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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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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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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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• HEIPI 3-in-1
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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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Savvy Travel Advice

Guide to the Best Travel Tripods

Last updated: February 16, 2024 - Written by Jessica Norah 11 Comments

Travel tripods are an essential tool for many travelers who want to improve their photography. A travel tripod can make it easier to capture better travel photos and allows for more creativity and advanced photography options.

So we wanted to share our guide to the best travel tripods out there on the market today. As professional photographers, we travel nearly everywhere with a tripod for our photography, and we regard a travel tripod as a must-have item for any keen photographer—amateur or professional.

Travel tripods come in a variety of sizes, materials, and shapes to fit just about any travel budget and style. From super compact mini tripods that can fit into a purse or day bag to heavy-duty professional travel tripods. We’ll help you find the best tripod for your next trip!

Whether you are completely new to the idea of using a tripod or are a long-time tripod user looking for an upgrade, this is the post for you. We’re going to share everything you need to know about buying a travel tripod, including what to look for in a tripod for travel, and things to consider when making a purchasing decision.

We’ll also share our list of the best travel tripods on the market today, across a range of budgets, so you can make an informed decision. Whether you have a $30 or $300 budget, we’ll share our picks for the best travel tripod for you!

Table of Contents:

Guide to Choosing a Travel Tripod

Before sharing our list of the best travel tripods, we wanted to give you some advice on whether you need a tripod for travel, how a travel tripod differs from a regular tripod, and how you can decide if this type of tripod is right for you.

We then go over all the features you will want to look for in choosing a tripod for traveling so that you can evaluate any travel tripod on the market and choose the best one for you.

What is a Travel Tripod?

A travel tripod is a three-legged support for a camera that is generally designed to be lighter and smaller than a standard tripod. Travel tripods usually have a collapsable design that allows them to pack up more compactly than a full-size tripod.

Like all tripods, travel tripods normally consist of two main parts. A base of three legs and a top part, called the tripod head with camera mount, which is where you attach your camera. The main purpose of a tripod is to provide support and stability for your camera and to prevent camera movement or shaking. This allows you to do hands-free photography.

Tripods are most associated with cameras and still photography, but tripods are also commonly used with camcorders, wildlife spotting scopes, binoculars, and telescopes. For instance, at home, we use one of our tripods with our bird watching scope as well.

In addition to tripods, you will also find travel monopods on the market. Instead of three legs these have one leg and are usually much lighter and easier to pack than tripods. These are not as stable as tripods, but can be great for those who need to move around a lot such as for sports or wildlife photography.

Finally, if you don’t have room for a tripod or monopod, you might also consider a photography bean bag , which can be a great option especially for things like safari photography .

Do I need a Tripod for Travel?

You might be wondering whether or not you need a tripod for your travel photography. And this is a great question. After all, a tripod can be a weighty bit of equipment to add to your packing list. So you want to be sure that it’s a worthwhile addition.

A tripod is not for everyone or every trip, so you should consider do I need a travel tripod ? However, we do think a tripod is an essential part of your travel photography kit if you want to improve your photography.

First, a tripod opens up a range of photography styles and techniques that are either impossible or very difficult to achieve without a tripod. This includes long exposure photography and time lapse photography, as well as taking photos of stars , photos of fireworks , and photos of the Northern Lights .

However, it’s not just these more advanced types of photography that benefit from a tripod. If you are traveling on your own, a tripod is one of the best options for getting better pictures of yourself . A tripod also makes it way easier to take great couple photos without relying on strangers to take your photo.

A tripod, in our experience, also helps you compose better photos. This is because it slows you down and makes you consider the scene and composition more thoroughly. So it can help you improve you photography just by slowing you down and making you concentrate more on what you are shooting.

But there are lots of other instances you might find a travel tripod helpful. You can check out our guide to reasons why you need a tripod for travel photography for more ideas.

Travel Tripod versus Full Size Tripod

The biggest advantage of travel tripods over full sized tripods is that they are generally smaller and lighter. This make them easier to transport, pack, and use when traveling.

However, this reduction in size and weight in travel tripods means that they are generally not as durable or tough as regular tripods. They are typically more susceptible to breakage and damage, and are less stable.

Both types of tripods can work with any type of photography or video gear from smartphones to a professional DSLR camera setup. However, for heavier cameras and pro kits, you’ll want to look at the more high-end travel tripods as smaller and cheaper tripods are not going to be suited for heavier equipment.

If you are new to tripods, we think getting a good travel tripod is a great way to go, whether you plan to use it a lot for travel or not. If you do find yourself using it a lot and wishing you had something larger and more stable, you can always upgrade in the future.

We own several tripods ourselves. We generally use a regular full-sized tripod when at home or traveling by car, and use the travel tripods when traveling internationally or when hiking. For us, it depends a lot on whether we are traveling for work or leisure, where we are traveling, how we are traveling (e.g., plane or car), and luggage requirements.

Here are some of the main advantages and disadvantages of a travel tripod versus a regular tripod:

Advantages of a Travel Tripod vs. Regular Tripod

• Smaller and more compact
• More lightweight
• Often less expensive
• Takes up less space in luggage
• Easier to transport

Disadvantages of a Travel Tripod vs. Regular Tripod

• Not as durable
• Less stable and less able to hold heavy equipment
• Lower height can make it more uncomfortable and less useful for certain shots
• May offer fewer features

What to Look For When Buying a Travel Tripod

Before purchasing a travel tripod, you need to know what to look for. Travel tripods come in a range of sizes, materials, and prices. The best tripod for you will depend a lot on your camera and photography equipment, budget, and goals.

Whether you are looking for something “cheap and adequate” or “high end and tough”, we’ll help guide you through the various things you should pay attention to when deciding on which travel tripod to buy.

We’re going to go through all the features of a travel tripod that you should consider before making any purchase. That way, you can quickly evaluate any tripod, whether its on our list or not and make a good buying decision.

Travel Tripod Size / Height

Size is often one of the most important factors for people when it comes to picking a travel tripod. If you are looking for a travel tripod, rather than a regular full sized tripod, size is a probably a key consideration.

There are two measurements that you want to consider when looking at the size of a travel tripod.  First is the height of the tripod when it is extended for use. Second is the size of the tripod when it is fully folded and collapsed for storage.

Let’s look at the height first, which is achieved by extending the tripod. The majority of tripods on the market can extend in two ways. The first of these is the legs, which usually telescope out to give the tripod its height. The second way you can increase the height of the tripod is by use of a center column. This center column, which you attach the camera to, can extend above the top of the three legs, to give additional height.

Whilst the center column can be useful to give the tripod extra height, extending the center column too far can make the tripod less stable and steady. This is particularly the case with newer travel tripods which have 2 section colums that allows for telescoping extensions. As a result we’d recommend being cautious about fully extending your tripod’s center column, especially if you have heavy gear. We recommend looking at the height of the tripod with and without the center column extended when comparing tripods.

Ideally, you want a tripod that extends to a height that is comfortable for general use. If you will be using the tripod a lot, you don’t want to spend your time hunched over trying to look through your camera’s viewfinder.

There are a few considerations that will affect your decision regarding the extended height of the tripod. The most important will be your personal height. Taller people will generally want taller tripods as shorter tripods will be more awkward and require bending or hunching over.

If you have a camera with a flip out screen, this can help compensate for a shorter tripod, as you can flip out the screen to ninety degrees, and you can look at it from above without having to hunch over as much.

We would recommend that you will want a travel tripod that can extend to a height of at least 48 inches (122 cm). Preferably you can get this height without needing to fully extend the central column. Taller individuals will likely want something taller.

Those who do a lot of macro shooting, photography in confined spaces, or photography that includes getting close up to object will also want to pay attention to the minimum operating height for the tripod. Some tripods have legs that can angle at different degrees and can get down close to objects at ground level. Just note that the more you angle the legs, the more you will test the limits of your tripod.

If you are just going to be shooting on a tripod occasionally, or have a compact camera or smartphone, you might find a mini tripod or tabletop tripod works fine for you rather than a larger tripod. These tripods generally are only 5 to 12 inches (13 to 30 cm) in height and are much less expensive.

Now, the second size you want to pay close attention to is the size of the tripod when fully collapsed and folded up. For travel, you will want a tripod that folds away to a fairly compact size to make it easier to carry and store.

The ideal size for you will depend on your specific needs and how you plan to transport it. But we’d suggest for travel, a tripod that is 18 inches (45 cm) or less in size would be optimal. Anything larger may be difficult to pack and carry for many travelers.

If you want something super small, like something that can fit into a purse or small backpack, you’ll want to look at the mini tripods or tabletop tripods. Some of these can fold up to just several inches in length.

Overall, the size of the tripod will depend on your personal preference and what you are looking for from a tripod. You’ll also have to balance size against other factors like price, weight, and load capacity.

Travel Tripod Weight

When it comes to a travel tripod, weight is definitely something you want to consider. Of course, this will depend a little on your travel style. For example, if you primarily travel close to home or take road trips, the weight of your tripod may not matter as much.

However, if you plan to fly with your tripod, you will need to consider the weight of it against your luggage allowance. In addition, if your photography journey is likely to involve long walks or hiking, then you will definitely not want to be carrying anything too heavy with you.

We’d suggest that most people will want to look for a tripod that is 3 lbs (1.36 kg) or less in weight, as this will be easier to carry on a day to day basis. Most travel tripods on the market fall into a range of 2 lbs to 4 lbs. Heavier tripods are usually a bit more stable and sometimes offer more height, but this is a trade-off you will have to consider carefully when choosing.

The weight of a tripod is largely influenced by two main factors: the overall size of the tripod and the material the tripod is made from.

A larger tripod will inevitably weigh more than a smaller tripod. Other factors like how thick the legs are and the size of the head on the tripod will also contribute to the weight.

The material the tripod is made from also make a difference to the weight. For instance, a carbon fiber tripod is lighter in weight than the same model made from aluminum.

As an example, the travel tripod we use most is the Vanguard VEO 2 265CB , which is a carbon fiber travel tripod that weighs 2.98 lbs (1.35 kg). The aluminum version of the same tripod, the VEO 2 265AB weighs 3.4lbs (1.5 kg).

Note that a heavier tripod is not always a bad thing, as it may be more stable and sturdy, although less ideal for travel.

Material of Tripod

Most travel tripods are either made from some sort of metal, like aluminum, or from a composite material like carbon fiber. The two most common materials used to make tripods are aluminum and carbon fiber.

As noted above, the material of the tripod is important in terms of the weight of the tripods. The material can also affect the strength, durability, and load capacity of the tripod.

Carbon fiber is currently considered the ideal material for tripods as it is both lighter in weight and stronger than aluminum. Carbon fiber can also stand up to weather and scratches better than aluminum. So its a win-win when it comes to both weight and durability.

However, the downside is that carbon fiber is more expensive than aluminum. A carbon fiber tripod can somtimes be up to double the price of the same tripod made of aluminum.

If you have a healthy budget, then we’d recommend looking for a carbon fiber tripod. But if you have a smaller budget, you can still get a good tripod made of aluminum at a much lower price. Just note it will weigh a little more and may not last as long as a carbon fiber tripod.

Tripod Load Capacity / Stability

Tripods are all tested and given a load capacity by the manufacturer, which is the maximum weight of equipment that the tripod is able to hold.

Load capacity is definitely important to consider, as you want to be sure when buying a tripod that it will be able to handle your gear. The load capacity will also give you a good indicator of the stability of the tripod.

In our experience, these provided load capacities can be a bit optimistic, especially for travel tripods. There is also no universal testing standard for tripod load capacity calculations so you need to take them with a grain of salt. A DSLR camera with a long heavy lens will always test a travel tripod, especially in windy conditions.

There’s no ideal load capacity and it will depend on the weight of your gear. So to determine what kind of load capacity minimum you need in a tripod, you will want to calculate how heavy your camera equipment is including batteries and accessories. Then, you want to find a travel tripod with a load capacity well above that of your photography gear.

So, for instance, if your heaviest photography gear set up weighs 5 lbs (2.3 kg), I’d probably look for a travel tripod designed to hold at least 10 lbs. (4.5 kg). This will ensure a bit more stability and also flexibility if you get a heavier lens or camera body in the future.

It’s also worth noting that the rated load capacity is based on the tripod being extended normally. Some tripods offer the facility to angle the legs at greater angles. At these angles, the load capacity will be reduced. For example, the Leo 2.0 tripod has a load capacity of 66 lbs at the standard 23 degree angle but that drops to 22 lbs at a 80 degree angle.

Finally, in our experience at least, extending the center column can affect the stability of the tripod. For this reason, we advise against fully extending the center column, especially with heavier gear.

Type of Leg Locking Mechanism

Most tripods have collapsible legs made from a series of leg sections. This means that when you put away the tripod, the legs collapse inside each other.  When you extend the tripod for use, you then need to use leg locks to hold the leg sections in place and make them stable.

Each leg section of the tripod has a mechanism that you can use to release the leg section or tighten it. This means you can individually adjust the length of each leg section, and you can use the tripod with as many or as few leg sections extended as you want.

There are two main types of leg lock on the market: twist leg locks and flip leg locks. Twist locks have you twist the lock in order to tighten and loosen it. Flip locks flip open and closed.

There are advantages and disadvantages to both types of leg lock, and it mostly comes down to a personal preference for which you prefer. Or perhaps it is not a feature that makes much difference to you.

In our personal experience, we have found that flip locks are more liable to catch on parts of your bag or camera strap, as they stick out of the leg. However, I have found flip leg locks to be more reliable than twist locks over time, as the thread mechanism can eventually wear down on twist locks. Flip locks can also be easier for people who have a harder time gripping and twisting the legs.

That said, overall we prefer the twist locks. They are neater, fast to use, and don’t catch on our bags when packing the tripod away. So we prefer them, especially on a travel tripod. But again this is just a personal preference.

Tripod Head

The tripod head is the top part of your tripod and it is where you will attach your camera. The type of tripod head will determine the range of motion, speed, and versatility in which you are able to position and move your camera.

There are a range of different types of tripod head on the market, with the two most popular being ball heads and pan and tilt heads.

Ball heads are by far the most popular for still photographers and are the standard type of tripod head that comes with most travel tripods. They offer the most flexibility when it comes to adjustment and camera position, and are the most compact type of head.

Pan heads or pan & tilt heads allow for individual axis control, so you can pan and tilt the camera independently. This allows for easier small adjustments, and also makes for better video results as you can move on one axis without having to worry about the other axis. These are great for those who plan to a lot of photography or video that involves motion and action.

Most travel tripods, with the exception of most of the mini tripods and some of the lower end tripods, come with removable tripod heads. So you can remove and switch tripod heads if you want to change or upgrade your tripod head at a later date.

Most travel tripods with come with a head attached, and this is normally a ball head. For higher end tripods, they often sell the legs and heads separately, so you can choose the type of tripod head you want.

Generally, for travel photography, we’d recommend a ball head tripod head. As noted, most tripods come with this as the standard option.

Tripod Camera Mount / Quick Release

Another thing to consider in relation to your tripod head, is the camera mount attached to it. There are two main ways to attach a camera to a tripod: by manually screwing it to the tripod or by attaching it via the use of a quick release plate.

Most tripods will allow for one or the other. The screw in method is common on mini tripods, budget tripods, monopods, and older tripods. The use of a quick release mount has become the most common way for photographers to attach their cameras to a tripod and you’ll find it on most travel tripod models on the market today.

You will likely be aware that almost all cameras have a standard size threaded screw hole in their base. This is the tripod mount point, where you can directly attach the camera to a tripod with a camera screw (the standard 1/4″-20 screw ) . This is a simple process but if you need to take your camera on and off the tripod a lot, this becomes tiresome to do.

To avoid having to screw in a camera each time someone wants to use a tripod, most tripods now have some form of quick release system. So instead of needing to screw in your camera, the tripod will come with a mounting system and compatible quick release plates, or quick release shoes, that you attach to the bottom of your camera through the screw hole in the base.

The quick release plate allows you to slide or clip the camera into place onto the tripod mount without needing to screw it in. This allows you to more quickly attach and remove your camera from the tripod.

If you buy a tripod with a quick release mounting system, it will come with at least one camera plate for you to use. All you will need to do is to attach that to the bottom of your camera.

There are different standards for these plates, with the most common being the Arca-Swiss style of mount. This is a popular cross-brand mounting system, meaning all the tripod heads and attachment plates adhere to the same size standard. But some tripods, including Manfrotto brand tripods, do have manufacturer specific mounting standards.

We love the ease of the quick release system and most of our tripods have the Arca-Swiss style mounting system and we have compatible quick release plates on all our mirrorless and DSLR cameras. We recommend this system, especially for those who use a tripod a lot or need a tripod for heavier cameras

However, that said, most mini tripods often don’t have the quick release mounts. Our mini tripod, the VESTA TT , has a regular screw mount and we typically use it with our compact camera or action camera, or use it with an adapter for our phone. It still takes only a few seconds to screw these on and it is not much of an issue with lightweight cameras.

Travel Tripod Cost

No discussion about photography gear is complete without talking about cost and budget, and this includes travel tripods.

As you would expect, travel tripods generally cost less than standard sized tripods, although the prices vary widely. You can get a basic mini tripod for about $10 or pay over $1,000 for the most expensive travel tripod models!

A number of factors will affect the budget such as the material of the tripods, the size, and the brand. For example, you will pay more for tripods using carbon fiber and titanium parts than those made of aluminum. Amazon brand tripods are going to be less expensive than those from well-known tripods manufacturers like Manfrotto, Vanguard, and 3 Legged Thing.

There is no need to spend a lot on a travel tripod. This is especially true if you are new to tripods and are not sure how often you will use it. As noted prices for mini tripods on our list start at less than $10 and for regular travel tripods at just $30.

If you plan to use the tripod mainly with your smartphone, compact camera, or another lightweight camera, many of the more basic tripods will probably work just fine. You can always upgrade your tripod set up later.

For most travelers who are looking for a nicer tripod that is a good value, we’d look at tripods in the $100 to $200 range. You can find a lot of nice tripods in this range.

As you start to head north of $200 or $250, generally the return on investment begins to shrink. Sure, a $600 tripod is likely going to be better than a $200 tripod, but it is unlikely to be 3 times as good.

If you have a heavier setup, just be sure to get a tripod that is equipped to handle the load as the more basic and budget tripods are not adequate for DSLR or pro setups. So you will want to look at the mid-range and higher end tripods, but you can still find good value tripods out there.

Tripod Warranty

Tripods from most of the most known brands, like Manfrotto, Vanguard, and Gitzo, will come with some sort of manufacturer’s warranty. Warranties are usually for at least 2 year, some much longer. This is helpful if you find a defect in the tripod or something breaks and you need replacement parts.

Note that the length and type of warranty often depends on where you live (different countries have different laws) and the specific product. Some companies may require you to register your product to take advantage of extended warranties, so do read the warranty information.

While the warranty coverage may not be very important for those looking for a $50 tripod, we would definitely check on the warranty coverage for those planning to invest a bit more on their tripod.

Additional Features

At its heart, a tripod is a fairly simple three-legged device designed to keep your camera steady so you can use it handsfree. In order to stand out from the crowd, tripod manufacturers will usually differentiate their products with various features.

How important these are to you will vary depending on what you are going to be using the tripod for. One of the most common extra features is that the tripod may come with accessories such as a tripod cover or tripod bag which can be useful for transport. Many also come with a tripod level so you can easily tell if a tripod is level or not.

Some tripods allow you to flip the tripod head upside-down, with the camera hanging below and between the legs, instead of above them. This feature can be useful in certain photography situations such as macro photography where you want to get as close to a subject as possible. If this is important to you, pay close attention to the minimum operating height of the tripod when choosing a model.

Other tripods might come with a hook on the center column, from which you can hang a sandbag or tripod weight. This is useful for providing additional support, especially in more windy conditions. It can also be used to hang camera accessories when shooting.

However, there is a limit to how different a tripod can be given the size, weight, and material constraints on travel tripods. So most of these features are nice to have but are not necessary. As always, you’ll have to decide what features are most important to you.

Best Travel Tripods

Now that we’ve gone through the key specifications and features to look for in a travel tripod, we are now going to provide a list of recommendations for specific travel tripods.

We have broken the lists into three categories: mini tripods, regular travel tripods, and travel monopod. So you can skip to the list that is most relevant to you.

The tripods in each list are ordered by retail price, from least expensive to most expensive. We cover what we believe are the best travel tripods on the market today. For each tripod, we’ll explain its key strengths, and why we’ve chosen to include it on the list.

Best Mini Tripods for Travel

We’ll start our guide to the best travel tripods with a round-up of the best mini-tripods and tabletop tripods. Mini tripods usually fold up to 5 inches to 10 inches (12 cm to 25 cm), making them perfect for travel. They can be stashed away easily in a day bag or purse and usually weigh less than 10 ounces (283 g).

Some of the tabletop tripods can be a bit larger, especially those designed for heavier gear, but they are still smaller and lighter than the regular travel tripods.

These small tripods are ideal for smartphones, compact cameras, webcams, and action cameras. Some models can even support mirrorless and lighter DSLR cameras, but be sure to check the load capacities and read reviews if you have a heavier camera.

They are definitely not as flexible and useful as a regular travel tripod, but for occasional use they are definitely a great compact option.

Here are our picks for the best mini travel tripods, ordered by retail price, from least expensive to most expensive:

AmazonBasics Lightweight Mini Tripod

If you want a really small, basic, and budget friendly tripod for your compact camera or smartphone, this is an excellent option.

This mini tripod from Amazon features a ball head for 360 degree positioning of your camera, extendable legs that mean it packs away to a really small size, and rubber feet for stability.

The lightweight mini tripod extends up to 7.5 inches in height and collapses down to just over 5 inches, so it is easy to store. Just note that it has a load capacity of only 1.1 lbs, so you only want to use this for smartphones, compact cameras, GoPros, webcams, and other lightweight devices.

This isn’t the most durable mini tripod and it’s a bit flimsy, but if you are just looking for a basic budget mini tripod under $10 for a phone or small camera this would be our recommendation.

Just note that if you want to use this with a smartphone, you’ll need to also get a separate adaptor like this .

Weight : 4.2 ounces / 119 grams Folded Length: 5.1 inches / 13 cm Minimum Height / Extended Height : 4.75 inches (12 cm) / 7.5 inches (19 cm) Load Capacity : 1.1 lbs / 0.5 kg Main Material : Aluminum Head : fixed mini ball head Mount Type: international standard 1/4″ -20 screw Price : Check price and buy on Amazon here

Vanguard Vesta TT Mini Tripod

The Vanguard Vesta TT is the mini-tripod we have and use with our phone, GoPro, and compact camera. It comes with a smartphone adapter already included but can also be used for cameras and other devices on the screw mount.

In terms of capabilities, this a simple lightweight mini tripod. The legs fold out but they are not adjustable. Since there are no joints or leg locks, there are less parts that can break. The three legs are connected, so when you extend one for use they all extend, making setup very fast.

There’s a ball head with a friction lock, and rubber feet for stability. As noted, we also like that it comes with a detachable smartphone holder that is adjustable to hold almost any phone. This is great so you don’t have to buy an additional adapter if you want to use your phone.

In terms of carrying capacity, the Vanguard Vesta TT can support cameras up to 4.4lbs (2 kg) which means it can handle lighter camera setups. The lightweight mini tripod folds to a very convenient 6.7 inches (17 cm).

If you are looking for something simple and stable, we can highly recommend this one. We’ve had no issues with it so far.

Weight : 5.5 oz / 155 g Folded Length: 6.7 inches / 17 cm Height : 3.9 inches (10 cm)  Load Capacity : 4.4 lbs / 2 kg Main Material : Aluminum Head : fixed mini ball head Mount Type: international standard 1/4″ -20 screw (also comes with a smartphone adapter) Price : Check latest price on Amazon here , B&H here and Adorama here

Manfrotto Pixi EVO 2 Mini Tripod

If you want a mini tripod that can support a heavier camera, the Manfrotto Pixi EVO 2 is a great choice at a reasonable price point.

The sturdy legs have two sections allowing them to be adjusted and extended to a height up to 7.8 inches (20 cm). The tripod is lightweight at just over 9 ounces (260 g) and folds up to 8 inches (20.5 cm) in length.

Note that while this is designed to hold mirrorless cameras and smaller DSLR cameras, it is not intended for heavy DSLR camera setups or pro setups. If you want to use this with a smartphone, you’ll need a separate adaptor like this from Manfrotto .

If you are looking for a good overall mini tripod, we recommend the Manfrotto Pixi tripods.

Weight : 9.2 oz / 260 g Folded Length : 8.1 inches (20.5 cm) Minimum Height / Extended Height :  4.1 inches (10.5 cm) / 7.8 inches (20 cm) Load Capacity : 5.5 lbs / 2.5 kg Main Materials : Aluminum / Technopolymer Head : fixed ball head Mount Type : international standard 1/4″ -20 screw Price : Check latest price on Amazon here , B&H here and Adorama here

JOBY GorillaPod 5K

JOBY Gorillapod is a well-known line of mini and table top tripods that come with bendable and flexible legs. JOBY offers a full range of mini tripods from tiny ones suitable for phones and compact camera to larger ones suitable for heavier cameras. If you find the bendy legs appealing, then you can find a mini tripod to fit just about any kind of camera.

For those doing video and live streaming, we particularly recommend the JOBY GorillaPod 5K as it often recommended as the best travel tripod by vloggers and YouTubers. JOBY has recently released an upgraded version of this tripod that comes with 2 additional arms for more vlogging device attachments.

The strength of the Gorillapod design comes from its clever leg design. Each leg is made from a series of flexible joints, meaning you can bend and wrap this tripod in all sorts of ways. This is particularly useful if you are outside and want to wrap it around a bench or tree branch to get a shot.

The legs also come together and the rubberized rings make it easy to hold and grip for video. It can also be stood up like a regular tripod as well! This makes the JOBY GorillaPod tripods unique in terms of their functionality.

There are a number of GorillaPod models with the 5K being the heavy-duty version that can hold up to 11 lbs or 5 kg of gear and can extend up to 15 inches (38.5 cm) in height. So the tripod is able to hold the camera gear for most travelers. But there are several other smaller models like the GorillaPod 1K model  if you are just looking for something for a smartphone or lightweight camera setup.

The JOBY GorillaPod 5K sort of fits in the middle between a mini tripod and a regular travel tripod. It is heavier and larger than the other mini tripods on our list, but is much lighter and more compact than the regular travel tripods.

If you are interested in a versatile in-between size travel tripod, this may be the tripod for you.

Weight : 1.63 lbs / 0.74 kg Folded Length : 15.1 inches / 38.5 cm Minimum Height / Extended Height : ~ 6 inches (15 cm) / ~ 14  inches (35.5 cm) Load Capacity : 11 lbs / 5 kg Main Materials: ABS Plastic / Aluminum Head : Ball head Mount Type: international standard 1/4″ -20 screw & Arca-Swiss compatible quick-release mount Price : Check latest price on Amazon here , B&H here and Adorama here

Now if you are looking for something a bit larger, we’re going to focus on the regular travel tripods. To help you choose a travel tripod, we’ve gone through a whole range of options and made a list of what we think are some of the best travel tripods currently on the market.

When selecting a tripod, there is quite a range in terms of length, height, weight, load capacity, and budget. You’ll likely have to compromise on some factors, but you want to know what is a must-have for you so you get all the features that matter the most.

Travel tripods often extend up to 50 to 60 inches (127 to152 cm) in height and weigh between 2 and 4 pounds (.09 to 1.81 kg). The collapsed folding length varies between about 12 inches and 25 inches (30 to 63 cm) with most travel tripods under 20 inches. Load capacities can range widely, with most travel tripods offering between 5 and 25 lbs. (2.27 to 11.34 kg) of load capacity.

We think most travelers will be best suited with one of these tripods as they offer the most versatility and durability out of the different types of travel tripods.

Here are our picks for the best travel tripods, ordered by retail price, from least expensive to most expensive:

AmazonBasics Lightweight 60 in Tripod

If you are looking for a budget buy, we’d consider taking a look at this AmazonBasics tripod. Despite its budget nature, it has many of the features you would expect from a travel tripod.

The tripod is lightweight, offers a pan and tilt head and quick release mounting system, and can extend to a good length of 60 inches when fully extended. The tripod also has two bubble levels to help you level the tripod and a hook on the center column for adding weight. The tripod also comes with an included zippered carrier bag.

The tripod is a metal and plastic construction with a 6.6 lb (3 kg) load capacity, and is suitable for smartphones, compact cameras, and smaller mirrorless and DSLR cameras. But this is not the tripod you want to attach a heavier camera or setup with large telezoom lenses!

The materials used in its construction mean that it is not going to be as sturdy or durable as higher priced tripods. It is also by far the bulkiest travel tripod on our list with a folded length of 24 inches. The arms of the pan head also add additional bulk.

The tripod comes with a quick-release mounting system which is useful; however, note that it does not appear to be compatible with most Arca-Swiss plates. However, this only matters if you already have quick release plates on your gear.

All this said, if you want a good sized tripod at a budget price, this is a great option to consider. This is a great tripod setup for someone starting out on their photography journey. It is also perfect for those with lighter weight gear looking for an occasional tripod at a budget price.

Weight : 3 lbs / 1.36 kg Folded Length : 25 inches / 63.5 cm Minimum Height: 24 inches (61 cm) Fully Extended Height: 60 inches (152 cm) Height without Column Extension : ~ 52 inches (132 cm) Load Capacity : 6.6 lbs / 3 kg Main Materials: Aluminum / Plastic Head : 3 way pan and tilt head Mount Type: quick release mount (not Arca-Swiss compatiable) Price : Check Price and buy on Amazon here

SLIK Sprint 150

Another tripod to consider for those with a smaller budget is this SLIK tripod. It is a bit more pricey than the Amazon model, but offers a better build, less weight, and less bulk.

The tripod is super lightweight, has a ball head, bubble level, and Arca-Swiss compatible quick release mounting system. It folds down to 20 inches (50 cm) and extends up to 64 (163 cm) at its maximum height. The tripod also comes with an included carrier bag.

You get a lightweight tripod with a reasonable load capacity (up to 4.5 lbs), that folds down to a manageable size. It isn’t designed for heavier camera setups, but the build quality is good, the price is certainly reasonable, and it is a great option for those with lighter camera setups.

The SLIK Sprint 150 travel tripod is another good option for those looking for a budget-friendly travel tripod. You can usually get it for around $60.

Weight : 2.3lbs / 1 kg Folded Length : 19.9 in (50cm) Minimum Height: 7.4 in (18.5cm)   Fully Extended Height : 64.3 in (163cm) Height without Column Extension: 52.5 in (133cm) Load Capacity :  4.5lbs / 2kg Main Material: Aluminum Head : Ball head Mount Type: Arca-Swiss compatible quick-release mount Price : Check the latest price on Amazon here , B&H here and Adorama here

Vanguard Vesta TB204AB

The Vanguard Vesta TB204AB is one of many tripods in the Vanguard range.

Laurence has been an ambassador for Vanguard since 2014, and we have used many of their tripods over the years. We always have a Vanguard tripod in our travel photography gear kit .

The Vanguard Vesta TB204AB is the entry-level model in the Vanguard line, but is still a very capable tripod at a very attractive price point. For your money, you get a lightweight aluminum ball head tripod with an Arca-Swiss compatible quick release mounting system.

The 204AB folds down to 14.8 inches (38 cm) and weighs only 2 lbs (0.9 kg), making it ideal for travel. For its size, it has a decent load capacity of 6.6 lbs so can handle most types of gear.

The main drawback of this tripod is that the maximum height of the tripod is only 51.2 inches with the center column extended, and only 41.5 inches with it down. So this isn’t the tallest travel tripod. However, given the price and travel-friendly folded size and weight, it’s definitely a great option to consider.

Weight : 2 lbs / 0.9 kg Folded Length : 14.8 in / 38 cm Minimum Height: 11.8 inches (27.9 cm) Fully Extended Height : 51.2 inches (130 cm) Height without Column Extension : 41.5 in (105cm) Load Capacity : 6.6 lbs / 3 kg Main Material: Aluminum Head : Ball head, arca compatible Mount Type: Arca-Swiss compatible quick-release mount Price : Check Price and buy on Amazon here , B&H here and Adorama here

MeFOTO RoadTrip Pro Aluminum

MeFOTO are another popular tripod brand, and this aluminum tripod is their classic travel tripod.

Another neat feature of this tripod is that you can detach the center column from the tripod, attach it to one of the tripod legs, and you have yourself a 64″ monopod. So if you are thinking that a monopod might come in handy at times, this tripod gives you that option.

The tripod has a good load capacity of 17.6 lbs (8 kg) for a travel tripod at this price range and is pretty compact. However, at 3.6lbs (1.6kg) it is a bit heavier than many of the other options on our list.

The tripod comes with a fairly wide range of color options which is nice bonus, and also comes with a carry case.

Like many of tripods on our list, there are both aluminum and carbon fiber versions available of this tripod. So if you like the specifications but don’t like the weight, consider the carbon fibre version. This is a bit lighter and more durable than the aluminum version, but it almost doubles the cost. So the aluminum model is probably the best bet for those looking for a good value tripod.

Weight : 3.6 lbs / 1.6 kg Folded Length : 15.4 in (39.1 cm) Minimum Height: 15.4 in (39.1 cm) Fully Extended Height : 61.6 in (156.5 cm ) Height without Column Extension : 53 in (134cm) Load Capacity : 17.6 lbs / 8 kg Main Material: Aluminum Head : Ball head Mount Type: Arca-Swiss compatible quick-release mount Price : Check the latest price on Amazon here and B&H here

Vanguard VEO 2 GO 265CB

The VEO 2 Go 265CB tripod is a smaller and lighter version of the travel tripod that we currently use (the VEO 2 265CB ). The Go range of VEO tripods are even more travel focused than the original VEO range, with the tripods being even lighter and smaller than the original VEO range.

The VEO 2 Go 265CB is wonderfully light thanks to the carbon fiber construction, and it folds down to a very compact 12.75 inches. This is the most compact of the travel tripods on our list, and also one of the lightest!

However, there are some downsides to this compact nature. Whilst the extended height is a reasonable 56.5 inches, this is largely thanks to a 2-section center column. The tripod without the center column extension is a fairly short 44 inches. So we’d caution against using this tripod fully extended, especially with heavier gear. Although using a tripod weight bag can help.

The tripod also includes a center column hook for adding weight, a set of spiked feet, and a carrying bag.

Overall though, we think this tripod offers a compelling option for those looking for something that is very lightweight and compact, yet can still handle a reasonable load (up to 13.2 lbs).

Those of you looking for a taller tripod should consider the VEO 2 GO 265HCBM , which is designed for taller photographers and offers a much higher maximum height. The center column on this latter tripod also converts for use as a monopod.

Weight : 2.63 lbs / 1.2 kg Folded Length : 12.75 inches (32.4 cm) Minimum Height: 8.25 inches (21.5 cm) Fully Extended Height : 56.5 inches (143.5 cm) Height w/o Column Extension: 44 inches (113 cm) Load Capacity : 13.2 lbs / 6 kg Main Material: Carbon fiber Head : Ball head Mount Type: Arca-Swiss compatible quick-release mount Price : Check prices Amazon here and  B&H here

Vanguard VEO 3 GO 265HCB

The Vanguard VEO 3 265HCB is our current go-to travel tripod that we use for most of our travel photography when traveling internationally. We think it offers an excellent combination of price and performance.

The VEO 2 265CB has a carbon fiber construction and weighs only 3.1 lbs (1.4 kg). The fully extended height is an impressive 65.5 inches and it still offers 49.5 inches of height without any center column extension. It folds away to a reasonably compact 16.2 inches.

Load capacity is fantastic at 22 lbs (10 kg), meaning it can support the camera setup of most travelers. The ball head features a bubble level so you can easily see if your camera is level, and the quick release plate is Arca-Swiss compatible. We also like the twist lock legs which make for quick and easy setup. It comes with its own carrying bag.

Overall, we think this is a very well priced carbon fiber tripod that should satisfy most travel photographers. It is currently our favorite all-around travel tripod pick.

Weight : 3.1 lbs /1.4 kg Folded Length :  16.2 inches (41 cm) Minimum Height : 8 inches (21 cm) Fully Extended Height : 65.5 inches (166.5 cm) Height without Column Extension: 49.5 inches (126 cm) Load Capacity : 22lbs / 10 kg Main Material: Carbon fiber Head : Ball head Mount Type: Arca-Swiss compatible quick-release mount Price : Check prices on Amazon here , B&H here , and Adorama here

Manfrotto BeFree GT Carbon Fiber

Manfrotto is another respected name in the tripod space, and Laurence’s very first travel tripod was a Manfrotto model. They have an extensive range of tripods to choose from, with the BeFree range being their main line of travel tripods.

One of the models that stands out in this range is the Manfrotto BeFree GT Carbon Fiber tripod. The tripod offers a great load capacity (22 lbs / 10 kg) at a reasonable weight (3.42 lbs / 1.55 kg) and compact folded length of 16.9 inches (43 cm). It comes with a carrying bag included.

The tripod has a ball head with a quick-release system, however, be aware that Manfrotto uses their own mounting system standard and plate designs which are not compatible with the Arca-Swiss standard. So you will need to only use their release plates on your cameras and other gear.

This same tripod is also available in a less expensive aluminum version as well.

Weight : 3.42 lbs / 1.55 kg Folded Length : 16.9 in (43 cm) Minimum Height : 16.9 in (43 cm) Fully Extended Height : 63.8 in (162 cm) Height without Column Extension : 54 in (138cm) Load Capacity : 22 lbs / 10 kg Main Material : Carbon fiber Head : Ball head Mount Type : quick release mount (not Arca-Swiss compatible) Price : Check price on Amazon here , B&H here and Adorama here

Peak Design Travel Tripod

We’ve been big fans of Peak Design for a long time, primarily for their awesome camera straps which we use on all our cameras. However, Peak Design also make a travel focused tripod, which offers some unique features.

It’s available in both aluminum and carbon fibre. We think the aluminum model will suit for most users as the carbon fibre model is quite a bit more expensive. The aluminum version is the one we use.

With a load capacity of 20lbs (9.1kg) and weight of 3.43lbs (1.56kg), this travel tripod should meet the needs of most traveling photographers. You get a built-in magnetic phone mount, a built-in ball head, and a tripod that presents a very packable profile. In fact, it’s one of the more portable full size travel tripods we’ve used.

It’s easy to set up and use, with fast-access low-profile leg locks. The mounting plate is ARCA compatible, and it comes with a hex tool and weatherproof carrying bag. There’s a load hanging hook, optional attachment points for Peak Design straps.

Weight : 3.44 lbs / 1.56 kg Folded Length : 15.4 in (39.1 cm) Minimum Height : 5.5 in (14 cm) Fully Extended Height : 60 in (152.4 cm) Height without Column Extension : 51.25 in (130.2cm) Load Capacity : 20 lbs / 9.1 kg Main Material : Aluminum Head : Ball head Mount Type : quick release mount, Arca-Swiss compatible Price : Check price on Amazon here , and Peak Design here .

3 Legged Thing Leo 2.0

3 Legged Thing are another well known tripod manufacturer who are definitely worth checking out when it comes to travel tripods, especially if you have heavier camera gear. They have a number of options, but I suggest the Leo 2.0 model is the one to check out for most travelers.

The 3 Legged Thing Leo 2.0 tripod is a sturdy well-built carbon fiber travel tripod, with an impressive maximum load rating of 66 lbs (30kg)! This is the highest load capacity of all the travel tripods on our list and is an impressive number for a travel tripod.

It folds up to a compact 14.7 inches (37.4 cm) and can extend up to 57.7 inches with the center column extended. However, it is worth noting that this impressive height is due to the longer telescoping central column. Without the central column extended, the tripod is only 44 inches, which is definitely on the lower end. This tripod is also heavier than most travel tripods at 4.08 lbs (1.85 kg).

All three of the legs on this tripod are detachable, and you can attach the center column to one of the legs to create a monopod. The monopod is 59.2 inches (150.4 cm) with the ball head attached. A great option for those who want the option to take a lighter monopod on some trips.

If you are looking for a sturdy tripod with a high load capacity, and don’t mind it being a little heavier than the average travel tripod, this is a solid option.

Weight :  4.08 lb / 1.85 kg Folded Length : 14.7 in (37.4 cm) Minimum Height: 4.9 in (12.5 cm) Fully Extended Height :  57.7 in (147 cm) Height without Column Extension: 44.13in (112 cm) Load Capacity : 66 lbs / 30 kg Main Material : Carbon fiber Head : Ball head Mount Type : Arca-Swiss compatible quick-release mount Price : Check Price and buy on Amazon here , B&H here and Adorama here

Gitzo Lightweight Series 2 Traveler

We couldn’t do a round up of tripods without featuring one of the tripods from the high-end brand Gitzo. Gitzo are essentially the Rolls Royce of tripod manufacturers. They are certainly not a budget option, but for those of you with a healthy wallet, they are certainly a solid choice.

Their travel tripod range is conveniently called Traveler. We’d recommend the Lightweight Series 2 traveler tripod as offering a great balance of size and stability.

The Gitzo Lightweight Series 2 is a well built tripod featuring an Arca-Swiss compatible ball head that has a bubble level and independent pan and tilt locking, which makes it easier to capture panoramas. It extends up to 65 inches (165 cm) with a load capacity of 26.4 lbs (12 kg), allowing it to work for just about any photographer’s needs. Even with the center column down, you still get an impressive 55 inches (142cm) of height.

However, this tripod is one of the heaviest on the list at just over 4 lbs. If you want something lighter and even smaller, checkout the Lightweight Series 0 Traveler, which offers a more compact system at the expense of height.

This is definitely a premium tripod, but we think it is worth the price if you have the budget and you want something sturdy and durable from a well-known brand.

Weight : 4.06 lbs / 1.84 kg Folded Length : 17.6 in (44.5 cm) Minimum Height: 13 in (33.2 cm) Fully Extended Height : 65 in (165.5 cm) Height without Column Extension : 55 in (142cm) Load Capacity : 26.4 lbs / 12 kg Main Material : Carbon fiber Head : Ball head Mount Type : Arca-Swiss compatible quick-release mount Price : Check Price and buy on Amazon here , B&H here and Adorama here

Best Travel Monopods

Whilst a monopod isn’t a tripod, some photographers find that a monopod offers a good balance between portability and use. Travel monopods are lighter, less bulky, and more portable than a travel tripod. Travelers who choose monopods over tripods typically do so because they don’t want to carry the weight of a tripod.

You can find a lot of travel monopods weighing less than 1 lb and they typically don’t weigh more than 2 lbs. So they can be perfect for someone who wants the height but not the weight or bulk of a travel tripod. However, they are usually a bit longer than the average travel tripod when collapsed.

Note that monopods generally come with a fixed head. However, you can attach a tripod head to them, just note that this will add weight so be sure to keep that in mind. Generally, monopods don’t come with quick-release mounts/plates but you can attach a tripod head that supports a quick release plate if you wanted to use one.

Monopods are particularly useful for when a photographer is shooting wildlife, events, or sport scenes and needs to move and reposition heavier gear a lot. They can also be used to support a microphone or camera boom. Some travel monopods are also designed to double as a walking stick and so can be particularly useful for those who do a lot of hiking or backpacking.

However, although monopods offer more support and stability than freehand shooting, they are still more limited than using a tripod. Monpods are not a substitute for a tripod. So it is a tradeoff between the easier portability and the functionality for many people.

Note that if you are thinking that a monopod sounds useful in some situations, but you still want a tripod, you might consider a tripod that can convert into a monopod. For instance, the MeFoto RoadTrip Classic and the VEO 2 GO 265 HCBM are two examples of tripods that can be converted into monopods.

If you are considering a standalone monopod for your travels, here are some to consider:

Manfrotto 290 Carbon Fiber Monopod

If you are looking for an excellent balance of price and features, we think the Manfrotto 290 carbon fiber monopod offers great value for money.

This carbon fiber tripod offers a flip lock leg system that extends up to almost 60 inches (151 cm) and folds down to 19.2 inches (49 cm). The load capacity of 11 lbs (5 kg) means it will help support most cameras. A rubber grip and angled wrist strap help provide extra stability.

The carbon fiber construction means its lightweight but strong, and you get good load capacity combined with a good maximum height. For those with a smaller budget, an aluminum version is also available.

Weight : 17.6 oz / 500 g Folded Length : 19.2 inches (49 cm) Minimum Height / Extended Height : 19.2 inches (49 cm) / 59.4 inches (151cm) Load Capacity : 11 lbs /  5 kg Main Material: Carbon fiber Head : Fixed Mount Type: dual 1/4″-20 screw and 3/8″-16 screw Price : Check Price and buy on Amazon here , B&H here and Adorama here

Vanguard VEO 2S CM-264TR

If you want a slightly more fully featured monopod, check out the VEO 2S CM-264TR monopod from Vanguard. It actually has three feet which fold out, and whilst these make the monopod a little heavier than others, you get a huge stability advantage over a standard monopod.

The VEO 2S CM-246TR offers a twist lock leg system that can extend up to 64 inches (162 cm) and folds down to 21.5 inches (54.6). The foldable feet allow for more stability and smoother videos. The load capacity of 13.2 lbs (6 kg) means it can handle all but the heaviest camera setups.

This monopod also comes with a wrist strap, universal smartphone mount, carabiner, and protective rubber transport cap for the mounting screw. The included mount is great for those who also want to use it with their phone.

If you like the look of this one but have a smaller budget, a less expensive aluminum version is also available.

Weight : 1.96lbs / 890g Folded Length : 21.5 inches (54.5cm) Minimum Height / Extended Height :: 21.7 inches (55cm) /  64 inches (162 cm) Load Capacity : 13.2lbs / 6kg Main Material : Carbon fiber Head : Fixed Mount Type : international standard 1/4″ -20 screw Price : Check Price and buy on Amazon here , B&H here , and Adorama here

3 Legged Thing Alan Monopod

If you have a seriously heavy setup, then you might want to consider the Alan Monopod from 3 Legged Thing. Boasting a spectacular load capacity of 132 lbs (60 kg), this should be able to handle even the most professional and extreme lenses without trouble!

Despite this load ability, the Alan still only weighs 1.34 lbs (600 g) thanks to a carbon fiber construction. It has a 5 section twist lock style leg construction that collapses down to a relatively compact 17.7 inches (45 cm). It comes with large rubber grip and a tri-mount plate that allows for a camera or other accessories, such as microphone or boom, to be easily attached.

If you want to add more stability to the tripod, you can add a three-way foot add-on like this to increase stability if you wish.

This is a more pricey monopod option, but if you need something that can support a lot of weight, this is a great option.

Weight : 1.34lbs / 609 g Folded Length : 17.7 inches (45cm) Minimum Height / Extended Height : 17.7 inches (45cm) / 58.7 inches (149cm) Load Capacity : 132 lbs / 60 kg Main Material: Carbon fiber Head : Fixed Mount Type: dual 1/4″-20 screw and 3/8″-16 screw Price : Check Price and buy on Amazon here , B&H here and Adorama here

Best Travel Tripod for Different Travelers & Purposes

Here are our picks for the best travel tripods, depending on your specific needs and budget:

• Best Mini Travel Tripod : Manfrotto Pixi EVO Mini Tripod
• Best Travel Tripod Under $30 : Amazon Basics Lightweight 60 in Tripod
• Best Travel Tripod Under $100 : Vanguard Vesta TB204AB
• Best Compact / Lightweight Travel Tripod : Vanguard VEO 3 Go 235CB
• Best Rugged Tripod for Adventure Travelers : 3 Legged Thing Leo 2.0
• Best Tripod for Video and Vlogging : JOBY GorillaPod 5K Kit
• Best Luxury Travel Tripod : Gitzo Lightweight Series 2
• Best Travel Tripod for Extra Heavy Camera Setups : 3 Legged Thing Leo 2.0
• Best Monopod for Travel : Manfrotto 290 Carbon Fiber
• Best Convertible Tripod/Monopod for Travel : Vanguard VEO 3 GO 265 HCB
• Best Overall Travel Tripod : Vanguard VEO 3 Go 265HCB

As you can see, the specific tripod we’d recommend will depend a lot on your needs and your budget. There is no one size fits all travel tripod.

Overall, our favorite brand for travel tripods is Vanguard, an American manufacturer of tripods as well as scopes and binoculars. We find the company offers a wide range of well-built tripods at decent prices. We’ve been using their tripods for many years, and Laurence has been an ambassador for the brand since 2014.

As Vanguard Ambassadors we are able to offer you a unique discount code which will get you 20% off everything in the Vanguard USA , Vanguard UK , Vanguard Spain , and Vanguard Germany online store websites. Just use code FindingTheUniverse  (case sensitive) on checkout.

Travel Tripod Accessories 

Depending on your tripod, camera gear, and travel style, there may be some extra accessories you may need or want to have to get the most out of your travel tripod.

Most travel tripods come with a tripod ball head included so most people won’t need to buy a separate tripod head. But even if your tripod comes with a ball head, you may wish to replace it or get a second tripod head to use. On most tripods, you can remove and replace the ball head if you wish.

Some people may want to replace it for a higher quality ball head or for one that matches the standard of their quick release plates (although most support the Arca Swiss mounting standards).

In some cases you might want to get a different type of tripod head to use in certain instances or for other equipment. For example, you may get a tripod that comes with a standard ball head and wish to also have a tripod pan head for making videos or for a wildlife viewing, such as this one for Manfrotto BeFree tripods .

It is generally recommended that you purchase ball heads from the same manufacturer to ensure the best fit, but you can often use them across manufacturers. Just be sure to check compatiability before purchasing.

Quick Release Plates

Quick release plates, or quick release shoes, are mounting plates that allow you to quickly attach and detach your camera from your tripod head. The quick release plate is attached to the bottom of your camera and then that fits into the head mount.

If your tripod has a quick release mounting system, it likely came with a least one quick release plate to attach to your camera. However, if like us, you have more than one camera or other devices that you want to attach plates, you will need to purchase extra plates.

Most tripods use a Arca-Swiss style mount standard making it so you can use the same release plates across a number of tripods, but some do have manufacturer specific mounting standards.

It is generally best to buy extra release plates from your tripod manufacturer to make sure you get a release plate that is compatible with that tripod. So if you have a Manfrotto tripod, you probably want to get a Manfrotto quick release plate .

You can purchase tripod quick release plates on Amazon , B&H , & Adorama

Tripod Phone Adapter

If you plan to use your tripod with your smartphone camera, you will likely need to purchase an adapter since most are designed to accommodate regular cameras. But some of the mini tripods do come with a smartphone adapter or the brand may offer it as an accessory or as part of a bundle kit.

If your tripod does not come with an adapter, you can purchase a tripod smartphone adapter like this one , that can work with almost any phone or tripod.

Tripod Collar

A tripod collar, also known as a lens collar or tripod mount ring, is a lens accessory that you can use to attach a camera lens to a tripod. In most cases, you will attach your camera, not your lens, directly to your tripod.

But if you have a camera with interchangeable lenses and are planning to use longer and heavier lenses, you may need to use a tripod collar to better support the weight of your camera setup. This means instead of attaching your camera base directly to the tripod, you will attach it from a mount on your camera lens.

Longer telephoto lenses generally come with either an attached or removable tripod collar. Smaller telephoto lenses may not. If you have a heavier telephoto lens over 100mm it is something you might want to consider for extra stability.

If you need to purchase a tripod collar, you want to make sure that you purchase one that will work specifically for the lens you own. For instance, there is no universal Canon telephoto lens tripod collar, but instead they come in different sizes for different lenses.

We generally recommend buying from the lens manufacturer to ensure fit and quality, but there are third-party brands, like Vello , that make them as well. Just be sure to check reviews and load capacity for third party ones.

You can see tripod collars on Amazon , B&H , & Adorama

Tripod Weight Bags

Tripod weight bags, or tripod sand bags, are a tripod accessory you can use to help better stabilize your tripod. These are particularly useful for travel tripods which are often less heavy and stable than regular sized tripods.

There are two main types of bags, ones that come pre-weighted and those that you add your own weight to as needed. Weight can be added by putting sand, gravel, stones, extra gear, etc. in the bag or sling. This helps you adjust the weight to be best for your tripod as you want to be sure not to overload your tripod.

Obviously traveling with heavy sandbags in your luggage is not going to be ideal, so for traveling, the add your own weight tripod bags are going to be the best option. A couple of different examples are these fillable sandbag weights and this sling style one .

I would get your tripod first and then see if you think it needs extra weight for stabilization for the kinds of shooting you do. You also want to make sure that you get a weight bag that will fit your particular model of tripod as many, for example, require a hook on the central column.

Tripod Feet

Your travel tripod will come with at least one set of tripod feet, also known as tripod shoes or tripod boots. So you probably don’t need to purchase additional tripod feet unless they break. But some people may wish to replace them if they prefer a specific kind of tripod feet or need them for a special terrain.

There are a number of different kinds of tripod feet, which are designed to be best suited for different types of terrain and shooting locations. For instance, spiked feet are often more useful for dirt and sand, whereas rubber feet are best for slippery surfaces and indoor shooting.

There are also tripod feet with retractable spikes or spikes ones with removable rubber boot covers which makes them more versatile.

Tripod feet and boots are not universal, so make sure you get ones that will fit your particular tripod. It will depend on the diameter of your tripod leg. Some screw on and some just slip onto the bottom of the tripod.

Tripod Bag or Photography Bag with Tripod Pocket

If you are planning to travel with your tripod, it is a good idea to get some sort of cover or bag for it. This helps with transport and helps protect your tripod and your other gear. Many travel tripods come with a carry bag included, but some do not.

If you are just wanting a bag to carry your tripod, you might want to get something like the  Manfrotto Befree Padded Tripod Bag which will fit most travel sized tripods. Just be sure to check dimensions of bags as most are designed for full-sized tripods and may be much larger than you need.

If you are wanting something to store all of your photography gear, you will want to look for a photography bag or backpack with a tripod pocket or compartment. We personally travel with the Vanguard Alta Sky backpacks , which come in a variety of sizes and styles. We are able to put a travel tripod in the side pocket, inside the bag, or strap it to the bottom, and it is nice to have options.

We recommend finding something designed for the type and amount of gear you plan to carry. So if you have a compact camera, travel tripod, and accessories, you can get a much smaller bag than someone wanting to travel with a DSLR camera, travel tripod, and 3 lenses.

Now, if you have a mini tripod or a smaller travel tripod that you may not need any special bag and it will fit well in your regular backpack or purse. However, I would find something (like a dry bag) that you can store it in when you are not using it. This will help protect the tripod as well as the other stuff in your bag.

And that’s it for our advice on choosing the best travel tripod. We hope you found it useful. As always, we are here to help if you have any questions about choosing a travel tripod!

A reminder that if you are thinking about buying a Vanguard tripod, we are able to offer you a unique discount code that will get you 20% off anything you purchase in the Vanguard USA or UK online stores. Just use code  FindingTheUniverse  (case sensitive) on checkout from the  Vanguard US store . UK readers can use the code  FindingTheUniverseUK  ( case sensitive) in the  Vanguard UK store .

If you are also interested in a new travel camera, be sure to check out our guides to the best compact cameras , best mirrorless camera for travel , and best DSLR cameras for travel . We also have a general guide to choosing a travel camera and an online travel photography course if you are wanting to improve your photography skills.

Interested in a new tripod for traveling? PIN this guide on Pinterest to read later:

Do you have any of your own tips or advice on choosing or using a travel tripod? Have a question about tripods or travel photography? If so, just let us know in the comments below!

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There are 11 comments on this post.

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Devail Post author

November 25, 2022 at 1:23 am

great information about types for travel tripods and photographic equipment. thanks for sharing

Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author

November 26, 2022 at 5:28 am

Thanks for taking the time to comment. If you have any questions about travel tripods, or travel photography in general, just let us know!

Best, Jessica

Ruth Post author

August 20, 2022 at 11:30 pm

I’ve read lots of articles on travel tripods in the last few weeks and yours is the most helpful and informative with lots of explanation, thank you!

August 21, 2022 at 4:06 am

Glad you found it helpful. If you have any questions about choosing a travel tripod, just ask and happy to try to help.

Andtemiz Post author

March 3, 2021 at 3:14 am

I learned a lot about travel tripods from this article. Thanks for the useful information.

March 4, 2021 at 9:47 am

Glad you found it useful! If you are looking for a travel tripod (or any type of tripod) and have any questions, just let us know! Happy to try to help or give advice based on our experiences.

Kishanu Post author

May 21, 2020 at 12:50 am

I agree that Vanguard VEO makes some of the best travel camera tripods for the prices. Very helpful article about tripods. Keep posting such type of articles!

May 21, 2020 at 5:09 am

Hi Kishanu,

Glad you found the article helpful and yes, so far we have also had very good experiences with the Vanguard VEO and Vanguard VEO 2 Go tripod lines!

Paul Post author

May 16, 2020 at 8:54 am

Hi Jessica & Laurence,

Love your camera and tripod guides. I would like to be able to get better family photos on vacations – I have one of the little Manfrotto mini tripods but it doesn’t really work in most places for our group photos as it isn’t tall enough to get good family photos as it is limited to where it can be set. But I also don’t want to carry around something heavy and bulky when traveling so not sure what might be best? My wife has a little point-and-shoot Sony camera and I have a small Panasonic mirrorless camera, and my kids use their phones, so ideally something that could support up to a mirrorless camera would be best. I think the heaviest would be well under 3 lbs….

Thanks in advance!….Paul

May 16, 2020 at 5:30 pm

Yes, mini tripods can be great but they are definitely limited if you don’t have a place to put them.

I think for those family trips where you want to take nice family photos, I’d look for a regular travel tripod. But I would look for one of the most compact and lightweight ones so that you don’t regret taking it with you. I’d find something you’d be OK throwing in your day bag and walking around with all day.

We’d recommend something like the Vanguard VEO 2 GO 204CB (or the aluminum version 204AB ) for you. The carbon fiber version only weighs 1.7lbs and folds up to about 12 inches! It isn’t the tallest tripod, but certainly tall enough for what you want to use it for and can definitely support your compact camera and mirrorless camera. It has the Swiss Arca quick release system so you can quickly attach your camera. We have a heavier/taller version of the VeO 2 Go tripod and really love it.

If you want to also use smartphones on the tripod, you’ll just need to get a smartphone adapter.

Hope that helps! Jessica

May 17, 2020 at 8:44 am

Thanks, will take a look at those tripods, super helpful!

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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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Related articles

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.

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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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Tested: Four travel tripods for every budget

Although image stabilization technology has come along in leaps and bounds over the past few years, there are few things you can do to improve your low-light or telephoto images more than mounting your camera on a tripod. But many tripods are heavy and bulky, making them inconvenient to bring along on longer hikes or when traveling by air. That's where the humble travel tripod comes to the rescue.

In this review we compare the following travel tripods:

• MeFoto BackPacker S - $159.95 list / ~$120 street
• Manfrotto BeFree Advanced - $324.99 list / ~$280 street
• Peak Design Travel Tripod - $599.95 list / ~$600 street
• Gitzo Traveler Series 1 - $1014.99 list / ~$600 street

Travel tripods are available across a very wide price range, from consumer models that cost not much more than $100 to professional-grade ones that can run into the high hundreds of dollars or more. But is it worth spending that extra cash, and can you expect a significantly better experience from a more expensive tripod? To find out, we rounded up a selection of name-brand carbon-fiber travel tripods spanning the pricing gamut for an in-depth, side-by-side comparison.

In many respects, all four tripods have a lot in common. They all come with quick-release plates that you can leave attached to your camera for quicker setup, for example. And they all have reversible center columns which also let you shoot straight downwards, something that can be handy for macro shooting in particular.

They also share locks and/or safety pins to help prevent your camera accidentally being disconnected, and sandbag hooks either at the end of the center column or on the side of the spider, from which you can hang some weight for extra stability. (Just remember to include this weight along with that of your chosen camera and lens when determining your required payload!)

In this review, we'll focus mostly on how these four tripods differ from each other, and their advantages and disadvantages in real-world shooting. Read on to find out how they performed, and which was our favorite.

• 1 Introduction
• 2 MeFoto BackPacker S
• 3 Manfrotto BeFree Advanced
• 4 Peak Design Travel Tripod
• 5 Gitzo Traveler Series 1
• 6 Conclusion

I know this is two years old article but... Gitzo is an etalon of tripod legs stiffness. Now I have the Gitzo 1545T that has excellent legs stiffness. But I also have an old Velbon EL Carmagne 540 and its stiffness is basically the same. Gitzo is more compact but the weight is almost same. Please do not compare Velbon El Carmagne series tripods with Velbon tripods from the Walmart. These are absolutely different "animals".

Nice review! My company producing photographic equipment including differnt types of tripods. How to contact you about cooperation? Thank you.

We have more than 16 years' OEM&ODM experience for many well-known brands.

The PD Travel Tripod would have been a truly great tripod if it had had just four leg sections instead of five. It's light, compact, ergonomically very good and stiff. Stiff, until you pull out the fifth leg sections, that is. Then it becomes flimsy and that is a pity for such a great product. I love mine nevertheless, but if a four section version became available, I would gladly accept the extra pack length and trade it in.

This is a decent selection of tripods. Very mainstream brands, other than Peak Design.

I would like to see DPReview build on this article by reviewing some other brands--Leophoto or FLM for example. Let's find out if some of these smaller makers are producing better tripods.

A folded diameter of 1cm for Traveler seems a bit low :)

What a waste. Any budget? How about including a $75 Slik Sprint? Sirui and Benro make some nice tripods that would fit into prices between the ones listed too.

I carry a Benro Slim CF, mostly because my local shop had one open box for $100 and I needed one. I was actually going to buy the Mefoto BackPacker, but the price on the Benro was too good to pass up & it felt a bit sturdier.

What I'd really like to see is a shoot out between two well known and TALENTED photographers both using a $600 travel tripod and a $40 travel tripod. My prediction would be that there would be no difference in the results.

Then let's really quantify the results based on making them have the choice of carrying around these tripods for 1 month and see how many times they left the $600 tripod at home.

Certainly no difference if studio and flash lightening.

Hmm... well known and TALENTED photographers generally (hopefully!) make a decent living from their photography and therefore invest in gear that gets the job done and only has to be bought once. So, they'd already have the $600 (or $1200) travel tripod and might say "if you can afford one, buy this brand then stop shopping and start shooting." No $40 tripod would be bothered with.

Of course, we should all be expected to make the best use of whatever we have available, even a $40 tripod. Will it be enjoyable (or profitable)?

With my Element Big Traveller Manfrotton made an effort to comply with current trends by having an ARCA head plate. But the plate screw heads protruded by about 2mm so you cannot slide camera on like my other equipment – has to be fully open to drop it in vertically. While Manfrotto’s response was disappointing my solution, not available to most, was to get a friend with a lathe to machine down screw heads so they were flush. Also I can only fit it into supplied bag if you reverse the ball head which is very tedious. Suppose it was to get the headline overall length down.

I have to say that I was a bit surprised when I purcahased one of the MeFoto tripods. For what you pay, they're actually quite good and in some cases, only slightly cheaper than the crap you find at places like BestBuy and WalMart (the Sunpack or Platinum branded ones for example).

I also like my Sirui A1205 CF tripod I got for about $200. Although it does have the double-column, it still a good travel tripod, quite light for hiking/carrying around, and sturdy (you do have to really lock down the columns to make sure it's steady, but it's not bad for $200).

I'd say if you're on a budget the aluminum tripods from MeFoto are quite good for the money. I had a RoadTrip aluminum as my primary travel tripod for years. Upgraded to the Sirui last year because I wanted CF. Thinking of getting a really small MeFoto tripod for urbexing....

I have had only 2 tripods for over 60 years of amateur work. They cost no where near that. I replaced the last one when some how the camera mounting screw fell out and could not be replaced. I never used a quick mounting plate. My new one, with a brAnd name Kodak, seems great, nice and stable, light and easy to carry. But, it can be used only with the quick release mount. Seems it wouldn't be a problem, but I just tried to mount my 35 mm F mount lens with FTZ onto my Nikon Z50 and found I had to remove the rapid release, the mount blocked the FTZ, which has its own tripod mount female. A minor nuisance, but a nuisanse any way.

@Mike Tomkins "Much flimsier than the other travel tripods in this review"

How was this tested and what impact does this have to picture taking?

I bought a Benro IT25 last year, had several good reviews. Have not used it in the real wild, but it works ok for my casual use.

Nice and useful in travel

"Four travel tripods for every budget" with 2 of them @ $600.00 LOL

How about "4 travel tripods under $100"?

I'll look at the guy's pictures who is carrying around a beat up, duct taped, cheap tripod before some gear head, no talent poser with a $600 'travel' tripod. Creating compelling images has little to do with spending ridiculous amounts of money for a tripod that folds down to 17 inches instead of 21.

Oh and one more thing Mike Tomkins you're based in Tennesee and your readers are 97% based in the USA. What is CM? Your tape measure is really metric? Really?

The sooner the USA comes across to the metric system, the better off you will be. 2020 is a good time to learn.

When a country using the metric system walks on the moon, I'll consider it.

Going by China’s progress you have 4 years. Based on what I know of the USA you should have started considering it about 6 years ago.

You don't seem to realise that most technical and scientific fields, especially NASA, do all their primary work in metric? Sometimes, to present to the great unwashed American public, it might require translation back into that archaic imprecise, error-prone Imperial measure. Photog sensor pixels, like silicon IC, are measured in nanometers not millionths of an inch or whatever. Micrograms, nanograms, picograms etc. Even scifi has advanced more than the 'real' America. I don't know about the very first series but Star Trek TNG went metric, as has every movie. I can't remember Kubrick's 2001 but Arthur C. Clarke would have advised him that the future, especially in space, was metric. Finally, even Imperial measures are now officially/legally defined in metric terms (for the same reason metric was invented--it's the only way to do it accurately and reproducibly) so in a very real-world sense, every American measure is metric, just laboriously converted to an arcane clumsy proxy.

"You don't seem to realise that most technical and scientific fields, especially NASA, do all their primary work in metric?"

Who said I don't realize that? What's that got to do with a website who's readers are 97% from the USA using the metric system? Makes about as much sense as him publishing the article in German.

mfinley: "Makes about as much sense as him publishing the article in German."

That only makes sense if NASA scientists use German (of course in the early days several crucial ones did, but being Germans they also spoke impeccable English). NASA actually speaks metric. Any and every American with a technical education or vocation speaks metric. What you show is that while your experts who put those men on the moon speak in the sole modern 'language' of science, the American public are stuck with baby (and babel) speech. As I said, even Star Trek does! So yes, it is good and appropriate that technical magazines--even populist ones like DPR--use the primary 'language' 100% used in this technical speciality. Instead of pretending it is otherwise. But then 40% of Americans are anti-vaxxers so what can be done with such people? It's just another 'mileage' marker on your route to a failed state.

Antivaxers? what are you going on about? NASA scientists? Technicians? Star Trek? This is an article about tripods not splitting the atom.

mfinley "This is an article about tripods not splitting the atom."

Then why did you bring up the moon landing? Answer: because you thought scientific sophistication and achievement was somehow done using Imperial measures, but as I pointed out, that is quite untrue, eg. by NASA. Remember their $100m accident that was due to a utterly unnecessary conversion between the two? (Someone inadvertently applied the non-metric data and the thing blew up.) You can deny it all you like but the reality is that the world is metric, including almost all American scientific and technical activity. Instead of fighting it, why don't you try training yourself in the universal language of science? (I think Thomas Friedman has the answer to that: "as dumb as we wanna be".)

"{You can deny it all you like but the reality is that the world is metric, including almost all American scientific and technical activity. Instead of fighting it, why don't you try training yourself in the universal language of science? "

Who cares what the rest of the world is using? You do understand that " "The rest of the world" doesn't read DPRreview don't you?

Why do you assume I don't know the metric system? We learned the metric system here in the 1980s it was taught in all the schools. This is the USA we did not choose to adopt it just as we didn't choose to adopt French as the national language.

So again, why do you publish an article using the metric system where 97% of the audience doesn't use the metric system? Why not publish it in Swahili too, that makes just about as much sense.

Americans sometimes get confused and think the world revolves around them. The reality is that the 97% statistic is wrong, and this site is global (after starting out in a metric country). The USA doesn't even have a national language, can you start on that after you go Metric?

Only two countries use the US system, Liberia and the USA, this is around 400M, the other 7.1Billion do not understand the concept of inches or miles.

Metric is the logical choice for all progressive countries.

mfinley: Why not publish it in Swahili too, that makes just about as much sense.

That would be true if 97% of the world spoke Swahili. It's funny logic because it you who is trying to justify using archaic measures which the vast majority of the world abandoned a century ago. You are the Swahili speakers! Also, how do you explain adopting a metric currency system?

Are you re-tarded or something? Who cares is 97% of the world uses the metric system? 97% or the readers of this website DON'T. Hard-headed, in denial or just butt hurt that as usual the world revolves around everything the USA does.

Let me guess, you or someone in your family own blue jeans, wear Nike shoes, you use I-tunes, owns an I-phone, wear clothing with US company logos on it, somebody in your family drives a Ford, search the internet using Google, use email, watch movies made in Hollywood, listen to music made by celebrities in the US, can name more people in American politics than I can, you drink Coca-Cola, somebody in your family has eaten at McDonalds this month.... in other words, the majority of your life or people in our family's lives, what you do on a daily basis revolves around what the USA makes, or sells or puts out in the world, but you want to pretend you are aloof? Funny,funny stuff in your pretend reality.

Remember how it works - we lead, you follow.

Oh I forgot, let's add - you've likely ordered something from Amazon and have a Netflix subscription.

Mfinley, and after your little rant....... you are still too insecure to accept Metric.

Thanks for playing along.

Yes that is it, I'm insecure to accept it. That's what the butcher said to me when I ordered 200grams of cheese, he said what the hell is a gram? I tried to explain it but he didn't want to go buy another scale just for me. When the cop pulled me over and said I was going 15 miles per hour over the speed I said that can't be right, can you give that to me in kilometers over the speed limit? He said no, this is America we use imperial miles. Same thing when I went to the hardware store and told them I needed 4.6 meters of rope, they said something wierd like we sell rope in feet and inches. I asked them to sell it to me in meters but they said I would have to come back in a few years after they ordered a metric tape measure.

But yes, you're so right, I live in a non-metric country but it's correct to say I'm insecure because I don't use the metric system while the rest of the population uses Imperial, that makes so much sense. That really cleared things up for me thanks

Mfinley, you’re still struggling, ill try to help.

Your LOCAL, butcher, Police and Hardware are suitably isolated from the world outside your State and National borders, this means they can operate outside of the metric system without confusing anyone locally (thankfully).

Dpreview is an INTERNATIONAL website, it makes little sense to impose a system that only two countries in the world use. The other 193 countries would get confused.

Almost all camera equipment is produced in metric speaking countries,

What imperial focal lengths are your lenses measured in? What’s the flange distance of your favorite camera in inches? What diameter is the front element on your favorite lens in inches? What size is your camera sensor size in inches?

Even RRS understand the need to speak metric.

If this is hard, you may not want to look at what size the tyres/tires are on your car?

I thought we were done already, but you go ahead, be special and have the last word....

So silly. International? Statistically nope.

DPRreview.com stats 94.7% North America 8.93M page view Avg. Visit Duration 3:44 Pages per Visit 4.61 Top Referring Sites: feedly.com15.06% my.yahoo.com9.03% amazon.com4.77% juzaphoto.com4.58% digicame-info.com4.20% 99.98% Organic search 0.02% Paid Top 5 Organic keywords dpreview4.63% sony a7c0.41% camera comparison0.33% nikon z6 ii0.33% dp review0.32%

Australia bite the bullet and adopted the Metric System progressively from 1966 and the road signs were converted in 1974 resulting in a marginal increased in speed limit 60 MPH became 100 KPH. I was going through University then and we had to deal with imperial units to metric units conversions such as Psi to kPa half way through my engineering bachelor degree !!!

I have three main criteria for a travel tripod. It must be less than 14.5" (36.8cm) so that I can carry it inside one of my camera bags (typically the Lowepro Mini Trekker). WIth or without the head attached. It must be light, and thus carbon fiber. And if it comes with a head, it must be Arca compatible.

The reason it must fit within the camera bag is simple; I don't want to accidentally hit someone with a tripod attached to the outside of my bag. Yes, sometimes I am in the country and I don't have to worry. But sometimes I am in the city, and I do have to worry.

It must be light, of course, so carbon fiber is a must.

And it must be Arca, because I have custom Arca base plates on all of my cameras and on the tripod supports of the longer lenses.

And so I personally have two options: a Sirui T-025x for ultra portable use, and a Promaster T525P with Acratech head (the head is carried separately). I usually use the Promaster.

By the cheapest that works for you. It's like buying a cane.

That may be true if you are on a very tight budget and have to have a tripod right now. But I have been through my share of cheap tripods. I finally said to heck with it and got a RRS. That or Gitzo or FLM....

They sell $150 hammers to pound nails. It isn't so much being on a tight budget, it's just that I don't use a hammer enough to warrant the price.

Then you are a smart person. You would be not smart to spend 1400 bucks on a RRS tripod and head if you don't shoot with a tripod a lot. I shoot with a tripod a lot....

K&F Concept tripod is more than enough for most people.

What.... I just saw this.... Big mistake DPR. Rare for you. What are you thinking? You said for any budget. Plus you included the Gitzo so that opens it up for RRS and the best travel tripod in the world (by far) is the Really Right Stuff TFC-14 Mark II. It has been the best for many years and in 2018 they came out with the second version of it. The BH-30 LR ball head goes with this it and has the quick lever release. And no travel tripod should ever have a center column! I don't care how tall you are. When you travel, you bend down a little if you have to. That is one of the sacrifices to get compact and light stability. Center columns are a huge no-go, especially for light travel tripods. Greg Johnson San Antonio, Texas https://www.flickr.com/photos/139148982@N02/albums

@Greg7579 "And no travel tripod should ever have a center column!"

Why? The center column can come in very handy in some situations, especially for a short travel tripod. One does not need absolute stability in every situation and even then, no tripod actually provides this.

Tsai, I have been a photographer for a long time and I must say I totally disagree with you. Center columns on a travel tripod is a rookie mistake for so many reasons.

Like what, vibration? Yaw? Bragging rights? RARELY a problem, even with my $15 Walmart hand cranked center column tripod, which I bought as a disposable during a trip but ended up bringing home. Would be nice to tote my geared head and center column tripod for pixel shifted hi-res images but that 40lb beast is married to my 8x10 "Green Monster". It pretty much stays at home.

"One does not need absolute stability in every situation and even then, no tripod actually provides this."

Good argument. I use a tripod also just because it helps me with the composition and not because I have to keep the camera steady. Here stability is obviously not a requirement. But most of the time a tripod is used, it is fair to assume that stability is a requirement.

Having said that, I can see that a geared, self-locking center column makes a lot of sense on a studio tripod which never leaves the photo studio. Set the tripod base low and use the geared & self-locking center column to select the desired height. Some weight is here advantageous because the tripod then doesn’t topple easily. Somewhat also true for a solid (heavy) field tripod, for example, when used for field work with a large (heavy!) large format camera. But after reading The Center Column's results regarding center columns effect of stability (link https://bit.ly/3nKPCMo) I agree that a truly lightweight tripod should not have a center column. Somewhat is a catch-22 situation: if truly lightweight enough then the center column is too unstable, if heavy enough that the center column is stable, then it's not lightweight enough!

$1000 for a tripod are you friggin smoking crack?

Thats small change for a Leica owner

I just got the Novoflex TrioBalance Q6/9, I think that it is the best and most versatile you can get for your money, I was very lucky to find it, because unfortunally it is no longer in production ? Though Novoflex still have it in a picture on their homepage, the one to the left in the upper photo here... https://www.novoflex.de/en/products-637/camera-support-systems/triopod.html I can see it is still listed in some photoshop dealers... https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1298133-REG/novoflex_riobal_o_6_8_tripod_base_with_integrated.html

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YUJJgIU6a9M&list=PLokEyThO0pfPurpmzdFrCq246amUmF9L0&index=179

The Center Column has the Manfrotto ranking as one of the worst travel tripods. They use stiffness as one of the basis for their scoring and the BeFree Advanced has one of the poorest stiffness ratings which means potentially lots of vibration. That would be the one travel tripod I would stay from.

Very interesting reading though the comments and many personal recommendations.

IMO, one big factor many commenters fail to consider in their personal recommendations is that the tallness of the user plays a big role. A short person might be perfectly happy with a short and hence lightweight tripod - which most travel tripods are - while a tall person might need much more height for a comfortable working height.

I am 6'5" and really need at least 70" maximum height in a tripod. Quite challenging to find a "travel" tripod that is reasonable stable and is 70" plus in height!

The Manfrotto is the best. Only 4cm folded :)

For me the folded size is the most important. I can live with extra 100-200 grams but i want my tripod to fit in a small backpack when traveling.

Too bad you didn’t review a Leophoto tripod. The Ranger tripods are very high quality for a good price.

Why repost an old review as new?

I like this one for longer hikes, Rollei compact traveler no 1 carbon, lightweight and only 97 Euros.

https://www.rollei.com/collections/reisestative/products/carbon-stativ-compact-traveler-no-1

got off brand carbon fiber Q888C travel tripod for $140. old bogen 3028/3221 is used otherwise, couldnt be happier with both. sirui also make great tripods.

It's worth noting that you can easily address the lack of pano panning on the Peak Design head without replacing it entirely...

A panning clamp (eg Sunwayfoto DDH-05 or 07) can be clipped in on the fly atop the existing PD head, not only would this be cheaper (~$50) and add less bulk than a whole new head, but it would have some advantages over the panning function of most standard heads. Namely it'll let you use the existing head for leveling before panning via the added clamp.

I still wish PD had an alternate/larger head with this built in, but this solution has been very satisfactory for me and I'd easily take it over most heads with panning on the bottom... On my previous Sirui legs (T-1205X) I was using a small Sunway head (XB-28 II) which had a tiny panning clamp (even smaller than their DDH series) built into the head's ARCA clamp atop the stem.

I think RRS has a bunch of broad patents on pano clamps and that's why designs like that aren't more common.

I have 3 Tripods, an Innorel RT80C for when I need really steady, a Viking something or other for modest walking/hiking with my canon 5d's, and a Benro for when I travel light with my 2 canon m's ( infrared and normal). The most expensive was my Innorel at around € 140 and it's a beast, and they're all carbon fibre. Why not have a roundup of the cheap end of the market whether it be travel Tripods or big buggers?

Isn't this just a repost of an earlier article? And what about 3 Legged Thing? The Winston and Patti Tripods are my favorites, are lower cost than some of these options, and offer a lot of reliability, performance, and value.

Sirui - by far best value for money

Some ODM products are actually very decent, I paid a bit over $100 for a Fotopro X-4CE, which is actually just a slight upgrade to an Amazon brand tripod, but IIRC it's the lightest carbon fiber tripod on the market at 760g, and the build is solid.

One thing in the Peak Design's favour, which I don't think was mentioned: the extremely short minimum distance between camera platform and tripod shoulder point, which is the most stable point on any tripod. The more distance there is between the lens and this point, the more any vibrations are magnified. The other tripods (especially the Gitzo and MePhoto) with supplied heads are quite poor in this regard, effectively forcing the photographer to use a minimum extension of what looks like around 16cm. Tripods are important tools for many of us, so I'm glad that DPR did this review - I'd appreciate more on this area. I get a bit sick of reading about AF tracking and video specs, which are of zero importance for me, while important tools like tripods are covered very sparsely.

That’s why I have repeatedly commented and lobbied for technical tests by DPR. They have done them in the past. You may be right about shoulder point but another deficiency like Peaks unique head might be a problem. You just won’t know till you use objective scientific based testing.

Thanks for the comparisons. I'm lugging around a GT5542LS because when I need a tripod it must be a rock solid support that gets a viewfinder up to my eye. I have a far lighter (and far cheaper) Manfrotto 190 that, for various reasons, is left collecting dust under the stairs. If the Traveler Series 1 really is solid with no cost-cutting fiddly bits that break/fall off, I'd give it a go when my pack mule dies.

I think the table on the first page is wrong - it says the Gitzo is 1cm when folded - I very much doubt that.

Got a Cullman Carvao 816 TC. Useful for light(er) gear only.

ah we all get a prize..,

The Gitzo 0545t or 1555T could have been a good competitor in this field. Lighter than the 1545T but not as high max. Sturdy as well though.

Yup I have a GT1555 and a RRS BH25 ballhead. Excellent travel tripod and it fits sideways in a carry-on suitcase.

The Gitzo is really 42.5 x 1 cm ??? 1 cm?

Manfrotto BeFree Advanced Manfrotto.com | $324.99 (~$280 street)

No major retailer is selling this at "street" right now. Hmm.

I mean the GK-100-T

Whilst I have a 40-year-old Manfrotto tripod for work near the car boot (trunk), I have a Vesta 203AP for long hikes. It cost next to nothing (it paid for free parking at the mall). It is really sturdy and comes with a compact head and sets up in seconds.

https://www.vanguardworld.com/products/vesta-203ap

Manfrotto tripods have always been the best looking and most creative.

How come this months-old article turns up again?

My comment: Slik Sprint Mini III, $80, 33.5 x 8 x 8 cm, 860 g.

Personally I have and use the even more compact version I which, unfortunately, isn't made anymore. Wouldn't want to carry anything heavier when travelling.

Because we're repromoting some of the useful content published earlier in the year as we get close to the end of the month and things start to slow down.

Candor appreciated. I look forward to technical testing of tripods in the future.

@Barney Britton: Nothing to say against per se. With the surreptitious way in which you do it, not even a hint that it's a rehash except if someone would actually look at the date, you're fooling people into thinking they were seeing new stuff. Bad style for a journalistic product. Something one might perhaps expect from those mirror sites the makers of which can hardly write a proper English sentence, but not a serious site like dpreview.

Sorry if this has caused any confusion. The fact that it's a previously-published piece of content is clearly mentioned on the homepage, and the publication date is the first piece of information after the headline.

We're not a 'mirror site', as you know. And periodically re-surfacing group tests / roundups is something we've done for years. We only do it with 'evergreen' content that might otherwise be hard to find for casual site visitors.

First, sorry if this came across less nice than it should have been. And there's no need to be sorry except for your own reputation among readers who care about such things, or who are misled to comment on an old article as if it was a new one. My own "confusion" was limited, and my post was for your sake, not for mine.

You think it's ok because you've been doing it for years? Are you aware of the fact that there are other ways to reach your content than starting with your homepage, one of them being your own RSS feed? Can't remember when it was the last time I intentionally brought up your homepage. If I had to follow all my news channels by going through their home pages, I'd need to stop following most of them. And people don't look at the publishing date of an article on the top of the list to make sure it's not yesterday's news. Don't want to boast, but when someone who has been an internet professional for 25 years is fooled by this, I guess some others will be, too.

Barney, if it is a republication, then why didn't you learn from me and include the best travel tripod in the world (by far - not even close)? Didn't I tell you guys that last time and you said it was too expensive? But now you included the expensive Gitzo! That opens up the review for the best tripod in the world.... RRS. Come on....

You mean the new $1,400 Ascend-14? You'll be happy to know that I'm working on a writeup of that right now...

Barney, I didn't even know about that new tripod! Wow, just looked at it. I don't know much about it except the advert. But it has some kind of integrated head? I don't like that it has a center column. But worth a look and it is super compact and strong. Anyway, I was talking about the old tried and true great travel tripod Really Right Stuff TFC 14 with BH-30 ball head. I also have the TFC 24 with BH-40 ball head, but that is for more at home.

Yeah it's pretty fun, very full-featured. I'm hoping to have something written up soon.

Obviously the FLM CP38-L5 II is my choice of travel tripod. Obviously it is a much heavier and larger tripod than what the 'travel' category is defined of. Let me share my reasoning. Travel means to get to a place where one will probably never go again. Maybe few more occasions. So the relative chance of creating a reasonably good photograph is already thin. Why would any sane person lower that chance by using suboptimal tool when she/he travels/hikes to those exotic locations? How big is the weight gain? 1.5 kgs maybe? There are so many other ways to shave off that weight from a backpack...

"moTmeN" Never heard of FLM before reading your comment. Took a look at their website and ordered the FLM CP30-L4 II right away. With tripod head, maximum height is 70" plus without having to use a center column.

Completely agree with your reasoning why a suboptimal tripod won't do it.

The folded dimensions of the Gitzo are impressive! 42.5 x 1 cm

https://thecentercolumn.com/rankings/travel-tripod-rankings/ a more scientific approach to measuring the charactersitics of tripod (and heads)

Travel tripod reviews + no folded dimension = fail

and 'inch'? Nobody in photo uses that anymore.

dan_darkroom Just a quibble of course—as basically I agree , but not quite nobody. There are 1 inch sensors

I did a ton of research, read a ton of reviews and finally went with the Sirui ET-2204 Carbon Fiber Tripod with K-20 Ball Head. Yeah, it's over 1kg but if you plan to use a FF and long Tele on your travels, not having your camera do a face plant with your uber light travel pod should be high on the priority list. This thing just feels rock solid when setup, it has a hook to hang a weight or you bag on to stabilize it, and isn't bad at all to carry. That and the price is hard to beat for what you get. I wanted flip locks and carbon, light but able to carry a FF and heavy Tele. This was the best bang for the buck I found.

If you are going to hike with a M43 or APSC and short primes or wide's, I suppose some of the lighter pods might be worth considering, but I'm feeling like a tripod still has to be stable to be worth carrying, especially for long exposures, otherwise I might as well just rely on the IBIS and leave the tripods at home... or just carry a mono pod.

Can recommend the Cullmann Mundo 522TC, if you want something really light and compact without spending a fortune.

These are ridiculous tripods. Expensive and made from carbon fibre and all still manage to be well over a kilo. If you are travelling and you are not weight sensitive, get something decently sturdy and accept that it will weight nearer 2 kilos. But if you're really travelling, anything over 1kg is just bogging you down. If you can afford the weight and you want something practical, take extra water instead.

Sunpak makes some very nice tripods for under $30. My guess is you couldn't see the difference in the resulting photos.

I have a handful of tripods, MSRP from $70 to $200, and all of them are annoying to use in one way or another, but the $70 tripod is the worst from a photographic standpoint - flexible legs and undersized ballhead mean that anytime even a moderately sized lens is put on the front - say, my 450g Olympus 14-54 lens - the camera sags, ruining my framing. Not worth using with a telephoto at all. The reverse folding tripod is finicky and surprisingly heavy, and my carbon fiber tripod is light, but is significantly longer than the other two (without being much taller when extended).

If I traveled with a tripod on a regular basis (or got paid for my photography), I'd love to have something like the Peak or the Gitzo - and having experienced cheap and mid priced tripods, I'm betting they'll make up their cost in fewer headaches and annoyances.

You can't tell the difference in the resulting photos -- because the person with the $30 Sunpak will never get them because they're wrestling with their tripod, or it's misaligned, or the lens has drooped, or whatever. It's not a matter of image quality -- it's "do you get the shot or not?"

I bought one of these cheapie tripods when I was on the road from a small town Wal-Mart in a "better something than nothing" moment, after my Arca-Swiss plate went missing and I couldn't find a replacement, and carried it for a couple of miles through Badlands.

It was a *nightmare* to wrestle with -- three times the size and bulk of my other one, yet a third as stable. Once I started shooting nightscapes it was a royal pain to get set up -- if I had to work quickly I'd have missed shots.

I don't have an expensive tripod -- but those $30 Sunpak plasticy tripods are awful. My g/f uses the MeFoto in this article: it's fine (holds her 300/2.8 in a pinch!), and a huge step up from a Wal-Mart tripod.

BBS - You clearly haven't tried to mount a professional DSLR and a 100-400mm lens on a $30.00 Tripod! Not gonna work, no way no how.

If you buy a cheap tripod, you buy twice. Been there done that.

You can get a remarkably good picture with a cheap lens -- like a $25 pawn shop nifty fifty.

You can get a remarkably good picture with a cheap tripod.

A cheap lens can be friendly to work with.

A cheap tripod makes you want to throw it off of a cliff.

This is conclusion of every review of photographic equipment ever written:

"size and load-bearing capabilities come at a cost, because it's also the heaviest in the group, and the largest once folded"

You can substitute any terms you want; aperture, weight, length, battery life, resolution, expected lifespan, cost, bit depth, repair service, fps.... but the result is always the same. Yet it's always surprising how many people object to this simple equation. As more states in the US legalize marijuana I expect more photographic consumers to cut their ties with reality.

Haha - you should try reading Laura Kuenssberg's political analyses on the BBC. The grand mistress of the closing caveat.

I. usually enjoy discovering new writers but a look at her bio indicates she’s yet another high born parasite and a ranking member of BBC royalty, the most odious kind of media hypocrite. She pretends to report on the leering, greasy-chinned viscounts and the remorseless, sociopathic billionaires of England’s ruling class while never letting on that they’re her friends and neighbors.

I'll go for the rock solid stability. That's the whole point of a tripod or else why even bother.

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10 Best Tripods Under $100

Are you in the market for a great photography tripod that won’t break the bank? While acquiring new gear is always exciting, this search can actually be quite confusing and sometimes exhausting. There are so many options available now, for an array of uses targeting a wide variety of consumers, that it can simply feel daunting finding the right place to even start. Luckily, there are ways that you can narrow down your search and make things easier for yourself.

Whether you love shooting sports, landscapes, or breathtaking night scenes, a trusty tripod is the most important must-have for every photographer or videographer. Not only does it help you shoot comfortably and provide your camera with a stable surface, but it makes it possible for you to keep your photos sharp even when you’re using slow shutter speeds—which, for most, is the most significant benefit of using a tripod.

If you’re a beginner or a professional without their favorite tripod on a trip, there are tons of affordable choices that you can quickly get your hands on. But at under $100, you’ll want to make sure that you’re spending on a good tripod that doesn’t skimp too much on the quality. So to be safe, go for any of our current top picks for the best tripod under $100 .

What to Look for in a Tripod for Photography

Type of photography.

The first step is to determine what type of photography you’ll be doing. Are you a fine art landscape photographer who requires a kit that can be set up in a variety of uneven terrain and weather conditions? Maybe you are a travel blogger that needs a lightweight, on-the-go system that allows you to quickly pitch your tripod for cross country smartphone content? Maybe you are getting into macro photography and need something small but super sturdy? Whatever the reason may be, determining what your primary use is will help you understand what style of tripod you should be shopping for.

Load Capacity

Since I use my tripod for a variety of outdoor commercial uses, the overall weight that the tripod can support (load capacity) is my most primary concern. Since I know that I will be mounting a DSLR or mirrorless camera and professional grade lens on the tripod, I must first calculate the weight of my heaviest setup (camera + lens), and ensure that my new tripod can support that weight.

General Stability

The stability of a tripod usually comes from the source materials it was created from. It can also come from a unique design capability that spreads the mounted weight effectively across its base. Carbon fiber is the lightest and strongest material, but also the most expensive. Aluminum and alloy composites are next up in terms of strength and durability. This is often where you will find the best bang for your buck.

Maximum & Minimum Height

Last on the list of primary concerns is the maximum height achieved when it is fully extended and the footprint of the tripod when it is fully broken down for hiking and travel.

Another feature to consider when looking for a tripod is the overall weight of the tripod. If you’re traveling or running a lightweight system, the tripod weight is critical in keeping your gear bag light.

Ball Head & Quick Release System

The quality of the ball head and quick release system that attaches your camera or smartphone is also vital in the tripod. Along with this, you’ll want to look for design versatility that allows you to shoot at 90° angles or break down into a monopod for dynamic action and wildlife .

Best Tripods Under $100

We’ve determined what you’ll be using the tripod for and all of the essential key features to consider before your purchase. Now it is simply time to make your decision and get to creating! But wait, how much should you actually be spending on a tripod? If your budget doesn’t have the flexibility to accommodate the most expensive gear on the market, you are definitely not alone and are in luck! We’ve compiled a list of our 10 best tripod options under $100 !

Even with a budget limit of $100, there’s a handful of top-rated tripod options that you can go for. However, what you choose will have to depend on your specific needs, preferred size, and type of tripod head.

Vanguard VEO 2 233CB 3-Section Carbon Fiber Tripod with Ball Head

This tripod under $100 has been called the backpackers dream as it weighs in at just 2.6lbs and supports over 5 times its weight! This 3-section carbon fiber design is the epitome of lightweight stability. Its arca-style ball head is easily adjusted to perfection with three ergonomic knobs that ensure your kit is in the prime position.

Key features:

• Tripod Weight: 2.6 lbs (1.2kg)
• Maximum Height: 57.5 inches (146cm)
• Load Capacity: 17.6 lbs (8kg)
• Folded Length: 23.2 inches (59cm)
• Leg Sections: 3
• Ball Head: VEO 2 BH-50 (Arca compatible)
• Material: Carbon Fiber

Vanguard VEO 2 204CB 4-Section Carbon Fiber Tripod with Ball Head

This tripod is very similar across the board to the above Vanguard VEO 2 model. However, it features an aluminum 4th column (center) that extends and securely tightens using the Advanced Twist Lock system. The load bearing capacity supports three times its own weight, making it a perfect lightweight companion for hobbyists and professionals alike.

• Maximum Height: 53 inches (134.6cm)
• Load Capacity: 8.8 lbs (3.9kg)
• Folded Length: 16 inches (40.6cm)
• Leg Sections: 4
• Ball Head: VEO 2 BH-45 (Arca compatible)

JOBY GorillaPod 3K

If you’ve never used a GorillaPod before, the simple advice is to simply get one. It is a wildly capable unit that can secure your compact DSLR or mirrorless system to almost any surface imaginable. Plus, they are a blast to use and are an under-$100 tripod!

The ultra flexible legs make it a breeze to wrap around anything to get those steady shots from unique vantage points. It’ll help you generating content that simply wouldn’t exist without the adaptability of the GorillaPod design. This unit can support an array of heavy flashes, audio setups, and off camera video lights. This tripod is just as flexible as its wraparound legs.    

• Tripod Weight: 0.75 lb (340 g)
• Height: 12.52 inches (31.8 cm)
• Load Capacity: 6.6 lb (3 kg)
• Material: ABS Plastic, Stainless Steel, TPE

Slik Sprint Pro III BH Travel Tripod

Touted as the ultimate travel ready under-$100 tripod, the Slik Sprint Pro III is light enough to stash in your carry-on, and game to go anywhere that you. Using the reversible center column, you can get as low as 6 inches to the ground. This makes it a wonderful companion for macro or wildlife photography.

When fully extended and secured using its no stress flip lock system, the tripod stands at over 5 feet. It’s capable of supporting a mirrorless camera and a professional grade lens. The all-metal ball head is supported by a single lever lock system that allows for quick and secure repositioning of your gear. 

• Tripod Weight: 2.2 lb (1.18kg)
• Maximum Height: Column Down 51.1 inches (129.79cm); Column Extended 62.9 inches (159.77cm)
• Minimum Height: 6.2 inches (15.74cm)
• Load Capacity: 4.4 lb (2kg)
• Folded Length: 18.5 inches (47cm)
• Ball Head: SBH-100 DQ All Metal Ball Head
• Material: Aluminum

3Pod Orbit Tripod

The 3POD Orbit is simply a different breed of tripod as it employs the Orbit Overhead Shot System. This allows the user to not only adjust the height of the center column, but to pivot away from the body to allow for a variety of overhead, low-angle, macro and other difficult-to-get shots.

This center column also smoothly rotates a full 360°, at any angle. This lets photographers perform unique tracking and panning techniques. With each leg capable of opening up to multiple angles, including 85°, the ability of the user to generate literally any type of still or motion content is unparalleled at this price point. This tripod does not come with a ball head or mounting system, so this must be purchased as an add-on to this wonderful piece of kit.

• Tripod Weight: 5.8 lbs (2.63kg)
• Maximum Height: 69 inches (175cm)
• Load Capacity: 18 lb (8.2kg)
• Folded Length: 25 inches (63.5cm)
• Ball Head: Not included

Vivitar 82″ 3-Section Photo Video Tripod

The classic photo/video tripod that operates exactly how it should. User friendly and standing at almost 7 feet when fully extended, this tripod is not short on ability or function. It comes with a fluid video head that places the camera on a small, center mounted pedestal. It allows the focus to be the scene at hand, not hard to use gear. This kit comes with a carrying case and can support up to 11lbs of load bearing weight. It’s an intuitive workhorse that is worth every single penny.

Manfrotto Compact Action 5-Section Aluminum Tripod

You know that you’re going to get exceptional quality when you purchase Manfrotto products. The Compact Action 5 Section tripod is certainly no exception to the rule. Billed as a perfect unit for entry-level DSLR and mirrorless cameras with kit lens attached, this tripod will check every box for the passionate hobbyist looking to get sharper shots.

This 5-section aluminum tripod supports 4.4lbs of weight. It’s also operated by a joystick-style grip that allows you to switch between smooth video and stable photography with a single finger. Standing at 5 feet at maximum height, it allows for a variety of creative concepts. It weighs just 2.5 pounds, which means you to take it literally anywhere. This ultra user-friendly tripod would be an amazing addition to anyone’s kit, especially those at the beginner and intermediate stages of their creative path.

• Tripod Weight: 2.56 lbs (1.16kg)
• Maximum Height: 61.02 inches (154.99cm)
• Load Capacity: 4.4 lbs (2kg)
• Folded Length: 17.83 inches (45.28cm)
• Leg Sections: 5
• Material: Aluminum legs and technopolymer

JOBY Compact Action Tripod

In true JOBY form, this tripod has been updated to incorporate not only its tangibly awesome locks and levers, but it also employs a fun-to-use pistol-style grip that is perfect for photographers and videographers alike!

Employing the same quick release plates as the genre-defining JOBY GorillaPod 3K reviewed above, this allows the user to seamlessly switch camera mounts across the family of JOBY products. It gives you total freedom to let your creativity flow unhindered by cumbersome gear. At just 3.3 pounds and breaking down into a sleek carry case, this tripod literally offers perfect versatility while being extremely travel-friendly.

• Tripod Weight: 2.55 lbs (1.16kg)
• Maximum Height: 17.83 inches (45.3cm)
• Load Capacity: 3.30 lbs (1.5kg)
• Material: Aluminum, Rubber, Steel, Plastic

SmallRig Tabletop Mini Tripod with Panoramic Ball Head

This is a true powerhouse mini table top tripod that affords unbelievable stability to use DSLR, mirrorless, smartphone and action camera systems. With rubber gripped feet, adjustable locking legs, and the ability to support a mind-boggling 48 pounds of weight, there is literally nothing that this tabletop tripod cannot handle.

While reviewers find it to be particularly useful for live streaming and product photography, the possibilities are endless and we can’t wait to see what you do with yours! 

• Tripod Weight: 14.4 oz (410g)
• Maximum Height: 2.36 inches (60mm)
• Load Capacity: 44 Ibs (20kg)
• Ball Head: Panoramic Ball Head
• Material: Aluminum Alloy

Manfrotto PIXI Evo 2 Section Mini Tripod

The perfect on-the-go travel tripod that affords the user a lightweight option for vlogging or casual travel photography. The 2-section legs open to multiple angles, making those tricky positions all the more achievable. The ball head rotates out 90° to allow for photo and video to be taken in portrait mode. It’s the ideal social media content creation tool as well! Manfrotto quality comes in big and small packages, and this tabletop tripod is a true testament to the latter. 

• Tripod Weight: 9.17 oz (260g)
• Maximum Height: 7.87 inches (20cm)
• Minimum Height: 4.13 inches (10.5cm)
• Load Capacity: 5.51 lb (2.5kg)
• Folded Length: 8.07 inches (20.5cm)
• Ball Head: Not Included
• Material: Aluminum, Technopolymer

And there you go — 10 of the most popular and highest-rated tripod options on the market that are just under $100. We hope you find one that fits your needs and budget! And if you need something even more affordable, check out this article to see our picks for the best tripods under $50 .

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Best Tripods Under $100 (For DSLRs)

Tripods are a necessity for anyone who takes photography seriously. They’re a must for great long-exposure shots, panoramas, videos and lots more. But, they also tend to be really expensive – the best tripods on the market have four-digit price tags.

At A Glance: Our Top Tripods Under $100

• BEST OVERALL Neewer Carbon Fiber 66” Camera Tripod Jump To Review
• BEST FOR VIDEOS Magnus VT-300 Video Tripod with Fluid Head Jump To Review
• BEST ENTRY-LEVEL Victiv T72 Camera Tripod Jump To Review

Since not many of us can afford to spend a couple thousand dollars on a camera stand, I decided to find the best affordable tripods that exist. Yes, all the tripods that you see in this review are under $100, and they’re all high quality. So, scroll down to find the best affordable tripod for you!

Top Product Overview

The best tripods under $100, sirui carbon fiber travel 5c tripod.

SIRUI Carbon Fiber Travel 5C Tripod is a good choice if you’re on a very tight budget. And it’s carbon fiber too, so lightweight is its middle name at 1.87 lbs! There is a slightly heavier Aluminum version if you want to save a little more, but if you hate hauling heavy gear, carbon is the way to go.

It has  a quick release plate with a standard 1/4″ screw that makes switching between cameras easy and effortless, as well as a three-way head that really lets you choose the angle you want for shooting. Additionally, the  head of the tripod can be rotated 360-degrees horizontally and 270-degrees vertically , allowing for all sorts of shots.

The  central column has a hook that lets you add extra weight  to the tripod, making it more stable and less prone to vibrations. This is really useful for long exposure shots, where you need your camera to stay entirely motionless.

And it’s going to come in handy if you’re shooting with a really heavy camera since the load capacity of this tripod is only 8.8 lbs . Sure, that’s enough to handle most DSLRs with heavy lenses, but the heavier your camera the less stable the tripod gets.

However, I would not recommend it for shooting on windy days given how light it is. It also has a rather lacking ball head that you may need to replace at some point, especially if you like to lock your shots in at odd angles. Give it a shot though, and if the head does not hold up to your expectations, they are easily replaced.

• Very affordable
• Portable and lightweight
• 360° Panorama Shooting
• Center column can’t be inverted
• Load capacity could be greater
• Ball head is lacking

Product Information

• Weight: 0.85 kg /1.87 lbs
• Maximum Height: 54.3"
• Folded Height: 13 inches
• Maximum Load: 8.8 lbs

Neewer Carbon Fiber 66” Camera Tripod

The Neewer tripod is a really great option for professionals.  It is made from carbon fiber, so it is a very sturdy tripod. And it has an insane load capacity; i t can handle 26.5 lbs  easily, which should be enough for your preferred shooting setup.

And it just gets better. This tripod is actually  very portable, since it weighs only 3.4 lbs . It  folds down to a total length of 19.3” , so will easily fit into your favorite backpack. You can carry it wherever you go, and it won’t weigh you down or cause any pain in your back.

It  extends to a maximum height of 66.5” , which is pretty great for eye-level shooting. You can also  convert this tripod into a monopod,  which will have a total height of 56.3”. And the center column can be inverted, allowing for easy low angle and macro photography.

The Neweer carbon fiber tripod features  a universal ball head with two locks . There’s also a 360-degree dial that lets you adjust which angle you want, in order to get the perfect shot every time. And of course,  this has a quick-release plate,  which lets you switch cameras quickly and easily.

There are twist lock legs on the tripod, so it’s going to be really easy to set up and use. You can adjust their individual heights and angles, and really find the best position for your tripod in almost every situation. I also really like that it features  anti-skidding feet – they will help keep the camera stable when you’re shooting on uneven terrain.

• Made from carbon fiber
• Lightweight and portable
• Converts into a monopod
• No hook at center column
• Monopod is shorter than tripod
• Weight: 3.40 lbs
• Maximum Height: 66.5”
• Folded Length: 19.3”
• Maximum Load: 26.5 lbs

AOKA Compact Carbon Fiber Tripod

If you’re looking for the  best portable tripod under $100 , I have the recommend the Aoka Compact tripod . It is  made from carbon fiber,  so you know it’s a very durable and sturdy product. And it  weighs only 1.1 lbs , which is insane! You can easily carry this thing everywhere, and you won’t even feel it!

The Aoka tripod is  only 14.6” long when folded , so it’s super convenient for travel. It will fit into the side pocket of any backpack, and you can carry it for hours and totally forget about it. However, this incredibly lightweight tripod  can’t handle really heavy cameras without getting wobbly.

In fact, this tripod has  a load capacity of only 5.5 lbs , so it’s definitely not going to be suitable for everyone. If you normally shoot with compact cameras or very lightweight DSLRs, this could be a good fit for you. But if you go all out with your professional equipment, then this is not the right tripod for you.

It  extends to a maximum height of 53.6” , which doesn’t really allow for eye-level shooting. But you can get some awesome panorama shots, since  the head of the tripod can easily be rotated 360-degrees . In addition to that, the ball head comes with a  quick-release plate  that lets you switch from one camera to another in a matter of seconds.

Overall, if you are looking for something  premium and portable,  this is a good option. But if you want a professional tripod that you can use on a daily basis, I would not recommend this one.

• Extremely portable & lightweight tripods
• Allows multi-angle adjustment
• Load capacity is only 5.5 lbs
• Does not convert into a monopod
• Weight: 1.1 lbs
• Maximum Height: 53.6”
• Folded Length: 14.6”
• Maximum Load: 5.5 lbs

AmazonBasics 63-Inch Lightweight Tripod

I’ve had a good experience with  AmazonBasics products  in the past, so I decided to try out their tripod as well. And I did not regret it – the AmazonBasics aluminum tripod is a  sturdy and durable  product, which performs surprisingly well.

The thing I loved about it is that it comes with an  Arca-Swiss-style quick release plate . This let me use my other Arca-Swiss plates for my other cameras and made switching between them extremely fast and easy.

You can extend this tripod to  a maximum height of 63.5”,  which is okay for eye-level shooting. You can also  convert it into a monopod , which will have a max height of 66.7”. In addition to that, this tripod has  a load capacity of 26.4 lbs,  meaning that it should be able to handle even the heaviest of cameras.

However, all that sturdiness also means that this is not exactly a lightweight tripod. At 4.4 lbs, it is pretty heavy, but not so heavy that you physically won’t be able to carry it around. Also,  it is only 16.5” long when folded, so it should fit into  any backpack .

This tripod is also suitable for outdoor photo sessions. It has  spiked feet that will dig into the ground , which is perfect for shooting in nature. And there are also non-slip rubber covers for the feet, which are best for indoor use.

Obviously, this has  a 360-degree panning range, and a tilt range of -45 degrees to +90 degrees . And the AmazonBasics tripod also features a hook at the center column, which allows you to add weight to it and make it more stable.

• Very sturdy and durable
• Suitable for both indoor and outdoor use
• Heavier than most other tripods
• Not made from carbon fiber
• Weight: 4.4 lbs
• Maximum Height: 63.5”
• Folded Length: 16.5”
• Maximum Load: 26.4 lbs

Magnus VT-300 Video Tripod with Fluid Head

The Magnus VT-3000 is  primarily a video camera tripod, but it supports DSLRs . It has the standard 1/4” screw on the quick-release plate, which you can easily attach to your preferred camera. And it has  a load capacity of 15 lbs,  which is more than enough for most DSLRs and video cameras.

The  quick release plate you get with this item is compatible with other tripods from Magnus.  In case you already own any of them, this will be a very handy feature, which will let you switch between cameras and tripod effortlessly.

The Magnus VT-3000 can be  extended to a max height of 64.3”. I t has a  built-in panning and tilting head , with individual locks for both pan and tilt. This lets you adjust the angle you want for shooting, and really helps you get that perfect shot.

This tripod is actually perfect for those of you that tend to shoot videos more often than photos. It is  incredibly stable, thanks to the rubber feet.  There’s also  a bubble level  on the tripod, which helps you adjust it to the right angle when you’re shooting on uneven terrain.

The  legs of this tripod only have two sections , which is a little weird. I’m so used to tripods that have legs with three or four sections, that I was pretty surprised when I saw this one. This does mean that you don’t have as many options when it comes to adjusting the height of the tripod, but it also makes it quicker and easier to set up.

Overall, I would recommend the Magnus VT-3000 to anyone who is looking for something  professional and durable  for shooting awesome videos. However, it’s  not exactly a portable tripod – its folded length is 26.5” and it weighs almost 6 lbs.

Oh, and of course this is also a tripod under $100.

• Excellent for shooting videos
• Very stable
• Sturdy pan handle
• Not very versatile
• Doesn’t convert into a monopod
• Not very portable
• Weight: 5.8 lbs
• Maximum Height: 64.3”
• Folded Length: 26.5”
• Maximum Load: 15 lbs

Manfrotto Compact Action Tripod

Manfrotto makes some really excellent tripods, which tend to be rather expensive. So, I was thrilled to see that they have items that are under $100! The Manfrotto Compact Action tripod is an excellent choice for beginners and those with entry-level SLRs . It is made from  aluminum  and very lightweight, but sturdy at the same time.

This is  a premium tripod at an affordable price , and I would recommend it to people that are just getting into photography. It is  great for indoor photography, thanks to the rubber feet  that ensure it will stay in place.

It features  a quick-release plate that lets you switch between cameras easily, but which is rather small. So, it’s not going to be super stable with really heavy and bulky DSLRs.

In fact, the weight capacity of this tripod is 3.3 lbs  and you can use it only if you have a lightweight camera. You could also use it with your phone – there’s even an option to get the tripod with a phone clamp.

As long as you don’t exceed the maximum load capacity of this tripod, you will find it very stable. The legs have four sections and they are really sturdy, even when fully extended.

The Manfrotto  extends to 61” max , which is pretty good for eye-level photography. The  joystick head tilts and pans , so you can easily get some really amazing shots using this tripod.

And I love that it is super lightweight. It  weighs 2.69 lbs, and it is only 17.83” long when folded . It’s a great option if you’re looking for something really portable and travel-friendly, in addition to your main tripod.

• Extremely portable
• Great for indoor use
• Not suitable for pros
• Max load capacity is 3.3 lbs
• Can’t be converted into a monopod
• Weight: 2.69 lbs
• Maximum Height: 61”
• Folded Length: 17.83”
• Maximum Load: 3.3 lbs

ZOMEI Z818 Camera Tripod

The Zomei Z818 is a great  versatile option . It is a  lightweight and portable tripod, with a load capacity of 33 lbs.  So, not only can you carry it absolutely everywhere without feeling a thing, but you can also mount your heaviest and bulkiest camera on it. The  ball head allows for pan and tilt shots , and it comes with a quick-release plate.

It  extends to 65” max , which is okay for eye-level shooting. That’s even going to be above eye level for some people, so I think that’s a really good height. And  you can convert it into a monopod,  if you need it to be even taller.

However, there are a couple of pieces that you need to have handy in order to turn the tripod into a monopod, and you don’t get a dedicated pocket for them in the carry case. You will need to remember to pack them if you want to have the option of using a monopod, which is not ideal.

The Zomei tripod allows for  four additional shooting angles , which includes inverting the center column for macro and low-angle photography . It is a very versatile item, and that’s one reason why I like it so much.

Not to mention that its load capacity is enough to handle even the heaviest of cameras and lenses. And if you ever need more stability,  you can always add some extra weight to the hook at center column.

This tripod  folds down to a length of 18”.  It will fit into most backpacks, so it’s going to be really easy to carry it everywhere. Especially since it  weighs just 3.7 lbs . It’s a tripod you can carry everywhere and use for almost any kind of shot you have in mind, and it’s under $100!

• Allows for multiple shooting angles
• Can be converted into a monopod
• No dedicated pocket for extra parts
• Top of the price range
• Weight: 3.7 lbs
• Maximum Height: 65”
• Folded Length: 18
• Maximum Load: 33 lbs

Victiv T72 Camera Tripod

It’s not that often you come across a  70”+ tripod that’s under $50.  And that’s why I had to show you the Victiv T72 – it’s absolutely  perfect for eye-level photography , since it extends to a whooping 72”. It has  weight capacity of 8.8 lbs , so it’s suitable for you if don’t normally use really heavy cameras.

This tripod  folds down to 22.4” and it weighs around 4 lbs . It’s not the most portable tripod out of the bunch, but that’s not our main judging criterium anyway. This is a great tripod because it  allows for multiple shooting angles, and it can be converted into a monopod,  which gives you even more shooting freedom.

It also  comes with two QR plate s, which is a rarity. This is great for those of you that like to have multiple cameras around when you’re shooting since it will let you switch between them in just a few seconds. And that  additional plate is a universal Arca Swiss plate,  which is absolutely amazing!

Aluminum alloy is the main material of this tripod . It is durable, lightweight, and sturdy, and it features thicker legs than on most other tripods.

This means that the Victic T72 is  very stable, and shouldn’t wobble when fully extended . This is especially important if you need a tripod for awesome long exposure photos.

This features a  three-way swivel head, which allows for 360-degree panning , as well as vertical and horizontal tilting. The only thing the Victiv tripod isn’t good for is low-angle photography since you can’t invert the center column. But it’s amazing for everything else, and it’s a bargain!

• Extra quick release plate included
• Weight: 4 lbs
• Maximum Height: 72”
• Folded Length: 22.4”

TARION Q550 Camera Tripod

Tarion Q550 is an aluminum tripod , made for mirrorless DSLR cameras . It has a  maximum load capacity of 13 lbs , and it  extends to 61” . It is okay for eye-level shooting, but it wouldn’t be my first choice if that was your main criterion for a tripod.

It  folds down to 16.9” and it weighs just around 3 lbs , so it’s pretty portable. You can take it anywhere, and you can use it for virtually anything – the Tarion tripod can easily be converted into a monopod, and it allows for multiple shooting angles.

That includes  low-angle shots when you invert the center column . Additionally, the  height and angle of each individual leg can be adjus ted , which will really let you set up the tripod however you want. And with the non-slip rubber feet, this is absolutely perfect for indoor use.

This tripod has  a 360-degree ball head  that allows for effortless panorama shots. There are also  two bubble levels (horizontal and vertical)  on the Tarion, which help you make sure that you’ve properly adjusted it. And in case you ever need extra stability, you can always add some weight to the hook at the center column.

Obviously, the Q550 tripod comes with a quick-release plate that has the standard 1/4” screw.  This fits most DSLRs, and lets you switch between cameras in just a few swift moves. In addition to that,  the ball head can be mounted to other tripods, with the 3/8” screw.

• Not the best option for eye level shots
• Weight: 3 lbs
• Folded Length: 16.9”
• Maximum Load: 13 lbs

Regetek Camera Tripod

The Regetek tripod is another  great affordable option . It’s under $50, so it’s a good choice for all of you that are on a really tight budget. You’ll be getting a tripod that’s  excellent for lightweight DSLRs  with some basic lenses, as it has a  maximum load capacity of 8.8 lbs.

It  extends to 70” max,  which is pretty amazing for such an affordable tripod. This is going to allow for comfortable eye-level shooting for lots of people, and it’s even going to be above eye level for some.

You can also  convert this into a monopod , but it’s going to be 5” shorter that way. That’s the only thing I don’t like too much about this tripod.

It’s kind of portable; the Regetek tripod  weighs 3.63 lbs and it folds down to a length of 18”.  This is not too heavy and it will fit into your favorite backpack easily.

The  feet of the tripod have non-slip rubber caps , which ensure that it stays put. It’s actually a really stable aluminum tripod, but there’s also  a hook at the center column that lets you add more weight. This is great if you’re shooting with some heavier cameras since it will keep the tripod even more stable.

It comes with  a three-way pan and tilt head,  which has three locking knobs and a  360-degree rotation handle . The only thing you can’t do with the Regetek tripod is taken low-angle and macro shots since you cannot invert the center column. But it is a really good entry-level option for less than $50!

• Weight: 3.63 lbs
• Maximum Height: 70”
• Folded Length: 18"

What To Look For

The basics of every tripod determine how good it’s going to be. You should first  check the materials  a tripod is made from; aluminum is very durable and sturdy, but lightweight.  Tripods made from aluminum are generally portable  since they usually weigh very little and are easy and convenient to carry around.

But they are  not as sturdy as carbon fiber tripods.  In fact,  carbon fiber is the absolute best material out there,  and tripods that are made from it normally cost several hundred dollars. I’ve managed to find a few that were just under $100, so definitely grab one of those if you’re looking for premium quality.

And  carbon fiber actually weighs less than aluminum, so these tripods are even more portable . But there’s not a lot of them for less than $100.

Load Capacity

It is very  important that you get a tripod that can actually hold the weight of your camera.  So, you should always check that the load capacity of a tripod is enough for your preferred gear. You can see the load capacity of each tripod in this review in the product infoboxes.

If you usually use a heavy camera body and an even heavier lens, you should look for a tripod that has a really high load capacity. Definitely something larger than 15 lbs – even though your setup might be lighter than that, it’s helpful to have that extra stability.

This is especially important for people who use heavy DSLRs.  If you prefer to shoot with an action camera, a smartphone, or a compact camera, you can go with a smaller load capacity.

Portability

A tripod is one of those accessories that you have to carry around everywhere. So, it really helps when you get one that’s lightweight and very portable.

But here’s the thing; in this review, I wanted to focus on the absolute best tripods you can buy for less than $100. Not all of them are portable  – some are rather heavy and bulky, which is actually great for working with heavy cameras.

However,  there are a few tripods that are lightweight and that can easily fit into the pocket of your favorite backpack . If you want to make sure you’re grabbing one of those, check the pros boxes for “portable”.

In addition to that, if your main priority is getting a lightweight and travel-friendly tripod, be sure to check my other reviews. I already found the  best tripods for backpacking , as well as  best travel tripods , so perhaps you will find the perfect one for yourself there.

Best Tripods Under $100: Our Top Choices

Having a hard time choosing just one of these affordable tripods? That’s okay because I will help you narrow down the options. Pick one of our top three tripods and you will have zero regrets!

The Victiv T72 is a great option for those of you that want excellent performance at an attractive price tag . It is  under $50 , and it is one of the cheapest tripods featured in this review. It’s  made from aluminum alloy , it c onverts into a monopod  and it comes with  two quick-release plates . The maximum height of the Victiv T72 is 72”, which makes it an absolute winner for eye-level photography.

• ⓵LIGHTWEIGHT FOR TRAVEL – Compactness when stored and weighs only 3.3 lbs/1.5 kilograms, easy to move around with a strapped carrying bag; Flip leg lock for SUPER FAST SETUP. Great for a vlogger and YouTuber
• ⓶UPGRADED SOLID CONSTRUCTION – Made of aluminum alloy, THICKER leg tube than the ordinary tripod, sturdy adequate for long exposure work and keep the camera steady. Using it in the field and yard for photos

If you frequently shoot videos, then Magnus VT-300 is the best option for you.  It’s a  mid-range tripod , with some really excellent features.

Its  carbon fiber body  is sturdy enough to support large camcorders that weigh up to 15 lbs, as well as most DSLRs. It has  a fluid head with independent pan and tilt locks , which will help you get the perfect shot every time. And it’s perfect for indoor use, thanks to anti-slip rubber feet!

• Portable Video Tripod System | Supports DSLRs, Small/Large Camcorders
• 15 lb Weight Capacity, 64.3" Max Height | Built-In Pan/Tilt Video Head

The Neweer Carbon Fiber tripod is my favorite tripod that’s at the top of our budget.  It is  made from carbon fiber,  which is the premium material for any tripod. And it can be  converted into a monopod, it allows for shooting at multiple angles, and it comes with a 360-degree ball head .

Yes, it’s a pricey tripod, but it is still under $100. And if you really want the best for your money, then this is definitely the tripod you should buy.

• 2 in 1 tripod, one of leg can be used as monopod
• Quick release leg locking, giving a more convenient leg handling

Those are the top three tripods under $100 that I recommend. Obviously, you can go for any one of the ten I showed you in this review; all of the items featured here are rated very highly by hundreds and thousands of happy photographers!

Head over to Amazon to see the prices of the tripods featured in this review. And check out our related posts, for ideas on other must-have gear for photographers!

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Best Travel Tripods Under $100

As a travel photographer on a budget, finding an affordable yet functional tripod can be a challenge. But fear not, as I’ve scoured the market to bring you my top picks for the best travel tripods under $100.

These tripods will help elevate your travel photography without breaking the bank.

Here are my top travel tripod picks under $100:

1. zomei z688.

PROS – Affordable, aluminum construction, converts to monopod, decent max height of 60 inches

CONS – Not the most compact when folded, may struggle with heavier gear

The Zomei Z688 is a fantastic budget option that punches above its weight. Made of lightweight aluminum, it can convert into a monopod, adding versatility to your kit. While it may not be the most compact when folded, its 60-inch max height and affordable price make it a great value pick.

2. AmazonBasics 60-Inch Lightweight Tripod

PROS – Inexpensive, compact and lightweight, decent max height

CONS – No convertibility to monopod, may struggle with heavier gear

If you’re looking for an ultra-affordable option, the AmazonBasics 60-Inch Lightweight Tripod is hard to beat. It’s compact and lightweight, making it easy to pack for travel. While it doesn’t convert to a monopod and may struggle with heavier gear, its low price point and decent max height make it a fantastic backup or starter tripod.

3. Victiv 72-inch Camera Aluminum Travel Tripod

PROS – Affordable, converts to monopod, decent max height, includes carrying bag

The Victiv 72-inch Camera Aluminum Travel Tripod offers great value for under $100. It can convert into a monopod for added versatility, and its 72-inch max height gives you plenty of flexibility for different shots. It even includes a carrying bag for easy transport. While not the most compact option, its versatility and affordable price make it a solid pick.

4. GEEKOTO 77” Tripod

PROS – Tall max height, affordable, aluminum construction

CONS – Bulkier when folded, no monopod conversion

The GEEKOTO 77” Tripod is a great option for travel photographers who want maximum height on a budget. At 77 inches when fully extended, it towers over many other affordable options while still coming in under $100. The aluminum construction keeps it reasonably lightweight as well. However, it is a bit bulkier when folded for transport and cannot convert into a monopod.

5. NEEWER 66″ Carbon Fiber Tripod

PROS – Carbon fiber construction, panorama ball head included, affordable

CONS – Maximum height could be taller

The NEEWER 66″/168cm Carbon Fiber Tripod is a stellar value, packing in premium features like a carbon fiber build and 360° panorama ball head while still ringing in under $100. The lighter carbon fiber keeps travelling weight down as well. While the maximum height of 66 inches isn’t the tallest option, the versatility and included head make this a killer deal.

Common Questions

Are Cheap Tripods Worth It?

Absolutely! While more expensive tripods often offer premium features and build quality, there are plenty of affordable options that can still greatly enhance your travel photography. The key is finding one that strikes the right balance between price, portability, and stability for your needs.

My Final Thoughts

You don’t have to break the bank to add a tripod to your travel photography kit . With options like these under $100, you can capture sharp images in low light, nail those long exposures, and experiment with unique perspectives – all without sacrificing portability or versatility on the road .

Yeah, it won’t get you some features that the more expensive options can, but you can still get great pictures. Bottom line.

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Best Tripods Under $100

As creators, the tripod is an essential part of our toolkit. And even with the advent of stabilized camera sensors, many times our hands alone aren’t stable enough, especially for long exposures or time-lapses. And the last thing you want is to realize you’ve captured blurry photos. Thankfully, tripods are here to help, and just because you may not have the budget to afford a high-end brand name release, that doesn’t mean you’re out of luck.

Table of Contents

There are plenty of lightweight and robust entry-level tripods on the market. But, this segment is filled with options, so choosing the best one will be quite challenging. Below, you’ll find a complete and detailed guide on how to assess tripods. And we’ve also created a list of the top ten best tripods under $100’s on today’s market.

BONFOTO B690A Travel Tripod

Bonfoto’s B690A tripod is their budget-friendly travel tripod. Released in 2017, Bonfoto offers this tripod in a single aluminum variant.

When collapsed, it measures 14.5 in (36.8 cm) with a minimum height of 20.5 in (52.1 cm) and a maximum height of 53.5 in (136 cm) with the center column extended. At only 2.6 lbs (1.2 kg), including the ball head, it’s quite lightweight but supports 17.6 lbs (8 kg) payloads. The tripod itself uses 4-section legs with flipping leg locks and three locking angles. And Bonfoto includes a ball head, which has separate pan and ball locks. It also has both 1/4″ and 3/8″ threads, so you can install other heads if desired. Plus, it uses a 2-staged center column, which also inverts 180º for low angle macro shots. Other bonuses include a foam grip, a built-in level, a center column hook, a quick-release plate, and a carrying case.

Overall, Bonfoto’s B690A tripod is an excellent choice as an ultra-lightweight travel tripod. At 53 inches tall, it’s a bit shorter than rivals but makes up for the lacking height with portability and a strong feature set for the price.

Neewer Carbon Fiber Tripod 

Neewers 2-in-1 tripod aims to be a budget-friendly alternative to the pricier MeFOTO tripods. Released in 2014, Neewer offers this tripod in a single carbon-fiber variant.

When collapsed, it measures 19.3 in (49 cm) with a minimum height of 23.2 in (59 cm) and a maximum height of 66.5 in (169 cm) with the center column extended. And it’s moderately light at 3.4 lbs (1.5 kg) but supports an excellent payload rating of 26.5 lbs (12 kg). The tripod itself uses 4-section legs with twist locks and three locking angles. Neewer also includes a ball head, which has two locks and a friction control. This tripod also converts into a 56 in monopod, and the center column also inverts for low-angle shots. Other bonuses include a center column hook, a built-in level, a quick-release plate, and a carrying case.

Overall, Neweer’s 2-in-1 tripod is an excellent alternative to rivals that couples a similar feature set, without the price.

TYCKA Rangers Travel Tripod

TYCKA’s Rangers Travel Tripod aims to be a direct competitor to Neweer 2-in-1. Released in 2016, they offer the tripod in a single aluminum variant.

When collapsed, it folds to 14 in (35.6 cm) with a minimum height of 7.8 in (19.8 cm) and a maximum height of 56 in (142 cm). The tripod is quite light at only 2.89 lbs (1.3 kg), including the ball head, but it supports a class-leading 26.5 lb (12 kg) payload. The tripod itself uses 4-section legs with Flip Locks. And TYCKA ships this tripod with an included ball head with dedicated pan, tilt, and friction locks. They also include a short tube attachment reducing the center columns’ maximum height. The center column also detaches, converting the entire tripod into a 57 in monopod, and it inverts 180º.

Combined, this tripod is ideal for low-angle and macrophotography. Other bonuses include a quick-release plate, a foam grip, a built-in level, a center column hook, a multifunction waist bag, a two-year warranty, and a carrying case.

Overall, TYCKA’s Ranger’s tripod is an excellent adventure tripod for traveling creators. And given its feature set and impressive payload, it’s one of the top options around.

Zomei Q555 

Zomei’s Q555 is the mid-range travel tripod of the family. Released in 2018, they offer this tripod in a single aluminum variant.

When collapsed, it measures 17.5 in (44.5 cm) with a minimum height of 22.7 in (57.7 cm) and a maximum height of 62.5 in (159 cm) with the center column fully extended. This tripod weighs only 2.9 lbs (1.32 kg) but supports payloads of 17.6 lbs (8 kg). The tripod uses 4-section legs with Quick Flip locks and three locking angles. And these legs also invert 180º, reducing the folded length and adds portability. Zomei also includes a reversible center column that inverts for lower-angle shots. And they ship this tripod with an included ball head with dedicated pan, tilt, and friction controls. And you can also remove and replace this head, if desired. Other bonuses include a center column hook, a quick-release plate, a built-in level, and a carrying case.

Overall, Zomei’s Q555 is an excellent traveling companion for on the go creators. And it’s a high-quality tripod for backpackers looking for an ultra-lightweight and easily stored option.

K&F Concept 62” DSLR Tripod

The K & F Concept by Kentfaith aims to challenge Manfrotto directly. Released in 2015, they offer this tripod in a single aluminum variant.

When collapsed, it measures 18.1 inches (46 cm) with a minimum height of 16.3 inches (41.4 cm) and a maximum height of 61.6 inches (156 cm) with the center column extended. At 2.97 lbs (1.35 kg), including the ball head, it’s quite lightweight but still manages 22 lb (10 kg) payloads. The tripod itself uses 4-section legs with Quick Release flip-locks and three locking angles. It also has an inverting center column for macro shots. And Kentfaith includes a ball head with a built-in level and locks. Other bonuses include a center-column hook, a foam handle, and a carrying case.

Overall, Kentfaith’s K&F Concept is a reliable option at an excellent price. And it’s the ideal option for those who want a taller than average budget-friendly tripod with a superb load rating.

DOLICA 62″ Proline Tripod (AX620B100)

Dolica’s Proline Tripod aims to be the ideal tripod for the budget photographers. Released in 2004, they offer this tripod in two heights, both of which use aluminum constructions.

When folded, the 62-inch variant measures 22.5 in (57.2 cm) with a minimum height of 21.5 in (54.6 cm) and a maximum height of 62 in (157 cm) with the center column fully extended. And it weighs 2.5 lbs (1.32 kg) and supports an excellent payload rating of 13.2 lbs (6 kg). The tripod uses 4-section legs with flipping locks and three locking angles. It also has a rapid center column, which is removable and inverts 180º for low angle macro shots. Dolica also includes a ball head with a quick-release plate, two built-in levels, and a compass. Plus, you can install other 3/8″ heads if desired. Other bonuses include retractable spiked feet, three padded foam grips, a center column hook, a five-year warranty, and a carrying case.

Overall, Dolica’s Proline tripod brings professional features to a wide audience. And those capabilities match tripods three times the price.

JOBY Gorillapod 5K 

Joby’s GorillaPod 5K is their update to the original GorillaPod line, with a better design and added strength. Released in 2017, they aim this tripod at users wanting maximum flexibility with larger setups.

It uses Joby’s flexible ball and socket leg design, allowing the tripod to bend and wrap around practically any object. The tripod itself is 15.2 in (38.6 cm) tall and weighs only 1.6 lbs (0.73 kg) with the included ball head. Yet, it still supports 11 lb (5 kg) payloads, enough for several large DSLR setups. Joby also ships this tripod with an included ball head with separate controls and a quick release plate.

Overall, the GorillaPod 5K is the ideal choice for the traveling pro wanting the flexibility it offers over traditional tripods. And it provides the best portability and a unique perspective that is unmatched elsewhere.

Manfrotto Compact Action Tripod

Manfrotto’s Compact Action tripod is their entry-level option of family. Released in 2014, it stands as their most affordable option to date. They offer this tripod in one of three colors, all of which use aluminum constructions.

When collapsed, it measures 17.8 in (45 cm) with a minimum height of 17.3 in (44 cm) and a maximum height of 61 in (155 cm) with the center column extended. It weighs only 2.7 lbs (1.2 kg) and supports a maximum payload of 3.3 lbs (1.5 kg), enough for most entry-level setups. The tripod itself uses 5-section legs with flipping leg locks and a single locking angle. And Manfrotto’s ships this tripod with an innovative pistol style head with a quick control wheel. The grip also has a dedicated Mode selector, which locks the ball head, converting it into a pan & tilt head, adding versatility. Plus, the center column of this tripod inverts for low-angle shots. Other bonuses include a quick-release plate and a carrying case.

Overall, Manfrotto’s Compact Action tripod is the perfect option for entry-level DSLR and mirrorless setups. Manfrotto has a valued reputation in this space, and this tripod continues the tradition. It’s an excellent choice as a lightweight travel tripod with best in class build quality and durability. If you don’t need a tripod with a massive payload capacity, it is the best option in the entry-level segment and the perfect tool for your arsenal.

Buyers Guide

How to choose the best tripod.

Before you can choose the best tripod , let’s first cover some basic information.

What is a tripod?

A tripod, at its core, is a three-legged device used for stabilization. And it functions as a stable platform to prevent changes from downward or horizontal forces. It’s sole purpose is to stabilize your camera. And the better the build quality, the better the overall stabilization. But, to determine a tripod’s build quality and long-term reliability is tricky. Below are the factors you’ll want to think about while looking around.

When looking at sub $100 tripods, they’ll come in one of two materials: aluminum or carbon fiber . Aluminum tripods are less expensive but usually weigh more. While, carbon fiber weighs less but is often more expensive, as it’s a rather new technology to market—the trade-off between these materials, outside of price, is durability. Well-maintained carbon fiber can last for decades, while their aluminum counterparts degrade after only 3-5 years.

For this, if you’re planning on using the tripod for less than five years, pick up an aluminum option. Otherwise, carbon fiber is best.

For this area, there are two things to consider: how much does the tripod itself weigh and what’s its maximum payload . The maximum payload refers to the total amount of weight it can withstand without collapsing. This area is crucial, so you avoid getting a tripod that cannot support heavier equipment. And the weight of the tripod as a kit is particularly important if you plan on backpacking and traveling with it.

For this, consider the weight of your camera and heaviest lens setup. And look for tripods that match or exceed that weight. Then if you want a travel-oriented option, look for tripods that weigh less than 3.5 lbs but still support that weight.

Tripod Head Types

Most manufacturers include a ball head as a part of the kit. But other types do exist, for example, gimbal, fluid, and pan-tilt heads.

For beginners, the standard ball head included is the easiest and most straightforward style around. But, this area comes down to personal preference. If you prefer another type of head, look for options that have detachable heads and support either ⅜ or ¼” screws so you can replace it.

This area is essential so you can find an option that, ideally, is tall enough for you to compose at eye level without slouching.

For this, consider the tripod’s maximum height. And get a tripod that meets the working range you need. If you plan on shooting macro photography or low angles, also consider its minimum height.

The tripod’s legs are also important. Tripods come in a variety of sizes, some having more leg sections than others. The more leg sections the tripod has, the more portable it is. But, it also reduces stability. And tripods with more than three sections will shake and bow under more weight. The leg locks also come in varying styles, typically twist or flip locks, though flip locks are more reliable.

For this, consider the portability you need. If you want maximum portability, four or 5-section configurations are best, but they won’t be as stable. Also, consider how fast you want to set up or tear down the tripod, for this flip locks are easier than twist.

The feet are important if you plan on traveling and shooting outdoors. Most manufactures include rubber feet, which work well indoors. But, they’re not ideal for use outdoors on uneven surfaces. So if you plan on traveling, look for a tripod with spiked feet.

Some tripods have inverting center columns or detachable legs. Others have compasses, built-in hooks to weigh them down, among other features. If these bonuses are important, look out for them while shopping.

Last Updated on September 22, 2023 by Photography PX Published August 20, 2020

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10 Best Tripods Under $100 in 2022 (The Guide)

Oct 7, 2022 | Tripods

While there are excellent tripods for DSLR cameras for $100 on the market, you don’t need to spend $1000. Choosing a tripod is not a tough undertaking if you follow the appropriate instructions.

There are many economical options available that you may easily get. Numerous tripods are available for around $100, so you don’t need to break the bank if you’re seeking the best tripods (between $50 and $100).

We have examined the top ten tripods under $100 in the comprehensive guide, which will satisfy your requirements. Let’s start…

The Top 10 Cheap Tripods for 2022 (priced between $50 to $100)

The best tripods under 100 dollars may easily be chosen. Most decent, high-quality tripods may be purchased for between $50 and $100. Decide on the characteristics you want and the height you require before choosing.

Here in this post, you may get some tips on what to search for in the finest tripods under $100. Additionally, there are 10 reviews to help you choose tripods a little bit more easily.

1. Manfrotto Compact 5-Section

Key features:

• Tripod Weight: 2.56 lbs (1.16 kg)
• Maximum Height: 61.02″ (155 cm)
• Minimum Height: 17.32″ (44 cm)
• Load Capacity: 3.31 lbs (1.5 kg)
• Folded Length: 17.83″ (45.28 cm)
• Leg Sections: 5

On the list of the top 100 cheap tripods, One of them is the Manfrotto Compact Action Aluminum Tripod, with 3.3 Lbs Capacity. The finest tripod under $100 would provide full capabilities while being portable and useful while traveling.

Its ease of use, affordability and solid construction further assist your demands.

For those looking for a tripod that combines practicality and mobility, Manfrotto offers the stylish Compact Action Tripod. Using a trustworthy ground mounting mechanism.

It is the lightest and second-tallest full-sized tripod on our list, weighing just 2.56 pounds (1.16 kilograms) and providing an average work height of 61.02 inches.

The ergonomic joystick head makes panning and adjusting your camera’s position straightforward. It has a separate scroll-wheel lock and provides a very comfortable grip.

2. Slik Pro 700DX

Key Features:

• Tripod Weight: 7.05 lbs (3.2 kg)
• Maximum height: 74.8″ (190 cm)
• Minimum Height: 15.4″ (39 cm)
• Load Capacity: 15 lbs (6.8 kg)
• Folded Length: 29.92″ (76 cm)
• Leg Sections: 3
• 3-Position Adjustable

You are aware that Good tripods are often rather pricey, and inexpensive tripods are generally junk that is just marginally more steady than placing your camera on the back of a buddy while you take pictures.

This is why I was taken aback when I conducted my tripod study and saw how highly the SLIK Pro 700 DX tripod legs are regarded.

Speed-release leg locks and three-position adjustable legs allow for rapid and simple assembly on a range of working surfaces, adding to the table’s exceptional combination of stability and mobility.

With a height of 74.8 inches, this full-sized tripod from Slik is the tallest on the list and has the highest payload capacity of 15 pounds (6.8 kilograms) to hold large-format field cameras and hefty, protracted lenses.

The Slik Able 340DX is lighter since its legs are made of A.M.T. super titanium alloy.

I admit I had doubts since inexpensive tripods have never wowed me, and this one costs a little under $100. But as soon as I received it, I could see why so many people adored it.

3. Joby GorillaPod 3K Kit

Key Features

• Tripod Weight: 0.75 lb (340 g)
• Load Capacity: 6.6 lbs (3 kg)
• Quick Release Plate with Bubble Level
• 360-Degree Panning Bed & 90-Degree Tilt
• A.B.S. Plastic, Stainless Steel
• German TPE Construction

The Joby GorillaPod stands out from other tripods on the market without a doubt. The Joby GorillaPod often ranks first or second on lists of the top 100 cheap camera tripods.

Photographers and vloggers favor it since it can be installed on almost any surface or protruding item, such as a tree branch, pole, table, you name it. Its bending legs and lightweight construction distinguish it.

The GorillaPod may be used as a useful monopod for snapping selfies and filming vlogs when its legs are bundled together. And even though it’s not meant for shooting at eye level like a typical floor tripod.

But since it allows them to frame a picture in various ways, many shooters find it a vital addition to their equipment box.

The customers will like shooting with a more covert and polished-looking version of this well-known tripod thanks to its new black and gray appearance, making it undoubtedly one of the finest travel tripods under $100.

4. Slik Sprint Mini II

• Tripod weight: 1.75 lbs (0.78 kg)
• Maximum height: 43.3″ (110 cm)
• Minimum Height: 6.38″ (16.2 cm)
• Load Capacity: 4.5 lbs (2.05 kg)
• Folded Length: 13.8″ (35 cm)
• Leg Sections: 4
• SBH-100DQ Ball Head with Quick-Release System
• Speed-Release Leg Locks and Padded Leg Wraps
• Aluminum Construction

The Slik Sprint Mini ll is a lightweight tripod that is perfect for strolling or vlogging. The Slik Sprint Mini ll has four segment multi-angle legs, a socket, and a ball head with a fast plate.

It is undoubtedly portable, light, and tiny enough to fit in a camera bag. It belongs to the class of portable tripods, which are bigger than tabletop versions but smaller than full-sized ones, and is appropriate for travel photographers.

In addition to being 1.75 pounds light, it has a maximum height of 43.3 inches and a folded length of only 13.8 inches.

The new SBH-100DQ ball head enables smooth camera placement and panning, while the legs include fast-release locks to make setup quick and simple.

With a decent load capacity of 4.5 pounds (2.05 kilos), it can accommodate most mirrorless and DSLR cameras in addition to all smartphones and tiny digital cameras.

It also stands out from typical all-black tripods because of its luxurious gunmetal finish.

5. Bonfoto B671A

• Strong and durable
• Easy to carry around
• great value for the money
• simple procedure for setup
• There is a reliable snapping mechanism.

The Bonfoto B671A aluminum tripod stands out for its great price and many capabilities that are often only found in more expensive models.

It is necessary for various situations or locations where the stability of all three legs is impractical or impossible. It is obvious from the qualities above why the Bonfoto B671A is often cited as the finest tripod under $100.

6. Dolica 100 AX620B

• does not weigh much
• Focus on Rapid Security
• Height is fantastic
• 62″ Aluminum Proline Tripod
• Support up to 13.2 lbs
• Quick release plate, ball head, and bubble level
• Leg locks that release quickly and non-slip rubber feet

The Dolica AX620B 100 may be proud of its controlled rubber feet, which are non-slip and prevent your tripod from making unintended movements while in use. My own experience suggests that this camera tripod functioned well.

Since it’s almost hard to capture anything that isn’t motionless without the ability to pan or tilt, if you want to take both images and movies, this tripod will probably not be sufficient for you.

7. Manfrotto Compact Action Tripod

• Very small and convenient for travel
• One knob locks all settings on a ball head.
• Quick and simple wheel attachment for camera connection
• Ideal for a compact camera or smartphone
• Wallet-friendly
• Well-constructed
• trustworthy circular mount system
• User-friendliness
• Simple to store

What if there was the greatest tripod for $100 that had all the features, was portable, and worked well while traveling? When such happens, a Manfrotto Compact Tripod is useful.

This Manfrotto version’s ergonomic “joystick” handle, which enables quick maneuvering, has made using it a complete joy.

Because of the joystick’s unique design, I could shoot many films and get some fantastic pan views.

8. Magnus VT-300 Tripod

• The metal accents
• A fluid mount

Although I wouldn’t go so far as to call it the finest tripod under $100, it’s still a worthwhile choice to consider.

The Magnus VT-300 resembles a combination of a good budget tripod and higher-end tripods, like the Manfrotto MVK502AM.

The design (which combines plastic and metal) and tripod construction indicate this. Magnus VT-300 may be a fantastic revelation if you’ve never worked with a fluid head.

9. Slik PRO 340 DX

• Tripod Weight: 3.5 lbs (1.58 kg)
• Maximum Height: 57.9″ (147 cm)
• Minimum Height: 18.1″ (46 cm)
• Load Capacity: 8.8 lbs. (4 kg)
• Folded Length: 19.3″ (49 cm)
• Removable All-Metal 3-Way Pan Head
• A.M.T. Super Titanium Alloy Construction

With tubular alloy legs and a die-cast “spider” with a three-way pan and tilt, fast release head, and two control grips, the Slik Pro 340DX is a small and lightweight four-section tripod.

It looks fantastic and is PERFECTLY completed in black. The Slik Able 340DX is constructed of super aluminum, magnesium, and titanium (A.M.T.) legs, much as the Slik Pro 700DX.

Compared to other basic aluminum tripods, it provides up to 40% higher strength-to-weight ratio, enabling improved camera stability with most DSLRs while still being lightweight.

The 3-way, all-metal SH-705E pan head on this small travel tripod employs a quick-release plate to make it simple to mount the camera on top.

Should you want to connect and utilize another suitable SLIK ball head, the head may easily be removed if the leg locks on the Slik Pro 340DX were better.

Overall, because of this top-rated tripod’s robustness, adaptability, and affordability, I heartily suggest it.

10. Zomei Q555 Lightweight Tripod

• Amazing collection of capabilities
• Simple to transport and small
• Dependable and stable design

Do you need the finest tripod under $100 every time you take a picture as a professional photographer? You are entirely justified in owning a sizable stabilizer for indoor use.

However, when you have to transport this large piece of equipment around, it is not the case.

This brand-new Zomei tripod is a good option for inside and outdoor photography, such as during sporting events. Every camera model is compatible with this tripod. It folds 180 degrees and is inverted.

What to Look for When Choosing a Tripod

Follow the guidelines below before choosing a tripod under $100; doing so will help you choose the kind of tripod you should purchase.

The weight of a tripod is one of the most important features to consider. Choosing one that’s too light or too overbearing is never necessary.

An excessively light tripod will likely not be effective in windy situations and often topple over, which may be disappointing.

Due to its hefty feet, a tripod on the heavy side may be more difficult to move during shoots and may not always provide the greatest results.

Never overcompensate while choosing the stature of your tripod. Buying a tripod that extends to more than 50 feet is the worst thing you can do, especially if you’re photographing anything just 20 feet away.

If all else fails, choose the shorter option. In general, you may place the tripod on an elevated object to display indicators of stature improvement.

3. Flexibility:

There are two distinct designs for tripod legs: flexible and fixed. You’ll find fixed tripod legs in your school images since they are the least priced and most common.

Simple tripod legs that may be adjusted are adjustable! Any approach may be tilted and altered to provide the greatest image. Since no one can predict what kind of photo you’re going to capture, I’ll always go for versatility.

4. Tripod Head Style:

There are two different types of tripod heads: dish tilt and ball. The ball head is more intelligent in gaining various points, while the dish tilt head is more precise in tilting to and from.

It depends on your photographic preferences which one you choose, but both are excellent options. However, I always choose the ball head for its adjustable review angles. Tripod Foot Style: Tripod feet have many more uses than you think.

They may prevent a tripod from tipping over during the perfect shot and eliminate vibrations from the beginning.

If you’re on concrete or another sturdy terrain, use stretchy shoes. If you find yourself on a surface that is becoming more malleable, walk with spiky feet to stop it from moving as much.

Benefits & Problems With Tripods Under $100

There are, without a doubt, a lot of nice solutions available on the market if you’re seeking a cheap tripod under $100.

All the benefits that a standard tripod can provide, like eliminating blur, taking long exposure photos, and experimenting with new perspectives, are still available to you from a tripod in this price range.

Let’s examine the precise benefits of purchasing a tripod for less than $100 and any possible drawbacks.

Benefits Of A Tripod Under $100

Almost every tripod on our list of the best under $100 has everything you might want in a tripod. They have a respectable maximum load capacity, are stable, and are robust.

You can get a tiny tripod with these capabilities for about $100, saving you hundreds of dollars. Whether you’re a professional or a hobbyist, it just requires a tiny investment for a big payoff.

There are several tripod alternatives available in this price range. Although the large selection of tripods for under $100 first seems frightening, you will be able to discover precisely what you need.

Potential Problems With a $100 or Less Tripod

Build excellence.

It should go without saying that expensive tripods will be better made. They are made of far superior materials than the top $100 tripod.

High-end tripods often employ carbon fiber. This increases the strength and longevity of more expensive tripods.

Unfortunately, a $100 tripod will probably be constructed of metal, if not with carbon fiber tripod legs. It would be worthwhile to increase your budget if you can afford a more expensive tripod since this is not the highest quality.

Reliability

Most likely, a $100 tripod won’t last you very long. Therefore, you must handle and use it with extreme care if you want to enhance durability.

These tripods’ low-quality construction is the cause of their lack of dependability. Tripods priced under $100 are less likely to live more than a few years, although professional tripods may provide years of service.

User Experience

It is impossible to overstate how important the user experience is. You’ll want to pick up and utilize a high-end tripod just to hold it in your hands since it will feel nice.

You can get all you need with a tripod that typically costs less than $100, but you can soon get tired of using it. You’ll ultimately find that you only use it when necessary.

Final Thoughts:

Have trouble settling on just one of these budget-friendly tripods? That’s OK since I’m here to assist you above and beyond those choices. And there you have it: 10 of the finest tripods under $100 that are also the most widely used and well-rated tripods on the market.

We hope you can discover one that meets your requirements and price range. And if you need something more reasonably priced, I suggest any top tripods under $100.

Of course, you may choose from any of the tens I’ve listed here; thousands and thousands of satisfied photographers have given each of these products extremely good ratings!

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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Best Tripods Under $100 (Top Picks For DSLR & Mirrorless Cameras)

Our hands are never steady, and no matter how good of a photographer we are, shaky hands will permanently ruin our beautiful photographs.

Don’t worry, though; thanks to the market’s extensive offerings, you may cherry-pick them, even those priced under $100.

I’ve compiled a list of the best tripods under $100 in this article to make things easier for you.

• The best overall tripod under $100 is the Manfrotto Compact Action Aluminum 5-Section If you are a videographer, you should consider buying Magnus VT-300 The built quality and construction play a major role in the precision of your photos.

Table of Contents

Top 5 Best Tripods Under $100

5. dolica ax620b100 – best for traveling.

What I Like

• Great Portability
• Great Load Capacity
• Single lever ball head
• Stable tripod legs
• Easy To Use Flip Locks

What I Don’t Like

• The quick-release design might be lacking
• Build Quality Could have been better

The first on the list is a tripod that will accompany outdoor photographers on their travels. Yes, it will do so at a low cost while providing you with the results you expect.

This aluminum tripod by Dolica has a maximum load capacity of 13.2 Pounds. So, if you’ve been hunting for a portable tripod to support your bulky setup, you’ve just found one.

It has a removable, invertible middle column (macro shots) that keeps it rock solid and extends at a maximum of 62″, while it folds down to a minimum of 21.5″. The tripod legs are pretty durable and stable.

It’s simple to deploy and fold thanks to quick-release flip latches. The single-lever ball head, on the other hand, is a unique feature; it comes with a quick-release plate with a 14″ mounting screw and allows for 360-degree panoramic pictures with marks. Personally, i don’t really like the ball head on this compact tripod, and if you have a bit of extra money, i would recommend replacing the ball head with something more advanced.

Don’t get me wrong, for the price, the ball head is fine, but it wobbles and doesn’t stay in place like it should.

Two bubble levels on the plate ensure accuracy on every occasion, and a knob twist locks the pan and helps you tilt.

To be honest, at this price, I couldn’t be happier with the Dolica tripod. Most people would doubt the durability of a low-cost tripod, which is why Dolica provides us with a 5-year warranty.

Why should you buy it?

If you are a traveler, then you have found your most suitable tripod because this tripod is listed as the best for traveling.

Check Price On Amazon

4. Joby GorillaPod 3K – Best Gorillapod

• Really Versatile
• Great ball head
• Limited on height.

Next up is a Gorillapod from Joby, which is a really unique choice. To keep it short, I’d say it’s the best tripod in its category.

The Joby Gorillapod sticks out for its flexibility, size, ease of use, and mostly the low price. Despite the fact that it isn’t your typical tripod, this “big” boy sure stands out for its versatility.

The GorillaPod is easily recognizable from any other tripod on the market. It’s well-loved by photographers and vloggers because it can be installed on practically any surface or projecting object, such as a tree limb, pole, table — pretty much anything that comes to your mind.

It has a ¼”-20 tripod mount and weighs less than 3 kg (6.6 lbs). You can pretty much take portability for granted here. It’s also quite sturdy for a little tripod capable of supporting 6.6 pounds of weight.

Yes, I am well aware that it doesn’t have the same maximum capacity as the above alternative, but this mini tripod was designed with vloggers in mind, and their setup generally comes in a compact and lightweight form factor.

A strong point of this tripod is its ball head. The ball head on this tripod is very good and stable. When a budget tripod is in question, most manufacturers try to save costs on the ball head, but i think that Joby did a really good job in this field, and included a great ball head on this tripod.

It also has a 360-degree panning bed, a 90-degree tilt, and a bubble level for precise positioning, the bubble level promises to bring great landscape photos. It can grow to a maximum height of 30 centimeters and a minimum height of 11 centimeters.

Overall it is a great tripod for those who seek a Gorillapod or a tabletop tripod. You will be hard-pressed to find a better alternative.

This mini tripod was designed with vloggers in mind, and their setup generally comes in a compact and lightweight form factor.

3. Magnus VT-300 – Best For Videographers

• Great Tripod for Videography
• Extremely stable feet
• Great for DSLR Cameras
• On the heavy side

Next, we have a tripod for videographers, don’t worry I didn’t forget you fellow video recorders on budget.

Yes, I know this might be a video recording tripod, but it can easily hold your DSLR or your full-frame camera. It has a maximum load capacity of 15 lb.

However, It is not exactly a portable tripod, which is understandable why. It has a folded length of 26.5″ and a weight of  5.8 lbs; looking at the bright side, this is more of a pro than a con. We all know that its extra weight will hugely contribute to the stability of the tripod.

Magnus VT-3000 can extend up to 64.3″ in height. Magnus didn’t forget to include a tilting and panning tripod head either. It’s not a geared tripod head , but still gets the job done.

Because of the non slip rubber feet, it is extremely stable. On the tripod, there’s also a bubble level, which helps you get the appropriate angle when photographing on rough terrain.

If you were to ask me, for the price it comes with, I am already sold. The Magnus Vt-300 can be used to create  4k video camera content. It’s incredibly stable and durable, and the action is silky smooth and professional-grade. Although it may be a little too big to travel with.

In its category, this is probably the best tripod under $100.

This tripod is the best one for video makers, so if you are a video maker, you have just found your most suitable tripod.

2. The Victiv T72 – Best Value

• Very affordable
• Can be transformed into a monopod
• Comes with an extra quick release plate
• Cant invert the center column

The Victiv T72 is the second tripod on the list, and it has a lot of functions for a low price.

This one appeals to me because it has a great maximum height of 182 cm, making it ideal for eye-level photography. If you want to learn more about this, read my essay on how tall a tripod should be .

In any case, the tripod may be folded down to 22.4 inches and can support up to 8.8 pounds of weight. It’s nothing groundbreaking, but it’s also not awful. It sure can carry a reasonable amount of weight. The tripod alone is 3.3 pounds in weight.

In addition, it comes with two quick release plates, which is uncommon. This is perfect for photographers who use a variety of cameras because it allows you to switch between them in a couple of seconds.

The flip locks on the legs of this tripod is also a strong point of it, and it left me impressed, especially because of the cost of this tripod.

When it comes to the head, it has a three-way swivel that enables 360-degree panning and tilting.

Overall, it’s a tripod with a lot of features at a price that’s just under $50. This is indeed something that should be on your wish list.

This tripod is perfect for photographers who use a variety of cameras because it allows you to switch between them in a couple of seconds.

1. Manfrotto Compact Action Aluminum 5-Section – Best Overall

• Extremely compact
• Very sturdy and durable
• Great for indoor photographers
• Lightweight Tripod
• Max weight capacity is 3.3 lbs
• Can’t be transformed into a monopod

If you’re into photography, I’m sure you’ve heard of Manfrotto, one of the “Big Dogs” when it comes to tripods.

The Manfrotto compact advanced tripod is a small tripod that comes at an affordable price, and it is one of their best tripods.

It is made of high-quality aluminum and weighs 2.65 pounds. It’s a pretty lightweight tripod, which makes it easy to carry around.

When it comes to the tripod’s weight, it’s among the lightest in its class; even at its maximum height, it doesn’t feel flimsy or unstable.

It has a 4.4-pound load capacity, which is not quite the number we want to be at. But yeah, It should be noted that it will struggle with large cameras with telelens; it was designed with beginner/mid-entry DSLRs in mind.

It reaches 17.3 inches in fold mode, or minimum height, and 61.02 inches at maximum height.

The joystick grip is located on the top of the tripod and allows you to hold and move the tripod. It is made of ABS plastic and fits nicely in your hand.

There’s also the innovative circular fast release plate, which allows you to attach the camera quickly and easily without having to fiddle with the settings. If you’ve came this far, you probably know that the ball head on most budget tripods is the weak point. In this dslr tripod, the ball head works perfectly fine on this tripod and gets the job done without any wobbling.

Despite having a low load capacity, it pretty much ticks everything you seek on a tripod, it even brings features from Manfrotto’s high-end counterparts at a really affordable price. Definitely the best tripod in its category.

Everything you seek on a tripod brings features from Manfrotto’s high-end counterparts at a really affordable price.

Buying Guide: How To Choose The Right Tripod For You

Build Quality and Construction

The phrase “Don’t judge a book by its cover” doesn’t hold true when it comes to tripods.

Most of the time, the material used to construct a tripod distinguishes a high-quality one from a low-quality one.

Tripods made of aluminum and carbon fiber both have advantages and disadvantages.

Aluminum tripods are reasonably strong and sturdy, and their major selling point is that they come at a much more affordable price than their counterparts.

While in the other hand carbon fiber is the best material available, and tripods built with it typically cost several hundred dollars, due to being the strongest material. More on this, in my article, aluminum vs carbon fiber tripod

You should also check other parts of the body, such as the legs and feet, to see if they are sturdy and secure. Or, more significantly, how solid is the tripod and how smooth is the panning?

The feet are very important, and you should always check if the tripod has rubber feet, plastic feet and aluminum feet. Around 90% of the tripods in the market today have rubber feet, since this is the cheapest and best material.

Load/Weight Capacity

When choosing the best tripod, the load capacity is extremely crucial. Simply put, it refers to how much weight can your tripod bench.

Jokes aside, the weight or say load capacity, refers to the maximum weight that your tripod can support before collapsing.

If you often use a hefty camera body and an even heavier lens, a tripod with a large weight capacity is a must. Even if your setup is lighter than 15 lbs, having the added stability is beneficial.

Minimum and Maximum Height

What makes the tripod’s height so important is that you can avoid some bills on backpain physiotherapists if you can look right into the viewfinder without bending, which I think is rather nice and comfortable.

A tripod with a good range of extensions will provide us greater freedom to perform things like the overhead photo, or even better, one with macro capability. When you think about it, it’s really hard to keep the camera steady in a low position when photographing a small insect, but it’s won’t be an issue for your tripod.

You also don’t want to extend the tripod too high because it will most likely lose its stability.

Portability

The weight of the tripod is also important, especially if you are shooting outside. You want your tripod to be as light as possible so that it can be carried around easily. The lighter it is, the easier it is to transport, so keep in mind that if you travel a lot, this will be your main treat.

You don’t want to carry around a bulky tripod, do you? You can simply go to the gym if you want to lift weights.

However, if you flip the coin, a heavier tripod will always be more stable than a light tripod.

That’s why each tripod is different. For example, an over-head tripod has to be very lightweight, whereas a wildlife tripod has to be very heavy and stable.

Frequently Asked Questions

How tall should the tripod be.

A good height of a tripod is known to be the one that holds the camera at least on your eye level. If it goes over, it is better, but lower than the eye level would be a disaster.

Are tripods expensive?

Not really! Tripods aren’t too expensive if we think about the fact that they are very much needed tools for a photographer. Still, it is important to mention that the price somehow depends on the material, as carbon fiber tripods are slightly pricier than aluminum ones.

Why do I have to use a tripod?

Using a tripod is not a must, but when you think about capturing a great photograph, a tripod is a need. It will help you capture super-stabile pictures or videos, among other things.

Final Words

Hopefully, you now have a clear grasp of the best tripods under $100 and which option would suit you best.

Even if none of the above appeals to you, I am sure that the further reading section and the buying guide will be helpful in the long run.

Always keep in mind that a tripod is a necessary tool, not a luxurious one.

What’s Next?

If you found the best tripod, most likely you own a N ikon Z6, next you can read about some good tripods that are beneficial to Nikon Z6 . No worries, I also have tripods for you Canon M50 users .

As for Sony A7s III users, I have listed some wonderful gimbals that you must check out. Oh, you don’t need a gimbal since you own a tripod? I got you cover, with some lenses that will work wonders on your Sony camera.

No Sony? , No problem. I also got some decent lenses for Canon Rebel T7 . If you are a street photographer don’t forget to check out some lenses that will benefit your street lenses portfolio.

This concludes the article, hopefully, everything was clear and you were able to grab a tripod from the listing above.

Camera Tester & Reviewer

I spend most of my time taking photos & videos of everything in sight. Yes, I am a stock photographer and I’ve probably taken more than 700,000 photos so far.

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