Must Have Accessories for Action Camera to Boost Your Shots

The right accessories can transform your action camera footage from shaky clips to professional-grade content. Essential gear like stabilizing gimbals, waterproof housings, and quick-release mounts ensure smooth, immersive shots in any environment—whether you’re diving, biking, or hiking. Don’t miss out on maximizing your camera’s potential with these must-have tools.

Key Takeaways

• Stabilize every shot: Use a gimbal for smooth, professional footage in motion.
• Expand your angles: Mounts unlock unique perspectives—chest, helmet, or handlebar.
• Protect your lens: Always use a lens cover to prevent scratches and impacts.
• Enhance lighting: Add an external light for vibrant, low-light video quality.
• Extend battery life: Carry spares or a power bank for longer shooting sessions.
• Capture crisp audio: Use an external mic for clear, wind-free sound recordings.

The Thrill of Capturing Every Moment

There’s something magical about reliving a moment—whether it’s the rush of a mountain descent, the splash of a dive into turquoise waters, or the blur of a fast-paced skateboard trick. Action cameras, like GoPro, DJI Osmo Action, or Insta360, are built for these adventures. They’re compact, tough, and designed to go where smartphones fear to tread. But here’s the thing: even the most advanced camera can only do so much on its own.

I learned this the hard way. On my first ski trip with a brand-new action camera, I mounted it to my helmet and hit the slopes. The footage? Blurry, shaky, and missing the epic powder spray I’d hoped to capture. Why? I had the camera, but I didn’t have the right tools to stabilize it, protect it, or position it for the best shot. That’s when I discovered the real secret: accessories. The right gear doesn’t just support your camera—it transforms your footage from “meh” to “wow.” In this guide, I’ll walk you through the must have accessories for action camera that every adventurer, filmmaker, and weekend warrior should own. From stabilization to protection, we’ll cover what works, what’s worth the investment, and how to use each tool to its fullest.

1. Mounts and Harnesses: Where Your Camera Goes Matters

Mounts are the unsung heroes of action camera setups. Without a secure, versatile mount, even the best camera is just a paperweight. The right mount lets you place your camera exactly where the action is—and keeps it there.

Helmet Mounts: First-Person POV

Helmet mounts are a staple for skiers, bikers, climbers, and motorcyclists. They offer a first-person view that puts viewers right in the driver’s seat. I use a GoPro curved adhesive mount on my ski helmet—it’s low-profile and holds strong, even after multiple wipeouts (don’t ask).

Pros: Immersive perspective, hands-free, great for high-speed activities.
Tip: Clean the helmet surface with alcohol before applying the adhesive. A loose mount mid-run is a heartbreaker.
Watch out for: Some mounts use weak glue or plastic clips that can fail under impact. Invest in a reputable brand—your camera’s life depends on it.

Chest Mounts: The Natural Angle

Chest mounts give a slightly higher angle than helmets, showing more of your body and the environment. I love them for mountain biking—they capture the handlebars, the trail, and my reactions all in one frame.

Pros: Stable, shows more context, reduces head-bobbing.
Tip: Adjust the strap snugly. Too loose, and the camera swings; too tight, and it’s uncomfortable.
Bonus: They work great for hiking, kayaking, and even dog walking (yes, pet POV is a thing).

Handlebar, Roll Bar, and Suction Mounts: On the Move

For bikes, motorcycles, cars, or boats, handlebar and roll bar mounts are essential. Suction mounts are great for smooth surfaces like car hoods or windshields. I used a suction mount to film a sunset drive along the coast—smooth, stable, and surprisingly durable.

Pros: Versatile, easy to reposition, great for vehicles.
Tip: Always test the suction before driving. A loose mount at 60 mph is a disaster.
Watch out for: Vibrations can loosen mounts over time. Check them every 15 minutes during long shoots.

DIY Mount Hacks

Sometimes, you need a custom solution. I’ve used zip ties to mount my camera to a backpack strap, and a modified GoPro arm to film a cooking session. Creativity pays off. Just make sure the camera is secure and the lens isn’t obstructed.

2. Stabilization: Smooth Footage, No Shaky Business

Shaky footage is the enemy of great content. Even with electronic stabilization (EIS), nothing beats physical stabilization for professional-looking shots. Let’s talk about the tools that keep your camera steady.

3-Axis Gimbals: The Gold Standard

A gimbal is a motorized stabilizer that keeps your camera level, no matter how much you move. I use the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 with my GoPro for walking shots, and the difference is night and day. The footage looks like it was shot on a dolly.

Pros: Ultra-smooth, great for walking, running, and handheld shots.
Tip: Balance your camera properly before turning on the gimbal. An unbalanced setup causes jitter.
Watch out for: Gimbals are bulky and need charging. Not ideal for extreme sports, but perfect for vlogging or travel.

Monopods and Selfie Sticks: Extend Your Reach

Monopods add reach and reduce shake. I use a telescoping stick to film myself surfing—it keeps the camera out of the water while still capturing the wave. Selfie sticks are also great for group shots or overhead angles.

Pros: Lightweight, portable, improves framing.
Tip: Extend the pole gradually—too long, and it becomes wobbly.
Bonus: Some sticks have built-in Bluetooth remotes for one-button recording.

Weighted Stabilizers: Low-Tech, High Impact

For quick fixes, try a weighted stabilizer—a simple counterweight attached to your camera. I made one with a small water bottle and a carabiner. It reduces shake by 70% without any tech. Great for hiking or when you forget your gimbal.

Tripods and Mini Stands: For Static Shots

Even action cameras need to stand still sometimes. A mini tripod is perfect for time-lapses, cooking videos, or setting up a camera on a rock during a hike. I use a Joby GorillaPod—it wraps around branches, rocks, or rails for unique angles.

3. Protection: Keep Your Camera Safe, No Matter What

Action cameras are tough, but they’re not indestructible. Drops, water, dust, and impacts can all take a toll. Protection isn’t optional—it’s essential.

Protective Cases and Housing

The stock housing that comes with most action cameras is decent, but aftermarket cases offer better protection and features. I use a GoPro SuperSuit for diving—it’s rated to 60 meters and has a built-in touchscreen. For skiing, I switch to a rugged case with a lens cover.

Pros: Waterproof, shockproof, protects the lens.
Tip: Always check the O-rings and seals before submerging. A tiny crack can flood your camera.
Watch out for: Some cases muffle the mic. Test audio quality before relying on it.

Lens Filters: Enhance and Protect

Lens filters do two things: protect the lens and improve image quality. I use a UV filter for general use and a polarizing filter for water and snow. The polarizer cuts glare and makes colors pop—essential for beach or alpine shots.

Pros: Reduces reflections, enhances colors, adds scratch protection.
Tip: Clean filters with a microfiber cloth. Smudges ruin footage.
Watch out for: Low-quality filters can distort the image. Stick with reputable brands like PolarPro or Tiffen.

Anti-Fog Inserts: For Humid or Cold Environments

Ever opened your camera case after a dive to find a foggy lens? Anti-fog inserts absorb moisture and prevent condensation. I use them in my housing for every dive and ski trip.

Tip: Replace them every 2-3 dives or when they stop absorbing.

4. Power and Storage: Never Run Out of Juice

Nothing kills a shoot faster than a dead battery or a full SD card. Let’s make sure your camera stays powered and ready.

Extra Batteries: The Lifesaver

Most action cameras get 1-2 hours of recording time. I carry 3-4 spare batteries and a battery grip that doubles as a power bank. It’s a game-changer on long hikes or multi-day trips.

Tip: Keep batteries warm in cold weather. Cold drains power fast.
Watch out for: Cheap third-party batteries can damage your camera. Stick with OEM or trusted brands.

Portable Power Banks

For all-day shoots, a power bank is a must. I use a 10,000mAh Anker with a USB-C cable to charge my camera between takes. Some even have built-in solar panels for off-grid use.

High-Capacity, High-Speed SD Cards

4K video eats up storage fast. I use 256GB or 512GB cards with U3 or V30 ratings for smooth recording. Never use a slow card—it causes dropped frames or corrupted files.

Tip: Format the card in-camera before each trip. It reduces the risk of errors.
Bonus: Carry a small card reader to transfer files on the go.

5. Audio and Lighting: Beyond the Visuals

Great video isn’t just about what you see—it’s about what you hear and how well it’s lit.

External Microphones

The built-in mic on most action cameras is… fine. But for interviews, vlogging, or capturing natural sounds, an external mic is a game-changer. I use a Rode Wireless Go II for interviews and a shotgun mic for ambient sound.

Pros: Crisp audio, reduces wind noise, great for voiceovers.
Tip: Use a windscreen or deadcat in windy conditions.
Watch out for: Some mics require adapters or firmware updates. Check compatibility.

On-Camera Lighting

Action cameras struggle in low light. An LED light like the GoPro Light Mod or DJI Mic 2 (which doubles as a light) can save your footage. I use mine for night hikes, cave exploration, or indoor cooking videos.

Tip: Use diffusers or bounce cards to avoid harsh shadows.
Bonus: Some lights have color temperature settings for natural-looking light.

Audio and Light Combo: The Ultimate Upgrade

For serious creators, a combo mic and light unit (like the DJI Mic 2 with Light Mod) is worth the investment. It’s compact, powerful, and makes your footage look and sound professional.

6. Bonus Accessories: The Little Things That Make a Big Difference

Beyond the essentials, these tools solve niche problems and add convenience.

Remote Controls and Smartphone Apps

Start and stop recording without touching the camera. I use a GoPro remote on my wrist for surfing—no more fumbling with buttons while riding a wave.

Floatation Devices

For water sports, a floaty backdoor or wrist strap keeps your camera from sinking. I lost a camera once in a river—never again.

Cleaning Kits

Microfiber cloths, lens pens, and sensor swabs keep your camera clean. I carry a small kit in my backpack for on-the-go cleaning.

Data Table: Accessory Comparison

Accessory	Best For	Price Range	Key Tip
Helmet Mount	Skiers, bikers	$15–$30	Clean surface before applying
3-Axis Gimbal	Vloggers, travelers	$150–$300	Balance camera before use
Polarizing Filter	Water, snow, outdoor	$40–$80	Use in bright conditions
External Mic	Interviews, vlogs	$100–$250	Add a windscreen
Portable Power Bank	Long shoots, travel	$30–$80	Choose 10,000mAh+
Floaty Backdoor	Surfing, kayaking	$20–$40	Test buoyancy before use

Final Thoughts: Build Your Kit, Not Just Your Footage

When I first started with my action camera, I thought the hardware was the most important thing. I was wrong. The must have accessories for action camera are what turn a good shot into a great one. They solve real problems—shaky footage, dead batteries, poor audio, lost gear. And they let you be more creative, more confident, and more present in the moment.

You don’t need to buy everything at once. Start with a solid mount and a spare battery. Then, as you discover new challenges—like filming in low light or needing smoother shots—add the accessories that fix them. Over time, you’ll build a kit that’s tailored to your style and adventures.

Remember: the best accessory is the one that helps you capture the moment—without getting in the way. Whether you’re chasing waves, climbing mountains, or just documenting your everyday, the right tools make all the difference. So grab your camera, pick a few key accessories, and go make something amazing. The world is waiting to see it.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most essential must-have accessories for action cameras?

Key accessories include mounts (helmet, chest, adhesive), extra batteries, a waterproof housing, and a stabilizer. These ensure durability, longer shooting time, and professional-quality footage in any environment.

Which action camera accessories help stabilize shaky footage?

A gimbal or handheld stabilizer is crucial for smooth, cinematic shots. For quick fixes, adhesive mounts on stable surfaces or built-in electronic stabilization (with a compatible action camera accessory like a frame mount) also help.

Do I really need extra batteries for my action camera?

Yes! Action cameras drain power quickly, especially during 4K recording or long adventures. Carrying spare batteries ensures you never miss a shot—pack 2-3 for full-day shoots.

What’s the best way to protect my action camera in extreme conditions?

Invest in a rugged, waterproof housing (rated beyond your depth needs) and a protective lens filter. For snow or sand, consider a must-have accessory like a silicone sleeve to guard against impacts.

Are floating hand grips useful for action camera users?

Absolutely! They prevent your camera from sinking during water activities and improve grip. Many models double as mini tripods, making them versatile for snorkeling, kayaking, or poolside filming.

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

Prioritize mounts suited to your activity—helmet mounts for biking, chest mounts for hiking, and adhesive mounts for vehicles. Ensure compatibility with your camera model and look for quick-release features.