Budget Tripod Needed for Night Photography

[CloakofStars9]

I am going to Venice, Italy next month and would like to have a sturdy tripod to take with me that doesn't cost an arm and a leg. Is this even possible?
I want to take night photos of the city but want to make sure I have a decent tripod for this. I honestly can't afford anything over $200.
Any suggestions? Thanks for your help!

 

[tirediron]

$200 will get you a decent tripod new, or a very good tripod used. Tripods are one of the best bargains on the used gear market IMO (I recently picked up a set of 055 legs for $60). Watch Craig's List, and I'd be surprised in you couldn't find a nice Manfrotto or Gilottos unit for that price. If you have to buy new, you can still do it, but you're going to take a bit of a hit; just remember that you want a unit rated for at least TWICE what your heaviest body & lens weigh. Three section legs are more sturdy, but four section fold up smaller for travel. Ball heads are generally more versatile than tilt/pan heads, but they're also more expensive.

 

[Big Mike]

Tripods are a pain to travel with. You most likely can't carry them on, so you have to check them...and it's usually not describable to put anything of value into your checked luggage. Not to mention that most airlines are getting pretty strict on baggage weight...and a tripod in a suitcase can get pretty heavy.
So you might consider buying something once you get there...and possibly selling it before you come home. Maybe renting or borrowing could be an option.

I agree with the above post, look for something used. You'll get a lot more value than buying a new tripod.

 

[CloakofStars9]

Thanks for the replies. I plan on taking only carry on luggage so I wanted something to fit in that if possible. I agree that they are a pain to travel with and I usually avoid it but I just don't want to pass up this opportunity. Thanks again!

 

[Mike_E]

Get a used Manfrotto and ship it to your hotel.

Call ahead and tell them to expect it. This only works, obviously, if you have reservations but if so you will have your tripod waiting for you -and not lost- when you get there. You can then sell it when you're done or ship it home.