When buying a solar backpack for the first time, keep in mind that no solar backpack stores its generated energy unless a battery is included. Also, be sure to check that the pack allows you to charge your devices while charging the solar panels, rather than having to wait for the panels to be fully charged. Here are my favourite solar backpacks.
Best Solar Backpack (Top Picks)
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Best Lightweight
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Best Value
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Top Solar Backpacks (Detailed Reviews)
My top solar backpacks:
- ECEEN 20 Watts Solar Powered External Frame Hiking Backpack - Best Overall
- Jauch Solar Backpack - Best Value
- Voltaic Systems Converter
- ECEEN Hiking Backpack
Read our complete buyers guide for solar backpacks.
Best Overall Solar Backpacks
1. ECEEN 20 Watts Solar Powered External Frame Hiking Backpack
The ECEEN 20 Watts Solar Powered External Frame Hiking Backpack is similar to a multi-day hiking backpack, but comes with a foldable solar pack preinstalled.
The pack is made of a 55% Nylon and 45% Polyester blend, creating a durable and water-resistant surface. The shoulder and hip straps are padded for comfort, and the shoulder straps automatically adjust as you put the pack on, ensuring the pack fits comfortably.
The 10W solar charger provides a maximum 1.5 Amp output and includes two USB ports, so is ideal for charging most smartphones.
If you are looking for a comfortable pack with a quality solar cell, then the ECEEN is a great shout.
Main Features
What we like
What we dislike
Key Takeaway
This ECEEN 20 Watts Solar Powered External Frame Hiking Backpack has all the bells and whistles - 20W solar charger with 2 USB ports, high efficiency Sunpower cells, a quality pack and comfortable straps to help with the additional weight of the charger. It also comes at a great price!
2. Jauch Solar Backpack 45L
4.5/5 Overall Rating
This Jauch Solar Backpack sports a cute compact design while not scrimping on any features.
Available only in the light grey, the PVC nylon polyester actually makes this backpack water resistant and rather durable. All the zippers are metal, so they are able to hold up to the wear and tear of frequent use.
With a 10 watt solar panel, the Jauch Solar has a higher than average wattage output, and considering its price, that’s a pretty fair deal.
The compact design also does not mean you get less volume for storage, this backpack is more than sufficient as a daypack.
Main Features
What we like
What we dislike
Key Takeaway
The Jauch Solar Backpack is perfect as a daypack, providing good charging in direct sunlight. Without a battery pack, you will have to ensure the panels are exposed to direct sunlight for it to work properly.
3. Voltaic Systems Converter
The Voltaic Systems Converter comes in at the top of the price bracket of all the backpacks we reviewed and there’s a reason for it.
The three solar panels on the front of the pack sit inside a hard plastic frame. This makes the backpack and the panels more resilient to the knocks that are to be expected from general use.
These panels output 10W of power when in direct sunlight, and paired with the lithium polymer battery, it will be like having your own personal generator on your back.
Main Features
What we like
What we dislike
Key Takeaway
The Voltaic Systems Converter is the ‘Rolls Royce’ of solar backpacks. While it’s smaller in capacity than some of the other backpacks reviewed, the included battery means you can store the energy generated while the sun in shining, and use it later. Multiple adapters are included for different devices with varying voltage requirements. If you are a gadget fundi, this bag will make an excellent addition to your collection.
4. ECEEN Hiking Backpack w/ Hydration Pack
This ECEEN pack is specifically designed for hiking and includes a 1.8L hydration bladder.
Available in a range of colors, the ECEEN is a sporty looking backpack with a slim design. The fabric is a lightweight PVC, allowing some degree of water resistance.
The solar panel is attached at 4 points with hook and loop fasteners, for easy detaching. At 7W it is capable of charging most Smartphones.
Main Features
What we like
What we dislike
Key Takeaway
Solar backpacks are a high-ticket item, but ECEEN has introduced their range of backpacks, making them more accessible to more people. This hydration pack is great for the outdoor enthusiast, whether hiking or cycling, making it unnecessary to carry additional water bottles.
Solar Packs - Buyer's Guide (Key Features)
Here are some handy tips to think about when you’re shopping for a solar backpack. As you’ll quickly find, not all packs are equal, and a high price tag does not necessarily mean that the product is the best.
Voltage
Voltage is, in layman terms, the amount of current flow. Each device has a minimum voltage requirement in order to be successfully charged. The solar backpack must output greater or equal the device’s voltage requirement. Check your devices to be sure.
Direct Sun Access
Remember that the solar panels need direct sun exposure in order to generate the required power needed. If you are using the pack in conditions that don’t allow this, the pack will not work as desired.
Energy Storage
The backpacks do not store the generated energy unless a battery is included. Also, check that the pack allows you to charge your devices while charging the solar panels, rather than having to wait for the panels to be fully charged.
Charging Points
Most of the backpacks only have a single USB port; this means you can only charge one device at a time. While this is sufficient in most cases, it’s worth considering using adapters if you need to charge more items simultaneously.
Weight and Comfort
You’ll be carrying all of this technology on your shoulders so it’s important to keep in mind the extra weight from the solar panels, and where applicable, the battery.
Check for back support as well as padded straps for extra comfort.
Durability and waterproofness
Most of these backpacks can be used as a day-to-day bag, and not just when out hiking. For that reason, look for a hardwearing, abrasion resistant fabric, and good solid construction.
Capacity
Most of these bags are designed to hold laptops and tablets. Bear this in mind when using it for hiking purposes. Look at the capacity of the bag, and take into account what you can fit into the backpack.
For more information about what size backpack you should get, check out our comprehensive backpack size guide.
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See more outdoor equipment reviews and our detailed bags for hiking guide. Or check out these reviews:
