Tripod Head Type

There are 3 main types of tripods heads, each with its own pros and cons. The quick release (ballhead) is the most common and easiest to use, but it's also the heaviest. The pan/tilt (aka video head) works well for taking pictures of moving objects, like kids or animals, but they're harder to balance because you have to set everything by hand; sometimes there are multiple knobs on the tripod head that you have to tighten before you can start shooting. Handheld heads are useful for special cases but usually not worth the hassle - do it right the first time by picking a tripod that has an appropriate head or buying one separately if your tripod didn't come with one.

Special Vents

Some best lightweight tripod for backpacking have valves on the legs so you can adjust how fast or slow the legs close. This feature is nice if you have to get in and out of a tent or car, but I haven't noticed any difference in my pictures when using a tripod with this kind of leg design.

Feet

Spiked feet come off quickly and work better on soft ground, while rubber feet stay on better and grip surfaces better if your tripod is light or cheap. I personally use rubber feet at home and rely on a short center column to level my tripod head if I need to take pictures on rocks or gravel (don't forget to use the included spikes when you're out hiking, unless you enjoy spending time picking up the legs of your tripod).

Center Column Hook

This is a metal hook on the bottom of the center column that you can tie a weight to. Some people use heavy rocks or water bottles as counterweights, but I just leave this hook empty if needed because it's too much trouble for me to carry gravel around with me.

Manufacturer's Warranty

While it's true that your tripod will hold your camera no matter what, don't forget to read the warranty carefully - some manufacturers use words like "limited" or "conditional" in their descriptions of the warranty. I'm not saying that you should never buy a highly rated tripod with an unknown manufacturer, but be careful before opting for one over another if their warranties are both similar (or the price difference is minimal).

Alternative Uses

Do you want to use your tripod for photography, but also need it occasionally for video or time-lapse projects? Then this is the most important factor in your choice - buy a tripod with an appropriate head if at all possible. If you can't, make sure that you get one where the legs are removable because sometimes these are easier to work with than the typical tripod head arrangement.

Carrying Case

Some of these are free, but most aren't - I prefer carrying cases that have some sort of shoulder strap or two (one for each hand) so I can carry my tripod on my back when it's windy outside.

Tilt Lock

This feature prevents the tilt of your camera from changing when you loosen the knob on the head that secures it. It's a bit bulky, but helps prevent awkward tilts if you're not used to using a tripod.

Camera Bag

Many manufacturers include a small bag to carry their tripods in - if you have a bag that fits this one, all the better. If you don't, there are bags available for purchase if it's an option. The only downsides are weight and versatility - without a tripod bag, you can use your tripod with any backpack or accessory case.

Slik Carrying System

This is a manufacturer-specific tripod bag that's worth its weight in gold if you want to carry your tripod with you. It has loops on the sides for attaching an accessory case or water bottle holder, and there are small straps at the bottom so you can attach shoes, sandals, or other bags.

Rotation

Most tripods allow 360 degree rotation, but some have a stop at one end or the other. If you want to take panoramic shots or adjust your camera without an assistant, look for a tripod with free 360 degree rotation.

Carbon Fiber

This material is slightly lighter than aluminum, and makes your tripod more flexible in cold weather - if you live where it snows or it's below freezing most of the year, carbon fiber may be your best option. It also costs more than aluminum in general, so if you don't plan on using your tripod when it's cold or in windy conditions, there isn't much point in buying this type.

Quick Release

This is especially important if you plan on using your tripod with a variety of cameras (or one that's heavier than your current one), as it makes switching devices much faster. Some tripods have cheaper quick releases, but they aren't any faster or more convenient than screwing the plate into the bottom of your camera and then attaching it to the tripod head - stick with the more expensive version because it's worth it.

Bean Bag

If you're taking long exposure shots and need to be as still as possible, a bean bag can keep your camera steady even in strong winds. They only weigh a few ounces themselves, and they're cheap (usually around $10). You'll also want to invest in a remote shutter release so you don't have to touch the camera itself.

Tripod Case

If there's no carrying case for your tripod, or if you want something larger than what it comes with, this is an option - just make sure that the one you buy is large enough to hold everything comfortably. I'd recommend getting one that's at least 20" long, 10" wide, and 3-4" thick.

Panning Handle

Some tripods have a handle to make it easier to pan across your subject smoothly - it works well if you don't need to move the camera vertically much at all (e.g., taking shots of wildlife as it walks or runs by). It's worth looking into if that's the case, but otherwise not really necessary.

Tripod Tool

If you have a screw-on type head, you'll need this to tighten and loosen it so your camera will stay secure during use. Make sure the tool is compatible with all of your plates and tripod heads so you don't have to buy a separate one for each - this will drive up the cost of your gear if you have that many accessories.