains and along the river. It’s particularly pretty in November when the Fall leaves start to turn orange and red. After a noisy, windy, one-hour ride, you arrive at the terminus. Here you are greeted by stunning river views.

OM-1 with 12-40mm f/2.8 II lens and ND16. 2 sec, f/9, ISO 200, © Matt Murray

Using the In-built ND Filters on the OM-1

Before the trip, I had never tried out using long exposures handheld with the OM-1, so I was keen to start. Shooting during the day, the only way to get shutter speeds long enough to smooth water was to use the OM-1’s in-built ND filters. These are found under the computational section of the camera's menu.

I spent 45 minutes taking photos of the same scene, trying all 6 of the ND filters, ranging from ND2 to ND64. I show all of those images in the video, but the key takeaway was that with my semi-shaky hands, I got the best results at ND8 and ND16.

OM-1 with 40-150mm f/4 lens and ND16. 1 sec, f/8, ISO 200, © Matt Murray

OM-1 with 40-150mm f/4 lens and ND16. 1/1.6 sec, f/8, ISO 200, © Matt Murray

I took the next two sets of photos back in Tokyo in dimmer lighting conditions, so there was no need for the ND filters.

Traffic Trails at Tokyo Tower 

Although I've taken thousands of photos of Japan, I'd never captured the iconic Tokyo Tower. Modeled after the Eiffel Tower, it first opened in 1958 and is a symbol of Japan's post-war recovery.

Arriving by Shinkansen bullet train from Toyama, the weather forecast was not looking good for the next few days. I had to get the shot on my first afternoon in Tokyo. Using Google Maps, I headed south of the tower, ending up with a good view along a busy six-lane road.

OM-1 with 40-150mm f/4 lens. 1/5 sec, f/8, ISO 200, © Matt Murray

Thankfully, there was a small median strip between the lanes. I was able to perch myself in the middle, with one leg either side of a metal railing. Although I was standing up, this helped stabilize my body. I started by taking some close-up images of the tower from this vantage point with the 40-150mm f/4 lens before switching to the shorter zoom for traffic trail shots.

OM-1 with 12-40mm f/2.8 II lens. 1 sec, f/9, ISO 400, © Matt Murray

Although these are not super long exposures, only a second or two, there is no way I would've even contemplated taking a photo like this handheld before buying the OM-1.

As dusk slowly gave way to night, the colors of the sky got more intense. 

Iconic Shibuya Crossing 

Shibuya Crossing (or Shibuya Scramble) is one place that’s high on many visitors' lists in Tokyo. I estimate at least 25% of the people crossing the road here were tourists!

OM-1 with 40-150mm f/4 lens. 1/1.6 sec, f/9, ISO 200, © Matt Murray

It was a rainy afternoon and all of the coveted vantage points were taken. I stood behind a bench that surrounded a tree. This gave me a slightly elevated position. There is a railway bridge in both shots—I made sure that I took images as trains whizzed by, creating a beautiful blur.

Final Thoughts

I've been thoroughly impressed with the OM System OM-1 as a travel camera. It has excellent image quality and an IP53 weatherproof rating—but the real "cherry on top" is the superb image stabilization.

I never would've dreamed of taking long exposure images like the ones in this article and in the video handheld before now. It means that for the type of travel photography I do, I can leave my tripod at home for good. Although my best images were all under 3 seconds, I've heard of people getting incredible results with handheld exposures of 10 seconds or more.

The only downside with my current travel setup is that there's only one camera body. I don't have the funds to buy another M43 body yet, but I will consider it in time. I'm planning a trip later this year, and at this stage, I think I'll go with the OM-1 twin lens kit along with my Ricoh GR3 again. Not only could I leave the tripod behind, but also my ND filters.

Have you used the OM System OM-1 as a travel camera? I'd love to hear your thoughts on it.

Matt Murray is a travel and portrait photographer from Brisbane, Australia.

Matt loves shooting with compact cameras: both film and digital. His YouTube features reviews of film cameras, film stocks, and travel photography with the Ricoh GR III, Fujifilm X100V, and Olympus OM-1.

See more of Matt's photography and writing on his Substack.

Should be marked as an advertisement.

Why? I bought the camera and the lenses myself. I've also sung the praises of Fujifilm and Ricoh in the past.

I use the OM-1 for travel along with the Olympus 8-25mm Pro lens. It is a light setup and I lean towards wide angle photos. I have several telephoto lenses I could also take depending on the reach I will need and how light I really want to travel on a particular trip. I like the weather sealing as well, so the rain is no problem.

Very cool Ed! I've heard good things about both the 8-25 and the 7-14. Both on my wishlist but I'm still testing the camera with the 3 lenses I have. I also have the 60mm macro, got it as a freebie when buying the OM-1. Thanks for reading!

Matt. I used to have the 7-14 and it was an excellent lens. But it was a little heavy and would not take regular filters. So I sold it and got the 8-25 which is lighter and takes the same 72mm filter that I can use on my three telephoto lenses: 12-100, 40-150, and 100-400. (I like to use a CPL filter from time to time.)

Oh cool, good to know Ed thank you! 8-25 is a handy focal range, you have me thinking about it now... ha ha

Even though it wasn't your intent, I agree with Jason that this comes across as salesy. I think your article would have been better titled as a product review.

Regardless, as an aging photog, I appreciate the spirit of your article. Modern technology (hardware and software) has allowed me to time blend and stack photos without always needing a tripod. I've yet to get slower shutter results like you without spraying + praying, but it's good to know that it's achievable.

FWIW, I dig the look of the shots you posted. A timeless quality to them, particularly with the sort of authentic images that have been trending for some time now.

Fair point to both of you... my intent was to show how amazed I was at how far cameras have come in the 30 years I've been taking photos. I never would've dreamed about taking photos like this handheld a few years ago. I am working on a review of this camera (it has both pros and cons you'll be pleased to know, and sadly I'm not getting any kickbacks from OM System!) but this article was just about the IBIS and ND filters mainly. Thanks for reading!

Disagree - seems to me the author's points would extend to modern IBIS systems across manufacturers, I appreciated his point about being able to pull long exposures without sticks.

Yes that's true... keen to try out the IBIS on the X100VI soon. Thanks for your reading!

There are often boring comments like this on fstoppers. It seems nobody can write they like one camera without someone else complaining that its like an advert. YAWN!

It's a positive review because it is a good camera. Most cameras are good, if they were not they would not still be on the market. The exception is the R5 that we got rid of from my studio because they fall apart.

I'm certainly, not going to make a blanket statement like that. Every trip is different and every trip unique. My most recent trip, I took both the Peak Design CF tripod and a monopod. I used the tripod once, but was glad to have it. A previous trip I took the PD tripod and used it once, again glad to have it. Since I primarily print my work, I'm not willing to leave everything in the hands of VR. My travel camera is a Nikon Z8, no slouch when it comes to VR (I only use Nikon Z lenses).

Yes every photographer is different, every trip is different, agree 100%. For the types of shots I take and how often I'd actually use a tripod on vacation, it's mostly true for me... I say mostly true as I'm actually considering doing some astro on a trip to a remote Indonesian island later this year...so never say never!

I've done quite a few long exposures but usually at the waterfront and only recently started experimenting with crowd movement and light trails. I never quite understood how photographers got those shots of the light trails ,(which I call lasers), so I tried it out from one of Tokyo's tall towers looking down at the street. But those were all at 1/4-1/6 seconds, that's the median timing I've gathered from tons of examples over the last few years on various photography websites and reviews. It also produced the most lengthy light trails however they were still small and thin compared to what I've seen in other people's work. Try try again.

So I'm kind of shocked that you can get this movement look out of one to two seconds. The handheld part I've been able to do that for quite some time with my cannons, but now I've got to go and check out this timing again. It's fun and I'll get the recipe soon enough.

Even after my latest month shooting in Tokyo I feel like there's still so much to do, I'm itching to just buy a ticket right now and just get out of here LOL. Cheers all.

I was only there 5 months ago and I'm itching to get back to Japan too! I was lucky in that in that street there were multiple lanes of traffic, with some lanes moving quickly and some cars were stationary. Keen to try it out some more! Thanks for reading :)

As a senior, I've settled on the Olympus OM-1 with the 12-100 Pro lens. Light with a broad spectrum of focal lengths. Still can't get down below about 1/8 second handheld. My bad.

A lot of people like to bounce around the VR specs of different cameras, but I don't seem them as anything more than just numbers. There are a lot of things at play when talking about using VR; what VR mode, how steady the camera is held, what the ultimate use of the image is going to be (internet, printing, etc.).

3 seconds was the longest shot I got hand held, though I may have had quite a lot of coffee that morning ha ha, must've given me the shakes. I've heard people getting sharp images 10 seconds and over hand held.

This article should've 100% been labelled as a sponsored ad for Olympus.

I'm not so much bothered by that. People tend to talk about what they like and use.

It's not. We label any sponsored article as such.

Why? Because I like a certain feature of a certain camera? I've also wrote about how I love the Ricoh GR3 on Fstoppers but those articles didn't receive any comments like this, kinda baffling.

Its always people compaining that positive articles are adverts. Its a well written balanced article with lovely pictures that prove the point. It'#s a great camera too. We use them in my studio.

Great article and images. It's unfortunate all too often it compels these trolls in the comments to equate a favorable review to being sponsored. It's like all they want are disparaging reviews so long as it's not about their brand.

Thanks so much Black Z Eddie! Appreciate your support! :)

I took an excellent, light-weight mini tripod to Seattle. It cost less than $40, was a complete aluminum build with an arca qr release plate, and had an aluminum ball head. It was also compatible with my Peak Design standard plate. It weighed less than 8oz. I never got to use it once, not because I didn't want to, but because it was stolen while I was in a crowd. So yeah, not taking a tripod on vacation again.

Oh gosh, so sorry to hear that :(

Yeah I was annoyed, there were several places on my travels that I could have used it to get sharper photos than hand-holding. Fortunately that was my only loss, my camera and lenses were stored more securely.

The last of the Olympus cameras and these new OM System cameras make me want one. I have the original Olympus E-M10 and it is nice for an entry level camera. But, I'd have to sell all my current cameras and lenses, and I'd still fall short of what I could afford to get into the OM System. May in a few years a used body and couple of lenses. :) I'm already selling several lenses to help pay for a Sigma 100-400mm I just received.

I don't the comments about this being an advertisement. This site features many articles about specific equipment that are not sponsored, and they don't get the negative comments. This is just one photographer's point of view about a couple features in a camera and lens combination. That isn't an advertisement. That's just one person saying I find this feature helpful.

Thanks so much Mike!

We bought some of these for my studio after we got rid of the R5s that failed. These and the Hasselblads now. My staff love them. Thanking you for a very good and interesting article.

Thanks so much Tessa! Very cool that you're using them alongside the Hassies!

All true about the OM-1. I love mine. But... for travelling I use my OM-5, which is smaller and absolutely fine if you don't need the more specialist focusing features of the OM-1. A good compact lens combo for travelling is the Panasonic 9mm, OM 12-45 and OM 40-150. Or swap out the 9mm and 12-45 for the OM 8-25, which is fantastic. Wondering what the OM System version of the E-M10 IV will be like.

Thanks Philip! I've never used the OM-5 but heard good things about it. That's another vote for the 8-25 too!

The best tripod to take on vacation is the Slik Mini Pro III, after all this tripod is far more appropriate for taking pictures outside, a full-height tripod is better used inside: https://slikusa.com/products/mini-pro-iii

I have been traveling with Olympus/OM cameras since 2013. Although I agree that the built in ND capabilities of the OM-1 are fantastic, I really enjoy 60-90 second exposures. Therefore, I travel with this tiny (6-inch high) and sturdy little tripod that came with Move-Shoot-Move Rotator. I can attach a 6 or 10 stop ND to the camera, put the little tripod on a trash can or similar, and capture longer exposures. The only place I was ever yelled at was in Times Square. No surprise there.

Took this two second exposure at 82mm without a tripod or IS, I was just positioned my camera on some rocks. Would have preferred the tripod but this was an taken on an unexpected extension of a walk

Make a 17x25 print and see what you get ...

I expect a 17x25 sharp print of the image. The original file on the monitor was really sharp. I wouldn’t expect otherwise, the camera was stable and I used a 10 second timer.

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IFOOTAGE Tripod TC3B, Carbon Fiber Tripod for Camera, Ultra-Portable, Stable and Compact Travel Tripod with Head for Canon Nikon Sony DSLR/Cameras

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• ⭐【Notice】:This item comes with Ordinary Version and Pre-sale Version, both 2 versions are the same in apprance and functions; Ordinary Version with English user manual, Pre-sale Version with Chinese user manual. English user manual can be downloaded on the product page. ☎ 12 Months Warranty and Lifelong After-Sales Service
• ⭐【One Bag to Go】:Professional travel Tripod kit set with tripod and fluid head in one carry bag(included), easy to go anywhere in any time! The Kit weights 1.28kg only; Storage size 49cm, feel free to put into a bagpack/suitcase!
• ⭐【Professional Mini Tripod with Fluid Head】: Tripod Gazelle TC3B and Fluid Head K3 are small in size, but professional in functions; Working height 22-139.5cm; Tripod TC3B payload 5kg, Fluid Head K3 payload 3kg
• ⭐【Compact Fluid Tripod Head】: TMini Fluid Head Komodo K3 included, tiny but professional, offering a 360° horizontal rotation for a broader view and a wide range of vertical tilt angles from +90° to -83°.
• ⭐【Fast Leveling Camera Tripod】:IFOOTAGE Leveling Bowl Mount design offers ultra fast and easy leveling
• ⭐【Stable Video Tripod】:Without center pole, the TC3B is stable as rock. Adjustable leg angles (21°, 45°, 78°)

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Cities [ edit ]

• 52.283333 104.3 1 Irkutsk — the attractive capital and largest city; one of the principal stops on the Trans-Siberian Railway and the gateway to Lake Baikal
• 52.566667 103.916667 2 Angarsk — the second largest regional city is home to the Museum of Clocks
• 56.152 101.633 3 Bratsk — a relatively large city on the Baikal-Amur Mainline
• 51.853611 104.869167 4 Listvyanka — located on the shores of Lake Baikal
• 51.659444 103.706111 5 Slyudyanka - southernmost point of the Baikal, famous for its marble railway station and smoked omul
• 54.9 99.016667 6 Nizhneudinsk — a small city on the Trans-Siberian with a pretty church; located near some interesting caves and a waterfall along the Uda River
• 55.933333 98.016667 7 Tayshet — nothing much to see, but many stop at this important rail junction to begin the Baikal-Amur Mainline

Other destinations [ edit ]

• 53.302778 108.004722 2 Lake Baikal — located between Buryatia and Irkutsk Oblast , is the deepest and oldest lake in the world and also the planet's largest body of freshwater.
• 51.72865 103.72159 3 Circum-Baikal Railway
• 53.15 107.4 4 Olkhon — the largest island in lake Baikal is a real jewel, and worthy of the effort it takes to reach it.
• 51.8531 104.882 5 Pribaikalsky National Park

Understand [ edit ]

Irkutsk Oblast, in particular the capital Irkutsk and the shores of Lake Baikal , is likely Siberia 's top travel destination.

Talk [ edit ]

Russian is understood and spoken by all; some members of ethnic minorities (especially the Buryat) are bilingual and speak their native languages with one another.

Get in [ edit ]

By plane [ edit ].

Irkutsk Airport ( IKT  IATA ) is one of Russia 's most important and receives international flights from Mongolia , China , South Korea , Thailand , and Uzbekistan . Domestic flights are available from most major Russian airports, including: Saint Petersburg , Moscow , Khabarovsk , Yekaterinburg , Vladivostok , and many others.

By train [ edit ]

Despite the importance of Irkutsk Airport, most travellers still arrive via the Trans-Siberian Railway , which stops at (from west to east): Taishet (junction with the Baikal-Amur Mainline ), Nizhneudinsk , Usolye-Sibirskoe , Angarsk , Irkutsk , among other less frequented settlements.

By car [ edit ]

Baikal Highway crosses the region from west to east. A bus from Ulan-Ude connects Irkutsk with Buryatia.

Get around [ edit ]

Bratsk and Ust-Orda are accessible via the Baikal-Amur Mainline from the Trans-Siberian Railway junction at Taishet.

Do [ edit ]

• Camping out on one of Lake Baikal 's islands
• Fishing galore
• Rafting on Irkut river. Whitewater grade is 1-3 in some places of 150 km river.

Read [ edit ]

• Michel Strogoff by Jules Verne.
• Plays by Alexander Vampilov.
• Writings by Valentin Rasputin.

Stay safe [ edit ]

• While being in woods, beware of snakes that are commonly warming in the sun on the stones. There is not many of them but some may be vipers.
• The other problem of this (and other regions of the North Hemisphere) is ticks. Their bites may be infectious. Usually vaccinations are taken beforehand.

Go next [ edit ]

Irkutsk Airport is a useful hub to jump off to different parts of the country.

For closer destinations, most will travel by the Trans-Siberian Railway , which leads to Kansk and further Krasnoyarsk in the west and to Ulan Ude in the east.

The Baikal-Amur Mainline , which runs on a parallel track to north of the Trans-Siberian, begins at Taishet in western Irkutsk Oblast and on to Severobaikalsk .

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Tripod for OMD EM1 Mark II

I thought I would try to glean information from the very experienced group here on the forum, before going ahead on a purchase of a compact/travel tripod.

I am looking for a light-weight compact tripod for the OMD EM1 Mark II.  One of the major reasons I got this camera and the 12-100 PRO is for the IBIS - so the tripod I am looking for is mostly in order to use the HIRES mode for landscapes, as well as taking casual photos of myself and the family all together when we go out etc.

I am currently looking at the Manfrotto Befree Color (the newest 2016 version of the manfrotto befree series).  Where I am located it is roughly 200 American dollars.

What do you think? Suggestions?  For example, because of the incredibly wonderful Olympus IBIS should I just buy a cheaper tripod? Or should I be looking for a tripod with a better versatile ball-head that supports smooth panning?

I am not that familiar with tripods - so please do excuse my naivete.

Finally, I am of the attitude that I rather put the good money down first rather than buying a lesser product and then needing to upgrade later.

Any suggestions or personal experiences would be welcomed!

I'm not up to speed on the vast array of tripod makes and models out there, but based on my limited experience shooting Hi Res with the EM1.2, I was disappointed with Hi Res results with my $150 very lightweight & small carbon fiber travel tripod from Sirui (which has a center post). The resolution of the Hi Res files are barely distinguishable from the standard files. I was thinking Hi Res was not all it's trumped up to be. Then last weekend I took out my much heavier Benro Travel Angel carbon tripod with collapsable center post. This tripod weighs about 4 times as much as the miniature Sirui, but is mid-range for typical $500 tripods. The Hi Res resolution results in my limited expereince using the heavier higher/quality tripod were outstanding - I would say definitely increased resolution/detail even compared to my old 43MP Sony A7RII.

The above being said, my experience with Hi Res is limited. There are other factors that could have affected the poorer than expected results with the Sirui, such as wind exposure and the surface the tripod is mounted on. The non-retractable centre column on the Sirui is definitely not a help - there are models with removable or retractable center columns if you go that way.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/chrisd666 http://500px.com/Chrisd999

Chrisd999 wrote: I'm not up to speed on the vast array of tripod makes and models out there, but based on my limited experience shooting Hi Res with the EM1.2, I was disappointed with Hi Res results with my $150 very lightweight & small carbon fiber travel tripod from Sirui (which has a center post). The resolution of the Hi Res files are barely distinguishable from the standard files. I was thinking Hi Res was not all it's trumped up to be. Then last weekend I took out my much heavier Benro Travel Angel carbon tripod with collapsable center post. This tripod weighs about 4 times as much as the miniature Sirui, but is mid-range for typical $500 tripods. The Hi Res resolution results in my limited expereince using the heavier higher/quality tripod were outstanding - I would say definitely increased resolution/detail even compared to my old 43MP Sony A7RII. The above being said, my experience with Hi Res is limited. There are other factors that could have affected the poorer than expected results with the Sirui, such as wind exposure and the surface the tripod is mounted on. The non-retractable centre column on the Sirui is definitely not a help - there are models with removable or retractable center columns if you go that way.

You need something quite rigid for hi res mode. The lighter travel tripods are just not sturdy enough for consistent results. Based on the Gitzo naming convention you need at least a 2 series capable of supporting at least 12kg (your kit won't weigh that much but it gives an indication of how sturdy and rigid the tripod should be)

Unfortunately not all tripods perform the same. I went to the Photo Show recently hoping to pick up a sturdy travel tripod. I tried Sirui and benro and also Gitzo. I really wanted the cheaper Benro or Sirui but for the same weight and size the Gitzo was simply more rigid. The Gitzo Traveller Gk2545T (which comes with a Gitzo head) was, at £900, twice the cost of the Benro or Sirui but was the only one which managed consistently sharp images in HI Res mode with a short telephoto lens.

Alternatively you could go for one of the cheaper brands but get a larger and heavier series tripod (3 series equivalent or higher).

A good ball head is well worth the money too. Markens, RRS and Kirk are good brands. I usually use an Arca Swiss z1 or P0, but I have to say that I've been really impressed and surprised by the Gitzo head which came as part of the GK2545T kit. Very smooth and with no lockdown creep. I'm using that the most at the moment.

Have Fun Photo Pete

For some reason, people are willing to spend $2,000 on an E-M1ii (or $1,000 for a Pen-F) which will be obsolete after not too many years, but balk at spending $1,000-1,500 on a high quality tripod/head combination which will last forever.  Since I bought my Gitzo/Markins combination, I've bought five cameras.  Not one has improved my landscape and cityscape photography nearly as much as the tripod.   Not to mention the improvement in group portraits.   Plus, it's an absolute pleasure to use due to its quality.

If you find you don't like it or use it, you can always sell it.

I also have two MePhoto tripods that I use for hiking or casual travel where photography is not the primary goal.  They are very nice,  but simply not in the same league.

My Pictures: abbeyworks.smugmug.com My Music: http://www.soundclick.com/bands/default.cfm?bandID=40937 My Blog: thebassmanblog.wordpress.com

SGA wrote: For some reason, people are willing to spend $2,000 on an E-M1ii (or $1,000 for a Pen-F) which will be obsolete after not too many years, but balk at spending $1,000-1,500 on a high quality tripod/head combination which will last forever. Since I bought my Gitzo/Markins combination, I've bought five cameras. Not one has improved my landscape and cityscape photography nearly as much as the tripod. Not to mention the improvement in group portraits. Plus, it's an absolute pleasure to use due to its quality. If you find you don't like it or use it, you can always sell it. I also have two MePhoto tripods that I use for hiking or casual travel where photography is not the primary goal. They are very nice, but simply not in the same league.

I think the reason(s) are very clear.  First, after spending $2000 on an E-M1 and then even more on the PRO lenses, people are feeling very poor.  Balking is to be expected.

Second, it's hard to compare the camera body, with all that amazing technology, to a bundle of sticks and a clamp.

Tripod prices are high because volume is low.

That said, there are a few things to consider when getting a travel tripod for HiRes mode.  You need maximum stability.  You want to shoot without center column, so lower it, remove it, whatever it takes.  You don't want the tripod moving about, it should have thick leg segments and a weight hanging off it.

Better tripods will have decent working height. Better travel tripods will have short folded length.  My criteria for a travel tripod is that it must fit inside my camera bag, achieve eye-level shots with the center column, have a decent working height without center column, and be light (hence carbon fiber).

For my standard camera bag, that is 14.25".  For my compact travel bag, that is 12.5".

I will drag a larger tripod on non-city travel, but if I'm going to the city, the short light criteria apply.

The Sirui T-X series fits my first constraint, and the Sirui T-0X series fits my second.  But I am partial to my ProMaster T525P (discontinued) at 14.25" (without head) and Acratech GP ball head.  Leg diameter is 0.5" to 1.0".

Thank you all for your responses - it is a appreciated.

SGA- I do understand your reasoning behind a $1500 tripod, but I think that since the E-m1.2 has such incredible IBIS, my use of a tripod will be very infrequent, except for what I had mentioned - HIRES shots for still landscapes and the odd family photo when I want to be in the frame myself.

I will definitely keep looking, but will definitely keep in mind the center column and ensure the tripod has a hook for weighting it down.

Check out Feisol. I used one for years with my Pentax DSLR.

SGA wrote: For some reason, people are willing to spend $2,000 on an E-M1ii (or $1,000 for a Pen-F) which will be obsolete after not too many years, but balk at spending $1,000-1,500 on a high quality tripod/head combination which will last forever.

Olympus has reached the pinnacle of the climb for in-body stabilization.  Clearly superior.  THE BEST.  And then they add a feature for which some will advocate a tripod costing more than my favorite body/lens combo, and for which olympus recommends switching off stabilization.  In the end we still rely on centuries-old technology.

PhotonX30 wrote: SGA wrote: For some reason, people are willing to spend $2,000 on an E-M1ii (or $1,000 for a Pen-F) which will be obsolete after not too many years, but balk at spending $1,000-1,500 on a high quality tripod/head combination which will last forever.

Olympus has reached the pinnacle of the climb for in-body stabilization. Clearly superior. THE BEST. And then they add a feature for which some will advocate a tripod costing more than my favorite body/lens combo, and for which olympus recommends switching off stabilization.

Olympus don't recommend switching IBIS off for hi res mode.... IBIS can't even be turned on in hi res mode. Apart from that, oh and the assumption that we are at the pinnacle of IBIS, you've got your comment spot on.

In the end we still rely on centuries-old technology.

And still the best way to get truly sharp images.

Ty83 wrote: Thank you all for your responses - it is a appreciated. SGA- I do understand your reasoning behind a $1500 tripod, but I think that since the E-m1.2 has such incredible IBIS, my use of a tripod will be very infrequent, except for what I had mentioned - HIRES shots for still landscapes and the odd family photo when I want to be in the frame myself. I will definitely keep looking, but will definitely keep in mind the center column and ensure the tripod has a hook for weighting it down. Cheers, Ty

Do try before you buy. Hi Res mode is very demanding for rigid stability. If you go too light or cheap it will be as useful for Hi Res mode as balancing your camera on a jelly. Buying something for $1500 which you use once a month is still better value than something for $400 which you don't use at all!

Most of the tripods mentioned would be OK for family selfies though.

Ha - the irony has not been lost on me either!

I am hoping however that there is a tripod that is stable enough for HIRES at the $500 mark... however naively I may be hoping...

Ty83 wrote: Ha - the irony has not been lost on me either! I am hoping however that there is a tripod that is stable enough for HIRES at the $500 mark... however naively I may be hoping...

There is. Just won't be the smallest or lightest.

It all depends on the lens you want to use. For a 300mm you need much sturdier tripod than for a 12 or 25mm.

I'd only be using the 25 and 12-100 pro.  At this point in time, if I even dreamed of owning the 300mm (and of course the corresponding teleconverter) I would wake up in a makeshift coffin of my wife's devices...

Ty83 wrote: I am hoping however that there is a tripod that is stable enough for HIRES at the $500 mark... however naively I may be hoping...

I can recommend the Feisol CT-3442. It's $400 without a head, a bit over $500 with one. I put a Sirui K-20x head on mine because I like its rubberized knobs over the hard knobs on the Feisol heads.

I was looking for a travel tripod for my MFT kit and was dissatisfied with my $60 Dolica travel tripod. I found the CT-3442 to be the best combination of light weight (2.5lbs without a head), extended height (55", about 59" with a head), folded size (19.3", same with a head attached), and stability (thick 3 section-legs and no center column).

I also like that it's carbon fiber (don't need to worry about it being in water) and that it has foam padding on all the legs for comfortable carry.

There are tripods that fold down smaller, but they all sacrifice stability, either by having 4 leg sections or a center column. Your camera already offers 5.5 to 6.5 stops of stabilization depending on the lens, so for your use cases of tripod (the hi-res mode or very long exposures), stability matters.

I have not bought a tripod for a long time but I bought a 190X series with a RC2 ball head for a total less than $300. I bought it to be used with the E-5 and it is still the sturdiest tripod I have ever owned. I would think it would serve the E-M1 II and be perfectly fine for the hi rez.

No problem, just trying to give my perspective.  It's your money and your photographs, after all.  😄

I actually removed over the center column from my Gitzo.  With old school cameras, it made using the viewfinder annoying.   But with new-fangled gear with tilting LCDs it makes little difference for my shooting.   So you may want to consider a shorter tripod than usual, assuming the legs are stout enough.

I have an E-M5II with the 12-100, which is a very nice combination.

Everyday I make shots with this lens makes me realize how it is exceptional and how I rarely need an other lens (except my Samyang fisheye for ultra-wide shots)

I have been recently disappointed not being able to shot hi-res because I did not have with me a robust enough tripod (I only had a Cullmann 50010, which is only OK to take shots of group with me included)

I bought a Mephoto Roadtrip Air (1,1kg). I hesitated with a Backbacker Air, which is 20% lighter at 900g, but having a more stable tripod (6kg max load instead of 4) and a separate screw for panoramic made the decision for the bigger one.

I did not have the opportunity to use much the tripod, but it seems OK to take hi-res shots, even at the longest focal (100mm), provided you don't extend the central column.

At 165 € it's a good choice.

I have an older Bogen (Manfrotto) tripod that I bought for a medium format film camera that I barely used. The thing is heavy, but very sturdy... and didn't come with a very good head on it (not so easily adjustable, but sturdy). All in all, maybe a bit less than ideal but very sturdy and I've seen the same kinds of tripods sell used for very cheap (they were really common it seems). I've seen 'em go for around $100 so you could buy a better head for it and still not have spent very much... Not the lightest, sexiest piece of gear, but something that will keep your camera very still and cheap. Maybe just budget on carrying a bit more weight in gear and save yourself lots of money...

my flickr: www.flickr.com/photos/128435329@N08/

Agree. I had a 190CX3 / 496RC2 for my E-5 and held it for 5 years until it was lost last week. Never disappointed me.

Unfortunately it's discounted, and current Manfrotto line for the equivalent seems be 190GO carbon but it seems be expensive.

I don't think Befree a good choice since I can even shake it by hand.

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Irkutsk city, Russia

The capital city of Irkutsk oblast .

Irkutsk - Overview

Irkutsk is a city located in Eastern Siberia in Russia, the administrative center of Irkutsk Oblast, one of the largest cities in Siberia. Founded in 1661, Irkutsk is included in the list of historical settlements of Russia.

The population of Irkutsk is about 617,200 (2022), the area - 277 sq. km.

The phone code - +7 3952, the postal codes - 664000-664082.

Irkutsk city flag

Irkutsk city coat of arms.

Irkutsk city map, Russia

Irkutsk city latest news and posts from our blog:.

19 April, 2023 / Steam Locomotive of the Circum-Baikal Railway .

8 June, 2021 / Irkutsk - the view from above .

4 April, 2019 / Cities of Russia at Night - the Views from Space .

16 November, 2017 / The Lost World of Tofalaria .

22 September, 2016 / The train ride along the shore of Lake Baikal .

More posts..

History of Irkutsk

Foundation of irkutsk.

The oldest traces of people who lived in the territory of Irkutsk are about 50 thousand years old. Settlements and burial grounds dating back to the Stone, Bronze, and Iron Ages were discovered on both banks of the Angara River.

Today’s Irkutsk originates from a fortified settlement laid by the Russian explorer Yakov Pokhabov in the summer of 1661. The territory on the bank of the Angara River at its confluence with the Irkut River (hence the name of the settlement) was favorable for agriculture and cattle breeding. The waterway provided communication with the Yenisei River and Lake Baikal.

In 1682, this settlement became the center of the Irkutsk Voivodeship, which included all the fortified settlements of the Baikal region. In 1686, Irkutsk was given the status of a town. After the settlement of Russian-Chinese relations by the Nerchinsk treaty (1689), trade caravans on the way to China (furs, tea, sugar, fabrics) began to pass through Irkutsk. In 1700, about 1,000 people lived in Irkutsk.

In 1719, the town became the center of the Irkutsk Province as part of the Siberian Governorate. In 1730, the merchant Lanin opened an ironworks. In 1745, the first stone residential building was built. In 1762, after the abolition of the state monopoly on the export of furs, the “golden age” of the Irkutsk merchants began. By the end of the 18th century, merchants began to play a leading role in the civil life of Irkutsk.

More historical facts…

Irkutsk - the gate of the Russian Empire to the Far East

In 1764, the Irkutsk Governorate was formed. In the 1770s, the Irkutsk fair was officially opened. In the 1780s, a public library, a theological seminary, a school, and a printing house appeared in the town. In 1790, the dilapidated walls of the fortress were demolished. Irkutsk became a kind of “window to the East” of the Russian Empire, all expeditions organized to the Far East, Mongolia, China, Alaska were formed in this town. From here the settlement of the Amur banks began.

In 1807, the first hospital was opened with private funds. In 1826, the first exiled Decembrists arrived in Irkutsk. In 1836, the first private bank was opened. In 1839, the first public library was opened. In the 1840s, Irkutsk turned into the “capital of the Lena River gold”, a place of concentration of capital of gold miners. In 1856, the population of Irkutsk was about 24,100 people.

In 1864, a telegraph line connected Irkutsk with St. Petersburg. In June 1879, a big fire almost completely destroyed the historic center of the town. The decline of the gold industry began in the late 1880s. In 1897, about 51,000 people lived in the city.

According to the initial project, the Trans-Siberian Railway was supposed to go along a shorter route north of Lake Baikal, away from Irkutsk. However, the project was changed and the first train arrived in Irkutsk in 1898. The railway caused the opening of new transport enterprises, revitalized coal mining and the forest industry, and contributed to the influx of population.

Irkutsk in the 20th century and beyond

During the First World War, more than 10 thousand residents of Irkutsk were mobilized. The industrial enterprises of the pre-revolutionary city were small and mostly artisanal. Most people were employed in trade, services, gardening, and handicraft production. During the years of the Civil War, power in Irkutsk changed several times.

In 1922-1923, Irkutsk was the center of Mongol-Buryat Autonomous Oblast, since 1930 - the center of the East Siberian Krai, since 1937 - Irkutsk Oblast. In 1923, the first stadium was built. The population of Irkutsk was 88,264 people. In 1936, the first reinforced concrete bridge named after Lenin was opened across the Angara River. In the 1930s, an aircraft factory, a metallurgical plant, a sewing factory, a soap factory, and other enterprises were built in Irkutsk.

In 1939, the population of the city was about 250,000 people. During the Second World War, about 20 thousand Irkutsk residents were drafted into the Red Army, about half of them were killed in battles. During the war, some enterprises from the western regions of the USSR were evacuated to Irkutsk. They remained in the city after the war.

In 1958, the Irkutsk Hydroelectric Power Station was commissioned. At this time, the city mainly consisted of wooden one-story houses. In the 1960-1970s, large-scale housing and industrial construction unfolded. In 1970, the population was about 451,000 people.

Until the early 1990s, Irkutsk remained one of the largest industrial centers of the Russian Soviet Federative Socialist Republic with high-tech mechanical engineering: aircraft manufacturing, instrument making, radio electronics; as well as the production of metallurgical and mining equipment, automotive parts, and machine tools. Other major industries were the production of building materials, furniture, printing, light, and food industries. The five largest factories of the city employed over 40 thousand people. In 1989, about 626,000 people lived in Irkutsk.

After the transition to a market economy, a lot of engineering and light industry enterprises were unable to adapt to the new economic conditions and closed. Over the next years, the population of the city began to decline. In 2008, the population of Irkutsk declined to 575,000 people. In 2009, population growth began again. In 2011, Irkutsk celebrated its 350th anniversary.

Picturesque streets of Irkutsk

In the historic center of Irkutsk

Author: Sergey Bulanov

Feinberg House in Irkutsk

Irkutsk Museum of Local Lore

Author: Phil Johnson

Irkutsk - Features

Irkutsk is a unique, old city, the capital of Eastern Siberia.located on the banks of the Angara River in the immediate vicinity of the reservoir formed by the dam of the Irkutsk Hydroelectric Power Station, about 76 from Lake Baikal. The nearest large city is Ulan-Ude located 457 km east of Irkutsk, on the other side of Lake Baikal. The distance to Moscow is about 5,200 km.

The Angara River divides Irkutsk into the right-bank and left-bank parts. The length of the river within the city is 29 km, the width under the Old Angara Bridge in the city center is about 300 meters; there are more than 30 islands on the river.

The climate of Irkutsk is sharply continental with significant daily and annual fluctuations in air temperature. Winter is cold, long and lasts more than 5 months (from late October to early April). The coldest month of the year is January, the average temperature is minus 17.8 degrees Celsius. Summer in the first half is hot and dry, in the second half there are heavy rains. The warmest month is July, the average temperature is plus 18.3 degrees Celsius.

Irkutsk is a large industrial center of Eastern Siberia. “Irkutskenergo” is one of the largests energy companies in Russia with 3 hydroelectric power stations of the Angara River cascade with a capacity of 9 GW, thermal power plants with a capacity of 3.9 GW, as well as coal mines and regional heating systems. Irkutsk Hydroelectric Power Station produces 4.1 billion kWh per year.

The leading industrial enterprise of the city is the Irkutsk Aviation Plant, which gave the name to the current Russian aircraft manufacturing corporation “Irkut”. The plant produces military and civil aircraft and employs about 12 thousand people. Irkutsk Heavy Engineering Plant manufactures gold mining, mining and processing, and metallurgical equipment.

Irkutsk is one of the largest scientific and educational centers of Siberia. The city has a branch of the Siberian Department of the Russian Academy of Sciences with a network of scientific institutes and a number of universities, in which about 100 thousand students study.

Tourism in Irkutsk is mainly transit on the way to Lake Baikal. Foreign tourists stay in the city on average 1.5-2 days, most of them are travelers from China, Germany, and Japan. About 70% of tourists come in the summer season.

Across the left bank of the Angara, the federal highway “Baikal” Novosibirsk-Chita passes through the city. Irkutsk is the railway junction of the Trans-Siberian Railway. Irkutsk International Airport provides flights to Moscow, St. Petersburg, Vladivostok, Khabarovsk, Novosibirsk, Yakutsk. Public transport includes buses, trolleybuses, trams.

On the coat of arms of Irkutsk you can see a “babr” holding a sable in its mouth. From the 17th century, the word “babr” was used to name the Amur tiger inhabiting the Baikal region. There is an interesting story with this word.

In 1859, a large-scale reform of Russian heraldry was launched in order to correct errors accumulated over time. However, it led to new errors. The word “babr” was mostly known to local residents and the people involved in the reform decided that it was just a mistake in the Russian word “bobr” (meaning “beaver”) and approved the new description of the coat of arms of Irkutsk - a beaver holding a sable in its mouth.

However, not a single image was painted of the Irkutsk coat of arms with a beaver holding a sable in its mouth. Instead, the tiger received a large beaver tail and webbed hind legs and turned into a new, mythical animal.

Main Attractions of Irkutsk

Church in the name of the Savior of the Miraculous Image (1706-1710) - one of the first stone buildings in Irkutsk, the only building of the Irkutsk Kremlin that has survived to this day. Also, along with the Epiphany Cathedral, it is the oldest church stone building in Eastern Siberia and the Far East. Sukhe-Batora Street, 2.

Church of the Kazan Icon of the Mother of God (1885-1892) - a surprisingly picturesque Orthodox church made of bright red brick with a blue roof painted with geometric ornaments. This is one of the most beautiful buildings in Irkutsk. Barrikad Street.

Irkutsk Museum of the Decembrists (Volkonsky House) . The museum exposition is located on the territory of the estates of princes Sergey Volkonsky and Sergey Trubetskoy, exiled to Siberia after the suppression of the Decembrist uprising. These houses are monuments of urban wooden architecture typical for Siberia of the 19th century. Inside, historic interiors are recreated, giving an idea of the life of princely families. Volkonsky Lane, 10 and Dzerzhinsky Street, 64.

Victor Bronstein Gallery - a private art gallery founded in 2011. The collection has more than 1.5 thousand paintings, sculptures, and graphic drawings, which makes it the largest beyond the Urals. The exhibits of the gallery belong to various areas of contemporary art. Oktyabrskoy Revolyutsii Street, 3.

The 130th Quarter (the Irkutsk Sloboda) - a historic area located on the site of a suburban quarter of the 18th century. The decision to create the Irkutsk Sloboda was made in 2008. In this quarter, you can see restored traditional wooden houses of Irkutsk with souvenir shops, cafes, restaurants, and hotels. 3 Iyulya Street.

Sculpture “Babr” . “Babr” is the Turkic name for a jaguar or panther; the Yakuts gave this name to the Ussuri tiger. For several centuries, the image of this beast is depicted on the coat of arms of Irkutsk, it is one of the symbols of the city. In 2012, at the entrance to the 130th quarter, a bronze sculpture of a babr 3.5 meters high and 4 meters long was installed.

Lower Embankment of the Angara - a street located in the northern part of the historic center of Irkutsk, the oldest city embankment. In the 18th century, a stone cathedral of the Epiphany was erected here. Large-scale reconstruction of the embankment was carried out in 2010-2011. Today, this place is the heart of Irkutsk. Nearby you can find all the main churches and monuments, as well as enjoy beautiful views of the majestic Angara River. Nizhnyaya Naberezhnaya Street.

Irkutsk Regional Museum of Local Lore . The 19th-century mansion houses the history department, in separate buildings you can visit a natural science section and a studio where furniture and household items of the 19th and 20th centuries are presented.

On the territory of the Irkutsk Sloboda, the exhibition “Window to Asia” is open, telling about the development of Siberia and the accession of this part of the world to the Russian Empire. Tourists who decide to go to the icebreaker “Angara” will learn a lot of interesting things about shipping on Lake Baikal, and visitors who are interested in the personality of Grigory Rasputin can go to the museum named after him. Karl Marx Street, 2.

Icebreaker “Angara” . On the outskirts of Irkutsk, in the Solnechny microdistrict, you can see one of the world’s first icebreakers - the oldest surviving to this day. Produced in England, it was moved to Lake Baikal to pave the way in the ice for the ferry “Baikal” in 1900. In 1987, it was decided to restore this icebreaker and turn it into a museum ship. Here you can see unique photographs, documents, personal belongings of crew members. Marshal Zhukov Avenue, 36a

Art Museum named after Vladimir Sukachev - one of the largest museums of fine art in Siberia. Vladimir Sukachev (1849-1920) was a Russian public figure, philanthropist, collector, founder of the Irkutsk Art Gallery. The exposition presents the masterpieces of Russian, Eastern, West European, and Siberian art of the 15th-20th centuries. Lenina Street, 5.

Museum-Estate of Vladimir Sukachev . This picturesque wooden mansion twisted with carvings is a masterpiece of wooden architecture. The estate is a complex of buildings, some of which (including the main house) were restored in the 2000s. Inside, there is a memorial exhibition dedicated to the family of Vladimir Sukachev. Dekabrskikh Sobytiy Street, 112b.

Roman Catholic Church (1881). The Catholic parish was founded in Irkutsk in 1820. Most of the parishioners were Poles, who were exiled to Siberia after the Polish uprising. Therefore, the Catholic Church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary is often called the Polish Church. In 1974-1978, the church was restored, it housed the organ hall of the Irkutsk Regional Philharmonic. Today, religious services and organ music concerts are held here. Sukhe-Batora Street, 1.

House of Merchants Shastin (House of Europe) - a manor of the late 19th - early 20th centuries also known as a “lace house” because of a beautiful carved decor reminiscent of the finest lace. The architectural style of the building is defined as Russian Baroque. The house was saved from demolition and restored from old photographs at the initiative of the French Association for the Preservation of Architectural Monuments in 1999. Fridrikha Engelsa Street, 21.

“Taltsy” - an architectural and ethnographic complex located about 40 km from Irkutsk. Here you can see a collection of monuments of the 17th-20th centuries, mostly wooden buildings from villages and towns of the region flooded during the construction of the Irkutsk Hydroelectric Station.

Irkutsk city of Russia photos

Architecture of irkutsk.

Merchant Vtorov Mansion in Irkutsk

Author: Tsvik Ilya

Pharmacy in Irkutsk

Author: Kusov Denis

Irkutsk Railway Station

Author: Genadi Giebler

Sights of Irkutsk

House of Europe in Irkutsk

Alexander Kolchak Monument in Irkutsk

Author: V.Chokan

Vladimir Lenin Monument in Irkutsk

Author: Serj Kras

Pictures of Irkutsk

Irkutsk Oblast Court

Author: Sukhareva Elizaveta

Transfiguration Church in Irkutsk

Epiphany Cathedral in Irkutsk

Author: Aleksander Reshetnik

The questions of our visitors

Irkutsk is one of the most dangerous cities in Russia in terms of criminal situation. During your visit to Irkutsk it would be better to avoid walking alone in the evening/night time, especially not in the central part of the city.

Update. This question was asked and answered in 2010. At that time, the Irkutsk region including the city of Irkutsk was on the 80th place among 83 regions of Russia by the number of crimes per 100,000 inhabitants (27.12). In 2017, the situation was better but the region remained at the bottom of the list, on the 63th place among 82 regions (19.5).

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