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Savvy Travel Advice

Guide to the Best Travel Tripods

Last updated: June 2, 2024 - Written by Jessica Norah 13 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. Just be aware this doesn’t come with an Arca compatible quick release plate. However, some of the more expensive Slik tripods do include Arca compatible heads.

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: Quick-release mount (not Arca compatible) 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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Peter B. Post author

April 20, 2024 at 4:12 pm

Thank you for your informative Travel Tripod article. You stated that the SLIK Sprint 150 Aluminum Tripod has Arca Swiss quick release. My Sprint 150 has a quick release system but my SBH-150DQ Ball Head is not Arca Swiss compatible – it takes its own proprietary 6183BK base plate.

Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author

April 22, 2024 at 3:39 am

Glad you found our article helpful and thanks so much for bringing this to our attention about that specific SLIK Sprint tripod model. So yes, that specific model does not come with a Arca Swiss compatible head. We have updated that information.

Now, many of the SLIK tripods do come with Swiss Arca-style tripod heads and brackets. But many of there mini and travel ones do come with a proprietary one. However, it does seem they are trying to update those as the SPRINT PRO III BHAC (another travel tripod in the Sprint series) has just been updated to have an Arca-style ballhead (SBH-100AC). So hopefully they will update more of their smaller heads to make it easier for people to use and swap cameras. But this does make the prices of these tripods go up.

Best, Jessica

Devail Post author

November 25, 2022 at 1:23 am

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

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!

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 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?

Given how high-tech cell phone cameras have become, you can take great vacation photos with no more than a smartphone— usually.

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.

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

What to Look for in a Travel Tripod

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How We Selected These Travel Tripods

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

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

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

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

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

Aluminum Travel Tripod

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.

Atumtek Selfie Stick Tripod

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.

Sirui AM124 Carbon Fiber Tripod

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 .

Manfrotto Element Traveller 5-Section Tripod Kit

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.

GoPro Max Grip + Tripod

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.

Fotopro Flexible Camera Tripod

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.

Bze Selfie Stick

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.

Manfrotto Travel Video Tripod

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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Best travel tripods 2024: Lightweight and compact tripods

The best travel tripods are great for photographers who are often on the go. They balance lightness and portability with stability and quality.

The quick list

Best overall

Best for height

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

• Travel tripods: FAQ
• How we test

The best travel tripods are for photographers who often hit the road and like to take their photography equipment with them. 

As their name suggests, travel tripods differ from standard tripods thanks to their compact, foldable design which makes them easier to fit inside backpacks. They also tend to be lighter than the standard best tripods . 

A travel tripod is an essential accessory whether you're hoping to capture stunning landscape shots or photograph the starry night sky. It lets you frame the perfect shot, take your time to set up and, crucially, keeps your camera stead if you're in low-lighting conditions or shooting with long exposures. 

A good balance of lightness and quality is important, so in choosing the best travel tripods, we didn't just consider their size and weight; we opted for tripods that are also sturdy and well-built. Travel tripods are often made from carbon fiber, a material known to be light but hard-wearing, and they have a telescopic design that collapses into a compact package, perfect for fitting into one of the best camera backpacks . 

• Best tripods 2024: For astrophotography, landscapes, travel, video and more
• Benro Rhino 24C Two Series travel tripod and VX25 head review

Our expert reviewers have tested the best travel tripods in a range of real-world environments, assessing their ease of use, portability, and weight as well as making note of how easily they'll fit into your bag. They've also examined any trade-offs you might need to make, for example having a restrictive payload. 

If you're looking to upgrade your kit, check out our guides to the best cameras and best lenses .

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

Read more below

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

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

A very light and compact tripod which can fold down to 13.6 inches, small enough to put into your cabin bag, and a smooth operating ball head.

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

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

Load next 3 products ↴

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

Best budget option

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

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

• Back to the top ⤴

Best travel tripods we recommend in 2024

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

Best travel tripod overall

Peak design travel tripod.

Our expert review:

Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

✅ Only the best will do: This is an exceptional, thoughtfully-designed tripod. We found it hard to fault.

❌ You need more height: This tripod can only reach a height of 60 inches.

🔎  Peak Design Travel Tripod:  An exceptionally narrow and compact design makes the Peak Design Travel Tripod a great piece of kit for traveling astrophotographers who want something highly mobile, that can be set-up and taken down fast. ★★★★½

The Peak Design Travel Tripod's slim and compact design as well as its high build quality earn it pole position in our guide. This lightweight tripod still guarantees stability, even when using heavy DSLR cameras. 

Its three legs and ball head meet seamlessly with no gaps when it's folded, which results in a compact package just 3.13 inches in diameter and 15.4 inches high. As its name suggests, the Peak Design Travel Tripod can easily be packed into your camera bag or luggage if you're often on the go. It does also come with a soft padded case  featuring a waterproof zip and carry handles to make carrying it around easier.

During our Peak Design Travel Tripod review , we loved how easy and fast it is to setup and take down, although we were slightly less fond of the camera attachment. The ball head (which, as an aside, is one of the most compact we've seen) comes with a tripod plate that attaches to your camera using a hex tool. While this is great to keep your camera incredibly stable for long hours when shooting star trails, we can't help but feel that a tool-free D-ring plate would have saved a lot of time.

The smartphone clamp on this tripod can be cleverly stowed away under the center column, saving more space in your camera bag. Granted, with a tripod like this one you probably won't be wanting to take smartphone pictures, but the option is there should you need it. 

As much as we love the Peak Design Travel Tripod, its size means it may not be suitable for all photographers. It has a maximum unfolded height of 60 inches/152.4cm, which is great for keeping its weight down, but if you're tall or want to extend the height you can shoot from, there are more suitable tripods on this list.

There are two different versions of the Peak Design Travel Tripod available: one with a carbon fiber body, and one aluminum. As you'd expect, the carbon fiber-bodied version is the lightest, but it also comes with a premium price tag as a result. Since the aluminum version is already light — weighing just 3.44lbs/1.56kg — we think it's more than adequate for most people, so you don't need to splash out on the other version unless your budget stretches to it.

• Read our full Peak Design Travel Tripod review

Benro Rhino FRHN24C+VX25 Head

✅  You want one of the tallest travel tripods: This one has a maximum height of 66.3 inches (168.5cm). ✅ You want a detachable monopod: Monopods are better for the likes of sporting events, where you have limited space. This model comes with a detachable one.

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

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

The Benro Rhino FRHN24C+VX25 Head's build quality really shines through, typical of Benro's high-end Rhino tripod range. It comes with all the bells and whistles you could ask for from a higher-end model including a phone mount, carbon fiber tubes and a detachable monopod.

In our Benro Rhino 24C Two series review , we praised its sleek design, reliability and portability. It's not the smallest tripod on this list, but since it folds down to 19.3 inches, it's still very compact and TSA luggage allowance-friendly. When completely extended, it measures 168.5cm (66.3 inches), so it should be tall enough for most users. We also love that it can be configured into a monopod, making it versatile for different types of photography. 

The Rhino tripod is available in a wide range of different heights and sizes. You can choose between four different sizes and between models with four or five leg sections, so you can tailor it to your needs. 

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

Perhaps the biggest drawback is that the Benro Rhino FRHN24C is amongst the most expensive tripods on our list, but if you're looking for the very best, that cost may be justifiable. After all, many professional travel photographers swear by this tripod and see it as a wise investment. Overall, we loved this tripod and awarded it a full five stars. 

• Read our full Benro Rhino 24C Two series review

Benro Tortoise 24C x GX30 Head

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

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

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

In terms of weight and compactness, it's hard to beat the Benro Tortoise. In fact, in our Benro Tortoise 24C Tripod review , we even questioned why this isn't Benro's flagship tripod. The Rhino, which came in second on our list, may be seen as the superior option, but we think the Tortoise is just as great a tripod.

One of the key differences between the two is that there's no center column on the Benro Tortoise. This means that the tripod isn't very high when extended, coming in at just 51 inches (129.5cm); our 5'4 reviewer felt they had to stoop when they were using it at full height, so it won't be ideal for taller users. On the other hand, the lack of a center column keeps the tripod much lighter and more compact than the Rhino.  It also means that the tripod's legs can spread out almost 90 degrees, giving it a greater degree of flexibility. If you're wanting to shoot from unique angles, the Tortoise is a good choice.

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

• Read our full Benro Tortoise 24C Tripod review

Vanguard VEO 3 GO 204CB Carbon Fiber Tripod

✅ You want something lightweight: This tripod weighs less than 2 lbs but still has a maximum payload of 6.6 lbs. ✅  You want an affordable carbon fiber tripod: This tripod is excellent value for money and a great price for a carbon fiber model.

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

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

While the Vanguard VEO 3 GO 204CB tripod can only extend to a height of 51.6 inches (1.3m), we were astonished by its lightness, as this model weighs just 1.8 lbs (0.81 kg). Although there are taller tripods in this guide, and those that can bear a weight greater than its 6.6 lbs (3 kg) maximum payload, you can't do much better for sheer portability.

This tripod is perfect for travel or hiking, particularly if you're going to remote locations to shoot astrophotography under glorious dark skies. It can fold down to just 13.6 inches in length, which is quite impressive. Although it may not be as tall as other tripods, its lightweight and compact design makes it an attractive choice. 

Photographers on the go will also appreciate its smooth-operating ball head, and overall, we think the build quality is top-notch. This is a surprisingly versatile tripod, and if you're a creative shooter, you'll really benefit from the various forms the Vanguard VEO 3 GO can take: It can also be used as a monopod and a selfie stick.

Like some other tripods on our list, the Vanguard VEO 3 GO comes in both a carbon fiber and an aluminum variant. As usual, the carbon fiber model is the most expensive of the two, but unlike with the Peak Design featured above, we found it to be surprisingly affordable. As the aluminum version is a few ounces heavier (2.1lbs compared to 1.8lbs), we think the small uplift in cost is worth it in this instance.

• Read more: Best mirrorless cameras

Manfrotto Befree 3 Way Advanced Tripod

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

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

🔎  Manfrotto Befree 3 Way Advanced Tripod:  At 3.28 lbs, the Manfrotto Befree Advanced Travel Tripod is not much heavier than its pricier carbon fiber rivals. As travel tripods go, it’s not as compact when collapsed as others, but it's packed with great features. ★★★★½

We highlighted this tripod's excellent build quality in our Manfrotto Befree Advanced Tripod review , especially the presence of a central column that makes it incredibly reliable. We should note that it isn't the lightest option out there — weighing 3.28 lbs (1.49 kg) — but it earns its place on this list as an excellent option for videographers.

It comes with a new and improved ball head that features 360-degree flexibility, using a hydraulic dampening mechanism to ensure the camera moves smoothly. The 200PL PRO base plate attaches to your camera easily using a D-ring, which is great when you're using it in the dark. The four-section legs are versatile, with three angled positions that click neatly into place and sturdy rubber feet to provide grip.

The Manfrotto Befree Advanced Tripod has a maximum height of 59 inches when it's set up, and it collapses down to just 15.7 inches when it's folded away. It's not as compact as some of the tripods on this list since it has a reverse folding design, but it's easy enough to transport. It is worth noting, however, that there are noticeable gaps between the legs when it's folded, which takes up extra space when you're packing it away. 

Despite being so robust, we're pleasantly surprised with how affordable the Manfrotto Befree is. We think it offers great value for money compared to some of the more expensive carbon fiber options we've included in this guide — and as a bonus, it even includes its own carry case. 

While it's not the smallest or lightest travel tripod out there, it's great value for the quality you get.

• Read our full Manfrotto Befree Advanced Tripod review

JOBY GorillaPod 3K Pro Tripod

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

❌ You have a lot of heavy kit: The payload is a pretty small 6.6 lbs (3kg). This is still enough for most casual shooters, but it's not suited to heavy gear.

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

At first glance, the JOBY GorillaPod 3K Pro is an odd-looking tripod, but we can forgive that because of its lightweight yet sturdy build. The way the legs are configured means you'll have a lot of fun using it, as you can attach them to almost anything to access new vantage points. Ultimately, this is a tripod that challenges you to get creative. 

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

Along with its unique legs, the GorillaPod comes with an Arca-Swiss compatible ball head that can be panned 360 degrees. Coupled with 90 degrees of tilt, you can shoot from practically any angle you like, making this an excellent choice for photographers who like to experiment with composition. 

It's worth noting that setting up the GorillaPod properly can be a little fiddly compared to other tripods. You need to ensure the weight of your equipment is evenly distributed, as the GorillaPod is liable to tip over. The fact there's no spirit level on the tripod makes this is a little more difficult, but if you have a newer camera, there's a good chance it'll have a built-in level feature anyway.

When everything is set up properly, however, we found the GorillaPod to be perfectly stable — even with a large telephoto lens attached to our camera. It's a very unique alternative to a traditional tripod, and one that you can have a lot of fun with.

• Read our full JOBY GorillaPod 3K Pro Kit review

Gitzo Legende Traveller Tripod Kit

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

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

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

Let's face it, nobody is choosing their tripod based on how aesthetically pleasing it is. That said, if they were, everyone would flock to the Gitzo Legende Traveller Tripod Kit. 

This tripod looks incredibly stylish. The Gitzo Legende is expertly crafted, sporting smooth dials and knobs to make setting it up and adjusting it an easy, straightforward process. It also impresses with its stunning details, including features like the custom-designed matte silver aluminum Center Ball Head and the gorgeous leather strap, enhancing its premium feel. 

All this talk of design doesn't mean the Gitzo Legende doesn't perform well: More than just looking great, it's a very good tripod, too. It extends to a maximum height of 65 inches with the central column extended, and collapses to a compact length of 16.9 inches when folded. Four leg sections can support a load of up to 17.6 lbs.

That extra style does come with a premium price tag. If you're willing to spend the money on it, we think it's a good option. However, we do think plenty of other tripods available, many of which we've mentioned in this guide, can perform the same functions equally well at a much lower cost. 

• Read more: Best camera accessories for astrophotography

Benro MeFoto Road Trip Pro

✅ You want versatility: This is really a 6-in-1 model that works as a tripod, monopod, selfie stick, high hat (for unique camera placement) and a table tripod.

❌ You want a super speedy setup: Though the mechanism works well, setup time might take longer as you have to twist and lock each section.

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

Benro is one of the best tripod manufacturers in the world, so it comes as no surprise, that the MeFoto Road Trip Pro tripod is a high-quality piece of kit. Despite being more affordable than some other models from Benro, it still boasts a great build quality and an excellent performance.

Its lower price does come with a number of trade-offs, but for most photographers, we don't think they'll be a massive problem. It has a smaller frame, so its maximum payload is a little less than other tripods in this guide, but 17.6lbs (8kg) is more than enough for large cameras and lenses. It's also not the tallest tripod, with its highest extended height of just 60 inches/155cm, so taller users may be want to look elsewhere.

At just 3.6 lbs, the Benro MeFoto Road Trip Pro is very lightweight and easy to carry in a backpack or luggage. It's also seriously versatile: In addition to being a tripod, it can be configured into a monopod, boom pole, selfie stick, high hat, and tabletop tripod. It's suited to practically every type of photography and videography, and with so many options to choose from, it promotes creativity and experimentation.

We found the tripod's graduated panning scale quite handy as it helps you maintain a level position for smooth video panning or capturing panoramic shots. The twist locks work effectively, but it might take longer to set up as you have to twist or unscrew each one individually. Nevertheless, the MeFoto Road Trip Pro is a quality choice that won't strain your budget, making it an excellent option for amateur travel photographers.

• Read more: Best cameras for beginners

3 Legged Thing Punks Corey 2.0

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

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

🔎  3 Legged Thing Punks Corey 2.0:  The Punks range is ultra light and compact but amazingly, these tripods can still support 30 lbs of weight, over 8 times their own weight of 3.95 lbs. ★★★½

Danny Lenihan, the founder grassroots UK business 3-Legged Thing, used his photography and lighting knowledge to design versatile and lightweight tripods. The 3 Legged Thing Punks Corey 2.0, available for $200, offers fantastic value for money.

3-Legged Thing's Punks series has been made with travel in mind. The Punks Corey 2.0 has a magnesium alloy body, keeping its weight low and its size compact. But despite that small stature and light weight, it can still hold an impressive payload of up to an 30lbs — more than eight times its own weight!

The Corey 2.0 Tripod is 54.3 inches when fully extended, and when it's collapsed, it's just 14.2 inches long. That's super compact, making carrying it or packing it away a breeze. We also appreciate that its feet can be swapped out in favor of a low-level/tabletop setup — and if you prefer, you can remove the legs entirely to opt for a monopod setup.

Even though we liked the tripod's vivid colors, they might not be to everyone's taste. And while the solid design and general great performance impressed us, some seasoned amateurs or professionals may want more bells and whistles, such as more complex head systems.

• Read more: 3 Legged PUNKS Brian tripod review

Travel tripods: Frequently Asked Questions

What is the lightest travel tripod.

The lightest travel tripod we tested is the Joby GorillaPod 3K Pro Tripod which weighs just 1.02 lbs (463g). However, this is a unique model designed to wrap around objects such as branches and fences, so it's not a traditional tripod per se. 

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

Can I use a travel tripod with my smartphone?

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

Should I buy a carbon fiber or aluminum tripod?

Carbon fiber tripods generally weigh less than their aluminum counterparts, but they also cost more. Some models come at a considerable premium, so if you're not looking to spend too much, look to aluminum models first. However, if traveling light is your priority, then carbon fiber is the way to go.

For example, the Peak Design aluminum travel tripod costs around $380 at the time of writing, while the carbon fiber version costs $650 ($270 or 1.7x more expensive). However, the Vanguard VEO 3 GO 204 aluminum tripod costs $130, and its carbon fiber version costs $150, so we think this extra cost is worth it.  

What is the best travel tripod for astrophotography?

We'd recommend the Peak Design Travel Tripod as the best travel tripod overall if your budget stretches to its high price tag. A more budget-friendly option which we still rate highly would be the Vanguard VEO 3 GO 204CB.

It's important to add up the overall payload (weight) of all the gear you will place on any given tripod to check it doesn't exceed the maximum payload (see question below).

What is a tripod maximum payload?

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

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

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

How many leg sections should my tripod have?

Most tripods have between three and five leg sections. The leg sections are designed to extend to increase or decrease the tripod's height to aid composition. 

For example, the Benro Rhino FRHN24C+VX25 Head has four leg sections and reaches a maximum height of 66.3-inches. The Joby GorillaPod 3K Pro Tripod has a maximum height of 11.8 inches with just one leg section, but this tripod is designed to wrap around and onto tall objects, so it's a bit of an exception. 

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

How we test the best travel tripods

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

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

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

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

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

• Kimberley Lane Contributing writer
• Tantse Walter Contributing Writer
• Kimberley Snaith Freelance contributor

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