I just got this great new toy called a Flip video camera. This thing is about the size of a video iPod and fits in the mp3 player pocket of my MULE Camelbak! The video quality is great for a small, $100-$150 camera. It takes up to 60 minutes of TV-quality digital video. This thing will be great for bringing on motorcycle rides in the forests, mountain bike riding, hiking, camping, and pretty much anywhere I go! It fits in my front pocket, so I've been carrying it everywhere with me since I got it. It uses two AA batteries, included with the camera.

RCA makes a very similar camera called the Small Wonder that also comes with a rotating screen, so you can video yourself and see if you're getting it right. It also has a slot for additional memory. I read reviews that said the Small Wonder video quality was not as good as the Flip, but you may want the additional memory capability and screen features of the RCA Small Wonder. I do not believe I will need more than 60 minutes of video before I upload it to the computer. The screen is also nice, but I see that as one more thing that could get broken, as I want to use this camera for a lot of outdoor video and I could see that screen just getting snapped off.

Uploading the video is also super easy, as the USB plug is integrated into the Flip camera and the software is already in the camera. The first time you attach the camera, it uploads the software. This software allows you to edit the movies, compress the video for emailing, save it to your computer, or upload it to video sharing sites, like YouTube. The camera also comes with a cable that allows you to play the video directly on your TV through your RCA jacks. One other plus for the RCA Small Wonder is that it comes with a USB extension cable, so if the integrated USB plug will not fit into a small space, but I've had absolutely no issues attaching mine to my laptop.

The Flip also comes in a Flip Ultra format that is closer to the $150 mark that has a standard tripod attachment point on the bottom and is supposed to be more impact resistant. Flip also makes a handlebar attachment for the Flip Ultra. Pure Digital (the company that makes the Flip) also makes a waterproof case for the Ultra, so that would be amazing for trips involving water. Had I been aware of this one when I bought the Flip, I would have bought the Ultra, instead.

Regardless of your choice, this is a must have toy. To have a camera that is only 1.2"x2.2"x4.2" and 12 ounces is perfect for outdoors and action video. I can't wait to go out for a ride and get some great video of us getting a little crazy on the motorcycles. You can be sure I'll be uploading it here.