Tripod recommendations for travel

[SHaller]

I just found out that I'm going to be doing a fair amount of travel during spring and summer with all of being within the US. Since most airlines now are charing an arm and a leg for bag fees, I don't think I will be checking a bag. I used to be able to just fit my tripod in my suitcase, but It wont fit in my carry on suitcase. I also figured this is a good excuse to buy a better tripod.

I'm looking for something that has twist leg locks and has a decent weight capacity. I dont need something too extreme since it probably wont be holding much more than a body and a 400 5.6. I want it to be somewhat weather proof since its going to be outside a lot probably with the legs dirt, mud, and some water. Somewhere around $200 would also be nice but I'm open to suggestions to both higher and lower priced set ups. I'm no tripod guru, so I don't really know if everything I want in a tripod is available. If not, I'm open to the idea of having one for just traveling and one for everyday use.

 

[Big Mike]

Companies like Manfrotto, Gitzo & others make 4 and 5 section tripods. This means that the collapsed height is much smaller than a regular 3 section tripod.
Since you'll be hauling it around, it might be nice to get a carbon fiber tripod, as they are much lighter....much more expensive as well.

I'm sure you'll be able to find what you want...but not necessarily in your price range.

 

[tirediron]

As Mike said, your budget is a bit on the tight side, check out Craig's List and other 'sites for used gear.

 

[SHaller]

Thanks for the responses. Any one have any experience with benro tripods. Something like this Amazon.com: Benro A0680T Travel Angel Tripod Kit with Aluminum Twist Lock Legs with BH00 Head: Camera & Photo

 

[itsoura]

we got a benro and although it is a bit on the heavy side, it pretty much works and we love it

 

[RubenAlonzo]

Do not rule out the versatile Monopod either, it just may surprise you as to how quickly you're ready to set up and shoot.

 

[KmH]

I just found out that I'm going to be doing a fair amount of travel during spring and summer with all of being within the US. Since most airlines now are charing an arm and a leg for bag fees, I don't think I will be checking a bag. I used to be able to just fit my tripod in my suitcase, but It wont fit in my carry on suitcase. I also figured this is a good excuse to buy a better tripod.

Somewhere around $200 would also be nice but I'm open to suggestions to both higher and lower priced set ups.

This will just fit (diagonal) in a regulation carry-on bag, and is what I always used when traveling:

Giottos MT9360 Aluminum 4-Section Tripod Series III Professional

 

[SHaller]

I just found out that I'm going to be doing a fair amount of travel during spring and summer with all of being within the US. Since most airlines now are charing an arm and a leg for bag fees, I don't think I will be checking a bag. I used to be able to just fit my tripod in my suitcase, but It wont fit in my carry on suitcase. I also figured this is a good excuse to buy a better tripod.

Somewhere around $200 would also be nice but I'm open to suggestions to both higher and lower priced set ups.

This will just fit (diagonal) in a regulation carry-on bag, and is what I always used when traveling:

Giottos MT9360 Aluminum 4-Section Tripod Series III Professional

I was actually looking at that, but its almost 2x the weight of the benro

 

[SHaller]

Do not rule out the versatile Monopod either, it just may surprise you as to how quickly you're ready to set up and shoot.

I have one. Doesn't work the best with 30 second exposures lol

 

[xyphoto]

For travel, you will want carbon fiber tripod. They are light but extremely steady. However, they are also expensive.

If you have $300 to spend, take a look at Oben carbon fiber tripods exclusively from B&H. I personally bought CT3400 with a very good ball head for $350. It had worked well and quality is very good.