For your situation, im actually kinda worried about that 70-300mm lens setup... it might tip over if ur not careful!! I would suggest the Leofoto LS-224C Ranger Series Carbon Fiber Tripod with LH-25 Ball Head. It's literally under 2 lbs but is technically very stiff. just make sure to hang ur bag for safety, especially during blue hour winds, you know? better safe than sorry with that heavy lens... gl!

> I’m looking for a travel-friendly tripod that complements the X-S20’s size... stability is key, but I really need to keep the weight down.

Ok so, the physics of travel tripods is basically a trade-off between leg stiffness and weight. Carbon fiber is highkey the winner here cuz it damps vibrations way faster than aluminum, which is huge for those long blue hour shots ur doing.

I've been super happy with the Benro MeFoto RoadTrip Pro Carbon Fiber Tripod. Honestly, it's a beast for the price (usually around $250). It weighs about 2.9 lbs, so it's a hair over ur goal, but the stability with a long lens like the Fujinon XF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 R LM OIS WR is actually solid. No drooping at all because the ball head has decent tension control.

If u really gotta stay under 2.5 lbs, check out the Sirui T-025SK Carbon Fiber Tripod with B-00K Ball Head. It’s crazy light (like 2.2 lbs) and fits in basically any side pocket. Tbh though, the Sirui legs are thinner, so if it's windy while ur shooting landscapes, u might notice some shake compared to the Benro. I'd personally go Benro for the extra support with that 70-300mm.

Sooo, I saw this earlier but just now getting around to replying. Balancing a small body like the X-S20 with that XF 70-300mm is actually a bit of a nightmare lol, especially if you're trying to keep the weight down for long hikes. I've wasted way too much money on gear that was either too wierdly flimsy or way too heavy, so I totally get the struggle.

Here's what I recommend for staying under that $300 mark while keeping it light:

- Sirui T-025SK Carbon Fiber Tripod with B-00K Ball Head: Honestly, this is the best value if weight is ur main concern. It's only 1.8 lbs and folds down small enough to disappear in a side pocket. It's usually around $150-$170. It handles the kit lens easily, but with the 70-300mm, just make sure you aren't extending the center column too much or it gets a bit shaky in the wind.

- Vanguard VEO 3GO 235CB Carbon Fiber Travel Tripod: This is a bit more heavy-duty but still under your 2.5 lb limit. It retails for about $220. The build quality is really solid for the price and it includes a smartphone adapter and spiked feet, which is highkey useful for landscape work on uneven dirt.

- Benro MeFoto RoadTrip Pro Carbon Fiber Tripod: If you want versatility, this is it. It's right at 2.4 lbs and costs about $250. It even converts to a monopod, which is basically a lifesaver on long hikes when you want some support but dont wanna set up the whole thing.

Anyway, all of these are way better value than the big name brands. Just dont forget to use the 2-second timer to avoid shutter shock during blue hour! gl!

Yeah, that point about the 70-300mm setup being a bit risky for the X-S20 is spot on. I have seen way too many people try to save weight by going super thin, then the whole thing just wobbles in a light breeze. But honestly, my biggest concern for you is the DIY maintenance side of things. Since you are looking at these budget-friendly carbon fiber options, be reallyyy careful about doing your own repairs or adjustments. I have tried the DIY route before to save a few bucks on service, and it is a total headache if you are not 100% sure what you are doing. I am always a bit cautious with these things because these thin legs can be fragile. Here are some things I have learned to avoid:

• Over-tightening the leg locks which can actually crack the carbon fiber tubes
• Using the wrong type of grease on the joints which just attracts sand and ruins the threads
• Forgetting to check the tiny hex screws after a long hike Basically, if the tripod starts feeling loose, do not just crank it down. These lightweight units are precision gear and it is easy to snap something if you are too aggressive. Sometimes it is better to just look into self-service kits from the manufacturer or a professional tune-up rather than risking a total failure during blue hour when your expensive Fuji gear is on the line... just my two cents!

Oh man, I totally feel u on this. I've been shooting with Fuji for years and the struggle between weight and stability is REAL, especially when you throw that 70-300mm on a small body like the X-S20. Honestly, I've tried many setups over the years and found a 'sweet spot' that won't break the bank.

Here's what I recommend for ur situation:

1. Ulanzi & COMAN Zero Y Lightweight Travel Tripod - This is basically the Peak Design killer but way cheaper. It's super slim, fits perfectly in most backpack side pockets, and the carbon fiber keeps it light but actually rigid enough for blue hour long exposures.
2. Benro MeFoto RoadTrip Pro Carbon Fiber Tripod - A solid alternative if u want something that also converts to a monopod for hiking.

The Ulanzi is great cuz the center column is triangular, which lets the legs tuck in tight. It handles my X-S20 with the heavier glass surprisingly well, tho I'd suggest hanging ur bag on the hook if it's windy. The stability for the price is honestly impressive!! gl!

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