Solar Powered Backpack

If you want to add another dimenssion to your go bag, a solar powered backpack can provide a means to keep your phone, gps, and other electronics charged.  Whether at home or on the go, our need for electrical power is an integral part of our existence.  Even if you are not tied to your cell phone, its nice to know you dont have to bring extra batteries for your GPS unit, or radio.  Most solar backpacks are essentially 4 parts:  A pack, a panel, a battery, and an assortment of connection adapters.  You can charge your devices directly from the sun during the day, and from the integrated battery unit at night.

Voltaic Offgrid - One of the better known names in solar bags is voltaic systems, shown above.  Voltaic offers a full line of charging products and accessories.  The "Offgrid" backpack shown here is one of our favorites.   First of all its put together well, voltaic does a good job of making sure they are putting their solar chargers into a quality bag, which is key.  The charging unit can be fully removed easily, and there is enough room in the bag to hold a respectable amount of gear (1500 cubic inches).  The pocket on the shoulder strap lets you carry and charge your device within easy reach.  Pricing for this backpack as of November 2011 - $220 US.   

solar power 4W   /  battery 3000mAh   /  Charge time: 4 hours phone - 7 hours battery.

V-Dimension Helius A proven design, the Helius from V-dimension as been around for a while.  It doesnt have quite the charing power of the Voltaic, but v-dimension claims very similar charging times.  At less than half the price of most comparable solar powered backpacks, the helius is a pretty compelling buy.  Sam's club is currently selling this model for $62.50. The dimensions on the backpack are 18x13x9, which is a decent amount of room.

solar power 1.8W   /  battery 2200mAh   /  Charge time: 4 hours phone - 7 hours battery.

One of the less then often stated but obvious issues here, is that charging times for all solar systems are greatly affected by the strength and orientation of the sunlight they recieve.  If you are walking towards the sun, under a forest canopy,  vs. sitting still with your backpack angled back pointed directly at the sun...  well, you get the idea.