10 Best Lightweight Tripod for Backpacking
Those who enjoy photography and backpacking need to get the best tripod. If you have the best tripod then you can have amazing pictures of your journey.
I love to click picture while going on a backpack and have tried a lot of lightweight tripods. It has helped me to capture extraordinary pictures.
So here I will tell you about the 10 best lightweight tripods which are considered the best for backpacking.
I think that the tripod should be ranked best by considering its various features. It can be related to its weight, flexibility, stability, and compactness. And yes, the tripod must be affordable.
If you like to capture a picture as well on backpacking journey, then I might help you to get the best lightweight tripod for backpacking.
Why do You Need Best Lightweight Tripod for Backpacking?
It feels great to have the best tripod when you take a camera on your backpacking trip. The tripod will provide a well-composed photograph. It becomes one of the amazing memories of your journey.
The big reason behind why you should have the best lightweight tripod is that it eliminates camera shake and support camera really well. It also helps to take long exposure shots.
You can also make stitched panoramic photos if you have the best tripod. It also provides smooth panning to shoot video.
Similarly, it is also important to have the best tripod for shutter speed and long exposures.
If you want to get creative photography then you must know about shutter speeds. And with the best tripod in hand, you can either slow down or fast the shutter speed to get a nice and crisp image.
So you should take the best tripod for backpacking if you want to get amazing pictures of your journey.
Highlights of Best Lightweight Tripod for Backpacking
Product Name | Product Image | Highlights | Check on Amazon |
---|---|---|---|
Vanguard Alta Pro 263 AP Aluminum Tripod Kit | • Aluminum alloy legs • Pan and tilt function • PH-32 3-way pan head • 3 bubble levels • Rubber feet • Flip leg locks | ||
60-Inch Lightweight Tripod with Bag | • Adjustable height legs • Rubber feet • Carrying case • 3 way head • Quick release mounting plate • Multiple tightening locations | ||
50-Inch Lightweight Tripod | • Made of lightweight aluminum • 3-way head • Level lock legs • Zippered storage bag • Quick release plate • Rubber feet | ||
Sony VCT-R100 Lightweight Compact Tripod | • 3 way pan head • Lightweight design • Ultra-portable • Carrying case • Made of durable black aluminum | ||
KetDirect Aluminum Compact Lightweight Professional Camera Tripods | • Column hook • Head and pan lock • Quick release mounting plate • 3 leg angle position • Rotating leg locks • Adjustable leg sections | ||
MeFOTO Classic Aluminum Roadtrip Travel Tripod | • 2 leg angle positions • Separate head & pan lock • Quick release plate • Twist lock legs • Rubberized locking grips • Dust resistance | ||
Neewer Carbon Fiber 66”/168cm Lightweight Portable Camera Tripod | • Quick release leg • Ball head design • Portable bag • Heat and shock resistance • Sturdy aluminum head | ||
ZOMEI Z699C Carbon Fiber Portable Tripod | • Compact and light • Made of carbon fiber • Strong and sturdy • Temperature resistant • Monopod mode | ||
Ultra-Premium Professional 60-Inch Lightweight Aluminum Alloy Tripod | • Detachable monopod • Rubber feet • High quality • Short and compact • Stiff and strong legs | ||
K&F Concept TC2534 Lightweight Portable Camera Tripod | • High-efficiency shock absorption • Heat and corrosion resistance • Light and convenient • Made of carbon fiber • Monopod mode • Twist lock leg |
Review of Best Lightweight Tripod for Backpacking
You have a lot of choices over the best lightweight tripod for backpacking. So to make you easy here I have reviewed 10 Best Lightweight Tripod for Backpacking.
1. Vanguard Alta Pro 263 AP Aluminum Tripod Kit
Vanguard Alta Pro 263 AP Aluminum Tripod Kit enables extreme low angle photography. The tripod is really easy to operate. In fact, it’s easy to tilt function and precise pan makes it very easy to operate.
There is PH-32 3-way pan head which includes quick release plate. That makes easy to remove camera.
This tripod is very stable as well. It makes possible to take a picture from more angle.
You will also love its Central Column (MACC) system which allows the users to move the central column from low 0 to high 180 degree angles.
It can also be used in variable horizontal and vertical positions. The tripod works amazingly well when you are willing to take macro photography.
There is also Instant Swivel Stop-n-Lock System. With that, you can quickly reposition the central column of the tripod. In fact, you can securely reposition the tripod with just one simple movement.
It will help to tripod stay stable. There is also a sandbag hook on the bottom of the main rod which provides extra stability.
The tripod is also very light. You will not have any problem carrying it during your backpacking trip.
Likewise, it has Pistol Grip Ball Head which allows you to capture pictures from various camera angles. The tripod is sturdy as well.
In the same way, you will love the boom arms feature which allows you take overhead shots. It also prevents the camera from falling off to the ground.
So if you are making a plan of buying the lightweight tripod, this one surely meets up to satisfaction level.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Easy to operate
- Strong legs
- Quick release plate
- Super stable
- Smooth panning
2. 60-Inch Lightweight Tripod with Bag
60-Inch Lightweight Tripod is definitely one of the best tripods which come with adjustable height legs. The rubber feet also make it easy to operate.
It is also compatible with most digital cameras, video cameras, and still cameras. The tripod even works amazingly well with GoPro devices.
There is quick release mounting plate which helps to get fast transaction between shots. You can easily manipulate the height of the tripod as well. It also makes easy to change the swivel points to capture pictures from various angles.
Similarly, the knobs are very nice and big. It makes easy to screw and unscrew when needed.
There are multiple tightening locations which keep camera securely in place. In the same way, it holds the camera in both portrait and landscape mode.
It also ensures that the camera doesn’t fall over. You will find four plastic fingers which create the hinge on 3 ways head and allow. It, in fact, locks the head perfectly into position.
Although the tripod is very best for backpacking you will still find some issues in it.
Since it is very light, you might find balancing issues if it is not weighted properly on the bottom horizontal legs. Similarly, the carrying case doesn’t offer to pad. So, it might cause damage to the tripod during transport.
You will also find left right motion part of tripod bit sticky. Nevertheless, you can surely use this tripod for your backpacking trip. It will definitely satisfy you.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Compatible
- Carrying case
- Quick transactions between shots
- Easy to operate
- Multiple tightening locations
3. 50-Inch Lightweight Tripod
50-Inch Lightweight Tripod is best for both professional and novice photographers. It is made of lightweight aluminum. In fact, it weighs just more than a pound. So, you will not have any issue in taking it on your backpacking trip.
Likewise, there is quick release plate. That makes the quick transaction between shots. It also makes easy to remove the camera. Similarly, you will not have any problem with adjusting height since it has easy lever-lock legs.
The tripod securely holds the camera. You just have to turn the knots to make it secure. Likewise, you can capture full panoramic views with its special 360-degree swivel function.
In the same way, there are rubber feet which ensures that the tripod stays stable on all surfaces. So, you can take a picture in all places wherever you want.
The tripod also has a collapsible design. It makes it easy the rotate the handle down. Likewise, you can contract the legs which creates a short and compact space.
The telescoping part of it is also very easy to use since there are latches. It also allows shutting down all latches and pulling legs as you need. You can say that it is quick and easy to extend and collapse with the help of latches.
If I have to mention its weaknesses I will say the tripod doesn’t work well enough on the flat ground. The legs are very thin so it might not hold up the camera against the strong wind on an uneven surface.
Likewise, the legs are loose. If you pick up tripod, the legs will collapse inward.
Overall, the tripod is great to use for a backpacking trip. It doesn’t wobble at all. So you can surely use it.
Pros
- Weighs just over 1 pound
- Adjustable height
- Quick transaction between shots
- Easy height adjustment
- Zippered storage bag
- Easy to remove camera
- Ensures stability
Cons
- Legs are thin and loose
4. Sony VCT-R100 Lightweight Compact Tripod
If you are looking for an expandable and ultra-portable tripod, then you should definitely buy Sony VCT-R100 Lightweight Compact Tripod. It is very easy to operate. Likewise, the tripod can be adjusted perfectly according to height. That gives you the perfect shot.
The tripod has a quick releasing plate. So it will not take much time to remove the camera from the tripod. Similarly, there is a 3-way pan head in the tripod. That makes the tripod very convenient to point the camera wherever you want to.
It is also very light. In fact, it just weighs around 1.8 pounds. Likewise, the tripod is durable since it is made of durable black aluminum.
There are 4 leg stages on a tripod. It helps to lock legs in the perfect place. Likewise, you will get a handy carrying case when you buy this tripod.
You will also find a large knurled knob which makes it easy to lock the screw. That also makes it quick to lock a camera or camcorder in a place.
This tripod doesn’t have a detachable head. However, you will still get a three-way adjustable head which is well designed. It works amazingly well.
Altogether, this tripod works fantastically well for a backpacking trip. Nevertheless, it is not best to take on your backpacking trip if you have heavy cameras.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Expandable
- Nice carrying bag
- Easy to operate
- No sharp corners
- Well-designed adjustable head
Cons
- Not designed for heavy cameras
- It doesn’t have detachable head
5. KetDirect Aluminum Compact Lightweight Professional Camera Tripods
KetDirect Aluminum Compact Lightweight Professional Camera Tripods is a multi-function tripod. It can be converted into either full size or small size. If you want a full-size monopod then you have to screw together a tripod leg and removable center column.
Likewise, if you want to make it small you have to fold it back to 180 degrees which will give the compact size of 18”. It will also save you space which makes it easy to carry and take on your backpacking trip.
This tripod provides a separate headlock and pan lock as well which helps to make the right adjustment. It also makes the tripod stable.
Its super lightweight feature makes it ideal for both outdoor and indoor photography. You can carry and take it anywhere since it is not too heavy.
There is also a quick-release mounting plate. That makes it easy to remove the camera with just a push of one button. The tripod is also very easy to set up.
The tripod also has 3 leg angle positions which make it very flexible. It also enables you to capture amazing views even on difficult surface areas.
Similarly, there are rotating locks that help to control 4 adjustable leg sections. It also has detachable rubber feet which make it easy to use on your trip.
The tripod is also a good choice for an amateur photographer. It will not disappoint you at all.
Even the best feature of this tripod is its monopod option. It seems bit difficult since it requires disassembling of the tripod.
Nevertheless, you will surely find this tripod helpful to get a beautiful picture on your backpacking trip.
Pros
- Lightweight aluminum construction
- Detachable rubber feet
- Panoramic photo stitching
- Easy setup
- Convenient carrying case
- Easy to remove camera
- Flexible
Cons
- Requires disassembling of tripod for monopod option
6. MeFOTO Classic Aluminum Roadtrip Travel Tripod
MeFOTO Classic Aluminum Roadtrip Travel Tripod is one of the best lightweight tripods for backpacking. It has 360-degree panning which gives accurate image alignment.
There are 2 leg angle positions in the tripod which makes it extra flexible. Likewise, the legs can be locked separately at 2 different angles. That enables capturing images in cramped quarters. You can even take a picture of irregular surface areas.
Similarly, you will find spring loaded recessed hook in the tripod. You can hang additional weight from the tripod’s center of gravity. The tripod becomes more stable with that.
There is also a separate head and pan lock which makes the tripod more useful. Likewise, it has a heavy-duty ball head with a compatible quick-release mounting plate.
You will also find an integral bubble level that prevents uneven head and pan movements. That will give you a perfect shot.
Likewise, the legs of the tripod can be folded back to 180 degrees. That makes it small so that you can carry it anywhere you want.
There are also 5 leg sections with which you can easily adjust the height. Similarly, you can twist lock legs with the help of an anti-rotation system.
The tripod is weather and dust resistant as well. So you can take it anywhere. You will also get a carrying case that is nylon zipped.
However, it is a little heavy. So you might have difficulty in taking it from one place to another. Likewise, it doesn’t work at best for big cameras. If you have a small size camera then it will give full satisfaction.
Pros
- Light and compact
- Prevent uneven head and pans movements
- Fast and free set up
- Weather and dust resistance
- Legs extend quickly
- Carrying case
Cons
- Little heavy
- Not suitable for big cameras
7. Neewer Carbon Fiber 66”/168cm Lightweight Portable Camera Tripod
If you are looking for 2 in 1 tripod which can be turned as a monopod easily, then this tripod is best. It has quick-release leg locking. So you will not face any issue with the legs of the tripod. It also provides convenient leg handling.
The tripod has a universal ball head design which includes two locks. So, you will be easily able to adjust the angle through the 360-degree dial and two locks. It also gives quick action.
You will also like this tripod because of its high-temperature curing and high-pressure strengthening. So if you are going on a backpacking journey in a hot place, then you will not have any problem capturing a picture.
Likewise, you will get a portable bag along with this tripod. The bag is well padded and has a sturdy zipper. So you can easily carry the tripod in the bag.
You will also love this tripod since it is heat and corrosion-resistant. It is also shock absorption. So, you don’t need to worry even if you go to a hot place for a backpacking trip.
There are few weaknesses in this tripod. However, even the legs look strong it gets stuck after using for few trips. It will not slide easily.
Likewise, the tripod is poorly made. It doesn’t seem to be made for the professional photographer.
Pros
- Quick release leg
- Convenient leg handling
- Easy to carry
- Heat and corrosion resistance
- Easy to operate
Cons
- Legs get stuck after using few times
- Poorly made
8. ZOMEI Z699C Carbon Fiber Portable Tripod
ZOMEI Z699C Carbon Fiber Portable Tripod is one of the best tripods. It is made for dual-use. The tripod can be easily converted into a full-size monopod. You just have to screw together the center column and remove the tripod leg to get a full-size monopod.
The tripod is compact and very light. In fact, it is made of light carbon fiber. That makes it very easy to carry when you go on a backpacking trip.
Similarly, it is very strong and sturdy as well. The legs are also strong and can be locked independently in different positions.
You will also see a hook with which you can hang additional weight for extra support. The maximum weight it can hold is around 33 lb. So, it will easily hold your DSLR.
This tripod is also very useful because of its temperature resistance feature. The carbon fiber will not get heated or cool easily. So you will not have any issue even you are shooting at the either a cold or hot places.
Although the tripod looks great for backpacking you will still find few weaknesses in it. After using few times, it became dislodged. That makes it very difficult to set up.
Similarly, there is not any handle to turn the camera in different directions.
Nevertheless, it is very useful for your backpacking trip. You can surely try it once whenever you make mind for backpacking.
Pros
- Light and compact
- Portable
- Legs are sturdy
- Temperature resistant
- Well designed and constructed
- Stays Stable
Cons
- Difficult to set up after using for few trips
- There is no handle to turn camera
9. Ultra-Premium Professional 60-Inch Lightweight Aluminum Alloy Tripod
Ultra-Premium Professional 60-Inch Lightweight Aluminum Alloy Tripod makes it possible to take a picture from a panoramic angle. It is also very useful because it has a detachable monopod.
This tripod is also best because all parts are created from a single block of aluminum with the help of a CNC machine. The CNC parts have the tightest tolerances so it makes this tripod very smooth operating.
Likewise, it is strong and long-lasting. So if you are planning to buy a tripod that will last for a long time then this tripod is the best one.
The tripod is also very sturdy. It can be easily folded and carried into a carrying case.
Similarly, the ball head works amazingly well. It holds the camera really well. Similarly, the ball has a notch that makes it easy to rotate the camera. So you can get a perfect shot.
The legs are also strong and very stiff. Likewise, you will find the pan head very smooth.
Altogether, this tripod is amazing for a backpacking journey. However, you will still find few weaknesses in it. Like the rubber feet are a little bit loose. So you have to tight every time. That might irritate you.
Similarly, the zipper is not well made. It breaks easily after using few times. The cover straps of the tripod are too short and the case is not well constructed.
So if you ignore its few drawbacks then it will not disappoint you at all.
Pros
- Detachable monopod
- Long lasting
- Sturdy and strong
- High quality
- Short and compact
- Legs are strong and stiff
- Smooth pan head
Cons
- Loose rubber feet
- Zippers are not strong
- Cover’s straps are short
10. K&F Concept TC2534 Lightweight Portable Camera Tripod
If you are looking for a strong, light, and portable Camera tripod, then you should definitely buy K&F Concept TC2534 Lightweight Portable Camera Tripod. It is made of strong and light carbon fiber materials.
You will also love this tripod because it is heat and corrosion-resistant. Similarly, it has a high-efficiency shock absorption feature.
This tripod can be used as a monopod or alpenstock as well. Likewise, it is very light and convenient. That makes it ideal for both indoor and outdoor events.
The ball head of the tripod can be rotated 360 degrees. With that, you can improve your camera activity range. It also gives a perfect shot at the time of the panoramic shooting.
There is also a pan knob that allows smooth panning. Likewise, the tripod has quick release plate which is made of metal including a rubber grip. That doesn’t allow the camera to slip.
You will also get a rugged padded zipper bag along with this tripod. The zippers of the bag are really strong and thick. There is also a reflective strip on the bag which can be used for showing up at night.
If I have to mention its drawback then I have to say the bolt head is not very stable. It doesn’t stay stable well enough with heavy lenses.
Overall, this tripod is great for backpacking. It will give full satisfaction if you want to take amazing pictures on your backpacking trip.
Pros
- Strong and light
- Heat and corrosion resistance
- Convenient
- Quick release plate
- Rugged padded zipper bag
- Sturdy
- Easy to use
Cons
- Bolt head doesn’t stay stable with heavy lenses
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Things to consider when buying the Best Lightweight Tripod for Backpacking
Not each tripod is best. So it is required to consider several things before going for the best one. Here I have listed out several things which will help you to get the best lightweight tripod for backpacking.
1. Weight
It is obvious that the light tripod will be best for a backpacking journey. However, the tripod should not be too light. Being too light it will not be able to prevent camera shake. So it is better to go for a tripod that weighs between 1 to 1.5 kg.
2. Legs
The legs of the tripod should also be checked before purchasing the tripod. You should go for the tripod whose legs are sturdy and strong. All that matters is to get a good quality picture, so it will be better to pick a tripod which has strong legs.
3. Head Quality
The head of the tripod needs to be strong. A camera is attached to the head of the tripod, so it will be best to buy a tripod that has a strong head. Likewise, the head allows the tripod to be folded into a smaller silhouette. So, the head quality of the tripod matters a lot.
4. Overall sturdiness
You should also check overall sturdiness of the tripod. If you want to get a good picture, then you should make a good judgment based on how much the triple wobble under difficult circumstances.
Expert’s Pick
Having reviewed the 10 best lightweight tripod for backpacking, I have to say the best one is Vanguard Alta Pro 263AP Aluminum Tripod. It is easy to operate and makes possible extreme low-angle photography. Similarly, it has a quick release plate. It also provides outstanding stability. I believe that if you buy this tripod, you will not get disappointed at all. I hope you will also find it best and use it on your backpacking journey as well. Vanguard Alta Pro 263AP Aluminum Tripod. It is easy to operate and makes possible extreme low-angle photography. Similarly, it has a quick-release plate. It also provides outstanding stability. I believe that if you buy this tripod, you will not get disappointed at all. I hope you will also find it best and use it on your backpacking journey as well.