Are you looking for gift ideas for the trail camera user in your life? Or maybe you are trying to fill out your own personal wish list of trail cameras and accessories. Either way, it can be a daunting task, walking up and down isles at your local sporting goods store, trying to decipher the best product.
What is better, 20 megapixels or fast trigger speed? The entire process can be overwhelming, and sometimes down right frustrating. I hate it too. In fact, sometimes its even worse when a loved one asks me what I want. Then I have to consider how much they should spend on me, and if they would be able to find the exact product I was looking for anyway.
The entire gift giving process should be a lot simpler, and be brought back to the original purpose of giving and receiving. So, a while back, I had decided to create a running wish list of products I have researched, purchased, borrowed or tried, that meet my high expectations of how a product should perform. When asked for a wish list, I simply hand over the list, with a wide arrange of products that vary in price from $400 to $15.
Below is my list of trail cameras, accessories, and stocking stuffers, that are on my personal list. With my high expectations of products, and my extensive field trials, I am more than confident that all trail camera users would appreciate any one of these gift ideas.
I am sure this will help in making your gift giving decisions easier, so you can get back to what really matters, spending time with your loved ones.
Trail Cameras
Exodus Trail Cameras
Exodus trail cameras are some of the best cameras on the market. When it comes to durability, quality, photographs and excellent customer service, Exodus is second to none. With their 5 year no BS warranty and their 5 year theft protection warranty, they are a company that stands behind not only their products, but their customers as well.
With a plethora of adequate trail cameras on the market, it is difficult to not support a company that is dedicated to making your trail camera experience as great as possible. The Exodus Lift 2 and the Exodus Trek are two cameras that you couldn’t go wrong with choosing.
Exodus Lift 2
The Lift 2 is Exodus’ flagship camera. They pulled out all the stops with this camera. From a blistering .3 second trigger speed to a 60 foot flash range, above the industry standard for black flash cameras, this camera is well equipped to handle all of your trail camera needs.
The images on the Lift 2 are incredibly sharp, backed by a powerful 3.1MP image sensor. The 12MP, 8MP, and 5MP settings are interpolated settings, creating no more than a 4X interpolation ratio. To learn more about interpolation and the importance of the quality of image sensors, we have an excellent resource; Why Trail Camera Megapixels Are Not That Important.
I can’t say enough of about how impressed I am with the video recording of the Lift 2. If you enjoy the use of video mode on your trail camera, this camera will not disappoint. Recording with 1080p at 30 frames per second (FPS), the video quality is even better than those cameras that claim to record in 4k. The play back is smooth, and the audio comes out crystal clear.
The Hybrid mode is one of my favorite features, and I seldom purchase a trail camera that doesn’t have this feature. The hybrid is simply a combination of image mode and video mode. when the PIR sensor is tripped the camera will take a photo, followed up immediately with video. This allows you to have the photograph you can admire and share with others, but you will learn so much more about an animal from video mode. It is the best of both worlds.
Other key features this camera has, that deserves more than just a gloss over: 2″ LCD view screen, aluminum alloy reinforced casing, password protection, Geo-taggable photos, and 64 GB SD card compatible. This camera is an exceptional camera. Be sure to check out the pricing on Amazon. Don’t hesitate, these cameras are known to go quickly during the fall season.
| Megapixels | 12MP / 8MP/ 5MP /3MP |
| Camera Modes | Image / Video / Timelapse / Hybrid |
| Trigger Speed | .3 Seconds |
| Detection Distance | 60 Feet |
| Flash Type | No Glow |
| Flash Distance | 60 Feet |
| Video | 1080p 30 FPS w/ sound |
| Recovery Speed | 1.5 Seconds |
| Battery Requirement | 8 AA Lithium |
| Battery Life | 25,000 Images |
| Warranty | 5 Year “No BS” Warranty 5 Year 50% Off Theft and Damage Policy |
Exodus Trek
The Trek is Exodus’ stripped down version of the Lift 2, at a lower price point, usually around $75 cheaper. The noticeable difference in performance is the quality of the video feature. If you do not regularly utilize that feature then the Trek would be a very good economic choice.
Aside from the downgrade in quality of video, the trigger speed is about .4 seconds slower than the Lift 2 and you will lose about 10 feet in flash distance for night time photos. These downgrades in features are what allows Exodus to offer this camera at a cheaper price point, but makes this camera an excellent choice for static sets, such as scrapes, food sources, and staging areas.
Same as the Lift 2 this camera has incredible battery life, password protection, hybrid mode, and adjustable megapixel settings. This is an extremely well built camera that is backed by Exodus’ industry leading 5 Year “No BS” warranty. The Exodus Trek, which you can find here on Amazon, is built to last and preform at the highest level for years to come.
| Megapixels | 12MP / 8MP / 6MP / 2MP |
| Camera Modes | Image / Video / Time Lapse / Hybrid |
| Trigger Speed | .7 Seconds |
| Detection Distace | 55 feet |
| Flash Type | No Glow |
| Flash Distance | 50 Feet |
| Video | 720p 30 FPS / 1080p 15 FPS |
| Battery Requirement | 8 AA Lithium |
| Battery Life | 25,000 Images |
| Warranty | 5 Year “No BS” Warranty 5 Year 50% Off Theft and Damage Policy |
Spy Point
When it comes to cellular trail cameras, there is no manufacturer better than SpyPoint. With their Link series cameras, they offer simple to set up cellular service with inexpensive packages, and an outstanding easy to use app.
With the purchase of any SpyPoint Link series camera, they offer a free cellular plan of up to 100 image downloads per month. If you are looking for anything more than 100 pictures a month, and most of us are, they offer very competitive prices, the most premium package being unlimited access, and unlimited image downloads, for merely $25 a month.
Creating a cellular plan, is completely through SpyPoint’s website, eliminating the need to contact a cellular service provider on your own. You simply choose one of the four cellular plans provided, and activate your camera. It is that simple. Everything else is done on the SpyPoint app, where you can change settings and functions of your camera at any time.
SpyPoint is the leader in cellular trail cameras, and it is easy to see why.
SpyPoint Link – S
The Link – S camera is the industry leader in cellular trail cameras. With the fastest trigger speed on market at .07 seconds combined with 100 foot detection distance, and 100 foot flash distance, this camera would be in the upper echelon of stand alone cameras. The fact that this Spypoint camera is packaged within a cellular camera, sets it above the industry.
What draws me to the Spypoint Link – S as a consumer is the built in solar panel. This one feature gives the user relief from the most common problem with cellular cameras; keeping fresh batteries. The solar panel in conjunction with the Spypoint app, allows the user to leave a Link-S trail camera in one place for years, without ever needing to visit the site. This works well for those scouting properties in counties and states outside of their home area.
The Link-S camera also comes equipped with built in GPS. Meaning that whenever you camera is moved, you will receive a message directly to your phone, through the Spypoint app, notifying you of your camera’s movement. It will ask if you are moving it. If you do not respond, or respond no, the app automatically will begin to track your camera. This allows you to leave your camera in the woods, without ever worrying about it being stolen.
Check out the pricing for the Spypoint Link-S on Amazon. This camera is truly the industry leader in cellular cameras, GPS technology, and power consumption. It is worth every penny.
| Megapixels | 12MP |
| Camera Modes | Image / Video / Time Lapse / Hybrid |
| Trigger Speed | .07 Seconds |
| Detection Distance | 100 Feet |
| Flash Type | Infrared |
| Flash Distance | 100 Feet |
| Video | 720p HD |
| Battery Requirement | None: Built in Solar Power / Optional 8 AA Alkaline Backup |
| Battery Life | Unlimited |
| Warranty | “Know you are covered” 2 Year |
SpyPoint Link – Evo
The Spypoint Link-Evo is a slightly stripped down version of the Link-S. This camera is slower in trigger speed, although boasting a .3 second trigger is still faster than most trail cameras on the market today. It has an 80 foot detection distance, 20 feet shorter than the Link-S, but still above the industry standard.
The only other notable difference between the Link Evo and the Link-S is that the Evo is run strictly on 8AA batteries, rather than a solar power energy source.
Comparing the Link-Evo to the Link-S camera may make it seem as though it is left wanting, but that is simply because of how polarizing the Link-S truly is. Compare the Link-Evo to any other cellular camera on the market and it meets or exceeds expectations in every category.
This is a great camera, with one of the easiest and cheapest cellular service on the market, all for about half of the price of the Link-S. Be sure to consider the Spypoint Link-Evo as a great addition to trail camera strategy.
| Megapixels | 12MP |
| Camera Modes | Image / Video / Time Lapse / Hybrid |
| Trigger Speed | .3 Seconds |
| Detection Distance | 80 Feet |
| Flash Type | Infrared |
| Flash Distance | 90 Feet |
| Video | 720p HD |
| Battery Requirement | 8 AA Alkaline |
| Battery Life | 20,000 Images |
| Warranty | “Know you are covered” 2 Year |
Cuddeback CuddeLink
Cuddeback is the longest running active trail camera manufacturer. They have withstood the technological changes in trail cameras for almost 30 years. Now with the CuddeLink system, they aim to lead the charge with the most advance interlinking cameras on the market.
The CuddeLink is not WiFi, Bluetooth, or cellular serviced cameras. They are a proprietary wireless network, that allows cameras to communicate with one another. The CuddeLink system will actually allow remote cameras in the field, to transmit images to a single home camera that collects the images. On one Cuddelink system you can use as many as 15 different cameras that interlink and ultimately send every photo to that one home camera. Leaving you the need to only check one camera, and yet receive pictures from all 15.
CuddeLink is completley free to those who purchase CuddeLink cameras, and can transmit from one camera to the other up to 1 mile in distance, allowing you to cover thousands of acres while only checking one camera, leaving your entire hunting property free of disturbance.
Cuddeback also offers CuddeLink Cell, which works in the same fashion that the original CuddeLink system does, but you would purchase one cellular serviced trail camera as your home camera, and all of your other cameras would still link to that camera and send you photos via cellular service.
Still not completely clear? Check out this quick video on the CuddeLink system.
If you are looking for a good gift idea, that you can continuously add to, the CuddeLink system is a great gift you can purchase for someone every year, to add to their linkable cameras. It is essentially the add a link bracelet concept for trail camera users.
CuddeLink Power House Black Flash
There are multiple cameras that Cuddeback offers for the use of their CuddeLink system, but none match the power of the Power House Black Flash. True to its name it is a true power house when it comes to the distance of its black flash. While it is difficult to find any no glow cameras on the market today that surpass 60 feet of flash, the CuddeLink Power House Black flash crushes the competition with its 100 foot flash distance.
This camera will not wow you with its video capabilities, nor its 6 month max battery life, but its fast 1/4 second trigger speed, exceptional black flash distance, amazing pictures, and its CuddeLink capability make this camera an excellent choice for any serious trail camera user. Be sure to grab your CuddeLink Power House Black Flash off Amazon today. The CuddeLink System combined with this camera, is an excellent option for your trail camera arsenal.
| Megapixels | 20MP / 5MP |
| Camera Modes | Image / Video / Time Lapse |
| Trigger Speed | 1/4 Seconds |
| Detection Distance | 100 Feet |
| Flash Type | Power House Black Flash |
| Flash Distance | 100 Feet |
| Video | 720p * video is disabled when CuddeLink active |
| Battery Requirements | 4 D Batteries |
| Battery Life | 10,000 Images |
| Warranty | 1 Year Standard 2 Year with registration 5 Year Reduced Cost Replacement Plan |
CuddeLink Long Range IR
The CuddeLink Long Range IR is very similar in specs to the Power House Black Flash. You will still have the 1/4 second trigger speed the 100 foot detection and flash range, and incredible crisp clean images.
The major difference you will find between the two cameras is that the the Long Range IR uses an Infrared flash rather than a black flash. Conversely though, it takes 12 AA batteries rather than the the 4 D batteries, giving you the option of using Lithium batteries during the colder weather months.
You will also find the price of the CuddeLink Long Range IR to be about $50 cheaper, which over the course of purchasing multiple cameras, will add up.
| Megapixels | 20MP / 5MP |
| Camera Modes | Images / Video / Time Lapse |
| Trigger Speed | 1/4 Second |
| Detection Distance | 100 Feet |
| Flash Type | Infrared LEDs |
| Flash Distance | 100 Feet |
| Video | 720p *video is disabled when Cuddelink active |
| Battery Requirements | 12 AA Lithium |
| Battery Life | 10,000 Images |
| Warranty | 1 Year Standard 2 Year with registration 5 Year Reduced Cost Replacement Plan |
Accessories
If buying a trail camera as a gift seems to be a bit confusing with all of the options available, or maybe it is beyond your budget, don’t worry, every trail camera user is in need of accessories that make mounting trail cameras, viewing pictures or packing gear in and out easier. These accessories are a sure fire way to hit a home run with your gift.
Stic-n-Pic
Stic-n-Pic is a company that has been around for a while, creating the same quality products that it has from day one. A stic-n-pic is simply a trail camera mount that you stick in the ground and mount your camera to. It is is fully adjustable allowing the user to set the height and angle of their camera to their personal preference. It works great in areas where there are no adequate trees to mount your camera, such as field edges, thickets, and inside food plots.
Every trail camera user has came across an instance where a Stic-N-Pic would be a useful tool. This is one of those gifts that will be used over and over again for years to come.
Hawk Trail Cam Speed Mount
Another quality mounting system, this one by Hawk Hunting, allows the trail camera user to mount their camera directly to a tree. Using a standard 1/4- 20 thread this mount will screw directly into your camera’s pre-threaded mounting system, allowing for complete adjustment of the angle of your camera.
The speed mount has a quick connect, allowing you to screw the base into a tree without needing to have the camera previously mounted. With one quick and simply compression connection, your camera is up and running in no time.
The one thing that keeps me coming back to Hawk products is how sharp the screw is. There is no messing around with trying to get the base to screw into the tree, it works easily in every tree I have tried it in. The Hawk Cam Speed Mount is a must for every trail camera user.
Alps Outdoorz Motive Pack
Having a designated pack specifically for trail cameras is one of the most overlooked accessories. Most trail camera users use just their hunting pack and stuff their cameras in the bottom, shove some SD cards and batteries in a pocket and head on their way. What I have found is the problem with doing this is that trail cameras get banged around in the bottom of the pack, and it is inevitable that you will forget something that you would need for you camera.
This is why I have made the switch to having a trail camera bag, specifically for trail cameras, and there is no other pack on the market that matches the needs of a trail camera user like the Alps Outdoorz Motive. With 8 padded slots for trail cameras, with adjustable compartments, there is no longer any worrying about cameras knocking into each other as you hike out to you favorite camera locations. The fold down zipper pocket allows you to keep all of your SD cards and extra batteries organized and within easy access.
The feature that I am most impressed with, is the side mesh pockets with compression straps, that allow me to pack out all of my game camera mounts without fear of them every falling out. This bag is competly designed for the trail camera user in mind, as it even has a side zipper pocket specifically for your SD card reader.
Simply leave your camera packed with the essential gear you use for your trail cameras, and never forget an item again. This is a great gift idea for any trail camera user. It is an item that everyone would use, but very few would think to buy for themselves.
Moultrie Tablet Viewer
Simply put, every trail camera user needs to have a SD Card reader. It is not just a convenience product, it is essential to checking on site to make sure your trail camera is working properly. There is nothing more frustrating than having a camera reading the wrong date and time, not sensing movement, or simply pointed slightly off your intended location. A simple SD card reader allows you to notice all of these problems, before leaving your camera out for months on end.
The Moultrie Tablet Viewer is simply the best on the market. You could easily get away with using the cheaper adapters that connect to your phone, or the bulky readers that seemingly have no where they fit in your pack, but neither work nearly as well and as simple as the tablet viewer.
With a 7″ touch screen, this viewer can also double as a tablet, allowing you to access any of your WiFi or Bluetooth cameras directly from it, giving you the convenience of having all your needs met with one device.
Stocking Stuffers
If you have ever filled a stocking for a loved one, you know how hard it is to find small inexpensive items (other than candy) that could be useful. Look no further these three items, not only will it easily stuff into a stocking, but there is no question they will be used.
Python Cable Locks
I am a firm believer that no matter where you place a trail camera, whether it be public land or private, every trail camera needs to be locked. Cameras are an expensive investment, and they need to be locked and protected. Python Cable locks are the best and easiest way.
Now I should point out, that no matter how well you lock a trail camera, if someone wanted to steal it, they would find a way. But I firmly believe that most trail cameras are stolen just out of convenience, and a Python Cable Lock with coated cable and a cinch tight locking system, will keep those other wise honest people, honest.
SD Cards
In order for a trail camera to operate, you need two things: batteries and SD cards. There are tons of variations of SD cards on the market, that are all dependent on reading speed and and memory size. We have a very good resource on Choosing the Right SD Card For Your Trail Camera.
The most important thing to remember when using SD Cards is that it is best to have two cards formatted to each specific camera. That way you will always have a formatted card in your camera, and one that you can take home and download images and videos.
I personally always buy SanDisk class 10 cards with 32GB. SanDisk is a brand name that just makes quality cards that I very rarely have ever had any issues with. The class 10 classification is simply the fastest recording speed on an SD card, so you will never have problems with recording rapid shot photos, or max frames per second with video recording. Finally, the reason I always use a 32GB memory is simply that I had done a photo capacity test, and matched it up with some of the best cameras when it comes to battery life (excluding solar panel cameras) and found that I would need to change out batteries before I would fill up an entire 32 GB SD card. So, there is plenty of storage capacity, and almost every camera on the market today will take at least at 32 GB card.
Batteries
Another often overlooked item is batteries. As trail camera users, we sure do go through a lot of them. Most cameras, with a few exceptions will take AA batteries, often 8-12 at a time. The more cameras you run, the more batteries you will have to buy, and it is seemingly a never ending cycle, until all trail cameras go to a solar power system, it is something we will have to continue to deal with.
The only thing I can recommend is that you always use Lithium batteries. They will hold up better in sub freezing temperatures, and they have virtually no discharge buildup, meaning you will have max power for the life of the battery. While the upfront costs of Lithium batteries will be a bit more than Alkaline, the life span of the battery will make up for the difference in price, and will ultimately give you better performance in the field.
Always, and I repeat, always buy brand named batteries. They have become trusted names such as Energizer, or Duracell, for a reason, they simply make a better battery. If you are looking for a deal, for one reason or another , Lithium batteries are almost always cheaper on Amazon.