Memories are wonderful, but photographs are easier to share when you return from a magical trip. Nobody wants to lug a ton of camera gear around the world, so carrying the right piece of equipment can make the difference when pursuing the perfect shot. Travel tripods have evolved to be extremely compact and portable, making what was once left behind a necessity for adventure. Here are four great options for your next epic trip.
MeFoto Air Series, $125-$225
MeFoto’s Air Series includes the BackPacker, RoadTripper, and GlobeTrotter travel tripods. The Backpacker is the most lightweight and compact of the three, clocking in at just two pounds. It’s ideal for smartphones, compact cameras, action cameras, and seal mirrorless cameras as it has a maximum load of just 8.8 pounds. The other tripods each weigh more and subsequently have a higher maximum load capacity. The removable telescoping center column converts to a selfie stick with included smartphone holder and Bluetooth remote. The HyperLock leg locking system ensures a super fast setup.
Vanguard VEO 2 235CB, $200
This carbon fiber travel tripod is lightweight and compact, and quickly deploys thanks to the. Thanks to the central column rotation and advanced 1/4 turn lock-unlock system, the tripod can be deployed in a matter of seconds. The multi-action ball head operates with three independent dedicated knobs for locking, panning, and friction control. It weighs only 2.6 pounds and can extended to over 57 inches. Spiked feet are sold separately, but ensure a secure position in outdoor environments.
Pakpod, $99
The Pakpod is a super portable tripod made of high impact acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) and weighs 15.5 ounces. While it has a maximum height of just under 18 inches, the integrated stakes allow for stable mounting in a variety of environments. All three legs lock with a single twist, and there are multiple mounting points. The Pakpod even works great underwater with a stable, waterproof camera mount.
Sirui T-025X, $200
This ultra-compact carbon fiber tripod is just over 12 inches long when folded and extends to 54.5 inches, but only weighs only 2 pounds. The removable center column allows for table-top use, as well as macro and low angle shooting. Each leg has an automatic locking mechanism and there are three leg angle positions for uneven terrain.
