Those inspection cameras are actually pretty handy, especially if you’re dealing with weird attic angles. I picked up a cheap one a couple years back—nothing fancy, just plugs into my phone—and it’s saved me from crawling into tight corners more than once. Not perfect resolution, but enough to spot gaps or see if insulation’s blocking vents. For the price, I’d say it was worth it just for peace of mind.
About those pre-formed blocks: I’ve used them in a few attics where access was tough. They’re definitely easier to fit than wrestling with leftover batts, but yeah, they cost more. The main thing is they don’t sag or shift over time like loose pieces can, so airflow stays more consistent. If you’re worried about ventilation at the eaves, those blocks can help keep things open.
Drafts near the hatch are super common—sometimes it’s just the weatherstripping not sealing tight, or even air sneaking through trim or light fixtures nearby. In older houses, there’s always another gap hiding somewhere... I’ve never managed to get every single one sealed either, but tightening up what you can does make a difference over time. My heating bill dropped maybe 10% after a big round of attic work—not huge, but noticeable when winter hit hard.
I get the appeal of those inspection cameras, but honestly, I’ve found they can give a false sense of security. The cheap ones miss smaller gaps or moisture spots—had a tenant with a slow leak that went undetected because the camera just didn’t pick it up. Sometimes, old-fashioned hands-on checks (even if it means crawling around) catch more issues. As for pre-formed blocks, yeah, they’re tidy, but in some older attics with uneven joists, I’ve seen them leave small gaps at the edges. I usually end up sealing those with spray foam anyway. Just my two cents—sometimes the “easy” solution isn’t always the most thorough.