Travel Tripod Recommendations

[diamond3]

I've been looking into some travel tripods. The kind I can attach to my backpack on trips. I'd like to hear if anyone has tripods they use and like as well as any they've used and hated. Cost is a concern, but I'm not opposed to spending a little more if the value of the tripod makes it worth it. I've looked at Dolica and just a few on BH. Any suggestions would be welcomed. I do video as well, but for this tripod, a panning head isn't necessary.
Thanks

 

[close2reality]

I just picked up a Manfrotto Befree I have only had a few days with it but is very light. Aluminum. Tag of $199.00.

 

[diamond3]

I'm currently liking what i see with this tripod for the price since it's onsale:
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/892889-REG/Benro_a1350q1t_MEFOTO_A1351QA_Tripod_Kit.html

 

[simonsi]

TBH with tripods IMHO you need to feel the quality and stability - that just can't be known from a picture so whatever you decide, try to get hands-on before buying...

 

[TheReef]

I researched extensively a few years back looking for a good travel tripod and ended up with the Manfrotto 190CXPro4 - remove the head and it fits in most flight carry on. Decently sturdy for the size and weight, it's great for hiking.

 

[VirtualRain]

I went through the process of seeking out a travel tripod last year... and there is some great advice on the photography-on-the.net (POTN) forums.

What I was amazed to find is that you can get tripods that are lighter and more compact folded for travel than so-called "travel tripods" that are in-fact full size carbon fiber tripods.

Based on some solid reviews on POTN, I ended up with the Feisol CT-3441T legs. They are simply amazing. The build quality is outstanding and they are lighter than my old travel tripod, just as compact (even with the head mounted), as sturdy as any full-size tripod, and when extended are tall enough for a 6' person not to have to stoop over.

More info on the site here... http://www.feisol.net/feisol-traveler-tripod-ct3441t-rapid-p-107.html

Note that a key spec for gauging stability is the cross-sectional diameter of the legs.

 

[tgara]

The Mefoto travel tripods are very well received. Good construction, many colors and choices of materials. Definitely worth a look.

http://www.mefoto.com/products/roadtrip.aspx

 

[phrehdd]

The Mefoto travel tripods are very well received. Good construction, many colors and choices of materials. Definitely worth a look.

http://www.mefoto.com/products/roadtrip.aspx

I agree that this is a nice lightweight travel tripod. What I would suggest is if people want a lightweight tripod, check the max height of the legs. When you see the difference between the Mefoto Travel and the MeFoto Globetrotter, the latter turns out to be still a lightweight tripod but much sturdier. In general, I try not to extend legs all the way unless I can weigh down the tripod (like hanging the camera bag from the center). The difference in cost is worthwhile if you are comfortable with a slightly heavier tripod that also when 'folded up' is slightly larger than the Traveler series.

 

[filmbufs]

I like the MeFoto Roadtrip tripod. It extends to 61.6", folds down to 15.4", weighs only 3.6lbs and can support a DSLR with a large lens. Bonus that it easily converts to a monopod. http://www.mefoto.com/products/roadtrip.aspx

 

[Apple fanboy]

I tried out a Manfrotto Befree carbon fibre model at a show and was really amazed at the weight. However the guy said it would be fine with my set up, but asking around, it's not going to be all that great with my 70-200 2.8 (as it weighs a ton). I'd like something lighter than my Manfrotto 190 set up, but not for the price it will set me back.