Best Solar Backpacks

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Do you love being outdoors? Is backpacking and exploring new places your kind of vacation?

Then, you must have all the stuff required for a great trip. And the most important item while backpacking outdoors is – your backpack!

If you’re tired of traditional backpacks, you probably haven’t seen the newest trendy solar backpacks. Besides excellent durability and plenty of compartments to store stuff, you’ll also get to charge your gadgets such as smartphones and laptops. All you need is pure sunlight!

Our reviews of the best solar backpacks will help you get ready for an amazing trip ahead.

Read on for our expert reviews of the best solar backpacks available. Check the latest prices to ensure you get a great deal!

Our Top Picks

10 Best Solar Backpacks

1. Voltaic Systems Array Rapid Solar Backpack

Today’s list topper is an amazing product from Voltaic Systems that can solve all your charging issues when you’re out.

Consisting of three high-quality monocrystalline solar panels to power all your gadgets, it is super durable and keeps all your stuff protected even under unfavorable climates.

Features

Easy Charging

No more worries about dying batteries, as this backpack will handle it all. With three solar panels with a maximum power output of 6 V or 18 V, your phones and laptops will be recharged easily. An hour of sunlight can power up your laptop for almost 40 minutes.

Durable Material

Every traveler wants a durable backpack that can stay with them for a long time. That’s why Voltaic Systems have crafted this backpack using extremely durable PET fabric that is actually recycled material sourced from 33 plastic bottles.

Plus, the quality straps are also long-lasting that ensures that your bag doesn’t fall off.

Convenient Storage

It comes with a 25 L capacity and has ample room to store all your necessary items. There is a 15-inch laptop sleeve and multiple internal and external pockets for earphones or small accessories. Moreover, there is an expandable pocket for keeping your water bottle on its side.

Additional Battery Pack

A V88 laptop battery pack is included within this backpack having a whopping 2400 mAh battery capacity. So, even if you’re unable to charge your electronics on a cloudy day, this battery pack’s stored energy can save you.

It also helps in charging your gadgets safely and regulates the power.

2. Eceen Solar Backpack

This is yet another excellent product from a well-known brand Eceen that is popular for manufacturing high-quality products. So, this backpack isn’t an exception, as it’s made of weather-resistant fabric and an efficient solar panel for excellent charging.

Features

Lightweight

The backpack is ultra-lightweight, ideal for any outdoor trip such as hiking, camping, or cycling. As it’s made of honeycomb fabric, it’s insulated and offers you extra resistance. Moreover, it’s waterproof and will withstand almost any climatic condition.

High-Performance Solar Panel

Talking about the main component, the 7 W solar panel is made in the USA and has an energy efficiency of 22%. The solar cells consist of an anti-scratch coating and are concealed using PVC fabric for maximum water resistance. It also helps in charging gadgets quickly.

Varied Charging

This excellent solar backpack is capable of charging a variety of devices using its 5 V USB port. You can charge smartphones, laptops, headphones, Bluetooth speakers, and similar small gadgets.
The bag comes with a removable solar charger and a voltage stability controller for added convenience.

Ample Storage

You can store all your important stuff inside this backpack while on the go. There is a separate 17-inch compartment for your laptop or tablet. Then, there’s room for clothes and small pockets for smartphones, chargers, calculators, and maybe a travel journal.

Everything is protected due to the anti-rip fabric and high-quality straps that keep it all together.

3. Haweel Flexible Solar Panel Backpack

Our next item is from the brand Haweel that offers you excellent portability on your camping and hiking adventures. With a 14 W in-built solar panel, multiple convenient compartments, and a very lightweight design, this one is one of the top solar backpacks out there.

Features

Excellent Durability

Although it has a very compact design and looks great, it is also durable. It has a waterproof design and can easily withstand harsh climatic conditions. Moreover, the material is durable enough to tackle punctures and sudden drops.

So, it will be a fantastic option for trekking trips.

Great Storage

The excellent backpack comes with a 15.6-inch laptop compartment that comfortably fits any standard laptop or notebook. There’s a compartment for a tablet or iPad, two pockets for smartphones, along with other partitions for books, maps, notepads, cables, chargers, and diaries.

Moreover, the zippers are of high quality that helps in keeping it all together.

Modern Breathable Design

Another unique aspect of the bag is the modern design that keeps it breathable and extremely comfortable to wear on your back. The shoulder area is made of soft and breathable mesh, while high-density material is used for the entire back section.

Plus, the straps are also super comfy, enabling you to carry this backpack comfortably during extreme heat.

Easy USB Charging

You can charge all your gadgets easily via the USB port embedded in the backpack. Further, the 14 W solar panel charges all your gadgets, including smartphones, laptops, and DSLR cameras. This will help you in remote locations where there isn’t a charging port.

4. XD Design Bobby Tech Anti-Theft Solar Backpack

This next entry is one of the coolest-looking backpacks you’ll ever find. As a Dutch brand’s product, it has been sold across the globe, thanks to its excellent charging and anti-theft mechanism.

So, if you’re a modern nomad, you can continue your adventures worry-free as all your belongings will be stored securely in this backpack.

Features

Premium Design

The backpack’s premium design makes it look like a laptop bag. With polyester and recycled plastic bottles, the product is crafted to last for years. The USB Type C charging port is located at the end. You can also keep your phone in the specified pocket for wireless charging.

Anti-Theft Mechanism

It is made of cut-resistant material so that no one can pierce through your backpack. The main zip is lockable using a numeric code, and there are hidden zippers as well. Further, there are concealed pockets that are RFID-protected. It also comes with no front access to enhance security.

Convenient Compartments

This trendy backpack has many internal dividers and pockets to store all your gadgets securely. The maximum capacity is 18 L, and it has a compartment for a 15.6 laptop and a 12.9 tablet. Plus, the internal dividers can be adjusted at your convenience.

You also get a smartphone and bottle holder here, so it’s an amazing deal!

High-Quality Solar Cells

The bag’s stylish design puts the solar cells right at the front, allowing the 5- V solar cell to absorb sunlight more efficiently. You can either connect your devices to the USB and charge them directly under the sun or store the energy in a power bank.

The integrated solar panel will completely recharge your phone within 3.5 hours on a bright sunny day.

5. EnerPlex Packr Executive Solar Powered Backpack

If you are looking for a solar backpack with a tight budget, you can definitely check this out. The EnerPlex Packr is a top-class solar backpack with all features such as decent charging, spacious compartments, and design.

It has become so popular that it was featured in the top 50 inventions in the TIME Magazine.

Features

Modern Solar Panels

The backpack’s integrated solar panels have an energy capacity of 3 W and can power up all your electronic items within 4 to 5 hours. Although the charge rate is a bit slow, it still offers a steady charging rate throughout the day.

So, your smartphones and tablets will be charged smoothly.

Lightweight

Nobody likes a bulky bag on their shoulders while traveling, so the brand took that into consideration and crafted the backpack. Thus, the backpack is lightweight due to the solar-on-plastic technology and the improved design.

Moreover, the straps are very comfortable and make the bag even more flexible.

Rugged Structure

The backpack is designed to tolerate all types of climatic conditions. As the integrated solar panel is completely water-resistant, it can withstand heavy rain showers and even storms.

The rest of the design is durable, enabling the product to handle shocks or minor vibrations comfortably.

Sufficient Storage Space

The backpack consists of several internal pockets to keep your necessary belongings and three large compartments for bigger stuff. One compartment is positioned towards your back, making it anti-theft and offers concealment.

You can place your tablets or laptops here to charge discreetly.

6. PowerKeep Energizer Wanderer Solar Backpack

This is a very stylish and compact backpack with all the features you need. By harnessing the power of the sun and charging all your electronic gadgets, you can now stay connected wherever you go. The rugged design makes it excellent for camping, hiking, or fishing trips.

Features

Energy Efficient Battery

The backpack comes with a 10000 mAh high capacity battery that offers 37Wh of energy conservation. You also get a PK10K power bank, manufactured using a Lithium polymer cell, and can store even more energy.

This powerful combination can easily charge smartphones, speakers, headphones, cameras, laptops, or any other USB device.

High-Quality Solar Panel

This backpack offers you a black-colored removable solar panel having a 3 W power output. With a capacity of 30 L, the backpack has two USB ports which offer very easy charging. You might find similar products in the market, but the solar panel is one of the most durable.

Versatile Storage Space

What makes this backpack ideal for any outdoor trip? It’s multiple pockets and compartments that let you store all your necessary items. There are pockets for maps, documents, licenses, and headphones. You get side pockets for keeping your water bottles.

There is a convenient pocket behind the backpack for storing your power bank and cables.

Portable Design

With so many exciting features, the backpack is still one of the most profitable products you’ll find in the market. It’s not too bulky, and the straps are breathable.

Thus, you can hike or trek without any discomfort.

7. XTPower Hiking Solar Backpack

This is an excellent product coming with a high-quality solar panel and plenty of pockets. So, the product is ideal for everyday use for your outdoor adventures. You can call this a mid-budget wonder that serves all your purposes and can last for years.

Features

High-Efficiency Solar Panel

This amazing backpack comes with a monocrystalline solar panel which has an energy efficiency of 22%. It is removable, adding more flexibility to your backpack. Just take off the solar panel, charge it under the sun and place it back using the handy clips.

The solar cells are entirely scratch-resistant that increases their longevity.

Long-Lasting Comfort

The shoulder straps are padded to offer you maximum comfort. The entire backpack is crafted using breathable material with a density foam at the hip belt. As it’s made of high-quality PVC fabric, it offers great durability along with comfort.

Easy-Access Compartments

The backpack packs a lot of storage space and has a capacity of 46 L. The main compartment is spacious, where you can store your books, gadgets, pens, keys, maps, chargers, etc.

You get a separate compartment for a laptop or a tablet. Plus, there are side pockets for storing water bottles.

Exciting Features

The stylish backpack has a 6.5 W solar panel, a 6 V USB output, and one micro USB to USB charge cable. It is compatible with most smartphone brands, including Apple and Samsung.

Moreover, external battery packs, MP3 players, cameras, and GPS systems can also be charged using this.

8. Sunnybag EXPLORER Solar Backpack

Our next choice for the best solar backpacks is the Sunnybag EXPLORER, a combination of style and functionality. As the brand boasts of offering you the best solar cells in the market, you won’t have to look for a power source when you’re on the move.

Made of high-quality materials and sporting a sophisticated design, this backpack is sure to turn heads on your next outdoor trip.

Features

Certified Power Offering

All the solar panels are of premium quality that is tested and certified before shipping. As the company evaluates all solar panels before embedding them into your backpack, you are assured of their standards.

The certificate comes with the product. Hence, you can trust the brand without a doubt.

High-Functioning Solar Panels

The detachable solar panel is of superior quality and offers a power output of 6W. It has an energy efficiency of 22%, allowing it to charge your smartphone within 2 hours under direct sunlight. The back of the panel has the USB output along with a LED displaying the power output.

Sufficient Space

With a storage capacity of 15 L, the Sunnybag offers you ample space to store all you need on your trips. A separate compartment for tablets and laptops is provided. Then, there are additional compartments for pens, business cards, and notebooks inside.

In addition, you get bottle holders at the sides and a special pocket on the backpack’s top for storing your sunglasses.

9. LifePod Solar Backpack

The LifePod solar backpack can be your friend for life! Thanks to its advanced design and an array of useful features, you can take it with you while traveling or exploring the outdoors.

This will be a great purchase with an attractive design, efficient solar charging, and an affordable price tag.

Features

Affordable Price

This is a budget product for those who don’t wish to spend too much but still want an excellent backpack. Coming with a decent 3 W solar panel, a unisex and lightweight design, this can be the ultimate budget solar backpack for the minimalist traveler.

Efficient Energy Retention

Even with the decent price tag, the product still doesn’t fail to impress. It comes with a high-efficiency solar panel capable of retaining more solar energy than many other products available in the market.

So, with more energy generation and retention, your gadgets will power up in no time.

Compact Design

This backpack sports a stylish and compact design, making it look a bit above its price range! It ensures all-day comfort while traveling due to the lightweight and breathable materials used to manufacture it.

Thus, apart from hiking or camping, you can tag it along for daily activities.

Convenient Functionality

The backpack has an easy-to-use USB output on the exterior surface. So you can connect two devices and put them inside the bag, and they will get charged without you opening the backpack.

This allows you to charge your gadgets effortlessly while you are on the move.

10. Eceen External Frame Hiking Solar Backpack

The final product on our list is from the brand Eceen and has an entirely different design from the rest. It comes with an external solar panel which is also foldable, offering you better charging.

There is plenty of room to store everything you need for your next trip and adjustments to make things comfortable.

Features

Foldable Solar Panel

The solar panel of this backpack hangs on the exterior that is embedded with SunPower solar cells. You can fold it at your convenience. With an excellent conversion rate of 24% and equipped with smart charging technology, all your laptops and tablets will be powered by the sun easily.

Breathable Design

The backpacker is specially designed for adventurers and adrenaline junkies who want to stay comfy while traveling. It comes with ergonomic back support and shoulder straps with comfortable padding. The metal frame contains mesh material that allows air circulation and keeps you cool.

The overall design transfers the weight of the backpack evenly to keep you comfortable.

Unique Hanging System

What if you’re too tired to carry your backpack and just want to hang it somewhere? With the efficient hanging system, you can do that with this backpack.

There are plenty of loops, bottom straps, compression straps, and convenient pockets to place your stuff and hang the backpack.

Roomy Compartments

You get a spacious compartment for storing large items and numerous small pockets for other belongings. There is a separate pouch for storing shoes and two pockets on the side for umbrellas and water bottles.

The main pocket has a tight closure, so your items don’t fall off while walking.

Solar Backpack Buying Guide

Some of you might have already found the backpack of your dreams after reading our reviews. But, a solar backpack is not all about charging gadgets. A few other factors make such a backpack worth buying for any of your trips too.

Let’s take a closer look at the factors you need to keep in mind while buying a solar-powered backpack.

Key Takeaways

• The efficiency of the solar panel in a solar backpack affects charging speed and device runtime; choose a wattage rating suitable for your gadgets.
• Consider the storage capacity of the backpack, measured in liters, based on your trip’s needs, from 15 L for essentials to 40 L for longer journeys.
• Check for additional features like power banks, compact designs, compartments, and warranties tailored to your specific preferences and budget when buying a solar backpack.

Features to Look for in Solar Street Lights

Solar Panel Efficiency

The efficiency of the solar panel in your backpack determines how quickly your gadgets will get charged. The amount of time your gadgets will stay charged will also depend upon the efficiency of the panel.

So, before buying a solar backpack, you need to check the wattage rating of the solar panels. As these panels vary in their efficiencies, their performances will also be different.

For instance, a 7 W solar panel might charge your laptop within 3 to 4 hours when exposed to direct sunlight. On the other hand, a solar backpack coming with a 15 W solar panel might take just a couple of hours to charge it. Thus, it depends upon your gadgets and preferences.

Note: You can also check whether the solar panel is detachable. It will allow you to keep the backpack inside a tent or somewhere else while taking the panel with you for charging.

Storage Capacity

If you’re buying a solar backpack for an outdoor trip, it’s always recommended to get something that offers lots of storage space. So, by looking at the storage capacity of a backpack, you can guess the number of items you can fit in it.

Usually, the capacity ratings will be given in liters. A solar backpack with 15 L of capacity will be sufficient to store most of your belongings while traveling. This can include your laptop, tablet, smartphone charger, journals, maps, and other small accessories.

However, if you’re planning to go on a long journey and want to pack a lot of stuff, a backpack with 40 L of storage will be ideal.

Power Bank

If you want to generate and store the power, buying a backpack with a power bank will be perfect. Take a closer look at the capacity of the power bank to get an idea about the number of devices it can charge.

You also need to look at the number of USB port power banks and a 5 V USB or micro USB port. Some backpacks offer power banks with a quick charging facility. You have to check out the user manual to understand the power bank’s specs better.

If you have a higher budget and need to store power, you can buy an additional power bank and use it along with your backpack.

Compact Design

Just because a backpack stores a lot of stuff doesn’t mean that it has to be bulky. So, look for the solar backpack with a compact design that will make it easier for you to carry it.

There are plenty of stylish backpacks on our list which are super portable and useful. Also, look for comfortable shoulder straps, mesh padding at the lower back, and how breathable the design is.

These factors are essential as a portable and breathable solar backpack will keep you comfortable while trekking or hiking.

It will also make you look good on your next adventure! In addition, you can also look if the backpack offers a mechanism to hang it somewhere for added convenience.

Number of Compartments

Whether you want to pack many items or just the basic necessities, you need to check out the number of available pockets and compartments before buying a solar backpack.

The number of compartments you’ll need will depend on the items you want to store. So, if you want to carry a big laptop and tablet, you’ll need a 16-inch compartment and a smaller one, with padding.

You’ll also need a handful of pockets for your smartphone, charger, notebook, pen, diary, important documents, and headphones. Then, you need to check for side pockets for keeping your water bottles or umbrellas.

Some backpacks might also offer you hidden pockets for securing your belongings.

Additional Features

Apart from all the standard features discussed above, some solar backpacks offer unique features such as an anti-theft mechanism. These products contain a lockable main zip, hidden pockets, RFID-protected pouches and are made of cut-resistant material.

Another interesting feature is a foldable exterior solar panel. The solar panels may offer more power efficiency than the rest, allowing you to fold them as you wish. However, these backpacks may be a little expensive.

Then, there are other exciting features such as a special smartphone holder, wireless solar charging, an ergonomic design with lower back support, and a water hydration pack.

As the prices will vary according to the unique features, make sure to buy something you’ll need to prevent overspending.

Warranty

As your solar backpack will contain many essential items that need to be adequately secured, you have to check the warranty. It will come in handy in case your backpack gets damaged or you need a replacement.

A brand that offers you a product warranty is a brand you can trust highly. Therefore, it is always recommended to buy a solar backpack with a minimum warranty of one year. You can also pick one with a two-year warranty.

While purchasing the product, ask the retailer about their after-sales service and if they offer a refund.

Case Study: Enhancing Outdoor Adventures with Solar Backpacks

Background

At Solar Panels Network USA, we are dedicated to providing innovative solar solutions that enhance the lives of our customers. This case study highlights a successful project where we introduced solar backpacks to improve the convenience and efficiency of outdoor excursions for a hiking club.

Project Overview

A hiking club faced challenges with keeping their devices charged during extended trips in remote areas. Traditional power sources were impractical, and carrying multiple power banks added unnecessary weight. The club needed a portable, sustainable solution to keep their gadgets charged throughout their adventures. Solar backpacks emerged as the ideal solution to meet these needs.

Implementation

Our team began by assessing the specific needs of the hiking club, focusing on factors such as charging efficiency, storage capacity, and overall durability. We selected a variety of solar backpacks that best suited their requirements.

Installation Process

1. Selection: We provided the club members with solar backpacks featuring high-efficiency panels, durable materials, and multiple charging options, including USB ports and mechanical cranks.
2. Training: We conducted a workshop to educate the club members on how to use and maintain their new solar backpacks. This included tips on optimizing solar panel placement and utilizing the power bank effectively.
3. Field Testing: The club members tested the backpacks during several hiking trips, providing feedback on performance, ease of use, and overall satisfaction.

Results

The introduction of solar backpacks brought significant improvements to the hiking club’s outdoor experiences:

• Reliable Charging: The high-efficiency solar panels ensured that devices stayed charged throughout the trips, reducing the need for additional power banks.
• Convenient Storage: The backpacks offered ample storage space, allowing club members to carry all their essentials without extra bulk.
• Enhanced Durability: The durable design of the backpacks, including water-resistant materials and reinforced stitching, withstood the rigors of hiking in various weather conditions.
• Increased Comfort: The ergonomic design and breathable materials provided added comfort, making the backpacks suitable for long hikes.

Summary

This project demonstrated the effectiveness of solar backpacks in providing a sustainable and practical solution for outdoor enthusiasts. At Solar Panels Network USA, our expertise in solar technology enabled us to meet the hiking club’s needs efficiently, ensuring a more enjoyable and convenient outdoor experience.

Expert Insights From Our Solar Panel Installers About Solar Backpacks

The efficiency of a solar backpack’s panel significantly impacts its charging capability. Choosing a higher wattage rating ensures your devices charge faster, making your outdoor adventures more convenient.

Lead Solar Installer

Selecting the right solar backpack involves balancing storage capacity, durability, and additional features. It’s essential to choose one that suits your specific needs, whether it’s for a day hike or a longer trip.

Senior Solar Technician

Investing in a solar backpack with multiple charging options and a durable design provides both reliability and flexibility. These backpacks are an excellent choice for outdoor enthusiasts and daily commuters alike.

Solar Installation Expert

Our Expertise in Solar Products

At Solar Panels Network USA, we’re not just installers; we’re enthusiasts, researchers, and users of solar backpacks. Over the years, we’ve been at the forefront of solar technology, understanding the nuances and intricacies of various solar-powered backpacks. Our team has hands-on experience with a wide range of solar backpacks, and we’ve seen the evolution of solar backpacks from their inception to the advanced versions available today.

Why Trust Our Reviews?

• Hands-On Testing: Before penning down any review, our team spends weeks testing products. For this article, we used each of these solar backpacks in various settings – from hiking trips to daily commutes, ensuring we understand their performance in real-world scenarios.
• Continuous Learning: We regularly attend solar technology conferences, workshops, and seminars. This continuous learning ensures we’re always updated with the latest solar tech, allowing us to evaluate products against the most recent standards.
• Feedback Loop: Over the years, we’ve built a community of solar enthusiasts. We often reach out to them for feedback on products, ensuring our reviews aren’t just based on our perspective but are a reflection of the broader community’s experiences.
• Transparency: Whenever we receive products for review from manufacturers, we ensure full transparency with our readers. For this article, some products were purchased by our team, while manufacturers sent others. However, our reviews remain unbiased, focusing solely on the product’s performance.
• Decades of Experience: Collectively, our team has over two decades of experience in the solar industry. From understanding the technical aspects of solar cells to the design and functionality of solar backpacks, our expertise spans wide and deep.

In this article, we’ve combined our personal experiences, technical knowledge, and feedback from our community to provide you with comprehensive reviews of the best solar backpacks for 2024. We believe that our expertise, combined with our commitment to transparency and continuous learning, makes us a reliable source for solar backpack reviews.

Endnotes

Carrying a solar backpack on your shoulders is like taking a portable solar charger with you. It will help efficiently charge your devices, especially when you are in an emergency and need to contact someone. No more nightmares of your battery dying!

All you need to do is look at all the features, and whether they meet your purposes and budget. Whenever you need help, just refer to our handy guide for buying the best solar backpack ever.

Happy hiking!