The good folks at Voltaic Systems were nice enough to lend us their Solar Backpack for us to test and review.  We’re happy to report that not only does the product function as a well designed, stylish backpack but it charged our cellphones and small electronics in a nicely efficient fashion.  We solar charged it through our glass patio door for a day and then started charging devices – no problems.

Another thing we really like is how the well-constructed backpack looks.  Many solar chargers and gadgets are crappily-made in China or Taiwan and have, let us say, the thrown-together look of something soon destined for the scrap heap – but not this backpack – it’s built to last and won’t embarrass you on the street or campus where we anticipate it will attract the ‘right’ kind of attention.

It comes with a nice assortment of adapters, including a USB-out-plug for charging iPods, phones etc.  One hour of direct sun will provide 1.5 hours of phone talk time or 3 hours of iPod use.  The battery features indicator lights that let you monitor your stored power level, and the backpack has a little red light on the back that lets you know it’s charging.  The solar panels are nicely integrated, waterproof and lightweight.  The backpack, which has 2 main compartments and a bunch of mesh pockets, is constructed of recycled PET soda bottles and is both UV and water-resistant.  All very green and eco-friendly – too bad I have to send it back…

this 3.5 pound backpack can be purchased for $249 @ voltaicsystems.com

Oh, that’s the talented actor, Zachary McGrath, doing the honors in our photo shoot.