What would be a good gift for someone really into drones?

Hi all — my husband just started flying a DJI drone and he’s totally into it, especially the video side. His birthday’s coming up and I’d love to get him something related to this new hobby. What kinds of stuff do drone folks actually enjoy or find useful? Accessories, gadgets, maybe even classes? I’m open to anything, so please share ideas!

ND filters are a really solid gift idea. They help make videos look smoother and more cinematic, especially in bright daylight.

Lin said:
ND filters are a really solid gift idea. They help make videos look smoother and more cinematic, especially in bright daylight.

:clap::clap::clap:

Sully said:

Lin said:
ND filters are a really solid gift idea. They help make videos look smoother and more cinematic, especially in bright daylight.

:clap::clap::clap:

I think ND filters can be a little fiddly and not totally necessary for everyone, but if they come with a polarizer built in, then yeah, not a bad pick.

Lin said:
ND filters are a really solid gift idea. They help make videos look smoother and more cinematic, especially in bright daylight.

Big yes for ND filters from me too.

Lin said:
ND filters are a really solid gift idea. They help make videos look smoother and more cinematic, especially in bright daylight.

They don’t technically improve quality — they just help get the right motion blur by sticking to the 180-degree shutter rule when it’s bright out.

Extra batteries for sure.

If he doesn’t have any spare batteries yet, definitely grab one or two. You always run out fast when you’re having fun.

Plan a little trip somewhere scenic where drones are allowed. Doesn’t have to be far — just somewhere fun to fly together.

Honestly, drones don’t need a ton of extras. But a custom-fit backpack or case is really handy.

Also, if he’s super into it already, maybe consider a second drone? I got a cheaper self-flying one to mess around with the family — it’s fun, safe, and works in smaller spaces.

@Mai
Another drone? :joy: Totally agree with this.

Here’s a good list:

  • Carry case
  • Extra batteries
  • ND/CPL filters
  • Landing pad
  • Strobe light
  • Extra SD cards
  • Fast charger
  • Spare props

Finch said:
Here’s a good list:

  • Carry case
  • Extra batteries
  • ND/CPL filters
  • Landing pad
  • Strobe light
  • Extra SD cards
  • Fast charger
  • Spare props

That’s a solid list! Just make sure he doesn’t already have some of it. I personally skip strobe lights because I don’t fly at night, and I avoid fast charging to preserve battery life. But everything else on there is great.

Finch said:
Here’s a good list:

  • Carry case
  • Extra batteries
  • ND/CPL filters
  • Landing pad
  • Strobe light
  • Extra SD cards
  • Fast charger
  • Spare props

Can’t argue with this list…

My girlfriend got me a backpack that can also double as a landing pad — that was a cool and practical gift.

A solid hard case to keep all the gear together is a total game-changer. Mine fits the drone, batteries, controller, filters, props — all in one spot. Way better than juggling soft bags.

If he’s doing video, then yeah — ND filters and maybe the Fly More kit (extra batteries + bag). For audio, maybe pick up a field recorder? DJI makes one, and Zoom has some nice ones too. Great for adding ambient sound to his drone videos.

@Lane
How good is the sound, though? Doesn’t the drone make a ton of noise?

Circular polarizers (CPLs) are also nice — they cut down reflections and make skies pop. Just make sure it fits his specific drone model. Same goes for ND filters — check the exact drone. You can get variable ND filters or a fixed set (ND8 to ND64 is what I use).

@Blue
That actually sounds really neat — how do I know which filters will work with his drone?