Hey everyone! I’m finally gearing up for a three-week backpacking trip through the Dolomites next month, and I’m hitting a bit of a wall with my gear selection. One of the main reasons I switched over to the Micro Four Thirds system (I’m currently shooting with an OM System OM-1 and a Lumix G9) was to keep my kit as light and compact as possible. However, I’m still lugging around an old Manfrotto aluminum tripod that feels like a boat anchor in my pack. It totally defeats the purpose of having a streamlined MFT setup!

I’m looking for recommendations for a travel tripod that truly fits the MFT philosophy. Since our cameras and lenses are generally much lighter than full-frame setups, I feel like I don’t need a massive, heavy-duty rig, but I also don't want something so flimsy that it shakes the moment a light breeze hits. I do a lot of long-exposure landscape photography and occasional macro work, so stability is still a huge priority for me.

Here are a few specific things I’m looking for:
1. **Weight & Portability:** I’d really love to find something under 2.5 lbs (around 1.1kg). It needs to be able to strap onto the side of a 30L daypack without making me lean to one side all day.
2. **Payload:** While my usual setup is the 12-40mm f/2.8, I do occasionally mount the Olympus 40-150mm f/2.8 Pro. The tripod needs to handle that weight without the ball head sagging.
3. **Max Height:** I’m 6'0", so while I expect some compromise for a travel tripod, I’d prefer not to be permanently hunched over if possible.

I’ve been eyeing the Peak Design Carbon Fiber model and some of the smaller Sirui legs, but I’m curious if they are worth the premium or if there’s a "hidden gem" that MFT shooters swear by. Budget-wise, I'm willing to spend up to $350 for the right balance of weight and durability.

For those of you who travel light with MFT gear, what is your go-to tripod that balances packability with enough sturdiness for sharp long exposures?