Exploring European cities means encountering iconic landmarks, cobblestone streets, and scenic viewpoints. A portable tripod or selfie stick helps you capture steady shots without relying on strangers or trying to hold a phone steady in tricky light.
How we choose
Whether you're solo or traveling with companions, the right support lets you frame group photos, long-exposure night shots, or smooth video clips. From compact tabletop stands to extendable selfie sticks, each option serves a different travel style.
Our 8 Picks
ULANZI MT-44 Extendable Phone Tripod, 59 in Selfie Stick Vlog Stand with 2 in 1 Phone Clip, 360° Ball Head Camera Tripod for iPhone Sony DJI Osmo Nano Action Camera, Lightweight for Travel
What it is
An extendable phone tripod that reaches 59 inches and folds compactly for travel.
Why it's worth it
Best for solo travellers who want full-length portraits and group shots without relying on strangers. Its 59-inch height allows you to capture full-body shots, and the integrated phone clip and ball head let you adjust the framing easily. The compact folded size makes it simple to pack in a cabin bag for city breaks.
Caveat
Its lightweight build is less stable in strong wind or on uneven ground compared to heavier tripods.
UBeesize Phone Tripod Pro S, Flexible Desk Stand with Wireless Remote, Mini Holder for Camera and GoPro
What it is
A flexible phone tripod with a wireless remote for hands-free photos, designed for use on flat surfaces.
Why it's worth it
Best for travellers who want group or couple shots without a selfie stick arm in the frame. The remote lets you capture photos from a distance, and the flexible legs can grip uneven surfaces like park benches or low walls. Its compact design fits easily in a day bag for spontaneous photo stops.
Caveat
The tripod is short, so it requires a stable surface like a table or ledge for best results.
Joby PodZilla Large Kit, Flexible Tripod with GripTight 360 Phone Mount, Phone Tripod from The Creators of GorillaPod, Compatible with iPhone, Smartphones, Action Cameras or Devices up to 2.5Kg, Grey
What it is
A flexible tripod with bendable legs and a GripTight 360 phone mount for secure phone attachment.
Why it's worth it
Best for travellers who encounter uneven surfaces, stairs, or railings, as the legs can wrap or grip where a standard tripod cannot. The 360 mount allows quick switching between portrait and landscape. It supports phones and action cameras up to 2.5 kg (as stated by the brand).
Caveat
It is bulkier than a selfie stick, so it's better suited for a daypack than a pocket.
ULANZI Camera Tripod, Mini Flexible Stand with Hidden Phone Holder with Cold Shoe Mount, 1/4 Screw for Magic Arm, Universal for iPhone 17 16 15 14 Pro Max XS Max X Samsung Canon Nikon Sony DJ Pocket 3 Cameras
What it is
A mini flexible tripod with a built-in phone holder, ball head, and cold shoe mount for external accessories.
Why it's worth it
Best for travelers who want a compact support for tabletop or low-angle shots. The hidden phone holder keeps the design tidy, and the ball head allows quick framing adjustments. The cold shoe can accommodate a small microphone or light for improved content quality.
Caveat
Its small size means it works best on tables or ledges; it cannot be extended for standing full-body shots.
ULANZI 0.01s Auto Pop Open Phone Tripod with Remote, MT44B 59 in Selfie Stick Tripod with Dual Mount for Phone and Camera for Vlog Live Travel, Cell Phone Stand 360° Ball Head for iPhone 17Pro Max Android
What it is
An auto-pop-open phone tripod that doubles as an extendable selfie stick with a wireless remote, featuring a dual mount for phone and camera.
Why it's worth it
Best for travellers who want a quick, no-fuss setup for group photos and self-portraits between sightseeing stops. The pop-open mechanism (brand claims 0.01s) speeds up deployment, and the four-leg base provides a wider footprint than a single-pole selfie stick, offering better support. The dual mount allows simultaneous use of a phone and a small camera.
Caveat
Despite the wider base, its lightweight design may be less stable on uneven cobblestones or in windy conditions.
Peak Design Travel Tripod Carbon Fiber, Compact and Portable Travel Tripod for Camera and Phone, Pro-Level Stability, Ergonomic Ball Head, 20 lb Capacity
What it is
A carbon fiber travel tripod designed for mirrorless cameras and phones, with a compact folded size and a 20 lb load capacity (as per brand).
Why it's worth it
Best for dedicated photographers who want a stable platform in a travel-friendly form. The carbon fiber construction reduces weight compared to aluminum, and the ergonomic ball head allows precise composition (as per brand). Ideal for landscape-focused European itineraries where image quality is a priority.
Caveat
Its high price and advanced features may be unnecessary for casual phone-only travellers.
DJI Osmo Mobile 8 Advanced Tracking Combo Gimbal Stabilizer for Phone, AI Native Tracking with Audio and Lighting, 360° Pan Rotation, Built-in Extension Rod and Tripod, 10h Battery
What it is
A smartphone gimbal stabilizer with a built-in extension rod and tripod grip, offering AI tracking for smooth video.
Why it's worth it
Best for travellers who prioritize video content over stills, as the gimbal stabilizes footage even when walking. The built-in tripod allows hands-free recording, and the AI tracking keeps subjects in frame automatically (brand states). The extension rod extends reach for creative angles.
Caveat
It requires charging (brand states 10-hour battery) and has a learning curve compared to a simple tripod.
Xenvo SquidGrip Flexible Cell Phone Tripod and Portable Action Camera Holder, Compatible with iPhone, GoPro, Android, Samsung, Google Pixel and All Mobile Phones, Red
What it is
An ultra-compact flexible tripod that can also be used as a hand grip for phones or action cameras.
Why it's worth it
Best for travelers who want a lightweight backup support that fits in a pocket. It can be wrapped around poles or set on a flat surface for flexible positioning. The flexible legs adjust to odd angles, making it useful for last-minute photos without taking up much bag space.
Caveat
Its small size means it cannot be extended to eye level like a full tripod or selfie stick.
How to choose
How to choose the right portable tripods & selfie sticks for european holidays
Takeaway
Choosing the right travel tripod or selfie stick depends on your photography habits, device, and trip style. A compact, stable model that fits your packing constraints will help you capture memorable European holiday shots without added bulk.
