The Peak Designs Travel Tripod is a compact solution for photogs exploring the backcountry

I’ve never owned a “travel tripod,” which are typically lightweight and compact when folded, making them easier to lug around while on the go. So, when Peak Design asked me to review their aluminum Travel Tripod, I eagerly accepted. When collapsed it’s less than 15 ½” long, just over 3” in diameter, and the whole thing weighs less than 3.4 pounds. With the center column fully extended, its maximum height is a respectable 60”.

I replaced my well used carbon fiber tripod with the Peak Design Travel Tripod for several months. I carried it on hikes, tossed it in the back of my truck, and packed it in my suitcase when traveling by air. Through it all, it delivered impressive performance and durability, and left me with just a few minor complaints.

The integrated ballhead utilizes a unique design that holds the camera firmly in place while allowing you to quickly and easily flip between landscape and portrait orientations. Holding the tripod in one hand, you can use the other hand to simultaneously flip open all the leg cams, extend the legs, and lock them in place – one leg at a time. The deployment process is quick and easy, but I still prefer the twist locks on my other tripods. The first time I used the Peak Design Travel Tripod, a loose cam caused one of the legs to collapse and the tripod tipped over with my camera on top. Luckily, I caught it. I discovered that several of the leg cams were loose. I used the included tool to tighten them, which resolved the issue.

 

With the center column fully extended, the tripod becomes a little unsteady in windy conditions with my Sony A7IV mounted to the ballhead. Drop the center column a few inches and it becomes much more solid, but at the expense of overall height. The legs can be easily adjusted to multiple angles, allowing for high or low vantage points, and making it easy to level the tripod on uneven terrain. An included phone mount stows in the center column, which I used a few times when filming short videos and time-lapses.

I’ve enjoyed using the Peak Designs Travel Tripod. Its small size, light weight, innovative design, and useful features make it a great option when used as intended; for traveling. Will I continue to use it as a daily driver? No, but I will absolutely reach for it when traveling and space is limited.

Learn more by visiting the Peak Designs website at www.peakdesign.com.

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