Taking stunning Instagram photos while traveling requires the right gear, but you don’t need to spend a fortune. A good travel tripod can make all the difference in capturing that perfect sunset or creating amazing self-portraits in exotic locations. Fortunately, there are plenty of high-quality options that won’t break the bank. Here are five excellent travel tripods that combine portability, stability, and affordability—all for under $100.
JOBY GorillaPod 3K Flexible Tripod
Wrap those bendable legs around tree branches, railings, or rocks for angles that’ll make your followers wonder how you got the shot! The GorillaPod 3K isn’t just a tripod—it’s a creative tool that breaks free from conventional photography limitations.
Supporting up to 6.6 pounds, this flexible friend handles everything from smartphones to mirrorless cameras with ease. The ball head rotates 360° and tilts 90°, giving you precise control over your composition without repositioning the entire unit.
Its grippy rubber feet and wrappable legs mean you’ll never miss a shot due to uneven terrain or lack of flat surfaces—perfect for adventure travelers.
Manfrotto PIXI Evo Mini Tripod
This palm-sized powerhouse transforms smartphone photography with its remarkable stability in a tiny package. Weighing just over 9 ounces, it’s practically unnoticeable in your daypack but makes a world of difference for your photos.
The PIXI Evo features two height settings and legs that extend to different angles, allowing for versatile shooting on uneven surfaces. Perfect for tabletop setups or low-angle shots that make your travel scenes pop on Instagram.
While not tall enough for standing portraits, its solid aluminum construction supports mirrorless cameras and smartphones with confidence, making it ideal for time-lapses and group shots with the self-timer.
Neewer Carbon Fiber 66-Inch Travel Tripod
Carbon fiber at this price point? Yes, please! Neewer delivers premium materials without the premium price tag. At just 3.4 pounds but extending to a full 66 inches, this tripod strikes the perfect balance between portability and height.
The quick-release plate makes camera transitions seamless, while the 360° ball head offers smooth panning for those sweeping landscape shots. When adventure calls, it folds down to a mere 19 inches—easily strapping to any backpack.
Flip-lock legs deploy in seconds, crucial when racing to capture fleeting golden hour light. The included carrying case protects your investment while traveling between Instagram-worthy destinations.
Zomei Q555 Aluminum Travel Tripod
Ready for a tripod that doubles as a monopod? The Zomei Q555 brings versatility to your travel photography kit with its transforming design. Simply unscrew one leg and attach it to the center column—instant monopod for those moments when you need mobility!
The impressive 15.4-pound load capacity handles even heavier DSLR setups with telephoto lenses. Reverse-folding legs collapse to just 19 inches, fitting easily into carry-on luggage or daypacks.
Color-coded leg locks make setup intuitive even in dim lighting conditions. The center hook allows you to hang your backpack for added stability during windy conditions—a thoughtful feature rarely found at this price point.
AmazonBasics 60-Inch Lightweight Tripod
Sometimes simplicity wins! This no-frills workhorse delivers reliable performance without unnecessary bells and whistles. Coming in at under $30, it’s the budget champion that still manages to extend to a respectable 60 inches.
The built-in bubble level helps ensure your horizons stay straight—a small detail that makes a big difference in your final images. The three-way head might not be as smooth as premium models, but it provides precise adjustments for framing those perfect Instagram shots.
Weighing just 2.7 pounds, it won’t weigh down your luggage but still provides enough stability for smartphones and lighter camera setups. The included zippered carrying bag makes transportation hassle-free.
