If a full tripod isn’t practical, a few lighter options can still help a lot:

• Mini flexible tripod: A Gorillapod-style support is compact and can wrap around rails, branches, and other objects, which can be more versatile than a normal tripod in some places.
• Monopod: Much lighter than a tripod and useful for reducing camera shake. Some have small feet at the bottom for extra stability, though they’re still not a full tripod replacement.
• Beanbag support: A simple beanbag can turn walls, tables, rocks, car windows, and other surfaces into a stable camera rest.
• Dedicated beanbag mount: Products like The Pod are purpose-built versions of the beanbag idea and pack small.

The best choice depends on how you’ll shoot: a monopod is good when you’ll be standing and moving, while a beanbag or flexible mini tripod works well when you can rest the camera on or attach it to something nearby.