Top Action Camera Mount Accessories for Every Adventure

Action camera mount accessories are essential for capturing dynamic, hands-free footage in any environment, from mountain peaks to ocean waves. Versatile mounts like chest harnesses, helmet straps, and adhesive pads ensure stable, immersive shots tailored to your adventure. Whether you’re biking, surfing, or hiking, the right mount unlocks creative angles and reliable performance when it matters most.

Key Takeaways

• Choose versatile mounts: Opt for multi-angle options to capture dynamic shots effortlessly.
• Prioritize durability: Use rugged, weatherproof mounts for extreme conditions and long-term use.
• Maximize stability: Select anti-vibration mounts for smooth, professional-grade footage.
• Expand mounting options: Use adhesive or clamp mounts for unique perspectives and surfaces.
• Ensure quick release: Pick mounts with fast-detach features for on-the-go adjustments.
• Optimize for low light: Pair mounts with built-in lighting for nighttime adventures.

Why Action Camera Mount Accessories Are a Game-Changer for Adventurers

Let’s face it—adventure doesn’t wait for the perfect shot. Whether you’re scaling a mountain, shredding powder on a snowboard, or diving into the deep blue, you want to capture every heart-pounding moment. But holding your action camera steady while doing a backflip? Not exactly practical. That’s where action camera mount accessories come in. They’re the unsung heroes behind those jaw-dropping POV shots you see on Instagram, YouTube, and travel vlogs.

I remember my first real adventure with an action camera—a weekend kayaking trip. I thought I’d just strap the camera to my helmet and call it a day. Spoiler: the footage was shaky, half-submerged, and more “blurry water” than “epic rapids.” After that, I dove headfirst into the world of mounts. What I discovered was a whole ecosystem of clever, durable, and sometimes downright ingenious accessories that can transform your footage from “meh” to “mind-blowing.”

Types of Action Camera Mounts: Finding the Right Fit for Your Activity

Not all adventures are the same, and neither are the mounts you’ll need. The key is matching your gear to your activity. Let’s break down the most common types and when to use them.

Helmet Mounts: For First-Person POV

Helmet mounts are the go-to for capturing immersive, hands-free footage. Whether you’re biking, skiing, or skydiving, this mount puts the camera right where your eyes are—giving viewers a true “you are there” experience.

• Best for: Cycling, snowboarding, skiing, climbing, motorsports
• Pros: Natural POV, stable in motion, easy to install and remove
• Cons: Can look bulky, limited to head-level angles

Pro tip: Use a low-profile adhesive mount (like the GoPro Jaws or Peak Design Helmet Mount) to reduce wind resistance and avoid snagging. For full-face helmets, consider a chin mount—it offers a lower, more cinematic angle and reduces glare from the sun.

Chest Mounts: The Balanced Middle Ground

Chest mounts are perfect when you want a more stable shot than a helmet can provide but still want that immersive feel. They’re especially great for activities where your head moves a lot—like trail running or mountain biking.

• Best for: Hiking, trail running, mountain biking, kayaking
• Pros: More stable than helmet, captures hand movements, less wind noise
• Cons: Can shift during intense movement, not ideal for swimming

I once used a chest mount during a multi-day hike in the Rockies. It gave me a steady, wide-angle view of the trail ahead, and I could even see my hands adjusting my backpack—something a helmet mount would’ve missed. Just make sure to tighten the straps before starting. Nothing’s worse than realizing your camera is dangling halfway down a mountain.

Handlebar and Roll Bar Mounts: For Wheels and Wings

If you’re into cycling, motorcycling, or even off-roading, handlebar mounts are a must. They attach directly to your bike’s handlebars, roll cages, or even the frame of a drone.

• Best for: Road biking, mountain biking, motorcycles, ATVs, drones
• Pros: Vibration-dampening options, secure attachment, great for speed shots
• Cons: Exposed to weather, risk of theft if left unattended

Look for mounts with rubberized grips or silicone pads—they reduce vibration and protect your gear. For mountain bikers, the GoPro Handlebar/Seatpost/Pole Mount is a favorite. It’s adjustable, lightweight, and holds up to rough terrain. Just remember: the tighter the fit, the less shake in your footage.

Suction Cup Mounts: Versatile and Strong

Suction cup mounts are the Swiss Army knives of the action camera world. They stick to smooth, non-porous surfaces—think car windshields, boat decks, or even your surfboard.

• Best for: Car dashcams, boat rides, surf shots, drone landings
• Pros: Super versatile, removable, great for temporary setups
• Cons: Can fail in extreme heat or cold, not for rough surfaces

One summer, I used a suction cup mount to film a road trip through the desert. It stayed put on my windshield for over 200 miles—even through sudden sandstorms. But I learned the hard way: never trust a suction cup on a hot dashboard. Heat can weaken the seal. Always double-check your mount before hitting the road.

Wrist, Arm, and Hand Mounts: For Unique Angles

Want to capture your own hand movements? Or film a cooking session while camping? Wrist and arm mounts let you get creative.

• Best for: Cooking, rock climbing, freediving, self-filming tutorials
• Pros: Unique perspectives, great for self-filming, lightweight
• Cons: Can be awkward to use, limited stability

The GoPro The Strap is a popular choice. It wraps around your wrist, forearm, or even a paddle. I’ve used it for filming myself tying fishing knots and it worked surprisingly well. Just be mindful of your range of motion—overextending can make the camera wobble.

Essential Features to Look for in Action Camera Mounts

With so many options, how do you pick the right one? It’s not just about compatibility (though that’s crucial). Here are the key features that separate good mounts from great ones.

Build Quality and Durability

Adventure gear takes a beating. A flimsy mount won’t survive a drop on rocks or a dunk in saltwater. Look for:

• Materials like reinforced plastic, aluminum, or silicone
• Waterproof or water-resistant design
• UV-resistant coatings (especially for outdoor use)

I once bought a cheap plastic mount for a hiking trip. After one tumble on a rocky trail, it cracked. Lesson learned: spend a little more for something that won’t break when you need it most.

Adjustability and Flexibility

The best mounts let you fine-tune the angle, position, and orientation. Features to look for:

• 360-degree swivel heads
• Adjustable arms or extension poles
• Quick-release mechanisms

For example, the Peak Design Out Front Mount for bikes has a sleek design with a 15-degree tilt adjustment—perfect for framing the road ahead without glare.

Stability and Vibration Dampening

Even the best camera can’t save shaky footage. Vibration is the enemy. Look for mounts with:

• Rubberized contact points
• Shock-absorbing materials
• Anti-slip grips

Some high-end mounts even include built-in dampeners. The DJI Action 2 Magnetic Ball-Joint Mount uses a ball joint that absorbs minor vibrations—great for bumpy rides.

Ease of Use and Quick Setup

When you’re on the move, you don’t want to spend 10 minutes fiddling with a mount. Features that help:

• Magnetic quick-release systems
• Tool-free installation
• One-handed adjustments

I love mounts with magnetic bases—like the Insta360 Quick Release Mount. Snap it on, snap it off. No screws, no stress.

Top Brands and Models: What the Pros Use

Not all mounts are created equal. Some brands have built reputations for reliability, innovation, and durability. Here’s a rundown of the top players.

GoPro: The Pioneer (and Still a Leader)

GoPro didn’t invent action cameras, but they did popularize them—and their mounts are industry standards.

• Top picks: Jaws Flex Clamp, Chesty, Handlebar Mount, Suction Cup
• Why they’re great: Universal compatibility, rugged build, massive ecosystem
• Watch out for: Some mounts can be bulky, and the quick-release system isn’t always intuitive

The GoPro Chesty is a favorite among hikers and bikers. It’s comfortable, stable, and holds up to years of abuse.

Peak Design: Sleek, Functional, and Built to Last

Peak Design is known for minimalist, high-quality gear. Their mounts are no exception.

• Top picks: Out Front Mount, Helmet Mount, Universal Bar Mount
• Why they’re great: Premium materials, elegant design, magnetic quick-release
• Watch out for: Higher price point, limited to certain camera brands

The Out Front Mount is a game-changer for cyclists. It’s low-profile, vibration-resistant, and looks sleek on any bike.

DJI: Innovation Meets Reliability

DJI entered the action camera market with the Osmo Action and Action 2, and their mounts are designed to work seamlessly.

• Top picks: Magnetic Ball-Joint Mount, Helmet Mount, Suction Cup
• Why they’re great: Smart design, strong magnets, excellent vibration control
• Watch out for: Some mounts are proprietary, limiting compatibility

The Magnetic Ball-Joint Mount is a standout. It’s easy to adjust and stays rock-solid, even on rough terrain.

Third-Party Brands: Hidden Gems

Don’t overlook lesser-known brands. Some offer excellent value and innovative features.

• Insta360: Quick-release mounts, invisible selfie stick effect
• Joby: GorillaPod-style flexible mounts for unique angles
• K&F Concept: Affordable, high-quality suction cups and clamps

I’ve used the Insta360 Invisible Selfie Stick for drone-like shots while hiking. The camera edits out the stick—magic!

Creative Mounting Ideas for Unique Shots

Want to step up your content game? Try these creative mounting hacks to capture angles no one else has.

Mounting on Unusual Surfaces

Think outside the box. You can mount your camera on:

• Drone landing gear (for takeoff/landing shots)
• Kayak paddles (for water-level action)
• Surfboard fins (for under-the-wave footage)
• Backpack straps (for a low-angle trail view)

I once attached a suction cup mount to the side of a kayak. The result? A stunning side-angle shot of me navigating rapids—like a nature documentary!

Using Extension Poles for Height and Reach

Extension poles (or “selfie sticks”) aren’t just for selfies. Use them to:

• Get overhead shots during group hikes
• Film yourself climbing without a second cameraman
• Capture wide-angle views from a drone’s perspective

The Insta360 Invisible Selfie Stick is perfect for this. When paired with the Insta360 camera, the stick disappears in post—leaving you with a floating camera effect.

Combining Mounts for Multi-Angle Shots

Why settle for one angle? Use multiple mounts to capture a scene from different perspectives. For example:

• Chest mount for POV
• Handlebar mount for speed
• Helmet mount for facial reactions

During a mountain biking trip, I used all three. The result was a dynamic edit that told the full story of the ride.

DIY Mount Hacks (With Caution!)

Got a creative idea? You can make your own mount using:

• Zip ties and foam (for temporary setups)
• 3D-printed adapters (for custom angles)
• Repurposed GoPro parts (like old mounts)

Just remember: safety first. A DIY mount that fails mid-jump could damage your camera—or worse, injure you.

Maintenance, Safety, and Best Practices

Even the best mount won’t last if you don’t take care of it. Here’s how to keep your gear in top shape.

Cleaning and Storage Tips

After every adventure:

• Rinse mounts with fresh water (especially after saltwater exposure)
• Dry thoroughly to prevent mold and corrosion
• Store in a cool, dry place—away from direct sunlight

I keep my mounts in a mesh bag with silica gel packs. It keeps them dry and organized.

Regular Inspection for Wear and Tear

Check your mounts regularly for:

• Cracks or stress marks
• Loose screws or bolts
• Degraded rubber or foam padding

Replace any part that shows signs of wear. A small crack today could become a catastrophic failure tomorrow.

Safety First: Avoiding Common Pitfalls

Never risk your safety for a shot. Remember:

• Don’t mount cameras in ways that obstruct your vision or movement
• Secure all straps and clamps before starting an activity
• Test new mounts in low-risk environments first

I once saw a rider crash because his chest mount shifted mid-turn, throwing off his balance. Always double-check your gear.

Data Table: Mount Comparison at a Glance

Mount Type	Best For	Stability	Durability	Price Range	Top Brand Example
Helmet Mount	Cycling, skiing, climbing	High	High	$15–$40	GoPro Jaws
Chest Mount	Hiking, biking, kayaking	Very High	High	$20–$50	GoPro Chesty
Handlebar Mount	Road biking, motorcycles	Medium-High	Medium	$10–$30	Peak Design Out Front
Suction Cup	Car, boat, surf	Medium	Medium	$20–$45	DJI Suction Cup
Wrist Mount	Cooking, climbing, tutorials	Low-Medium	High	$10–$25	GoPro The Strap

Final Thoughts: Your Adventure, Your Way

Action camera mount accessories aren’t just about holding your camera—they’re about unlocking your creativity. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a full-time content creator, the right mount can turn a simple trip into a cinematic journey.

From the rugged trails of Patagonia to the bustling streets of Tokyo, I’ve relied on these mounts to capture memories I’ll cherish forever. And the best part? You don’t need to spend a fortune. A few well-chosen action camera mount accessories can open up a world of possibilities.

So next time you head out, ask yourself: what angle haven’t I tried? Then grab the right mount, secure it safely, and hit record. The adventure is waiting—and now, you’re ready to capture it from every angle.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best action camera mount accessories for outdoor adventures?

Top action camera mount accessories include helmet mounts, chest harnesses, and handlebar mounts, which provide stable, hands-free recording. These are ideal for activities like biking, skiing, or hiking, ensuring versatile angles and secure attachment.

Can I use an action camera mount for underwater filming?

Yes, many action camera mount accessories are waterproof or come with waterproof housings, making them perfect for snorkeling or diving. Always check the depth rating and compatibility with your specific camera model before submerging.

How do I choose the right action camera mount for my needs?

Consider your activity—helmet mounts for high-speed sports, suction mounts for smooth surfaces, or adhesive mounts for compact setups. Look for durable, adjustable, and vibration-resistant designs to ensure optimal performance.

Are adhesive mounts reliable for action cameras?

High-quality adhesive mounts, especially those using 3M tape, are secure for most activities but work best on clean, smooth surfaces. Avoid rough terrain or extreme temperatures to prevent detachment during use.

What makes a good action camera extension pole or selfie stick?

A good extension pole should be lightweight, extendable, and compatible with your camera’s mount system. Look for models with ergonomic grips and 360-degree rotation for dynamic angles and group shots.

Can I use one mount for multiple action cameras?

Many action camera mount accessories are designed to fit popular brands like GoPro, DJI, or Insta360 with universal screw mounts. Always verify the mount’s compatibility with your camera’s size and weight to ensure stability.