Manfrotto 561BHDV-1 Compact for Travel?
A lot of readers ask me about the portability of the Manfrotto 561BHDV-1. Here is a common question from OTech reader, Ryan:
“Hi, I just ordered the Manfrotto 561BHDV-1 and noticed on the specs that the minimum height is 2.5′ is this with the head or without? My main concern is that I am traveling and was hoping to bring this with in my pack. I am a little worried about the length and overall size. What do you think? We will be backpacking a little and on the move. Maybe not worth lugging that thing around? Oh, and is it easy to take the head off? Everyone seems to love this thing, but not sure how well it travels. Thanks for your insight and your hard work!”
Ryan, the Manfrotto 561BHDV-1 is 2.5′ WITH the head and just above 26″ without the head attached. My suggestion for traveling is this, if you don’t mind detaching and packing the head separately, it’s a relatively compact monopod for the quality and versatility you will get with it. The only real downside is the speed of setup. The head only adds a few inches, but this certainly is something to consider when you’re traveling. With those few inches comes the pan bar! Here is a full review of the Manfrotto 560 and 561 monopods.
  Manfrotto 560B-1 Fluid Video Monopod 
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 Manfrotto 561BHDV-1 Fluid Monopod w/ Head 
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comparison, Manfrotto 560, Manfrotto 561, monopod, review, travel
Awesome video Olivia!
which is the slightly larger version but it still folds up to 14″ which is great! 
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I recently got the Velbon L50
I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone. Especially since it’s £25 shipped from Amazon.
Works great with the fluid head from my DV-7000
Panning with this setup is not really amazing but it’s great for the price.
Hey Olivia. Thanks for the video. Got a quick question regarding the camera. What cage system and handle do you have attached to it? It looks nice and low profile. Thanks.
Hi Bryan, here is a link to the newer version of the cage! http://goo.gl/yKZrb
Thanks for the link Olivia, but when I click on the link it doesn’t go anywhere.
Sorry try now! http://goo.gl/yKZrb
Great video. I have been thinking about getting the 561 but don’t want to carry both a heavy tripod and a monopod with me as I shoot documentaries and interviews. How study and trusting is the 561 with a 17-50mm lens free standing if I was going to use it for an interview situation. Will it stand alone as long as someone of something doesn’t hit it?
Ron, unlike traditional monopods, this Manfrotto has tiny feet that enable it to stand independently. My only precaution is that it really may topple over. The feet are more so to give extra points of contact with the ground for sturdier shooting. I personally would never just sit my camera and lens (no matter what size) on a monopod and leave it alone. For that I’d really suggest a tripod!
Thanks. Do you have any recommendation for a lightweight traveling tripod?
Let me know your thoughts on this one: http://goo.gl/R0W17
When transporting a mono or tripod with the head removed, it’s a good idea to put a 3/8-16 nut or other protection on the ‘pod’s exposed threads.
Thanks for the tip, Bruce!
Thanks for your video!
The 561BHDV supporting more weight, i was wondering if there is any difference between the 560 and the 561 in the standing position?
Hi Chris, no difference in the two while standing. They both have the same feet and locking sections.
Thanks for your awesome review:)
Just to clearify before I place orders: Check list
701HDV Head
560B-1 Monopod
Will I need to buy this also (Adapter Small 1/4” to 3/8”)
OR Should I be looking into 561BHDV Monopod for:
5D Mark II + Battery Grip + 70-200mm f2.8 IS II USM Lens setup?
I do have Tripod but need something quick and light, awaiting upon your suggestions…Thank you.
Hi Kam, there is a removable male screw cover on the 560-B-1 Monopod. CLICK HERE to see what that is. Hope this helps!
You somehow magically figure out the exact questions I have and answer them on your blog.
I loved this post. I am travelling, and I *just* received my Manfrotto 561 in the mail from eBay.
Now, I’m wondering – is the 560 Pan/Tilt as well or not?
The 560 is only the monopod, no video head is included so you’re limited to your range of motion that the fluid cartridge at the base allows. If you needed the fluid head, your 561 choice was excellent!
One more thing – I bought a used 561 so I didn’t get a Manfrotto Quick Release plate with it…
Is there a 3rd Party company that makes the equivalent of the 500PL plate that I can buy?
Cuz the original here in Canada is like $50.. ridiculous!
Hi Adam, check out these links from cheesycam.com:
Sliding Adaptor Plate
QR Video Head Adaptor
Olivia, you’re the best!