The three-legged race
Travel tripods can take longer to set up, but can be very versatile
All of the tripods we’ve chosen for this Big Test are sold as kits, complete with heads that often feature Arca-swiss type quick-release plates. Ball heads offer a space-saving advantage, as they don’t have multiple locking handles that stick out from the head, or need to be removed to pack the tripod away. Manfrotto offers an alternative solution in its Befree 3-Way Live Advanced kit on test, which features a slimline 3-way head with a folding handle. Even so, most ball heads aren’t short on sophistication. Many feature independent panning locks and adjustable friction dampers, in addition to the main locking knob.
Up-market tripods are usually made from carbon fibre instead of aluminium. They have a more luxurious feel, a smarter looking finish, and can be more resistant to vibrations. Carbon fibre can also feel less cold to the touch but, then again, most tripods of either material tend to feature comfort padding on at least one leg.
The main advantage of carbon fibre is that it’s more lightweight than aluminium, giving it a clear advantage for ‘travel tripods.’ But that’s not the whole story… Although the weight-saving can be substantial in full-sized tripods, it’s less noticeable in small travel tripods. For most kits available in both aluminium and carbon fibre options, the latter typically only saves around 200g in weight, little more than 10 per cent. Considering that the carbon fibre editions are usually about 50 per cent more expensive to buy, aluminium travel tripods can be the more cost effective option.
A time-honoured tradition for carrying a tripod is to strap it to the outside of your photo bag or backpack. It’s a neat solution but can be awkward if the tripod catches on obstacles when you’re in confined spaces, and you might fall foul of carry-on restrictions when flying. Some of the latest designs are so small that you can fit them inside a bag, neatly solving the problem.
Another handy trick featured in some recent travel tripods is that you can detach one leg and the centre column, then join them two together to form a monopod, complete with ball head. It’s certainly a bonus being able to carry one piece of kit instead of two.