TS, i am using a sony NEX camera system.
I have 2 travel tripods, one a VELBON Ultra Maxi L,
Velbon Ultra Maxi-L Tripod w/ PHD-31Q 3-Way Pan/Tilt ULTRA MAXI
and a BENRO A0350QT,
MeFOTO Travel Tripod Kit - Titanium A0350Q0T
The velbon extends to a maximum height of 152.5cm, has a folded height of 36cm (fits into my sling pouch easily), and weights only 0.99kg, can support up to 1.5/2kg (depending on which website advise).
The benro extends to a maximum height of 130cm (115cm if don't raise centre column), has a folded height of 32cm, weights 1.2kg, and can support up to 4kg
The benro is much more rugged feel and more stable than the Velbon (not that velbon isn't stable. difference is prob due to max height and less telescopic legs and yet heavier).
both are aluminium alloy, lightweight, and meets my use for NEX system. (have used a canon FD 400mm with this before) if you're using a heavier DSLR, the velbon may not be suitable, but prob the benro will do the job unless you're going long lens
i travel alot, mainly due to work, and bring my gear along as a hobby. works perfect, most stuff can fit into my travel sling bag(its really very small, perhaps 25 by 25cm and 12cm thick max),esp the velbon (do note i cannot zip fully with velbon in bag, never tried the benro in my travel sling bag though, it'll probably fit but the additional 200g and slightly harder to deploy puts me off) , , of cos no fanciful lenses when travelling.
I intend to get a medium CF tripod (with height around 130-150 without centre column extension), but even that would not replace above 2 tripods for its compactness and weight. CF may be strong and light, but i dont believe the dimensions would meet above if you're really looking for something light and compact to throw into your sling bag.
hope that helps.
