Best budget (compact) travel tripod?

[m3thods]

Hi all,

I plan on travelling to Asia this summer, so I thought it would be a great idea to pick up a travel tripod. I already own a 190xprob, but I think it'll be too heavy/large to fit in my check-in baggage. I checked out options from Benro, Fiesol, and Vanguard (thinking they were legitimate budget solutions to Gitzo/Manfrotto etc), and boy are they pricey for what I'm looking for.

What I'm looking for:

-Folds compact (I'm thinking less than 20in for sure, 15-17in would be ideal, smaller the better)
-Must be light (3-4lbs is ideal, less is better again)
-Doesn't need a head (I'll transfer my ballhead over from my Manfrotto), but if it came with out I won't complain
-Doesn't need to support much load (at most, 50D with kit/UWA)
-Doesn't need to get to eye-level (I'm 5'7, as long as legs extend to at least 50in is fine as I can bend/kneel down)
-Should be sturdy enough for long exposures at night.

Obviously I know that the majority of carbon fiber travel tripods from the big companies fit the bill, but I'm looking to spend no more than $100-$150 (to be honest, that's a bit high, but if it's a good deal then so be it).

Given this is most likely a one time use sort of purchase, the cheaper the better as I'll probably sell it after the trip. Thank in advance!

[Volvoman]

I just picked this up from Futureshop for $20. The legs are very light, just about 1 pound. The ball head is useless for a DSLR. Even more useless with a grip and a f2.8 lens. I swapped out the ball head for a Joby Gorillapod ball head.

Traxx Tripod (LP36268) - Black : Tripods - Future Shop

Out of stock online but says Bridgeport still has one.

[m3thods]

Could you post how long it is folded? That looks perfect!

Edit: Found it was 16.5". Calling Bridgeport now :P

Edit#2: Sold out

[!MiKrofT]

Damn.. If I knew the head was swappable I woulda bought it last month.. grrrr

[Soundy]

[Matsuda]

yeah I was just about to suggest a gorillapod too

[m3thods]

I've always been skeptical about using those types of tripods. Since they show they hold a 70-200 easily, I suppose I shouldn't be so worried .

I think I'm more in the market for a traditional type of tripod- the gorillapods are reliant on me having a place to put the tripod on/around. It'd be much easier for me (perhaps not the people around me) to set up where I'm standing and compose from there.

I found this- http://www.amazon.com/Ravelli-Professional-Carbon-Camera-Release/dp/tech-data/B004RCHX0W/ref=de_a_smtd
But since Volvo posted that Traxx tripod, I've been looking tireless for one online. Nobody seems to carry it

[JordanLee]

That thing aint no F4L too, it appears to be the 2.8 IS. Amazing it can hold that weight.

[Sky_High]

Gorillapod Zoom isn't gonna be enough. Since you're not leaving until few more months, keep a close eye on the Gorillapod Focus, very possible to get it under $70.

[!MiKrofT]

Originally Posted by m3thods

I've always been skeptical about using those types of tripods. Since they show they hold a 70-200 easily, I suppose I shouldn't be so worried .

I think I'm more in the market for a traditional type of tripod- the gorillapods are reliant on me having a place to put the tripod on/around. It'd be much easier for me (perhaps not the people around me) to set up where I'm standing and compose from there.

I found this- Amazon.com: Ravelli Professional Carbon Fiber 3 Axis Ball Head Camera Video Photo Tripod with Quick Release Plate and Carry Bag: Camera & [email]Photo

But since Volvo posted that Traxx tripod, I've been looking tireless for one online. Nobody seems to carry it

It's becuase its a discontinued tripod from a bundle. Futureshop exclusive lowepro bag and tripod bundle. It was also on redflagdeals which is why it sold out faster than normal.

If you follow your link in the reviews there's a non CF one for like 1/2 the price. $27. Still a bit more but at least its in stock.