Voltaic Solar powered backpacks

Why be satisfied with a mere bag when you can have a mobile solar powered generator that will also transport your belongings from A to B. Made in the US, the Voltaic solar powered backpack is a seriously desirable piece of kit.

The outside of the bag features three solar panels which generate 4 watts of power and there's an in-built battery which stores any excess power. It straps to your body, is lightweight and has the capacity to charge most devices. The panels convert energy from the sun into electricity and for teched-up travelers, the backpack is a great way to transfer electrical equipment as you don't have to negotiate with varying currents and plugs in different territories.

Currently the Voltaic backpack does not generate enough power to charge a laptop, but is compatible with PDAs, phones, cameras and MP3 players. Later this year, a laptop bag is set to be launched made from recycled plastic bottles and with the capacity it seems to charge laptops.

Words: Marian Buckley

Voltaic Solar Powered Backpacks cost £120 and are available from oki-ni.com