For me, the most convenient compromise is image stabilised binoculars. They are wonderfully convenient, being compact and hand held, yet with image stabilisation in operation, they are rock steady and so feel like a small telescope. I take them whenever I travel to an interesting location (e.g. during my trips to the northern hemisphere).
I got a pair of Canon 12x36 IS II binoculars recently for $750. Just superb for astronomy, as well as for birdwatching and other daytime uses. Gary Seronik from Sky & Telescope will back me up here
http://www.garyseronik.com/?q=node/25