Like it or not, our society is completely dependent on the hyper-connectivity offered by the internet. And as individuals, we've become dependent on the personal electronic devices that allow us to tap into this connected world. As such, keeping those devices powered is extremely important. But because of access to cheap electrical power, most of us take our ability to easily power these devices for granted.
For many, the idea of going an hour, let alone a day or week, without using a tablet or smartphone brings about a real sense of anxiety. And since people's livelihoods are now dependent on being constantly connected, it's not hard to understand why. Sure, for some, being offline for a few hours means noting more than a few missed status updates. But depending on your job, being disconnected for even a short amount of time can have real, often negative consequences.
For others, taking time to intentionally disconnect from the modern world is a point of pride. Being able to turn off our electronics and return to nature, even for a short while, can do wonders for our mental health. That said, even those who take their love of the outdoors to the extreme can benefit from a quick and easy way to reconnect to society in the event of an emergency.
So regardless of which camp you fall into, it's important to have a backup plan for powering your personal electronic devices. And thanks to these easy-to-use, eco-friendly solar backpacks, enacting that plan has never been easier. By utilizing a solar backpack instead of a traditional backpack or briefcase, a nearly constant source of free electrical energy is always at your disposal. So whether your goal is to remain connected at all costs, or to only connect as a last resort, these might be just what you need.
Voltaic Systems OffGrid 10 Watt Rapid Solar Backpack Charger
This sleek, stylish solar backpack from Voltaic bills itself as the "most powerful solar backpack for USB devices." You can use one of its dual UBS ports to charge smart phones, tablets, digital cameras, etc., in about the same amount of time it would take to charge with a standard electrical outlet. It also offers "pass-through charging," allowing you to charge devices on-the-go while the backpack's battery is charging itself.
The product's V44 battery provides consistent power and prevents power spikes caused by fluctuations in cloud cover from damaging your devices. And its durable ethylene tetrafluoroethylene (ETFE) solar panel lasts more than three times longer than similar solar panels.
Energizer PowerKeep PRO Solar Executive Backpack
The company behind the Energizer brand has been in the battery business since the late 19th century. So it's safe to assume they know a thing or two about electrical storage and supply. That's why we've included the Energizer PowerKeep PRO Solar Executive Backpack Briefcase on this list.
The solar backpack features a PK10K 10000mAh powerbank that attaches to your personal electronic devices via a micro-USB cable (included). And if the powerbank runs low, you can also charge your devices directly from the flexible, lightweight solar panel. As an added bonus, the backpack can also be carried as a briefcase, making it ideal for business as well as leisure.
Birksun Solar Backpack
The Birksun Solar Backpack uses a "state-of-the-art solar panel and a built-in battery" to charge your USB-enabled devices in about two hours. However, this lightweight backpack is also waterproof and scratch-resistant, making it perfect for use in the great outdoors.
Based in Los Angeles, CA, Birksun specializes in "premium solar backpacks," made from the best materials available. The bag's interior is lined with high-quality fabric to keep your valuables safe and secure. It also features leather handles and "enhanced cross-stitching" to ensure both durability and comfort.
Kingsolar Multiple Function Solar Backpack
The Kingsolar Multiple Function Solar Backpack uses a high-efficiency, 12-watt solar panel to covert the sun's rays into usable electrical energy. It features two built-in USB chargers as well as a built-in charging cable, which means you'll never be without a way to connect to your USB-enabled electronic devices.
The backpack is constructed from durable, water-resistant fabric and metal zippers, so it's built to last. There's also a secret anti-theft pocket on the back of the bag. This nifty feature is perfect for protecting your valuable items from thieves, provided the thieves in question don't read reviews on the internet.
ECEEN Solar Hiking Backpack
As the name suggests, the ECEEN Solar Hiking Backpack was designed with the specific needs of outdoor enthusiasts in mind. So while it does allow you to charge your personal electronic devices using solar energy, the backpack does not feature internal battery storage (because of the added extra weight).
That said, the bag - which weighs less than three pounds - does offer several other features that people who love the outdoors are sure to enjoy. Specifically, it contains a 1.8 liter bladder to help users stay hydrated while on the go. It also has a plethora of pockets and compartments which are sure to come in handy for storing gear. Best of all, it's made from a "sport quality weather proof PVC fabric" to ensure it will standup to whatever mother nature throws your way.
As mentioned above, every now and then, it's important to take the time to step away and disconnect from our hyper-connected world. But it's also important to be able to quickly reconnect, especially in the event of an emergency. But thanks to the solar-powered products listed above, going off the grid doesn't necessarily mean going offline.
Futurism fans: To create this content, a non-editorial team worked with an affiliate partner. We may collect a small commission on items purchased through this page. This post does not necessarily reflect the views or the endorsement of the Futurism.com editorial staff.
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