Hi everyone! I’m currently planning a hiking trip through the Dolomites and I’m looking to optimize my gear for maximum portability. I’ve been shooting with an Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III for a while now, and while I love how compact the Micro Four Thirds system is, my current tripod is a bulky aluminum beast that just doesn't fit the vibe (or my backpack space).

I’m on the hunt for a dedicated travel tripod that is light enough to strap to my pack all day but sturdy enough for long exposure shots of waterfalls. My main concern is finding something that can securely hold the E-M5 with the M.Zuiko 12-40mm f/2.8 Pro lens attached without any head creep. Ideally, I’d love something that folds down to under 14 inches so I can tuck it inside my carry-on rather than checking it. Arca-Swiss compatibility is a must for me since I use L-brackets on all my bodies.

I’ve looked into the Peak Design Travel Tripod and some of the smaller Sirui carbon fiber models, but I’m torn on whether the weight savings are worth the price jump. For those of you shooting with OM-D cameras, what is your go-to tripod that balances height and packability? Do you have any specific recommendations that won't break the bank but still feel solid in the wind?