Top GoPro Hero 5MP Action Camera Accessories for Epic Shots

Maximize your GoPro Hero 5MP’s potential with essential accessories like rugged waterproof housings, stabilizing gimbals, and high-capacity batteries for uninterrupted, pro-quality action footage. From chest mounts to floating hand grips, these add-ons ensure epic, shake-free shots in any environment—whether you’re diving, biking, or chasing adventure.

Key Takeaways

• Mounts matter: Secure your GoPro with durable, versatile mounts for stable, dynamic shots.
• Filters enhance: Use ND filters to improve video quality in bright conditions.
• Battery life: Carry spares to avoid missing shots during long adventures.
• Audio upgrade: Add an external mic for crisp, professional-grade sound.
• Protective housing: Shield your camera with waterproof cases for extreme environments.
• Stabilization wins: Pair with gimbals for buttery-smooth footage in motion.

Why Your GoPro Hero 5MP Needs the Right Accessories

Let’s be real—your GoPro Hero 5MP is already a beast of an action camera. It shoots crisp 5MP stills and records in high-quality video, perfect for capturing your wildest adventures. But here’s the thing: without the right accessories, you’re only scratching the surface of what this little powerhouse can do. Whether you’re shredding waves, hiking a mountain, or chasing your kids around the backyard, the right add-ons can turn your footage from “meh” to “whoa.”

I’ve been there. I once took my GoPro Hero 5MP on a kayaking trip, thinking I’d get epic shots from the cockpit. Spoiler: I didn’t. My shaky hands, a loose mount, and a foggy lens ruined half the footage. That’s when I realized—accessories aren’t just extras; they’re essentials. From stabilizing your shots to protecting your gear and expanding your creative options, the right GoPro Hero 5MP action camera accessories can make all the difference. So, let’s dive into the must-haves that’ll help you capture those epic shots you’ve been dreaming of.

1. Mounts: Your Camera’s Best Friend

Mounts are the unsung heroes of the GoPro world. They’re what let you attach your camera to your body, gear, or surroundings—and trust me, you’ll need a few to cover all your bases.

Helmet Mounts: For Hands-Free Action

Whether you’re biking, skiing, or skateboarding, a helmet mount is a game-changer. It keeps your camera stable and pointed exactly where you’re looking. The GoPro Helmet Front + Side Mount is a classic for a reason. It’s easy to install (just peel and stick), and it’s versatile enough to work on curved or flat surfaces.

Pro tip: If you’re into downhill mountain biking, consider a chin mount. It gives you a lower angle and keeps the camera out of the way of your handlebars. I once tried a side mount on a bumpy trail—let’s just say my footage looked like an earthquake.

Handlebar and Chest Mounts: For Dynamic Angles

For cycling, motorcycling, or even just walking with a pet, a handlebar or chest mount opens up a world of creative angles. The GoPro Handlebar/Seatpost/Pole Mount is super versatile and clamps securely to any tube (handlebars, ski poles, even a kayak paddle). Pair it with a Chesty (Chest Mount), and you’ve got two perspectives that tell a complete story.

One of my favorite setups? A chest mount while hiking. It captures your footsteps, the trail ahead, and your reactions—all in one smooth shot. Just avoid the “bobblehead effect” by tightening the straps snugly.

Suction Cup Mounts: For Vehicles and Smooth Surfaces

Want to capture your car’s POV on a road trip or your surfboard’s glide across the waves? A suction cup mount is your go-to. The GoPro Suction Cup Mount is ridiculously strong (it’s rated for speeds up to 150 mph) and works on glass, metal, and even some textured surfaces.

Word of caution: Always clean the surface before attaching, and test the mount’s grip before hitting the road. I once lost a camera to a loose suction cup on a highway—never again.

2. Batteries and Power Solutions: Never Run Out of Juice

There’s nothing worse than your GoPro dying mid-adventure. The Hero 5MP’s battery life is decent (about 1.5–2 hours of recording), but if you’re shooting in cold weather, using Wi-Fi, or recording 4K, it drains faster. Here’s how to stay powered up.

Spare Batteries: Always Have a Backup

The GoPro Rechargeable Battery is a no-brainer. Keep two or three fully charged and swap them out on the go. I keep mine in a small pouch with a microfiber cloth to avoid scratches.

Tip: Label your batteries with tape to track which ones are charged. Nothing’s worse than grabbing a dead one when you’re about to hit record.

Portable Power Banks: For Long Days Out

If you’re shooting all day (say, a hiking trip or a festival), a USB power bank is a lifesaver. The Anker PowerCore 10000 is compact, charges your GoPro twice, and fits in a pocket. Just plug in a USB-C cable, and you’re good to go.

For even more flexibility, try a GoPro Supercharger. It charges two batteries at once and works with most USB-C devices. I keep mine in my backpack for multi-day trips.

Solar Chargers: For Off-Grid Adventures

Going off the grid? A solar charger like the BigBlue 28W Solar Charger lets you recharge under the sun. It’s not the fastest, but it’s perfect for multi-day hikes or camping. Just hang it on your backpack and let the sun do the work.

3. Protective Gear: Keep Your GoPro Safe

Your GoPro is tough, but it’s not indestructible. A little protection goes a long way—especially if you’re rough on your gear.

Housings and Domes: For Water and Impact Protection

The GoPro Super Suit (or Standard Housing) is essential for underwater shots or high-impact sports. It’s rated for 197 feet (60 meters) of depth and absorbs shock from drops. For surfers, the GoPro Dome is a must. It splits the water surface, letting you capture both above and below-water shots.

Real talk: I once cracked my Hero 5MP’s lens cap on a rock. A housing would’ve saved me $50 in repairs.

Lens Covers and Filters: Guard Against Scratches

A GoPro Lens Cover (or a third-party tempered glass screen protector) is cheap insurance against scratches and cracks. For underwater filming, red filters correct color loss in shallow water, while polarized filters reduce glare on sunny days.

Pro tip: Clean your lens with a microfiber cloth before every shoot. Dust and fingerprints are the enemies of crisp footage.

Carrying Cases: For Safe Transport

A padded GoPro Case (like the GoPro Seeker) keeps your gear organized and protected. Look for one with customizable compartments—you’ll thank yourself when you’re digging for a spare battery in the dark.

4. Audio Upgrades: Sound as Good as Your Shots

Let’s face it: GoPro’s built-in mic is okay, but it’s no match for a dedicated audio solution. Wind noise, muffled voices, and ambient sounds can ruin an otherwise perfect clip.

External Microphones: For Crisp Audio

The GoPro Media Mod (designed for newer models but adaptable) adds a directional mic and a 3.5mm jack for external mics. For interviews or vlogging, pair it with a Rode VideoMicro. It’s small, affordable, and cuts through background noise.

Tip: If you’re recording in windy conditions, always use a deadcat (furry windscreen). It’s the difference between “What’d you say?” and crystal-clear audio.

Wireless Lavalier Mics: For Interviews and Vlogging

For hands-free audio, a wireless lav like the Rode Wireless GO II is unbeatable. Clip the mic to your subject’s shirt, and the receiver connects to your GoPro via USB-C. It’s perfect for travel vlogs or action sports commentary.

5. Stabilization and Creative Tools: Level Up Your Shots

Shaky footage is a vibe killer. Stabilization tools and creative add-ons help you nail smooth, professional-looking clips.

Handheld Gimbals: For Cinematic Movement

A 3-axis gimbal like the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 (adapted for GoPro) eliminates shake and lets you glide through scenes. It’s pricier than a mount, but worth it for buttery-smooth tracking shots.

Example: I used a gimbal to follow a friend biking through a forest—the result looked like a movie, not a home video.

Tripods and Selfie Sticks: For Static Shots

The GoPro Shorty (a mini tripod/selfie stick combo) is perfect for vlogging, time-lapses, or group shots. It extends to 8.9 inches and folds down to fit in your pocket.

Hack: Use it as a stabilizer by bracing it against a wall or rock. Instant tripod!

LED Lights: For Low-Light Filming

The GoPro Light Mod (or a third-party LED panel) brightens up dark scenes. It’s a game-changer for night hiking, campfires, or indoor filming. I keep mine on 50% brightness to avoid overexposing the shot.

6. Data and Storage: Never Miss a Shot

Running out of storage mid-shoot is a nightmare. Here’s how to keep your footage safe and organized.

High-Speed MicroSD Cards: For Smooth Recording

Your GoPro needs a Class 10/UHS-I microSD card (at least 64GB). I use the SanDisk Extreme 128GB—it handles 4K without hiccups. Always format the card in your GoPro before first use.

Warning: Avoid cheap cards. They’re prone to corruption and can lose your footage.

Card Readers and Backup Drives: For Quick Transfers

A USB-C card reader lets you offload footage fast. For long-term storage, back up to an external drive like the WD My Passport. I back up every night on trips—better safe than sorry.

Cloud Storage: For Remote Access

Use GoPro Quik or Google Photos to auto-upload clips to the cloud. It’s a lifesaver if your camera gets lost or damaged.

Putting It All Together: Your GoPro Accessory Checklist

Here’s a quick-reference table of the accessories we covered, ranked by priority:

Accessory Type	Top Pick	Why It’s Essential
Mounts	Helmet + Chest Mounts	For hands-free, dynamic shots
Batteries	2x Spare Batteries + Power Bank	Never run out of power
Protection	Super Suit + Lens Cover	Guard against water, drops, and scratches
Audio	Rode VideoMicro + Deadcat	Clear sound, no wind noise
Stabilization	DJI Osmo Pocket 3 (Adapted)	Smooth, cinematic movement
Storage	SanDisk Extreme 128GB + Card Reader	Reliable, high-speed recording

Remember, the best GoPro Hero 5MP action camera accessories aren’t about having the most gear—they’re about having the right gear for your needs. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a pro filmmaker, these tools will help you capture shots that wow your audience. So grab your favorites, hit record, and go make some memories. Your epic footage awaits!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the must-have GoPro Hero 5MP action camera accessories for outdoor adventures?

Essential accessories include a durable waterproof housing (for depths up to 40m), a chest mount for immersive POV shots, and a floating grip to prevent drops in water. These ensure stability, protection, and creative angles for hiking, surfing, or skiing.

Can I use third-party accessories with my GoPro Hero 5MP action camera?

Yes, many third-party brands like Smatree and Telesin make compatible mounts, batteries, and cases. Just verify the accessory supports the Hero 5MP’s mounting system and dimensions to avoid fit issues.

Which GoPro Hero 5MP accessories improve battery life for long shoots?

An extra battery pack and a dual-battery charger let you swap power seamlessly. Consider a portable power bank with a USB mount for extended filming during travel or events.

What accessories help stabilize shaky footage with the GoPro Hero 5MP?

A handheld gimbal (like the Feiyu Tech G4) or a suction cup mount for vehicles minimizes vibrations. For budget options, a mini tripod or weighted base works well for static shots.

Are there GoPro Hero 5MP accessories for low-light or night filming?

Attach an external LED light (e.g., GoPro Light Mod) to brighten dark scenes. A neutral density (ND) filter also helps balance exposure in bright settings for cinematic slow-motion.

How do I protect my GoPro Hero 5MP action camera during extreme sports?

Use a reinforced frame case with lens protection, and pair it with a helmet mount or roll bar mount for secure attachment. Anti-fog inserts prevent condensation during rapid temperature changes.