Top Action Camera Mounting Accessories for Every Adventure

Maximize your action camera’s potential with the right mounting accessories—whether you’re surfing, biking, or skydiving, secure, versatile mounts ensure stable, dynamic footage in any environment. From helmet and chest mounts to adhesive grips and floating handles, these essential tools provide hands-free operation and creative angles, so you never miss a moment of the action.

Key Takeaways

• Choose versatile mounts: Opt for adjustable mounts to capture dynamic angles effortlessly.
• Prioritize durability: Select rugged, weatherproof accessories for extreme conditions.
• Use helmet mounts: Secure hands-free POV shots with reliable helmet attachments.
• Try suction mounts: Attach to smooth surfaces for stable, shake-free footage.
• Invest in quick-release: Swap mounts rapidly without losing crucial moments.
• Pack compact mounts: Lightweight, foldable options save space for travel adventures.

Top Action Camera Mounting Accessories for Every Adventure

Remember that time you tried to capture the perfect wave, only to realize your camera flew off mid-air because your mount wasn’t secure enough? Or the hike where you wanted a smooth POV shot of your descent, but the wind kept flipping your camera upside down? We’ve all been there. Action cameras like GoPro, DJI Osmo Action, and Insta360 are amazing tools for documenting life’s wildest moments, but their magic truly unlocks when paired with the right action camera mounting accessories.

Mounts aren’t just about holding your camera in place—they’re the invisible heroes that let you capture perspectives you never thought possible. Whether you’re biking down a mountain trail, surfing a gnarly wave, or skydiving from 10,000 feet, the right mount ensures your footage stays smooth, stable, and epic. But with so many options out there, how do you pick the best ones? This guide dives into the top action camera mounting accessories that’ll level up your adventures, from everyday essentials to niche gear for extreme conditions. Let’s get into it.

1. Chest Mounts: The Ultimate POV for Active Adventures

If you’ve ever watched a mountain biker’s video and felt like you were right there, dodging rocks and trees, chances are they used a chest mount. This is one of the most popular action camera mounting accessories for a reason—it delivers an immersive, first-person perspective that head mounts can’t match.

Why Chest Mounts Rock for Active Sports

Chest mounts sit low on your torso, which means your camera captures the world as your body sees it. When you’re skiing down a steep slope, your chest follows the terrain’s rhythm, giving viewers a natural, dynamic feel. Same for mountain biking: you’ll see your hands on the handlebars, your legs pumping, and the trail flying beneath you. It’s like being inside the action.

Unlike head mounts, which can bounce too much or capture too much sky, chest mounts are more stable and centered. They’re also great for activities where your head moves a lot (like trail running or climbing), since your chest stays relatively level.

Real-World Use Cases

• Mountain Biking: The chest mount shows your grip on the bars, your pedaling motion, and the trail ahead. You’ll get that “I’m right there” feeling.
• Skiing & Snowboarding: Watch the snow fly off your board and the trees blur by. It’s perfect for capturing the speed and flow of the run.
• Hiking & Trail Running: Great for documenting long hikes, especially when you’re navigating tricky terrain. You’ll see your hands adjusting your trekking poles or your feet stepping over rocks.

Pro tip: If you’re using a chest mount for skiing or snowboarding, make sure it’s snug and won’t shift during a fall. A loose mount can send your camera flying into the snow—or worse, your face.

What to Look For

Not all chest mounts are created equal. Here’s what matters:

• Adjustable straps: Look for mounts with wide, padded straps that can be tightened or loosened easily. You want a secure fit without cutting off circulation.
• Quick-release mechanism: Some mounts let you pop the camera off with one hand—handy when you’re on the go.
• Compatibility: Make sure it works with your camera model. Most are universal, but some are brand-specific (like GoPro’s chest harness).
• Comfort: Test it out before a big trip. A mount that digs into your chest after an hour will ruin your adventure.

One downside? Chest mounts can get sweaty. If you’re doing a long, hot hike, consider a mount with breathable mesh fabric or wear a moisture-wicking base layer.

2. Helmet Mounts: Capture the World from Your Viewpoint

Want to see the world exactly as you do? A helmet mount is your go-to. It’s one of the most versatile action camera mounting accessories, especially for sports where your head is the center of movement—like skiing, snowboarding, or motocross.

Types of Helmet Mounts

There are two main types: adhesive mounts (sticky pads that attach directly to your helmet) and straps (that wrap around the helmet). Each has pros and cons.

• Adhesive mounts: These are super secure and low-profile. They’re great for long-term use (like if you’re a professional athlete). But they’re permanent—once you stick it on, removing it can leave residue or damage your helmet’s finish.
• Strap mounts: These are removable and adjustable. You can move them from helmet to helmet, which is handy if you use different gear for different sports. But they can bounce more, especially on rough terrain, and they’re not as sleek as adhesive mounts.

Personal note: I once used a strap mount on a mountain bike helmet during a rocky downhill ride. The constant bouncing made my footage look like a shaky horror movie. Lesson learned: for bumpy rides, adhesive mounts or a stabilizer (like a gimbal) are better.

Best Sports for Helmet Mounts

• Skiing & Snowboarding: The camera sits right above your eyes, capturing the slope ahead, your hands on your poles, and the trees whizzing by. It’s the classic “rider’s eye” view.
• Motocross & Biking: You’ll see the handlebars, the trail, and your body’s movements. Just be careful—a helmet mount can add weight, which might throw off your balance on jumps.
• Climbing: Great for documenting your ascent. You’ll see your hands grabbing holds and the scenery below.

Tips for a Stable Helmet Shot

Helmet mounts can be tricky. Here’s how to get the best footage:

• Position it right: Aim for the center of your forehead or just above your visor. Too low, and you’ll get a lot of chin; too high, and it’ll capture too much sky.
• Use a stabilizer: If your camera has a built-in gimbal (like the DJI Osmo Action 4), it’ll smooth out the bumps. Otherwise, consider a third-party stabilizer.
• Check the angle: Before you start, tilt the camera slightly downward. This ensures you’re capturing the action, not just the horizon.
• Secure it tight: Whether it’s adhesive or a strap, make sure it won’t come loose mid-ride. Nothing worse than losing your camera to a rogue bump.

One thing to remember: helmet mounts can be bulky. If you’re doing a long hike or climb, the extra weight might get annoying. For those, a chest or headband mount might be better.

3. Handlebar & Pole Mounts: For Cyclists, Paddlers, and More

If you’re into biking, kayaking, or hiking with trekking poles, a handlebar or pole mount is a game-changer. These action camera mounting accessories let you capture dynamic, forward-facing shots that show the world ahead—perfect for documenting your journey.

Why Handlebar Mounts Are Essential for Cyclists

When you’re biking, your handlebars are the center of your world. A handlebar mount lets you capture the trail ahead, your hands on the bars, and the scenery flying by. It’s great for:

• Road biking: You’ll see the road, your speed, and the landscape.
• Mountain biking: Watch the trail, your front wheel, and the obstacles you’re dodging.
• E-biking: Perfect for long rides where you want to document the journey.

The best handlebar mounts are adjustable. Look for ones with a ball-and-socket joint that lets you tilt the camera up or down, left or right. This way, you can fine-tune the angle to avoid capturing too much sky or the front wheel.

Pole Mounts for Kayaking, Hiking, and Skiing

Kayaking? A pole mount on your paddle lets you capture the river ahead, your strokes, and the wildlife around you. It’s a unique perspective—like being a fish in the water.

Hiking with trekking poles? Mount your camera on one pole to get a “pole cam” view. You’ll see your feet stepping, the terrain ahead, and your arms swinging. It’s great for documenting long hikes, especially in remote areas.

Skiing? A pole mount can capture your turns and the snow flying off your skis. Just be careful—it might get wet or icy, so make sure your mount is waterproof and secure.

What to Look For

Not all handlebar and pole mounts are created equal. Here’s what to consider:

• Adjustable clamp: The mount should fit a range of handlebar or pole sizes. Most work for 20mm–40mm diameters.
• Secure grip: Look for mounts with rubberized jaws or a locking mechanism to prevent slipping.
• Weather resistance: If you’re kayaking or skiing, make sure the mount can handle water, snow, and ice.
• Quick release: Handy when you want to take the camera off quickly for a close-up shot.

Pro tip: For mountain biking, consider a “gooseneck” mount. It’s a flexible arm that lets you position the camera away from the bars, reducing vibration and getting a cleaner shot.

4. Suction Cup Mounts: For Cars, Boats, and Smooth Surfaces

Need to capture the world from a car, boat, or window? A suction cup mount is your best friend. These action camera mounting accessories are simple, versatile, and perfect for capturing smooth, stable footage from moving vehicles.

Why Suction Cups Work (When Used Right)

Suction cups work by creating a vacuum seal between the mount and the surface. The key is a clean, smooth, non-porous surface. Think:

• Car hoods: Capture the road ahead or your speed.
• Boat decks: Get a wide-angle shot of the water and your surroundings.
• Windows: Great for documenting a road trip or a scenic drive.

The best suction cup mounts have a lever or pump that creates a stronger vacuum. Some even have a pressure indicator (like a red dot that turns green when it’s sealed).

Real-World Examples

• Road trips: Mount your camera on the car’s hood to capture the highway ahead. You’ll get a smooth, cinematic shot of the landscape flying by.
• Boat adventures: Place it on the deck to show the waves, your crew, and the scenery. Just make sure it’s secure—waves can be rough!
• Drone alternatives: If you’re not into drones, a suction cup on a car or boat can give you similar wide-angle shots.

Tips for a Secure Suction Cup

Suction cups can fail—especially if the surface isn’t clean or the mount isn’t sealed properly. Here’s how to avoid that:

• Clean the surface: Wipe it down with a microfiber cloth to remove dust, oil, or water.
• Wet the cup: A tiny bit of water or saliva on the cup can help create a better seal. (Yes, really!)
• Press and hold: Press the cup firmly against the surface and hold it for 10–15 seconds. Then, pump the lever (if it has one) to create a vacuum.
• Check the seal: Gently tug on the mount. If it doesn’t budge, you’re good to go.
• Use a safety tether: Always attach a lanyard to your camera. If the mount fails, your camera won’t fly into the void.

One downside? Suction cups don’t work well on rough or textured surfaces (like tree bark or rock). For those, a strap or adhesive mount is better.

5. Head Straps & Headband Mounts: Lightweight POV for Everyday Use

Sometimes, you don’t need a bulky helmet or chest mount. A head strap or headband mount is perfect for lightweight, hands-free filming—especially for hiking, running, or casual adventures.

Why Head Straps Are Great for Low-Impact Activities

Head straps sit on your head, capturing a POV that’s similar to a helmet mount but less obtrusive. They’re ideal for:

• Hiking: You’ll see your hands adjusting your backpack, your feet on the trail, and the scenery.
• Running: Great for documenting your route or training sessions.
• Travel vlogging: Hands-free filming while you explore a new city.

The best head straps are adjustable and have a quick-release mechanism. Look for ones with a soft, padded band that won’t dig into your head after an hour.

Headband Mounts for a Sleeker Look

Headband mounts are even more low-profile. They’re like a head strap but thinner, often made of elastic or neoprene. They’re perfect for:

• Yoga or fitness: Capture your workout from a first-person view.
• Travel: Lightweight and easy to pack.
• Kids: Smaller headbands fit kids better than adult-sized straps.

Pro tip: If you’re using a headband mount for running or yoga, make sure it’s secure. The last thing you want is your camera flying off mid-sun salutation.

What to Look For

• Adjustable fit: Look for straps with a sliding buckle or elastic band.
• Comfort: Test it out before a long trip. A strap that slips or digs into your skin will ruin your day.
• Compatibility: Make sure it fits your camera. Most work with standard action camera bases, but check the specs.

6. Specialty Mounts: For Unique Perspectives and Extreme Conditions

Want to capture something truly unique? Specialty mounts let you get creative—and capture perspectives that standard mounts can’t.

Wearable Mounts for Unconventional Angles

• Wrist mounts: Great for documenting your hands—like cooking, fishing, or building something. You’ll see your hands at work, with a POV that’s close to the action.
• Ankle mounts: Perfect for skiing or snowboarding. You’ll see your boots carving into the snow and the terrain below.
• Backpack mounts: A strap that attaches to your backpack strap. It captures a high-angle view of your surroundings—great for hiking or travel.

Mounts for Extreme Conditions

• Underwater mounts: For diving or snorkeling. Look for mounts with waterproof seals and corrosion-resistant materials.
• High-vibration mounts: For motocross or ATV riding. These have extra padding or dampening to reduce shake.
• Temperature-resistant mounts: For skiing in sub-zero temps or desert hikes. Some mounts crack in extreme cold or heat.

DIY Mounts: Get Creative!

Sometimes, the best mount is the one you make yourself. Use:

• 3D-printed mounts: Design your own custom mount for a unique angle.
• Zip ties & duct tape: For a quick, temporary mount (just make sure it’s secure!).
• Repurposed gear: Old bike parts, car parts, or even a selfie stick can be adapted into a mount.

Real-world example: I once used a zip-tied mount on my kayak’s rudder to capture a unique underwater view of my paddle strokes. It wasn’t pretty, but it worked!

Data Table: Mount Comparison

Mount Type	Best For	Pros	Cons
Chest Mount	Biking, skiing, hiking	Stable, immersive POV	Can get sweaty
Helmet Mount	Skiing, motocross, climbing	True POV, hands-free	Can bounce on rough terrain
Handlebar Mount	Biking, kayaking, hiking	Forward-facing, adjustable	Can vibrate on bumpy trails
Suction Cup Mount	Cars, boats, windows	Smooth footage, easy to use	Fails on rough surfaces
Head Strap	Hiking, running, travel	Lightweight, comfortable	Less stable than helmet mounts
Wrist Mount	Cooking, fishing, DIY	Close-up POV	Limited field of view

Choosing the right action camera mounting accessories isn’t about having the most gear—it’s about picking the right tool for the job. Whether you’re chasing waves, conquering mountains, or just exploring your backyard, the right mount ensures your footage is smooth, stable, and epic. So next time you head out, ask yourself: what’s the best perspective for this adventure? Then grab the right mount and start filming. The world is waiting to see it through your eyes.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Top action camera mounting accessories include helmet mounts, chest harnesses, handlebar mounts, and adhesive mounts. These provide secure, hands-free recording for activities like biking, skiing, and hiking, ensuring stable footage in rugged conditions.

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

Consider your sport or environment—helmet mounts are ideal for biking, while chest mounts offer a first-person view for running. Look for mounts with strong grip, adjustability, and weather resistance to match your adventure.

Are adhesive mounts safe for action cameras?

Yes, high-quality adhesive mounts are designed to hold action cameras securely, even during high-impact activities. Ensure the surface is clean and dry before applying, and replace worn adhesives to prevent drops.

Can I use one mount for multiple action camera models?

Many action camera mounting accessories are universal, especially those with standard GoPro-style fittings. Check the mount’s compatibility with your camera’s dimensions and connection type before purchasing.

What’s the most versatile action camera mount?

The suction cup mount is highly versatile, attaching to smooth surfaces like car hoods, windows, or surfboards. It’s ideal for creative angles and works across multiple sports and settings.

How do I prevent my action camera from vibrating in the mount?

Use mounts with anti-shock features or rubberized grips to minimize vibration. Pairing a stabilizer mount with a lightweight camera also reduces shake, especially in high-speed or off-road scenarios.