Ultimate Guide to Action Camera Accessories for Every Adventure

Maximize your action camera’s potential with the right accessories—from rugged mounts and waterproof housings to stabilizing gimbals and external mics, this guide covers everything you need for any adventure. Whether you’re surfing, hiking, or filming extreme sports, discover top-rated gear that boosts durability, enhances footage, and ensures you never miss a shot.

Key Takeaways

• Mount securely: Use reliable mounts for stable, hands-free footage in any terrain.
• Extend battery life: Carry spare batteries or portable chargers for longer adventures.
• Protect your lens: Always use a protective filter to avoid scratches and damage.
• Enhance audio: Add an external mic for clear sound in noisy environments.
• Stabilize footage: Invest in a gimbal or stabilizer for smooth, cinematic videos.
• Expand storage: Pack high-capacity, high-speed microSD cards to avoid running out of space.

The Thrill of Capturing Every Moment

Remember that time you were halfway up a mountain, the wind in your hair, the sun setting behind the peaks, and you thought, “This is epic. I wish I could show this to everyone back home!”? That’s exactly why action cameras exist—and why they’ve become a staple for adventurers, travelers, and even everyday explorers. Whether you’re surfing massive waves, biking down forest trails, or simply chasing your dog in the backyard, an action camera lets you relive those moments with crystal-clear clarity.

But here’s the catch: your camera alone won’t cut it. The magic happens when you pair it with the right action camera accessories. A single camera is like a superhero without a sidekick—it’s powerful, sure, but it can’t do everything alone. From mounts that let you film hands-free to filters that make your underwater shots pop, the right gear can transform your videos from “meh” to “mind-blowing.” In this guide, we’ll walk you through the must-have accessories for every adventure, so you can capture your story—exactly how you lived it.

Mounts and Harnesses: Your Camera’s Best Friends

If you’ve ever tried holding your action camera while skiing or biking, you know how awkward it can be. That’s where mounts and harnesses come in. They’re the unsung heroes of the action camera world, letting you film hands-free while you focus on the thrill of the moment. Let’s break down the best options for every scenario.

Helmet Mounts: For the Fearless

Helmet mounts are a game-changer if you’re into biking, skiing, or even skydiving. They attach directly to your helmet, giving you a first-person view that’s as close to “being there” as it gets. I’ll never forget the first time I used a helmet mount while mountain biking—it felt like I was starring in my own action movie. The key here is to choose a mount that’s secure but also easy to adjust. Look for ones with strong adhesive or straps that won’t slip, even on bumpy terrain.

Pro tip: Test the mount before your adventure. Give it a few tugs to make sure it’s snug, and check that your camera’s angle isn’t too high or low. You don’t want to miss the action because your camera’s pointing at your feet!

Chest Mounts: The Underrated Hero

Chest mounts are perfect for hikers, climbers, and anyone who wants a more natural, body-level perspective. Unlike helmet mounts, they don’t block your vision or make you look like a cyborg. Instead, they give you a “you are there” vibe that’s great for storytelling. I love using a chest mount when I’m hiking—it captures the scenery, my hands gripping the trail, and even my breath when I’m pushing uphill.

One downside? They can get sweaty on hot days. To avoid this, look for mounts with breathable fabric or adjustable straps. Also, make sure the camera sits low enough to avoid blocking your view but high enough to catch the action.

Handlebar and Handle Grip Mounts: For Cyclists and Motorcyclists

If you’re a cyclist, motorcyclist, or even a scooter rider, handlebar mounts are a must. They let you capture the road ahead while keeping your hands free. I’ve used these on everything from mountain bikes to electric scooters, and they’ve never let me down—as long as I tightened them properly. A loose mount can lead to shaky footage or, worse, a lost camera. Look for mounts with rubberized grips to prevent slipping, and always double-check the screws before you start riding.

Bonus tip: If you’re filming on rough trails, consider a shock-absorbing mount. It’ll smooth out the bumps and make your footage look professional.

Suction Cup Mounts: Versatile but Tricky

Suction cup mounts are great for attaching your camera to smooth surfaces like car hoods, windows, or even surfboards. They’re super versatile, but they come with a catch: they can fail if the surface isn’t clean or the weather is too hot or cold. I learned this the hard way when my camera popped off a car hood at 60 mph (don’t worry—it survived!).

To avoid this, always clean the surface with alcohol, press the suction cup firmly, and give it a few minutes to “settle” before you start filming. Also, check the mount every 30 minutes or so, especially on long drives.

Waterproof and Underwater Accessories: Dive into Adventure

Waterproofing is one of the biggest reasons people choose action cameras. But while most cameras are waterproof out of the box, they still need a little help to truly shine underwater. Here’s how to make the most of your aquatic adventures.

Waterproof Housings: The First Line of Defense

Even if your camera is “waterproof,” it’s always a good idea to use a dedicated waterproof housing. These housings provide extra protection against pressure, saltwater, and sand. I’ve used mine for snorkeling, kayaking, and even white-water rafting, and they’ve never let me down. Look for housings with clear, scratch-resistant lenses and easy-to-use buttons. Some even come with built-in filters for better color correction underwater.

Pro tip: Before you dive in, test the housing in a sink or bathtub. Make sure it’s sealed properly and that the buttons work smoothly.

Red and Magenta Filters: For Vibrant Underwater Footage

Ever noticed how underwater footage looks blue and flat? That’s because water absorbs red and orange light, leaving everything looking like a sci-fi movie. Red and magenta filters fix this by restoring natural colors. I use a red filter for depths between 10-30 feet and a magenta one for shallower water. The result? Photos and videos that look just as vibrant as they did in real life.

Keep in mind that filters only work in clear water. If you’re filming in murky lakes or rivers, you might need a different approach—like using a dive light to illuminate the scene.

Dive Lights: Shine a Light on the Deep

Speaking of dive lights, they’re a must if you’re filming below 30 feet or in low-light conditions. Even with a filter, the deeper you go, the darker it gets. A good dive light not only helps your camera see better but also adds dramatic shadows and highlights to your footage. I love using mine for night dives or exploring shipwrecks.

Look for lights with adjustable brightness and wide-angle beams. Some even come with red light modes to avoid startling marine life. And always carry extra batteries—you don’t want to get halfway through a dive and lose your light!

Floatation Devices: Keep Your Camera Safe

Nothing ruins a dive faster than watching your camera sink to the bottom. Floatation devices attach to your housing and make it buoyant, so if you drop it, it’ll float to the surface. I’ve used these on snorkeling trips, and they’ve saved my camera more than once. Some floatation devices even come with wrist straps for extra security.

Pro tip: Test the floatation device before you dive. Make sure it’s strong enough to lift your camera but not so buoyant that it pulls the housing upward.

Battery and Power Solutions: Never Run Out of Juice

There’s nothing worse than being halfway through an adventure and seeing that dreaded “low battery” warning. That’s why having a solid power plan is crucial. Let’s look at the best ways to keep your camera charged and ready.

Extra Batteries: The Obvious but Essential Solution

The simplest way to avoid power issues? Carry extra batteries. Most action cameras use removable batteries, so you can swap them out in seconds. I always pack at least two extra batteries for a full day of filming. Just make sure to charge them all the night before—there’s nothing worse than realizing your “extra” battery is dead.

Pro tip: Label your batteries with tape to keep track of which ones are charged and which aren’t. It’s a small step, but it saves a lot of frustration.

External Power Banks: For Long Days on the Go

If you’re filming for hours at a time, a power bank can be a lifesaver. Many action cameras can be charged on the go using a USB cable. I’ve used a 10,000mAh power bank to keep my camera running during a 12-hour hike, and it worked like a charm. Look for power banks with fast-charging technology and rugged, waterproof designs.

One downside? Charging your camera while it’s recording can sometimes cause overheating. To avoid this, try to charge it during breaks or use a power bank with a cooling feature.

Solar Chargers: For Off-Grid Adventures

If you’re into camping, hiking, or remote travel, a solar charger is a must. These portable panels let you recharge your batteries using sunlight—perfect for multi-day trips. I’ve used mine on backpacking trips in the Rockies, and it kept my camera powered even when I was miles from the nearest outlet.

Keep in mind that solar chargers work best in direct sunlight. On cloudy days, they’ll charge slower, so it’s still a good idea to carry extra batteries as backup.

Car and Bike Chargers: For Road Warriors

If you’re driving or biking for hours, a car or bike charger can keep your camera topped up. These chargers plug into your vehicle’s power outlet and charge your camera on the go. I use mine for road trips, and it’s saved me from battery anxiety more than once.

Pro tip: Look for chargers with multiple USB ports so you can charge your camera and phone at the same time.

Audio and Lighting Accessories: Elevate Your Storytelling

Great video isn’t just about visuals—it’s about sound and lighting, too. Here’s how to make your footage look and sound professional.

External Microphones: Capture Crisp Audio

Action cameras are great at recording video, but their built-in mics? Not so much. Wind, water, and background noise can ruin even the best footage. That’s why an external microphone is a game-changer. I use a shotgun mic for interviews and a lavalier mic for vlogging. Both give me clear, crisp audio that’s leagues ahead of the built-in mic.

Pro tip: Test your mic before you start filming. Make sure it’s properly connected and that the audio levels aren’t too high or low.

Wind Muffs and Deadcats: For Windy Days

If you’ve ever recorded audio in the wind, you know how annoying it can be. Wind muffs (also called deadcats) are fuzzy covers that fit over your microphone and reduce wind noise. I use them for everything from beach walks to mountain hikes, and they’ve saved my audio more than once.

Keep in mind that deadcats only work for microphones—not built-in mics on the camera itself. For those, you’ll need to rely on post-production editing to reduce wind noise.

On-Camera LED Lights: For Low-Light Situations

Even the best cameras struggle in low light. An on-camera LED light can make all the difference, especially for night filming or indoor scenes. I use a compact LED light for evening walks and indoor interviews. It’s small, lightweight, and gives me just enough light to make my footage pop.

Look for lights with adjustable brightness and color temperature. Some even come with diffusers to soften the light and avoid harsh shadows.

Ring Lights: For Vloggers and Creators

If you’re into vlogging or creating social media content, a ring light is a must. These circular lights give you even, flattering illumination—perfect for talking head shots or product reviews. I use mine for YouTube videos, and it’s made a huge difference in the quality of my content.

Pro tip: Position the ring light slightly above your camera to avoid casting shadows on your face.

Storage, Editing, and Travel Accessories: The Behind-the-Scenes Heroes

Once you’ve captured your footage, you’ll need the right tools to store, edit, and transport it. Let’s look at the accessories that make this process seamless.

High-Speed Memory Cards: Don’t Skimp on Storage

Action cameras shoot high-resolution video, which eats up storage fast. A high-speed memory card (like a UHS-I or UHS-II SD card) is essential for smooth recording and quick file transfers. I use 128GB cards for my adventures, and they’ve never let me down. Just make sure to format the card in your camera before you start filming—it’ll prevent errors and optimize performance.

Pro tip: Carry a card reader to transfer files to your laptop or phone. It’s much faster than using a USB cable.

Travel Cases and Backpacks: Keep Your Gear Safe

Your camera and accessories are an investment—protect them with a sturdy travel case or backpack. I use a hard-shell case for my camera and a padded backpack for everything else. Both keep my gear safe from bumps, drops, and weather.

Look for cases with customizable foam inserts or compartments. This lets you organize your gear so it’s easy to find when you need it.

Editing Software: Bring Your Footage to Life

Great editing software can turn your raw footage into a polished masterpiece. I use free tools like DaVinci Resolve for color grading and Adobe Premiere Pro for more advanced edits. Both are powerful, user-friendly, and packed with features.

Pro tip: Back up your footage before you start editing. It’s a simple step, but it’ll save you from heartbreak if something goes wrong.

Tripods and Stabilizers: For Smooth, Steady Shots

Even the best action cameras can’t match the stability of a tripod or stabilizer. I use a mini tripod for time-lapses and a handheld gimbal for smooth walking shots. Both are lightweight, portable, and make a huge difference in the quality of my footage.

Look for tripods with flexible legs that can wrap around branches or railings. For gimbals, choose one with quick-release plates for easy camera swaps.

Putting It All Together: Your Adventure-Ready Kit

By now, you’ve got a solid understanding of the essential action camera accessories. But how do you put it all together? Here’s a quick checklist to help you build your adventure-ready kit:

Accessory	Best For	Top Picks
Helmet Mount	Biking, skiing, skydiving	GoPro Helmet Front + Side Mount, DJI Action 3 Helmet Mount
Waterproof Housing	Snorkeling, diving, kayaking	GoPro Super Suit, DJI Action 3 Waterproof Case
External Battery	Long days on the go	Anker PowerCore 10,000mAh, DJI Intelligent Battery
External Microphone	Vlogging, interviews	Rode VideoMic Pro, DJI Mic 2
Memory Card	High-resolution video	SanDisk Extreme Pro 128GB, Samsung EVO Plus 256GB

The key is to choose accessories that match your adventures. Don’t buy everything at once—start with the essentials, then add more as you go. And remember, the best accessory is the one that helps you tell your story. Whether you’re scaling a mountain, diving into the deep, or just exploring your backyard, the right gear will help you capture it all—clearly, creatively, and authentically. Now go out there and make some memories!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most essential action camera accessories for beginners?

For beginners, a durable waterproof housing, a reliable chest strap mount, and a spare battery are must-haves. These accessories ensure protection, stable footage, and extended shooting time during adventures.

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

Consider your activity—helmet mounts for biking, suction mounts for cars, and head straps for hands-free filming. Always check compatibility with your camera model and prioritize vibration-resistant designs for smoother footage.

Are third-party action camera accessories as good as branded ones?

Many third-party accessories offer excellent quality at lower prices, but verify reviews and material durability. Stick to reputable brands for critical gear like housings to avoid leaks or damage.

What accessories help stabilize action camera footage?

Use a gimbal stabilizer for professional-grade smoothness or a handlebar mount with shock absorption for cycling. Pair these with electronic image stabilization (EIS) in your camera for even better results.

Can I use action camera accessories underwater?

Yes, but ensure accessories like housings and mounts are rated for your depth. For snorkeling or diving, opt for corrosion-resistant materials like polycarbonate and silicone seals.

How do I extend my action camera’s battery life?

Carry spare batteries and a portable power bank. Use power-saving modes and disable Wi-Fi when not needed to maximize usage during long adventures.