i am leaving for europe soon. just a quick question. will they let me carry my tripod onto the airplane? It does look a little big and can look like something "harmful." I might want to bring it to take night shots along the Seine.

Thx.

I never take a big tripod, there's always a way to use a mini-tripod.

I googled one that looks good (and cheap):
http://www.clamperpod.com/OscarPod.html

Get a mini-tripod as Elberko said. I have one and used it for shots along the Seine. What I did was to go out on a bridge set the mini on the bridge rail and took some great shots.

Hi math,

I agree with the above. That's what I have.

Nevertheless - - and I don't know how "big" a full-sized tripod is - - I see people bringing on tubes (for posters etc) on to planes all the time. Even big ones, 30 to 36" long and 4 to 5" diameter. Would the tripod fit in one of those? Would that reduce the "harmful appearance"?

Best wishes,

Rex

If the ticket agent thinks it looks like something harmful, they will ask you to check it and usually provide a box or container. I wouldn't go out and buy a new tripod at this point.

Actually I much prefer my mini-tripod and rarely use my full size one any more. You never have to plan your day - whether to lug the tripod or leave it at the hotel.

the mini fits in my pocket or handbag and I'm ready for any conditions. You can place it on a bridge railing, on a park bench, on a car roof, brace it on your chest, etc.

Taking a full sized tripod is possible (I used to all the time) but it is usually more trouble than it is worth.

My husband has taken his tripod in his carry on luggage on several of our trips now without incident. His is pretty much full size, but is lighter and designed for travel, he had one of those mini ones but likes the larger better. The travel one might be a Velbon, but I can't say for certain.

When a tripod is inside the caryon luggage, the person at the x-ray machine usually asks what it is, but they have never opened my luggage to go any farther.

Keith