Choosing the best travel tripods can sometimes be a bit confusing because of the wide range of excellent choices that are available as well as the practicality of lugging around a more stable but heavier tripod. While you can travel with almost any tripod, the ones that are specifically designed for travel are more compact and light enough to fit into your carry on luggage.
Although you’ll find a whole range of travel tripods to suit every budget, we’ve picked out what we think are the best travel tripods to help you narrow down your choices. So if you’re carrying one of the best travel backpacks for gadgets, you can be sure to accommodate some of these ultra-light tripods from our list.
What Makes a Good Travel Tripod
While most travel tripods boast of being ultra-light, experienced photographers will know that lighter isn’t always better. A lightweight tripod is sometimes pretty difficult to keep steady. However, windy conditions may cause problems even for the sturdiest travel tripods. Although the best travel tripods are more expensive than most others, you can get a pretty good tripod at an affordable rate if you know what to look out for.
Weight
While one of the main things to take into consideration with a travel tripod is the weight of the tripod itself, you’ll also need to consider how much weight the tripod can hold. You don’t want your tripod falling apart because your camera is much heavier than the specified weight it can hold. A tripod with a higher carrying capacity is definitely much sturdier.
When considering the actual weight of the tripod, you might want to look at a carbon fiber model. Although these are more expensive than the aluminum ones, they will definitely cut down the weight of your luggage.
Counterweight Hooks
You’ve probably not given much thought to the simple hook at the bottom of a tripod’s center column but this seemingly insignificant feature adds great value to the tripod. When you add weight to this hook while shooting in windy conditions, it provides greater stability to the tripod.
Fewer leg sections
Don’t get impressed by too many leg sections. A tripod with reverse fold legs and a leg section count under five is a better option than one with too many sections. If you’re going to be shooting outdoors, look out for a tripod with retractable feet spikes that will stand steadily in soft ground.
Quick and Easy Set Up
Tripods that are quick and easy to set up will save you a lot of time and stress. A quick-release plate and other smaller details like how fast the legs can be broken down or released are features that you need to consider. Also, a tripod that has a dual function is a good option as it will save you the bother of packing more accessories.
AmazonBasics Lightweight Camera Mount Tripod Stand
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One of the best travel tripods for a beginner budget traveler is the AmazonBasics 60-inch Lightweight Tripod. With over 26,000 ratings on Amazon, with 76% being five stars, this tripod is a clear winner. Weighing in at 1.3kg, the tripod can accommodate almost all cameras weighing up to 3.3kg. When fully extended, it reaches a height of 60 inches. The locks on the legs release smoothly and glide effortlessly to the desired height.
With two built-in bubble view levels and a three-way head, the tripod can be used for tilt and swivel motion or portrait and landscape options. The quick-release mounting plate provides fast transitions between shots whilst the rubber feet provide better stability. It also comes with a zippered carrying case which makes it easy to transport.
What We Love About It
- The good functionality despite the ‘throw away’ price on this one.
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to use
- Two-built in bubble view levels
- Zippered bag included
- Extends up to 60 inches
- Easy on the wallet with an affordable rate
Cons
- The tripod does not perform that well with panning and turning. For steady photographs and videos, however, it performs quite well.
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Gitzo GK1545T-82TQD Series 1 Traveler Kit with GT1545T 4 Section Tripod & Head (Black)
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Unlike the previously reviewed tripod, you’re definitely going to burn a hole in your wallet with the Gitzo GK1545T-82TQD Series 1. However, if you’re ready to go out on a limb with this one, you’ll have yourself one of the best travel tripods. A superb build, extremely user friendly, and a great design make this worth its weight in gold.
The thin profile on this travel tripod belies what it’s capable of. Although it weighs only 1.42kg, this tripod will hold up to 10 kgs which is ideal for someone requiring a sturdy tripod for a sports contest or a destination wedding. Gitzo’s 180-degree leg folding system on its traveler tripods makes efficient use of folded space by fitting the center column and head between the tripod legs. You can also remove and replace the ball head with another of your choice.
Added to this, the Traveler G-lock system makes it possible to have taller tripods with compact folded legs. Dust and grit are prevented from entering the locks by the internal O-ring. You can also expect to have a better grip with the new curved external form. Another great feature of the Gitzo travel tripods is the introduction of Carbon eXact tubes. These tubes that are manufactured using High Modulus carbon fiber, add so much more to the performance without compromising on weight.
What We Love About It
- The weight that this tripod is capable of holding and the sturdiness that the carbon exact tubes provide
Pros
- Has the perfect balance between lightweight and sturdiness
- Traveler G-lock technology
- Smooth traveler ball head
- Carbon fiber tubes improve performance
- 180-degree leg folding mechanism
Cons
- Very expensive
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Peak Design Travel Tripod
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Peak Design is renowned for their camera bags, belt holster systems, and carrier straps. However, the newest addition to their line up, the innovative Peak Design Travel Tripod has caught the interest of the avid traveler. Available in both aluminum and carbon fiber, this tripod is quickly gaining a reputation for being one of the best travel tripods. However, it does not come at a small price. The carbon fiber model is sure to burn a big hole in your wallet.
One of the best things about the Peak Design Tripod is the unique design that makes it easier to set up or takedown. Although it extends up to 60.2,” the tripod folds down to as small as a water bottle at 15.2.” The aluminum model weighs 1.56kg while the carbon fiber is lighter at 1.27kg.
What makes this a great travel tripod is the easy set up where the legs deploy in seconds without flipping over. The ergonomic ball head is also easy to use with a single adjustment ring and no bulky or confusing knots. The tripod is also Arca Swiss compatible and has a unique built-in mobile phone mount.
What We Love About It
- The easy set up and the fact that it folds down to the size of a water bottle is pretty impressive
Pros
- Arca Swiss compatible head
- Legs deploy in seconds
- No bulky or confusing knots for the ball head
- Built-in stowable mobile phone mount
- You can choose between the less expensive aluminum model or carbon fiber model
Cons
- The carbon fiber model is quite expensive
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Oben CT-3535 Folding Carbon Fiber Travel Tripod with BE-208T Ball Head
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Boasting several options for low angle shooting, the Oben CT-3535 Folding Carbon Fiber Travel Tripod, is not only compact but versatile too. A reversible low angle center column allows you the flexibility of shooting at a height of just 8.6.” You can also use this as a monopod by removing one leg of the tripod. The rubber feet can also be removed to expose spiked feet that will prevent slipping on soft ground, sand, or grass.
It’s fairly simple to set up and also folds up neatly into its own carry bag. Five-sections enable the tripod to reach a maximum height of 51.6″ via integrated twist locks. Added to this, three locking angles provide more stability when shooting on uneven terrain. The BE-series dual-action ball head includes an Arca-type compatible quick release plate to make it easy to mount or dismount a camera. It also has separate locking knobs that help to independently adjust the ball and panoramic base. This tripod weighs only 1.1kg and can hold up to 4.1kgs.
What We Love About It
- Various options for low angle shooting
Pros
- Great for low angle shooting
- Spiked feet for shooting on soft ground
- Dual-action ball head is smooth and effortless to operate
- Arca-type compatible quick release plate
- 5-section tripod with 3 locking angles
Cons
- When moving the head from landscape to portrait, the plate on the camera tends to get loose at times
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Zomei 58″ Compact Light Weight
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The low price on the Zomei 58″ may leave you a bit skeptical about how well it will perform but you’ll be quite surprised with this one. This lightweight tripod is fairly easy to use and convenient to carry around with you. At just 1.13kg you can be sure that it will easily fit into your carry on luggage. The aluminum alloy legs are easily adjustable with three flip locks to aid in adjusting the size of each leg. Self adjusting feet ensure a very steady platform.
For additional stability, you can also hang an extra weight on the hook at the center of the column. A mobile pan head is also easy to adjust with fixing screws and water balance. It allows you to pan left and right or tilt it up or down with no issues. The quick-release plate is also fast and easy to remove.
What We Love About It
- It is definitely value for money with so many positives
Pros
- Compact lightweight
- Included carry case
- Can carry up to 5kg
- Extends to 58″
- Easy to set up and use
- Mobile pan head
- Affordable price
Cons
- The level on this one can be problematic
- It’s great for short term use but is not a good choice for long term use
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Sirui W-1204 Waterproof Carbon Fiber Tripod
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One of the best travel tripods for the outdoor photographer is the Sirui W-1204. The reason we mention outdoor photographers is that this is one of the few tripods that are actually waterproof. With the sealing system on this one, you can safely place the legs in shallow water with no fear of it jamming the twist locks. It’s not just water-resistant but waterproof!
For added strength and increased load capacity, the tripod is crafted from a lightweight 10 layer 100% carbon fiber. Each leg comes with an automatic leg angle lock mechanism that makes it quick and easy to make adjustments. Despite the water-proofing material on the legs, the Sirui extends and contracts effortlessly. When fully extended, it reaches an impressive height of 70.9 inches which is great for shooting in deeper water. It folds down to a mere 20.5 inches.
What We Love About It
- We were impressed by the water-proof features on this one
Pros
- Waterproof legs
- Good for rugged conditions
- Extends up to 70.9 inches and folds down to 20.5 inches
- Can hold up to 18kg
- Leg angle locks make adjustments faster and easier
Cons
- You need to be aware of how far you turn the knurls when extending the legs
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Manfrotto PIXI EVO
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If you’re looking out for a great table-top tripod, Manfrotto’s PIXI EVO is one of the best options. Manfrotto is a known name in the tripod industry because of its sturdy and versatile tripods. They have some of the best travel tripods in the market and are generally the ‘go-to’ option for most people.
An advanced version of the original PIXI model, Manfrotto’s PIXI EVO packs quite a punch despite its compact size. However, if your expectations exceed the size of this one, you might be sorely disappointed. This lightweight portable tripod can hold up to 2.5kg so you won’t have any problem trying to fit a small DSLR camera onto it. However, a heavy DSLR camera may not work well on it. It’s good for most mirrorless cameras with kit lenses and cell phones.
The tripod is also pretty simple to use with two-section legs that flip out pretty easily. You can flip out the legs when using it as a tripod or push them back for a camera grip. Two leg angle positions with a sliding sector enable you to get good ground-level images. Another great feature of the PIXI EVO is that you can also shoot in portrait mode.
What We Love About
- It punches far above its compact size and weight.
Pros
- Two-section legs and two leg angles for low-level shooting
- The ball head fits into regular camera tripod sockets
- Easy and quick to set up
- Increased payload makes it compatible with a wider range of cameras
Cons
- It does not have a quick-release plate which could be a bit of a hindrance
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Neewer Carbon Fiber 66 inches/168 centimeters Camera Tripod Monopod with 360 Degree Ball Head
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At less than four pounds weight and with a dual function of a monopod and tripod, the Neewer Carbon Fiber Camera Tripod is a pretty good option for travel. This lightweight tripod that is capable of handling up to 12kg is a great tripod for outdoor adventure shoots.
For the price you pay, this tripod exceeds expectations. The legs have a three-position leg angle adjustment system for flexible shooting. They also have a quick lock and unlock twist function and can fold all the way around backward for easy storage in a bag. Perfect for panoramic shooting, the 360 degrees swivel ball head and QR plate also help in fast transitions between shots.
What We Love About It
- Quite obviously the dual option of using it as a tripod and monopod.
Pros
- Dual function
- Quick-release leg locking and mounting plate
- High-density carbon filter tube
- 3 position leg angle adjustment system
- Included Arca Swiss plate
- Portable bag
Cons
- The leg angle locks can be a little difficult to unlatch if the legs are open
- Switching between the tripod and monopod option can be a little tedious
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Davis & Sanford TR654C-36 Traverse Carbon Fiber Grounder Tripod with Ball Head
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A tripod that can provide optimal stability on a variety of terrains is what the Davis & Sanford TR654C-36 Traverse promises to give. Quick twist leg locks, four-section legs, three independent leg angles, and rubber or spike feet provide stability and good functionality. It’s also easy to store and transport as the reverse folding legs are easy to break down.
The Traverse can reach a maximum height of 65 inches and take a load capacity of 5.44kg. You can also adjust it to as low as nine inches. Removing or mounting your camera is easy with the Arca-Swiss compatible quick release plate. A dual control ball head, two bubble levels, and a calibrated base and ball friction knob give you the perfect set up every time. The great thing about this tripod is that it comes with a 10-year warranty.
What We Love About It
- Despite its carbon fiber body it’s surprisingly easy on the wallet
Pros
- Easy to maneuver
- Quick twist leg lock
- Dual control ball head
- Lightweight and easy to set up
- Breaks down very easily
- Comes with a case
Cons
- The push buttons for opening the legs are not very user friendly
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Vanguard Alta Pro 263AB 100
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Vanguard Alta Pro 263AB 100 boasts of being one of the most flexible tripods in the world. Unmatched versatility and stability give you the benefit of more shooting angles. This is possible because of three different leg angles and a central column that can be easily moved from zero to 180-degree angles in various vertical and horizontal positions because of the innovative Multi-Angle Central Column System. When fully extended, it reaches a height of 68.2″ and folds down to 28.2.”
Quick flip leg locks combined with a magnesium die-cast canopy, non-slip, spiked rubber feet, and a removable hook make this a good travel tripod to own. In addition to this, you’ll also find an instant swivel stop-n-lock system that securely repositions the central column in one easy movement. The smooth fluid-like SBH-100 ball head includes a quick-release plate QS-39 and bubble levels.
What We Love About It
- The great quality and versatility caught our attention. It’s definitely good value for money
Pros
- Stable, sturdy ball head
- Good value for money
- Multi-Angle Central Column system allows better flexibility of the central column
- Instant swivel stop-n-lock system to reposition central column movement
- Premium magnesium die-cast canopy
Cons
- A little heavier than other brands
- Positioning the pole at 90 degree angle can be a bit tedious
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Benro SLIM Lightweight Travel Tripod Kit
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Featuring an innovative, slim profile shoulder that provides more stability and compactness when folded, the new, Benrol SLIM is easy-to-use and not too heavy on the wallet. This travel tripod kit is available in aluminum or carbon fiber. If you’re looking out for an affordable tripod, the SLIM is one of the best travel tripods.
The Benro SLIM extends from 15.7 inches to about 57.6 inches. It has three leg positions and each leg can be positioned individually to suit the terrain. A single-action removable ball head and the oversized ratchet style lock knob makes it easy to operate. The aluminum model weighs only 1.17kg, while the one with carbon fiber weighs just under 1kg. Combined with a slim profile shoulder, this tripod is ideal for travel.
What We Love About It
- We liked the look of the tripod and the affordable price on the carbon fiber model
Pros
- Folds compactly and fits into carryon luggage with no issues
- Low weight and well built
- Arca-Swiss style camera plate
- Easy and quick to set up
- Good twist lock mechanism
Cons
- The ball head is a bit to basic and both rotation and angle are handled by one lever
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MeFoto RoadTrip
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The MeFOTO RoadTrip is another versatile tripod that has a dual role as a monopod and tripod. This versatility also spills over when adjusting its height. With five leg sections, you can adjust the tripod to the height that you want. Setting this up is not complicated at all because of the innovative rubberized locking grips and anti-rotation legs. Another great feature of this tripod is the foam grip on the monopod leg which is extremely handy in high or low temperatures.
Two different leg angle positions give you added flexibility to shoot in different positions. At the bottom of the center column, you’ll also find a spring-loaded recessed hook from which you can hang additional weight for greater stability. Arca-Swiss style compatible quick release plate, dual-action heavy-duty ball head, and an integral bubble level help you set up that perfect shot. When you’re done shooting, the tripod legs can be inverted and folded back 180 degrees for easy packing. Although it weighs only 1.63kg it’s quite capable of holding a full DSLR and telephoto lens.
What We Love About It
- We love the versatility of this tripod and the wide range of colors that it comes in
Pros
- Sleek design
- 360-degree panning
- Twist lock legs with anti-rotation system
- Dual function
- Carry case included but it can also fit into your backpack
- 5-year warranty
Cons
- The center column cannot be set horizontally
- The carbon fiber model is quite expensive
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Manfrotto MT190CXPRO4 Carbon Fiber 4-Section Tripod
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Manfrotto is definitely a name to be reckoned with in the tripod sector. Their products are highly rated for their versatility and quality. The Manfrotto MT190CXPRO4 Carbon Fiber 4-Section Tripod lives up to these expectations with some great features. You can be sure to take some great pics or videos with this one because of the 100% carbon fiber tubes that provide additional stability.
Featuring the Quick Power Lock which is a strong, ultra-fast locking system. It gives you the advantage of opening the four-section legs with one hand. These legs also have four angles that enable you to adapt to any terrain with extra stability. One feature that stands out on the Manfrotto is the compactness which makes it easy to carry. An ‘easy link’ plug allows a quick link between tripod and accessories paving the way for setting up your own portable photographic studio. In addition to this, you’ll also find the new patented Rotating Leveling Bubble which is quick and easy to set up.
What We Love About It
- Manfrotto tripods rank pretty high on our scale and the sturdy mid-weight MT190CXPRO4 does not disappoint on all fronts
Pros
- Solid and fast to set up
- The innovative mechanism allows the vertical column to swing to a horizontal position
- Easy link plus for instant accessory connections
- Q90 column
- Built-in rotating bubble level
Cons
- The legs tend to shift a little even after everything is tightened
- Due to the hexagon shape of the center column, you cannot spin it around
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