Best Travel Tripods Under $100

As a travel photographer on a budget, finding an affordable yet functional tripod can be a challenge. But fear not, as I’ve scoured the market to bring you my top picks for the best travel tripods under $100.

These tripods will help elevate your travel photography without breaking the bank.

Here are my top travel tripod picks under $100:

1. Zomei Z688

Best Travel Tripods Under $100

PROS – Affordable, aluminum construction, converts to monopod, decent max height of 60 inches

CONS – Not the most compact when folded, may struggle with heavier gear

The Zomei Z688 is a fantastic budget option that punches above its weight. Made of lightweight aluminum, it can convert into a monopod, adding versatility to your kit. While it may not be the most compact when folded, its 60-inch max height and affordable price make it a great value pick.

2. AmazonBasics 60-Inch Lightweight Tripod

Best Travel Tripods Under $100

PROS – Inexpensive, compact and lightweight, decent max height

CONS – No convertibility to monopod, may struggle with heavier gear

If you’re looking for an ultra-affordable option, the AmazonBasics 60-Inch Lightweight Tripod is hard to beat. It’s compact and lightweight, making it easy to pack for travel. While it doesn’t convert to a monopod and may struggle with heavier gear, its low price point and decent max height make it a fantastic backup or starter tripod.

3. Victiv 72-inch Camera Aluminum Travel Tripod

Best Travel Tripods Under $100

PROS – Affordable, converts to monopod, decent max height, includes carrying bag

CONS – Not the most compact when folded, may struggle with heavier gear

The Victiv 72-inch Camera Aluminum Travel Tripod offers great value for under $100. It can convert into a monopod for added versatility, and its 72-inch max height gives you plenty of flexibility for different shots. It even includes a carrying bag for easy transport. While not the most compact option, its versatility and affordable price make it a solid pick.

4. GEEKOTO 77” Tripod

Best Travel Tripods Under $100

PROS – Tall max height, affordable, aluminum construction

CONS – Bulkier when folded, no monopod conversion

The GEEKOTO 77” Tripod is a great option for travel photographers who want maximum height on a budget. At 77 inches when fully extended, it towers over many other affordable options while still coming in under $100. The aluminum construction keeps it reasonably lightweight as well. However, it is a bit bulkier when folded for transport and cannot convert into a monopod.

5. NEEWER 66″ Carbon Fiber Tripod

Best Travel Tripods Under $100

PROS – Carbon fiber construction, panorama ball head included, affordable

CONS – Maximum height could be taller

The NEEWER 66″/168cm Carbon Fiber Tripod is a stellar value, packing in premium features like a carbon fiber build and 360° panorama ball head while still ringing in under $100. The lighter carbon fiber keeps travelling weight down as well. While the maximum height of 66 inches isn’t the tallest option, the versatility and included head make this a killer deal.

Common Questions

Are Cheap Tripods Worth It?

Absolutely! While more expensive tripods often offer premium features and build quality, there are plenty of affordable options that can still greatly enhance your travel photography. The key is finding one that strikes the right balance between price, portability, and stability for your needs.

My Final Thoughts

You don’t have to break the bank to add a tripod to your travel photography kit. With options like these under $100, you can capture sharp images in low light, nail those long exposures, and experiment with unique perspectives – all without sacrificing portability or versatility on the road.

Yeah, it won’t get you some features that the more expensive options can, but you can still get great pictures. Bottom line.