What does a solar powered backpack do?
The solar backpack, it is literally a backpack integrated with a mini solar panel system. The photovoltaic panels are attached to the top or back of the backpack.
The purpose of integrating this solar generating power into the backpack is to allow the user to have access to a regular supply of electricity while he or she is on the go.
Whenever the PV panel is exposed to sufficient sunlight, it produces electricity to be used immediately for powering electrical devices, or to be stored in a power bank or solar battery.
The largest device that can be charged using a solar backpack is a laptop.
The size of a solar backpack varies too, from 15 liters to more than 40 liters. Similarly, the wattage capability of the solar panel also varies from as low as 6 Watts to the rare high of 18 Watts.
Some are made from monocrystalline and polycrystalline silicon, which are the most efficient. However, they are rigid, so they are easily breakable. Some are made from flexible thin films which are less likely to break but are not as efficient.
Detachable solar panel kits allow you to use them separately from the bag. This is convenient when you don’t need to carry them around, or when you need to place them in a stationary, sunny spot.
Some solar backpacks which are made for urban usage also come with anti-theft features. There are also those specifically for the outdoors that are waterproof.
How do solar backpacks work?
The Pv cells in the solar panels on the backpack convert sunlight into electrical energy. This only works when there is exposure to a decent amount of sunlight.
The amount of electricity that can be generated is influenced by this as well as the wattage output capability of the solar panel. Most decent solar backpacks can produce 120 watts per day.
If the solar backpack doesn’t come with a charge controller or battery, the electricity has to be used immediately. You won’t have a supply of power at night or in dim places with this type of solar backpack.
How long do solar backpacks last?
Several factors affect how long it can last. The first is, of course, how you use it. If you treat it with care and don’t overload it, the backpack is less likely to tear. If you treat it roughly, of course, it will wear out faster and the solar panels will be damaged sooner than they should be.
The second is quality. High quality solar backpacks will have a longer lifespan than cheap, low quality ones. On their own, solar panels can last 25 to 30 years.
You’ll need to check the fine print of warranties offered by solar backpack companies. Warranties for the backpack itself averages at 1 year.
How to make a solar powered backpack?
It is possible to turn a regular backpack into a solar charger. Solar panel kits are now sold separately just for this purpose. You’ll need to customise your backpack to fit the kit including all the necessary cables.
There have been suggestions to use heavy-duty double-sided adhesive tape but if you want the panels to be detachable as and when you wish, you’ll need to think of a better idea. Besides, there is a risk of the panels dropping off your backpack if the tape becomes wet or damp.
Do I need to purchase a battery bank or charging cords?
Yes, if the solar kit doesn’t already have these. Not all ready-made solar backpacks have them though. Depending on what you plan to charge, you may need an external battery bank with the matching cords and cable heads for your devices.
Conclusion
Before buying a solar backpack, take into account all your needs first. From there, you can work out the features that best serve them. There is no point in spending less or more on something that doesn’t serve its purposefully.
The second most important aspect to keep in mind is the solar panel output. The higher the wattage rating, the faster and more electricity it can produce. The bigger your electrical consumption, the more watts you should be looking at.