I have a project coming up that I will have to fly to film interviews and a festival. My Manfrotto 504HD Head w/546B is just too big and heavy. I'm looking at Manfrotto 701 head on 055cx3 sticks to put my Sony Z1U on. I know its not the best for video but its got to be light and compact enough to fit carry on or my suitcase.

Manfrotto 701HDV Pro Fluid Video Mini Head 701HDV B&H Photo

Manfrotto 055CXPRO3 3-Section Carbon Fiber Tripod 055CXPRO3 B&H


Any thoughts?

Pete, if your rig weighs under 8.8lbs, check out the reviews for the new Sachtler Ace.

Sachtler Ace Fluid Head with 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod 1001 B&H


And I believe it folds down to fit in your carry-on suitcase.

Cheers.

I was thinking of that tripod but I leave Dec 29, it won't be in stock until January. In addition I read its up to the discretion the TSA to allow it as carry on. 30" folded might be too long for carry on. If I'm going to check it, I might as well save the money and take mine.

I didn't think of this but I could just check in the tripod padded bag it comes in. Then I wouldn't need buy a new tripod.

Fragile And Bulky Baggage tips and restrictions from Delta.com (http://www.delta.com/traveling_checkin/baggage/special_baggage/fragile_bulky/index.jsp)

Media Bags
Camera, film, video tape, lighting and sound equipment that is tendered by representatives of network or local television broadcasting companies or commercial film-making companies will be accepted as baggage at the fees noted below (Standard check bag fee).

Yes. SIze matters traveling. There's a Gitzo Traveler that I heard mentioned on various blogs but it's pretty expensive.

I used a Manfrotto 190CXPRO4 tripod and 701HDV head with a camera similar in size weight (EX1R) to yours. Those legs get quite small bit more importantly, it's rated for 11lbs when most of the others in that size range were 4-5lbs. The 190CXPRO4 fit diagonally in my slightly undersized 24" checked bag. The center column pulls out to remove the head quickly and shorten things for other options for packing. It worked fine for locked down interviews. Pans had the wind up you'd expect.