My choice was the Gorillapod by Joby.
With a length of about 240 mm and three legs with a diameter of about 28 mm
(Without ball head) the Gorillapod compared to a normal tripod is nice compact,
However, one should take into account the space required for his photographic equipment, specially
traveling is less luggage always more comfortable to wear.
For flexible use and relaxed I absolutely recommend the use
a ball head, without it is very fiddly, the orientation of the mounted camera
to adjust precisely, the spherical head facilitates the whole extreme.
Who still does not have a ball head, can calm the specially available for the Gorillapod
Joby Ball Head resort, it is very compact and light, yet stable and
quickly resolve or fix.
I use the Gorillapod with a Manfrotto 494RC2 ball head (approximately 320 g) and the Sony SLT-A33L (about 430 g).
With attached Sigma 18-200mm (about 430 g), there is no absout weight problems and keeps everything
the orientation of the camera remains as set.
With attached Tamron SP70-300Di USD (about 770 g) comes the stand, depending on the arrangement, zoom and focus
already on its border management, mainly because of the displaced center of gravity at the full zoom,
but remains functional.
--- --- CONCLUSION
In a nutshell: for me an indispensable part of my photo orientation,
traveling and walks always there and very helpful.
Full recommendation from me!