iPad Air: external thumb/stick drive?

I’ve given up on finding a sensible or right solution for backing up photos/movies from my Air (latest model) to any SS hard drive - “you need to power the drive” “format the drive” “drives can’t be mounted on an iPad” “dongle this, dongle that”.

I’m hoping that a straight forward old style (USB) flash/thumb/stick, whatever you like to call it, is an easier option to just ‘plug an play’ and transfer my photos, freeing up iPad storage.

Yes, iPad has lightening, so I’m guessing an adapter is needed, but CAN these sticks do the business?

(some websites mention iPads ‘Files’ will show the external connection...)

Anyone recommend a good buy?

Note: I can’t format - iPad only; Mac is in storage over this Covid period as the wife has taken my office for hers!