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The best equipment for bird watching

The best gear and optical instruments will help you to enjoy bird watching at whatever level, whether it is amateur or professional. There is so much great birding equipment available.

If you need help to narrow down your choices you have come to the right place. We sum up the features to look for when shopping for bird-watching gear.

Our buying guides will help you to pinpoint exactly which models are best for your birding requirements and why.

Binoculars

Here is all you need to know about how to choose and use binoculars.

Our buying guides and reviews of binoculars and accessories will help you make informed purchase decisions.

Plus, learn how to make the most of your binoculars to have the best birding experiences.

Spotting scopes

A spotting scope is an invaluable tool for long-distance viewing. Most birders love the increased magnification for close-up images.

If you are considering the upgrade to a spotting scope, our clear and straightforward guides can help.

Find out what to consider when choosing a scope and how to pick the best one for you.

Tripods

We talk about why tripods are an important part of your bird watching equipment.

Our guides and in-depth reviews cover which features are most important.

Here you can work out which one is best for your birding habits and circumstances

Clothing

What’s the best clothing for successful, comfortable birdwatching adventures?

Find recommendations on the functional apparel and gear for any birding activity.

Birding journals

Keeping a birdwatching journal is a great way to document your birding experiences.

Our articles provide tips on starting and enriching a journal.

Expensive vs cheap tripods: find top benefits + best value

Expensive vs cheap tripods: find top benefits + best value

February 5, 2023

Explore the main differences in materials, construction and design between cheap vs top price tripods, plus the pros and cons of premium options

Featured image - toucan in a jungle

Can I hand hold a spotting scope, without a tripod?

January 29, 2023

Spotting scopes are normally supported on a tripod. But is it worth trying to get away without lugging a tripod along?

Featured image - white & violet bird with a red berry in its beak

Top tips on setting up a tripod for a spotting scope

January 29, 2023

Wondering how to set up a tripod? The best position depends on factors such as whether you have a straight or angled scope. We explain why…

FI how to choose monopod

How to choose a monopod for birding

January 15, 2023

Take flight with the perfect monopod for birding. Follow our top tips to choose the best monopod for your needs and watch your feathered friends up close and personal.

Featured image - using monopods while hiking

Are monopods good for birding while hiking?

January 15, 2023

Here we cover the pros and cons of using a monopod while on a hike, with a look at whether monopods are a good alternative to trekking poles.

Featured image - Can I take a monopod on a plane

Can I take a monopod on a plane?

January 15, 2023

Unsure about taking a monopod on a plane for a bird-watching trip? Find out if it’s best to bring a monopod as carry-on or checked luggage.

Featured image for monopod maintenance

Monopod maintenance: a guide to cleaning, care and storage

January 15, 2023

Learn tips and tricks for keeping your monopod in top condition. For the right tools and techniques for cleaning, care, and storage, read on

Featured image - monopod best use

Monopod best use: top tips for a stable set-up in all conditions

January 15, 2023

Learn how to set up your monopod for a stable, shake-free view of the birds, and make the most of our top tips for best use in all weathers.

FI magnification extender

Is a magnification extender worth it?

January 14, 2023

Keen to get even closer views of birds? Magnification extenders increase zoom capacity. Is this the answer for you? We’ll help you decide >>>

FI carry a spotting scope on a plane

Can I carry a spotting scope on a plane?

January 14, 2023

Want to take your spotting scope on a birding trip but not sure if it should travel with you or in the hold? We explain the best choice >>>

Featured image - bird perched on a hand

Hold steady: how to stabilize binoculars without shaking

January 14, 2023

Learn how to position your body in a relaxed but stable stance, and how to use objects in your environment to help you hold binoculars steady.

FI carry tripod on plane

Can I carry a tripod on a plane?

January 11, 2023

What is the easiest way to transport your tripod on a plane? Find out whether it’ll be better in the hold or in hand luggage here >>>

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