There are times when you need something sturdy and adaptable in an ultra-compact size. The Manfrotto Element Small Traveler Tripod is just that.

Manfrotto sent me one for review, and the package barely weighed anything at all! At just 2.5 lbs and ~12” closed, this is a travel tripod you can easily and effortlessly carry in a backpack or suitcase. You don’t have to clip this to the outside of a backpack like many other small tripods. But don’t let the small stature fool you because this tripod can get big. It expands almost 500% to over 56”!

Manfrotto Element Small Traveler Tripod — Technical specifications

All technical specifications were taken from the Manfrotto Element Small Traveler Tripod product page on B&H Photo.

  • Quick Release Plate Type: Arca-Type
  • Head Type: Ball Head
  • Load Capacity: 13.2 lb / 6 kg
  • Maximum Working Height: 56.3″ / 143 cm
  • Minimum Working Height: 14.2″ / 36 cm
  • Closed Length: 12.6″ / 32 cm
  • Materials: Aluminum Alloy
  • Weight: 2.5 lb / 1.2 kg
  • Leg Lock Type: Twist Lock
  • Leg Sections: 5

Manfrotto Element Small Traveler Tripod — Build quality

Even at maximum height, it’s still sturdy thanks to a strong aluminum alloy construction that can support a 13-lb load. It’s also versatile. Each of the three legs can be independently spread and angled to three different locking positions, thanks to spring-loaded locks that are easy to disengage with a push. This allows you to position the tripod on uneven ground quite easily.

The legs themselves have 4 telescoping sections, so you can set the tripod up in the strangest situations or tightest spaces. The easy-to-use rubber twist-locks allow for quick adjustment and help keep a slim profile. With the legs set, you can also alter the working height with the two-section center column.

The Manfrotto Element Small Traveler Tripod ships with a dual-lock ball head. The main knob controls ball movement, and the secondary knob controls a 360-degree pan. The Arca-type head includes a ¼”-20 mounting screw. Nothing too fancy here, but it functions well and maintains the feather weight.