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Gitzo GT1542T Traveler Travel Tripod – Review

Gitzo Traveler Tripods have been staples of my kit for a while. Here's why.

I used the Gitzo GT1542T Traveler on this shot of the Milky Way from the Simba Campground on top of the Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania. The camera was a Nikon D800 with a Nikon 24m f/1.4 attached, a combination that weighs about 3.4 pounds.

I used the Gitzo GT1542T Traveler on this shot of the Milky Way from the Simba Campground on top of the Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania. The camera was a Nikon D800 with a Nikon 24m f/1.4 attached. It’s a fairly heavy camera and lens combination, weighing a combined 3.4 pounds, but it’s well under the rated capacity of the tripod of about 17.6 pounds.

 

Categories: Reviews, Travel Tripods
Tags: Gitzo
Last updated about 1 week ago // Originally published about 7 years ago

Since this review was originally posted, Gitzo has released some newer models with some relatively minor tweaks. The latest is the GT1545T and has a slightly higher maximum load capacity and is a shade lighter. You can find it at B&H Photo.

gzgt1542t

The Gitzo GT1542T gets my vote for the best tripod for travel with a DSLR. The older version, the Gitzo GT1541T quickly became my go-to tripod. It’s light, stable, and astonishingly compact. It cost more than I was originally planning to spend, but it has most definitely been worth it.

The newer version is ever-so-slightly tweaked. The differences between them are minor–the newer model has slightly strengthened stress points, G-locks on all four sections rather than just three, and it extends to provide an extra three inches of maximum height. Both have going for them the winning trifecta of a travel tripod: they’re small, light, and stable. While there are cheaper tripods available, I’ve not found one that is as good overall as this one.

The best travel tripod is the one that you don’t leave at home because it’s too much of a pain to take with you.

The Gitzo GT1542T is much less hassle to lug around, and because of that I end up taking it with me far more often. It used to be that tripods that were small and light were inevitably flimsy. That’s still the case for the bottom end of the market, but from the middle of the market on up, new materials like metal alloys and carbon fiber have made great strides to creating a winning combination of small, light, and sturdy.

That’s not to say that a 2-pound carbon fiber tripod is going to be anything like a 16-pound monster, especially in a stiff breeze, but they’re pretty darn good. I use it very comfortably with full-size DSLRs like the Nikon D800 with solid, weighty lenses like the Nikon 70-200mm f2.8, although I don’t use with something like the 17-pound Nikon 200-400mm f4 lens; there’s no way to get around using a heftier tripod for something like that.

Traveling With the Gitzo GT1542T

One of the things I love about the GT1542T is just how remarkably compact it is when folded up. It fits comfortably in my carry-on Think Thank Airport International even in a tripod case. Travel enough with checked luggage and you’re going to have times your luggage is delayed or even lost. After putting my tripod in checked baggage and having it delayed a few too many times, I decided I needed something that I could carry on with me so that I could be sure to have it available the first night or two I arrived in a destination.

And when I’m really traveling light, I’ve found that it’ll comfortably strap to the side of my backpack without making the backpack too bulky for crowded trains or sidewalks.

Walking around with it is easy, especially if you attach a strap for the bare-bones approach or put it in a small tripod case. There are several small tripod bags that will fit it comfortably, like the Promaster SystemPro TB-1, which has a handy little pocket on the side that just happens to be the perfect size for a Nodal Ninja panoramic tripod head. There’s also a dedicated Gitzo case.

This shot, taken at about 15,000 feet on Tanzania's Mt Kilimanjaro, was using the Gitzo GT1542T and the Markins Q-Ball Q3 Traveler ballhead. Size and weight was a very real issue on a climb like that. At altitude, you definitely don't want to be carrying more weight than you have to. And the thick African dust that gets in everything didn't pose a problem with the locking mechanisms on the legs.

This shot, taken at about 15,000 feet on Tanzania’s Mt Kilimanjaro, was using the Gitzo GT1542T and the Markins Q-Ball Q3 Traveler ballhead. Size and weight was a very real issue on a climb like that. At altitude, you definitely don’t want to be carrying more weight than you have to. And the thick African dust that gets in everything didn’t pose a problem with the locking mechanisms on the legs.

Main Features & Construction

The construction is of carbon fiber, which helps keep the weight down while maximizing strength (and also explains why it’s not the cheapest on the market). One of the great innovations of it is that it folds in over itself, which keeps the overall length to a bare minimum, and if you get the right ballhead for it, it’ll fold up nicely.

The legs extend quickly and lock very solidly–the rotating locks are easy and I’ve never had one slip. Like most tripods, it’s not impervious to water or sand, but it doesn’t require any more care than you would normally take. (If you really need something more rugged, take a look at the Gitzo Ocean Traveler, which is specifically designed to fend off the elements.)

Adding a Tripod Head

You’ll want a great tripod head to go along with those legs–something compact and sturdy. The GT1542T is more flexible than the GT1541T when it comes to choosing a tripod head. The central column of the GT1542T is a couple of inches longer than the older model, so that it extends beyond the legs. Because the central column was shorter on the GT1541T’s, it meant that only slim profile heads would allow you to take advantage of the innovative way the GT1541T folds up so compactly. But the GT1542T’s central column is longer, extending beyond the legs. So a wider profile head won’t stop the legs from folding up. I use mainly the Markins Q-Ball Q3 Traveler on mine (don’t forget the camera plate!), an especially compact yet strong ballhead. The combination works beautifully.

The extra length in the central column helps increase the range of heads that it’ll work with, but it also makes the whole package just a little longer if you keep the head on.

Here are a couple of photos to illustrate the difference. Both are with the same Markins Q-Ball Q3 Traveler head.

GT1542T with Markins Q-3 ballhead

Gitzo GT1542T with Markins Q-Ball Q3 Traveler. With the central column a couple of inches longer, the legs don't wrap around the head like they did with the previous model.

GT1541T with Markins Q-3 ballhead

Gitzo GT1541T with Markins Q-Ball Q3 Traveler. The slim profile Q3 was a good fit, but most bulkier heads stopped the legs from folding up snugly.

GT1542T

  • Weight (without head): 2.2 lbs
  • Closed Length: 16.73 in
  • Load Capacity: 15.43 lbs
  • Maximum Height: 58.66 in
  • Minimum Height: 8.66 in
  • Leg Sections: 4

Gitzo GT1541T

  • Weight (without head): 2.14 lbs
  • Closed Length: 16.14 in
  • Maximum Height: 55.12 in
  • Minimum Height: 6.89 in
  • Leg Sections: 4

Update: New Model

The GT1542T is now discontinued. There’s now a newer model, the newer model: the GT1545T. You can find them at B&H Photo.

Gitzo Lightweight Traveler Series 1 Carbon Fiber Tripod, Silver & Black...
Gitzo Lightweight Traveler Series 1 Carbon Fiber Tripod, Silver & Black...
  • Carbon exact Tubes; Reverse-Folding Legs
  • Traveler G-Lock Leg Lock System
Check Price at Amazon

Compared To

 Gitzo Traveler Kit (Series 2)Gitzo GT1542TMeFOTO GlobetrotterManfrotto BeFreeInduro Grand Turismo CGT114Sirui T-2205XBenro GoTravel 2Benro C1682TV1 Travel Angel II3 Legged Thing Leo3 Legged Thing Brian3 Legged Thing Rick3 Legged Thing RogerOben CT-3581Sirui T-1024XLVaravon Baby T3Kirk MiniMeFOTO Globetrotter Air
Gitzo Traveler2Gitzo GT1542T Travel Tripodmefoto globetrottermanfrotto befreeinduro-grand-turismo-tripod
Sirui T2205X
benro_gc269tb2_gotravel_carbon_fiber_1146453benro travel angel tripod3-legged-thing-leo3 legged thing brian3 Legged Thing Rick3 legged thing rogeroben_ct_3581_be_126t_5_section_foldable_carbon_1398723641000_864571
Sirui T-1024XL travel tripod
Varavon Baby T3 Product Shot
Kirk TT-1 Mini Table Top Tripod
MeFOTO Globetrotter Air Tripod
ReviewReviewReviewReviewReviewReviewReviewReviewReviewReviewReviewReviewReviewReviewReviewReview
Model No.GK2580TQDGT1542TC2350Q2TMKBFRC4-BHCGT114T-2205XGC269TB2C1682TV13LLEOKITE3BRIAN3PKRICKE3ROGERBLCT-3581SUT1204XLBABY T3TT-1GTAIRBLK
Made ofCarbon fiberCarbon fiberCarbon fiberCarbon fiberCarbon fiberCarbon fiberCarbon fiberCarbon fiberCarbon fiberCarbon fiberCarbon fiberAlloyCarbon fiberCarbon fiberAluminumAluminum/Stainless SteelAluminum Alloy
Leg Sections44544554 (also version with 5)555554315
Folded length16.9 in
43 cm
16.7 in
42.5 cm
16.1 in
41 cm
15.8 in
40 cm
17.3 in
44 cm
14.6 in
37 cm
16.5 in
42 cm
17.7 in
45 cm
13.75 in
34.8 cm
15.75 in
40 cm
12.6 in
32 cm
15.75 in
40 cm
16.9 in
42.9 cm
18.3 in
46.5 cm
10.8 in
27.5 cm
4.4 in
11.3 cm
16.7 in
42.5 cm
Weight4.19 lb
1.9 kg
2.2 lb
1 kg
3.7 lb
1.7 kg
2.4 lb
1.1 kg
3.5 lb
1.6 kg
2.6 lb
1.2 kg
4.1 lb
1.9 kg
3.5 lb
1.6 kg
3.2 lb
1.45 kg
4.1 lb
1.9 kg
2.7 lb
1.2 kg
4.5 lb
2 kg
3.9 lb
1.7 kg
2.2 lb
1 kg
1.8 lb
820 g
9 oz
255 g
3.2 lb
1.4 kg
Max height60.6 in
154 cm
58.7 in
149 cm
64.2 in
163 cm
56.7 in
144 cm
62.6 in
159 cm
56.9 in
145 cm
64.6 in
164 cm
63 in
160 cm
51.5 in
131 cm
76.4 in
194 cm
56.7 in
144 cm
68.6 in
174 cm
67.9 in
172.5 cm
63 in
160 cm
17.3 in
44 cm
4.4 in
11.3 cm
68.1 in
173 cm
Max load15.4 lb
7 kg
17.6 lb
8 kg
26.5 lb
12 kg
8.8 lb
4 kg
32 lb
14.5 kg
26.5 lb
12 kg
30.9 lb
14 kg
30.8 lb
14 kg
26.4 lb
12 kg
26.5 lb
12 kg
17.6 lb
8 kg
100 lb
45 kg
17.6 lb
8 kg
Available w/Head?YesNoYesYesYesNoYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYes (not removable)NoYes (not removable)
Monopod?NoNoYesNoNoNoYesYesYesYesYesYesYesNoNoNoNo
List Price$1,099$750$399$350$490$415
$525$419$349.99$499$249$369
$349
$370
$150
$120
$225

Images and product information from Amazon PA-API were last updated on 2021-01-24 at 04:09. Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon Site at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.

By David Coleman
Instagram: @havecamerawilltraveldc

Last updated on January 15, 2021

Categories: Reviews, Travel Tripods
Tags: Gitzo

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News & Deals

With the holidays fast approaching, there’s some great deals on photography gear and services available. I’ve put together a roundup of Black Friday and Cyber Monday 2020 Photography Deals. It’s a running list as new deals are announced, so be sure to check back.

Canon announces new EOS Rebel T8i DSLR. Canon has announced their new T8i DSLR. 24MP APS-C cropped CMOS sensor, 4K24 video, and updated image processing and detection systems. It’s available for preorder from B&H Photo.

New Firmware for the Ricoh GR III. Ricoh has release firmware v1.31 for the GR III. Release notes are: “Corrected — When shooting with the multiple exposure, in rare cases the live view may not display correctly. Improved stability for general performance.” You can download it here.

New Canon 1D X Mark III Pro DSLR Announced. Canon has announced their new flagship model of pro DSLR, the 1D X Mark III. They’re sticking with a 20.1MP CMOS sensor, but it’s a new and improved version and boasts an incredible native ISO range of ISO 100 to ISO 102400 and an extended range that goes up to a jaw-dropping ISO 819200. With revamped autofocus, a new image processor, and all sorts of other bells and whistles, it’s no wonder that Canon is billing it as “The Ultimate EOS.”

New Manfrotto Pro Rugged Memory Cards. Manfrotto, an Italian probably best known for their tripods and studio accessories, has launched a new Pro Rugged range of high-end SD, microSD, and CompactFlash cards. While they don’t have a huge selection of sizes and speeds, the cards are aiming for very fast cards that can put up with rugged demands. For instance, they claim that their V90 rated SD cards can withstand three times the force (20kg / 45 lbs) of a regular SD card. I’ve ordered some to run through my speed tests.

New Sony Alpha a7 firmware released. A firmware update for the Sony a7R IV now lets you control external Sony flashes from the camera’s own menu system. Up to 15 flashes in five groups can be controlled via the camera. It also applies to the a7R III and a7 III.

Comments

  1. upsidedownjim says

    July 8, 2015 at 9:25 pm

    Nice write up and very informative! Fantastic photos of Ngrongoro and Kili! I visited both February 2014. I only brought a Gorilla Pod to save space and weight. I’m trying to decide on a good tripod to take on an Everest Base Camp Trek. A bit pricey but this may be the one. Saving on weight is critical.

    Curious – what did you use as a daypack on Kilimanjaro? I had a Lowepro Rover 45L but found it to be a bit too heavy (very comfortable though). So, I’m looking to get a new daypack.

    Thanks again for the info!

    Reply
    • David says

      July 9, 2015 at 4:04 pm

      I used a Mammut Trion Guide 35+7 pack with MountainSmith Kit Cubes for camera gear, my go-to setup for non-urban travel. It’s light, comfortable, deals with weather well, and is very flexible in how you pack it, especially with quick side access to the entire pack. And because it’s made for climbing, it’s narrow to preserve freedom of movement and packs close to your back, which helps with heavy camera gear. That particular model isn’t made anymore, but the Mammut Trion Pro 35 is very similar. While there are some great packs available for camera gear specifically–and LowePro and F-Stop are ones I’ve been particularly impressed with–I haven’t yet found one that I like as much as my Mammut.

      Reply
      • upsidedownjim says

        July 12, 2015 at 10:59 pm

        Hi David,

        Thanks for the recommendation! I will check it out. I’ve been looking at F-Stop packs (Loka UL or Ajna).

        As for tripod – I’m looking at getting the Feisol CT-3441T. I’m 6’2″ and the extra height of this tripod would be a big benefit. I’ve seen the Photo Clam PC-40NS recommended as a ball head. So many options!

        Cheers,
        Adam

        Reply

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I take photos. I travel. I do it for a living. Seven continents. Dozens of countries. Up mountains. Under water. And a bunch of places in between.

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