I tested more than 50 models from various manufacturers and price ranges in order to identify the top travel tripods of the year. Here are some list of best travel tripod.
This guide will assist you in selecting the ideal tripod for stabilising your camera without sacrificing weight or space, from the most recent lightweight carbon fibre tripod to affordable aluminium ones.
A solid camera tripod enables you to shoot stunning long exposure photos that blur moving water or star trails, produce interesting time-lapse videos, capture expansive landscapes, and even snap self-portraits.
In low-light situations, tripods enable you to take better, clearer pictures than you might if you were shooting handed.
To transport mirrorless and DSLR cameras with long lenses attached and with the least amount of vibration, a travel tripod needs to be sturdy, small, and lightweight.
To improve the effectiveness and enjoyment of your shooting experience, the top models should also include special features.
Here are the top travel tripods of the year, as determined by my testing and independent research.
Keep checking back because I’ll be updating this list when new models are released.
The best travel tripod for DSLR
Peak Design Travel Tripod Review: Material: Carbon fibre or aluminium alloy | Maximum height: 153 cm (60.2 inches) | Minimum height: 14 cm / 5.5 inches | Folded length: 39 cm (15.3 inches) | Weight: (Alu) 1.56 kg (3.4 pounds) (CF) | Feet: Pads (spikes optional extra) | Number of leg sections: 5 | Max load: 9 kg (19.8 pounds)
- Size
This extremely portable tripod’s unique capacity to collapse into a tubular unit with a diameter akin to a can of beans makes it stand out from the crowd.
With no protruding ball head and an incredibly small quick-release plate, it is small enough to fit inside the water bottle holder of the Peak Design travel bag when folded. Other tripods typically have “dead space” when folded. At barely 39 cm, the folded height is amazing.
The packed capacity of a travel tripod is important to users, and this is an area where the Peak Design tripod shines.
10/10
- maximum height
It is tall enough for comfortable use and still maintains adequate stiffness at its greatest length (153 cm). If at all possible, stay away from extended centre columns, especially on windy days, but this is true of all lightweight tripods.
9/10
- Weight
Although there are lighter products available, they frequently come at the expense of a product’s strength and rigidity. This is true for both the aluminium and carbon fibre travel tripods. The carbon fibre tripod’s weight savings of 29g might not justify the added cost.
8/10
- Build
The Travel Tripod is exceptionally well-designed and constructed, like all other Peak Design items. Additionally, there is a lifetime guarantee, which is ideal for frequent and backpackers’ peace of mind.
10/10
- Sturdiness
The Peak Design Travel Tripod’s rigidity and damping are outstanding despite having 5 leg parts.
With a maximum load capacity of 9kg, any camera + zoom lens may be supported securely. There is a hook underneath the centre column where you can hang a weight, like your rucksack, in strong winds.
9/10
- Features
The Peak Design tripod continues to have the most distinctive and practical characteristics of any other lightweight tripod, according to my tests.
When the tripod is collapsed, the ball head’s stem fits snugly between the tops of the legs, preventing protrusions and allowing for convenient storage.
Locking angles can be changed quickly and effectively by controlling lever locks with one hand while adjusting the camera angle with the other.
Legs deploy fully in all 5 sections fairly quickly since they glide in and out easily and have robust yet simple to open leg locks.
A nicely hidden phone holder is hidden behind the centre column hook.
Spikes can be swapped out for rubber feet, and the column can be turned upside down for macro photography camera setups. Even the protective case is well-made, with no extra material or padding anywhere to be found.
10/10
- Value
This tripod is by no means inexpensive; instead, you pay for a distinctive look and cutting-edge functionality not seen on competing models.
The pricing is more reasonable because of the enormous benefit of the lifetime warranty.
Although carbon fibre feels/looks better and has a slight weight advantage (I own the carbon fibre tripod), the aluminium model is the best value for your money.
8/10
The best travel tripod for stability
Maximum height: 149 cm (59 inches); minimum height: 14.5 cm (5.7 inches); folded length: 44.5 cm (17.5 inches); weight: 1.35 kg (2.97 pounds); feet: pads and spikes; number of leg sections: five; maximum load: 25 g (55 kg).
Pros
- sturdy and reliable construction
- Unique and practical sub tripod
- dependable locking ring
- astounding maximum load
- concealed mobile mount
- 2 tripods for the price of 1
Cons
- Currently only accessible through Indiegogo
- a tiny bit bigger and heavier than Peak Design’s
- Size
The HEIPI travel tripod is tubular in shape, similar to the Peak Design travel tripod, and takes up less room in your bag because there are no gaps between the folded legs and retracted ball head.
Everything neatly tucks away, making it much easier to put into its carrying case (than Peak’s too tight one).
10/10
- maximum height
The maximum height of 150 cm is respectable, but like with the other top travel tripod options, it still requires tall photographers to stoop a little.
9/10
- Weight
The HEIPI weighs only 1.35kg (1.2kg without the subtripod), thanks to its carbon fibre body and aluminium subtripod.
This is the ideal location for light travel without sacrificing stability in stronger winds or on grassy or uneven terrain.
There are lighter solutions available for travel that is actually light.
8/10
- Build
The HEIPI has a really solid feel to it; the legs slide in and out easily, and the leg locks confidently hold everything in place.
The ball head is strong and resilient, and it appears that it can withstand repeated outdoor use as well as the rigours of travel.
10/10
- Sturdiness
Here, the HEIPI stands out among the other top travel tripod products I tested and is truly exceptional.
A second aluminium “subtripod” that is installed inside the main tripod increases the rigidity of the whole thing when it is folded up.
When extended, it is three times more stable than other travel tripods since it has three legs instead of a typical single central column.
I think it’s the greatest tripod for astrophotography at this price because of the improved stability.
10/10
- Features
A centre column lock ring that is readily movable with a few hand twists extends and deploys the subtripod.
The subtripod can be used for low-angle, macro photography or even as a small tripod to be placed on a table by fully opening it.
In comparison to using a single centre column, the subtripod adds rigidity when used with the main tripod. This feature is currently exclusive to this particular travel tripod.
Spikes for usage on sand, ice, grass, or snow can be seen when the rubber feet are screwed open to reveal them. Three additional hex keys, a water-resistant protective casing, and a fast release plate are also included.
The detachable ball head functions as an auxiliary accessory that may be attached to either the primary or the secondary tripod.
A helpful bubble level and even a counterweight hook are included. You can hang your luggage from the counterweight hook to offer some more stability.
10/10
- Value
The HEIPI is a high-quality product and is priced accordingly; it is by no means a cheap tripod. For a carbon fibre tripod with so many functions, the price is excellent.
Just keep in mind that you’re actually getting two tripods for the price of one (the mini tripod is unique and useful and fits perfectly inside the larger one).
It is still far less expensive than the comparable carbon fibre Peak Design Travel Tripod, which is only now available on Indiegogo.
The only drawback is that you have to wait until March 2023 to purchase one, but based on my early tests, the wait will be worthwhile.
8/10
Best Tripod for Backpacking
Magnesium alloy; maximum height: 147.5 cm (58 inches); minimum height: 18.5 cm (7.2 inches). Max load: 14 kilogramme (30 lb). Folded length: 35 cm (13.67′′). Weight: 1.5 kg (3.4 lb). Feet: Pads (spikes optional extra). Number of leg sections: 5. + 2 segment column. Corey Analysis
Pros
- multiple places of attachment
- Stylish style
- sturdy legs
- Maximum load capacity: 14 kg
- inflated level
Cons
- Not all people like the same colours.
- Size
With the legs folding back 180 degrees over the centre column, the Punks Corey, which is made exclusively for travel and light backpacking, packs down to an incredible 35cm/13.67′′, contributing to the creation of a narrow overall packed diameter for your camera bag.
9/10
- maximum height
The 3 Legged Thing is tall enough for comfortable use and still maintains adequate rigidity at its extended height of (147.5cm/58′′).
- Weight
The Punks Corey is a lightweight travel tripod for photographers who favour taking just carry-on luggage, weighing in at 1.5 kg (3.4 lb). It is the perfect travelling tripod due to its size and weight.
8/10
- Build
Unique to travel tripods, aircraft-grade magnesium alloy construction provides great longevity and one of the best strength-to-weight ratios. Fantastic ball head construction.
10/10
- Sturdiness
The 3 Legged Thing Punks Corey retains excellent rigidity with 5 leg parts and a distinctive 2 section centre column. You can attach extra weight from a special detachable d-ring underneath the column to improve stability. 14 kg/30 lb maximum load capacity is impressive.
9/10
- Features
Twist locks provide quick deployment of legs. Increased stiffness and effective fine-tuning of overall height are made possible by the double centre column. AirHed Neo ball head with gripping knobs for quick adjustments.
A leg lock system with exceptional rigidity and stability has been precisely constructed. For precise levelling, use two spirit levels (head and leg). Leg locks with a comfortable ‘bubble’ grip for all weather use. removable monopod.
For macro camera setups, an invertible column. Numerous accessory options for the 1/4″ screw foot. Hollowed spurs on a tri-mount plate allow you to attach extras. a sturdy drawstring bag. Hex key, coin key, key ring, carabiner, and bottle opener are all included in the “Toolz” multi-tool. available in a variety of lovely colours.
10/10
Value
Excellent value that fits most budgets. 5-year restricted warranty against production flaws.
9/10
The best lightweight travel tripod
Maximum height: 127 cm (50 inches); minimum height: 119 cm (47 inches); folded length: 47.5 cm (18.7 inches); weight: 1.42 kg (3.14 lbs); feet: pads and spikes; number of leg sections: 4; maximum load: 6 kg (13.2 lb).
Pros
- Lightweight and small
- stronger than rival products
- terrific ball head
- special detachable central column
- foot spikes included
Cons
- lower maximum load
- Size
The Leofoto folds down neatly and compactly, measuring only 47.5 cm (18.7′′) in length when fully extended. Everything fits neatly into the carry case that comes with the camera.
Since there is no negative space between any of the three legs thanks to the removable and optional centre column, the folded tripod takes up much less space when it is folded.
9/10
- maximum height
The Lefoto stands about 127 cm (50 inches) tall, which is standard for the tripods we examined. It’s not suggested to utilise the centre column for best stability unless the ground is entirely even/stable and there is no wind, as with all travel tripods that place a premium on weight-saving and compactness.
8/10
- Weight
The Leofoto LS224C is significantly lighter than most other tripods in its price range and the lightest I tested. It is only available in carbon fibre and weights an astounding 1.42 kg (3.14 lbs) when the ball head is attached, making it ideal for long days spent trekking or travelling with limited carry-on luggage space.
This type is the one to get if you need an ultralight tripod for backpacking or solo travel.
10/10
- Build
Leofoto is a brand owned by Laitu Photographic, a company that has been producing tripods and accessories since 2014.
When the legs are extended, the LS224C feels excellently constructed and well-made. When setting up the Leofoto, the leg hinge joints are nice and stiff, giving you confidence.
9/10
- Sturdiness
When the Leofoto’s legs are fully extended and the middle column is detached, everything feels extremely stable.
Obviously, this lowers the tripod’s total height, but that is a tiny price to pay for the increased stability.
David from the Centre Column compared the LeoFoto’s rigidity to that of considerably more expensive travel tripods, as seen in the screenshot up above.
9/10
- Features
One of the few travel tripods we’ve seen that isn’t built around a centre column is the LS224C.
When travelling light, this is a significant space-saver as the tripod’s legs may be folded closer together, taking up less overall room.
The tripod can be set up quickly and easily since the leg joints’ twist locks can be turned just about a quarter turn before the legs release.
To spread the legs out to 55 degrees and then 85 degrees for close-up shooting, leg locks can be pushed out.
For use on grass or soft ground, the included steel spikes can be used in place of the rubber feet, which is a convenient feature not frequently found on travel tripods at this price point.
9/10
- Value
It’s astonishing to see that the LS284C costs less than $200 for this level of performance and features from such a portable tripod.
It offers great value for the money for such a little tripod that weighs less and performs better than tripods costing twice as much.
10/10
Best Travel Tripod Under $100
Carbon fibre is the material; the maximum height is 152 cm (60 inches); the shortest height is 35 cm (3.7 inches); the folded length is 35 cm (15 inches); the weight is 1.3 kg (3.3 pounds); the maximum load is 15 kg (33 pounds); and the number of leg parts is five.
Pros
- great value for the money
- fantastic for novices
- folds neatly and compactly
- extremely light
- becomes a monopod
Cons
- inferior protective bag
Not the best in cold weather or when wearing gloves
- Size
The Zomei Z699C may fit in any tiny camera backpack when it is folded up. It is the smallest travel tripod I tested when folded (35cm / 15′′).
10/10
- maximum height
The Zomei tripod is tall enough to be used comfortably and still maintain sufficient rigidity at maximum extension (152cm/60′′).
For low-angle or close-up trip photography, legs can be locked at a variety of angles or spread widely.
9/10
- Weight
The polycarbonate tripod head, weighing only 1.3 kg (3.3 lb), helps reduce weight. The greatest weight reduction is provided by carbon fibre construction.
Tripods made of carbon fibre are more rigid, lighter, weather-, corrosion-, scratch-, and overall stronger than those made of aluminium. They feel and look better, too.
9/10
- Build
Legs move easily, and one hand may deploy all of the locks on each leg at once.
For use when wearing gloves or in cold weather, grips could be bigger or stickier. Leg grips are a nice feature because they offer padding during transportation.
Although the plastic ball head is simple, it comes with a bubble level. Although it feels cheap, the protective bag does its job.
7/10
- Sturdiness
good rigidity and a hook in the centre column for added stability.
Considering how light it is, it is surprisingly durable; it can support any camera/lens combination with a maximum load of 15 kg (33 lb).
9/10
- Features
folding in reverse. convert a monopod. various leg angles, such as inverted macro. Metal’spikes’ for outdoor or uneven terrain and contoured rubber feet for flat floors.
Fast deployment is made easy using twist locks.
7/10
- Value
A fantastically affordable little carbon fibre tripod for 2023 is the Zomei Z699C. Carbon fibre of this build quality is not available for cheaper. The finest inexpensive travel tripod when good quality is still required is this one.
10/10
The best travel tripod for videos is the Manfrotto Befree Live.
Material: Aluminum/Carbon Fibre; Maximum height: 150cm/59.06″; Minimum height: 40cm/15.75″; Folded length: 40cm/15.75″; Weight: (Alu) 1.76kg/3.9lb (CF); Feet: Pads; Number of leg sections: 5; Maximum load: 3.9kg/8.8lb
Pros
- a rapid and practical twist-lock system called M-Lock
- fluid head for fluid panning of video
- containing a carry bag
- adjusting the ball joint for precise alignment
- Hook for fastening objects
- One can alter the position of a fluid arm.
Cons
- No adjustable feet
- No panning friction adjustment
- Size
The BeFree Live is a reasonably small tripod when collapsed, especially taking into account the fact that it features the crucial fluid head and lever for fluid video panning movements.
However, the unit’s entire volume is larger than the other travel tripods we tested because the legs and head do not rest snugly against the central core.
If you wish to pack it even more compactly, you may fully remove the tripod head to allow the legs to sit closer together.
7/10
- maximum height
The maximum height is comparable to other travel tripods in this price range at 150cm/59.06″.
For the majority of vacation photography, the height should be adequate with a folded length of just 40cm (15.75′′).
8/10
- Weight
For a fluid head, the head weighs only 380g (0.84 lbs), which is incredibly light. It can support up to 3.9kg (8.8 lbs). The combined weight of (Alu) 1.76kg (3.9lb) and (CF) 1.36kg (3lb) is decent for video travel tripods.
If you wish to pack it even more compactly, you may fully remove the tripod head to allow the legs to sit closer together.
7/10
- maximum height
The maximum height is comparable to other travel tripods in this price range at 150cm/59.06″.
For the majority of vacation photography, the height should be adequate with a folded length of just 40cm (15.75′′).
8/10
- Weight
For a fluid head, the head weighs only 380g (0.84 lbs), which is incredibly light. It can support up to 3.9kg (8.8 lbs). The combined weight of (Alu) 1.76kg (3.9lb) and (CF) 1.36kg (3lb) is decent for video travel tripods.
Unless possessing the lightest tripod is your primary concern, there is no reason to choose the carbon fibre variant.
9/10
- Build
The BeFree Live tripod, which is a Manfrotto product, is well-made and comfortable to use when the twist-lock leg portions are extended.
The supplied travel bag fits everything neatly, and the reversed foldable leg design is simple to use.
8/10
- Sturdiness
With a Sony a7IV and 24-70mm f/2.8 lens, we tested the Manfrotto BeFree Live, and it worked well.
You shouldn’t experience any problems with how strong it is unless you’re using a camera/lens configuration that is heavier than the maximum weight.
8/10
- Features
The fluid head’s arm can be fully adjusted, allowing you to set the tripod in the ideal position before using it.
There is a tightening knob on the tilt control that you may turn to make the tilting motion pleasant and smooth.
If you need to switch out the fluid head for whatever reason, it’s easy to do so because it can be attached to various portable tripods. A bubble level is also available for accurate installations.
Additionally, it has a “Easy Link” feature (standard 3/8″ attachment) for optional accessories and a hook to secure a stabilising weight.
8/10
- Value
If you’re looking for portable tripods with fluid heads for recording videos, the BeFree Video is a fantastic value at roughly $270.
You might find something cheaper, but it won’t be from a recognised company like Manfrotto.
9/10
Best Phone Tripod for Hiking | Joby GripTight One
Aluminium and plastic; size: 1.34 x 1.57 x 6.50 in Max load: 325 g (0.72 lbs), weight: 71 g (0.16 lbs).
Pros
- Adaptable legs
- includes all smartphones
- Compact
- built to last
- functions as a hand grip for vlogging
Cons
- small height
- Just a 12-month warranty
- Size
The Gorillapod GripTight One is a compact (also known as tabletop) tripod kit that is much smaller than other travel tripods and takes up very little space in your luggage. In fact, it is so little that it can easily fit into your pocket.
10/10
- Height
Since they are designed to be used with the legs partially spread out or bent to wrap around thin objects, gorillapods don’t have a fully extended height. You’ll typically be stooping down or looking for something higher to fasten it to or balance it on in either case.
5/10
- Weight
This flexible tripod may be brought along on any journey without a second thought because it only weighs 71 g (0.16 lbs), which is a modest amount.
10/10
- Build
The Gorillapod, which is made of ABS plastic, stainless steel, and TPE, is the best tripod for travelling when camera bag space is at a premium. It is obviously not as well-built as some of the heavy-duty tripods, but that is not necessary.
9/10
- Sturdiness
The GripTight is made to fit any smartphone, case included or not (56mm – 91mm), including all current iPhone and Samsung Galaxy models. Leg joints are sturdy and stable, but since all legs are the same length, you’ll need to find flat surfaces or thin tubular things to wrap them around for the best stability.
7/10
- Features
If you require more height, you may attach the mount to different travel tripods thanks to its 1/4′′-20 standard tripod mount base. The ability to wrap the legs around thin objects or use them all at once as a useful grip while recording is the main feature aside from that.
8/10
- Value
The GripTight One offers incredible value for money at less than $25, and the 1-year warranty is plenty for frequent travel.
10/10
What to Consider When Choosing a Travel Tripod
To reduce your options to the finest alternatives for the typical travelling photographer or filmmaker, stick to the travel tripods on this list and keep in mind the following criteria:
- The smaller the folded size, the better for packing.
- If strength and durability are upheld, the height that is closest to the user’s eye level is ideal. The minimum height enables macro and close-up work.
- The lighter the item is, as long as strength and durability are maintained. A good strength-to-weight ratio is between 1 and 1.5 kg.
- A carbon fibre travel tripod is more expensive but better in terms of strength to weight.
- Rigidity under load vs. maximum weight capacity; leg section count (fewer is better).
- Value for money is a price that is reasonable given the total quality. within the means of the typical backpacker or travel photographer.
- Any additional tripod features that are special and provide value.
