Tall Tripods And Trees

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The 3563 XLS is 28 inches fully retracted. I would pack it without the head in a suitcase. Most likely you will need to pack it diagonally. It it is still too long, your options are to remove the tripod feet to save a little, or possibly the bottom leg sections. You'll need to be careful with the bottom leg sections to be sure you assemble it properly and don't lose or break the sleeves. You might use a rubber band or plastic wrap to secure the sleeves safely. I would pack clothing between the tripod legs to reduce the possibility of excess stress on the joints or hub.

I always travel with my ballhead in a carry on. That may not be practical for a gimbal head, but I would do the same with that if possible. It's a lot easier to borrow or replace a tripod when traveling than a ballhead or gimbal head with custom plates.
My suitcase will be FULL. Am considering what I use for my fishing rods on top of vehicle. A 6” pvc pipe with end cap glued on one end and a lockable cap on other, then cut 6” pvc to desired length. Have looked all over for something on internet- Either too long or to flimsy ( document tube). Would take fluid head off and put in suitcase and put tripod on cloth sleeve it came in and possibly some additional padding, if possible. Do you think this would be acceptable?
 
My suitcase will be FULL. Am considering what I use for my fishing rods on top of vehicle. A 6” pvc pipe with end cap glued on one end and a lockable cap on other, then cut 6” pvc to desired length. Have looked all over for something on internet- Either too long or to flimsy ( document tube). Would take fluid head off and put in suitcase and put tripod on cloth sleeve it came in and possibly some additional padding, if possible. Do you think this would be acceptable?
That sounds like a good approach. It really depends on where you are going. You might also consider shipping a tripod separately. I know of others who have used a similar approach. I don't think a cloth sleeve provides much protection and would use clothing or bubble wrap as padding.
 
That sounds like a good approach. It really depends on where you are going. You might also consider shipping a tripod separately. I know of others who have used a similar approach. I don't think a cloth sleeve provides much protection and would use clothing or bubble wrap as padding.
Thank you!
 
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I have used, and still use, Bogen/Manfrotto and Gitzo tripods and monopods. I bought the Gitzo 5543XLS off of ebay, and got a great deal (~60% of new price) on a sturdy, tall tripod without a center column that was like new. In addition, I purchased a folding camp chair and a modular infant stroller at about the same time. I use the stroller to carry the tripod and the rest of my gear around when I can. The chair enables me to use the tripod/camera on elevated subjects, as Steve is doing, as well as those on the same level as I am with less leg extension for better stability, by lowering my eye-level. The chair also allows me to sit and rest my beat up bones when I want to, and makes photography patience much more comfortable.

There are so many trade-offs when buying any photo equipment, but the one thing I've learned over the years is if you initially go cheap or skimp on features, it will cost you more in the long run, because you'll eventually reach the point where your gear is holding you back and you have to pay again to get better gear. Or you just live with the limits that your gear is imposing upon you.

Remember that 80% of photography is three-inches behind the viewfinder. What you use for the other 20% does matter!
 
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