If you’re a photographer who enjoys traveling but still wants a tripod that’s both lightweight and stable, this guide to the best travel tripods 2025 is for you. We’ve selected tripods that are compact, durable, and designed to handle the demands of professional photographers, so you don’t have to compromise on performance.
Finding the right tripod can be tricky, but it’s worth it for the perfect shots. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the top options to help you choose the right one for your next adventure.
What to Look for in a Travel Tripod
Before we get into the best tripods of 2025, it’s important to know what makes a tripod great. Here’s a quick breakdown of what to consider:
Weight and Portability
When traveling, every ounce counts. So, a travel tripod should be light enough to carry easily without sacrificing the stability you need for sharp photos.
Build Quality and Materials
Tripods are usually made from carbon fiber or aluminum. Carbon fiber is light and absorbs vibrations well, but it’s pricier. Aluminum, on the other hand, offers strong support and a lower price but is heavier.
Stability and Load Capacity
Stability is key. You’ll want a tripod that can hold your camera steady, especially if you’re using a heavier setup like a telephoto lens or full-frame camera.
Folded Size and Packability
When traveling, your tripod’s size when packed away can be just as important as its full height. Look for models that fold down to a compact size (under 18 inches) without losing stability or durability.
Our Top Picks This Year
- Budget-Friendly: Manfrotto Befree Advanced Aluminum – Reliable, affordable, and perfect for beginner to intermediate travelers
- Ultra-Compact: Peak Design Travel Tripod – Brilliantly engineered to pack down small without sacrificing height or function.
- Pro-Level Choice: Gitzo Traveler Series 1 – A bit pricey, but nothing matches the build quality and performance.
Quick Tips for Traveling with a Tripod:
Use a padded case to protect the legs and locks.
Strap it to your backpack’s side — or look for packs with dedicated tripod sleeves.
Consider a universal L-bracket to make switching from landscape to portrait faster and sturdier.
Final Thoughts
The best tripod is the one you’ll actually bring with you. Don’t let weight, size, or fiddly locks keep you from nailing that long exposure or tack-sharp landscape. For 2025, carbon fiber models with quick-locking mechanisms hit the sweet spot for most photographers.