Light stands

Light stands

There are a number of lightweight, quick-to-set-up lighting stands. They can usually carry about 3 kg, and sometimes even more. This means they can safely support larger ambisonic or other microphone systems.
Some of these stands have the option of removing or unscrewing the middle pole so it can be used as a boom as well. This comes in pretty handy, when you are out in the fields and need a boom. 

However, almost any of these stands have a 1/4" thread, while most threads used in the audio industry are 3/8". Make sure you have the necessary adapters on hand or that they are firmly screwed onto the tripod. Which solution you may prefer, in the end it comes down to have a 1/4" to 3/8" adapter on your stands. 

Lighting stands usually have a larger diameter on their three legs. This makes them more stable. They can usually still be used if there are stones and the ground is not completely level. However, recording on a hill or stairs becomes quite challenging, if not impossible.
You might manage with some extra sponges, but...you know. It's not always a great idea.

One major advantage of these light stands is that many of them are very lightweight. This makes them the obvious choice when you need a stand and are going on a long hike.