GADGET GIZMO SPECIAL 8 solar-powered bags to keep your gadgets charged

GADGET GIZMO SPECIAL 8 solar-powered bags to keep your gadgets charged   Don't be stranded on a hike with no way to Instagram the mountains For most of us, smart devices are essential tools for modern life. But they all suffer from one big problem: you have to plug them in frequently and charge them up. While keeping your phone charged is just about doable when you're at home or in the office, what if you're going for a trek? The good news is that there's an alternative source of energy available wherever you are: the sun. We're talking of solar powered bags, and here's what you should check out: Glory Solar's Cycling Backpack  is perfect for outdoor pursuits. It's made from durable, lightweight fabric that's weather-resistant, so it should be able to cope with whatever you put it through. Its maker says the solar panels are super-highefficient, with a transfer rate of 22 per cent. It also includes a power bank for when the clouds go in. The Lifepack is much more than just a solarcharging bag. There's a solar cell built in that can recharge an iPhone 6 up to 12 times and an integrated lock that be extended on a cord, so you can clip your bag to prevent thefts. The focus on security is also evident in the four concealed pockets for storing important documents and the laptop sleeve is reinforced with air cells. There's even a built-in Bluetooth speaker. If you're planning for some paramilitary adventures, then Escape Solar Gear has you covered. Its Bugout Solar Packpack contains a 4W solar panel that can output to either a USB port or a 12V auto socket, into which you plug in your gear. There are concealed pockets, and quick-release shoulder straps, should you find yourself in`tight situations'. The Voltaic Systems Array is one of the beefier bags available. It contains three solar panels on the rear, and the built-in battery will charge your smartphone seven times, or a laptop once. The bag is mostly black, but it's available with three different colour accents: orange, silver and charcoal. If you're looking for the sort of solar bag that you can take into a business meeting, SunnyBAG's Business Class Collection is stylish, with genuine leather option. The solar panels are built into the satchel's flap and are used to charge up a power bar; you can then plug whatever USB device you like into this. Best of all, it weighs less than 2 kg. If you prefer a messenger-style bag rather than a backpack, Eceen's solar bag packs a 22 per cent-efficient solar panel, 10,000mAh battery and 40cm USB cable into its stylish design. This is one of the lightest bags, weighing in at just 708g. The USB battery has two ports, so you can charge two devices simultaneously. GoPlug's bag appears similar to others, but its power bank is significantly advanced. Not only can you set the power bank to charge your phone on a timer, you can also do it based on location. It also has a proximity sensor and will tell you if your phone moves a certain distance .from you, alerting you of theft or misplacement The Birksun Boost has a built-in 3W solar panel that takes up the top half of the rear of the bag. The panel is waterproof and it weighs just 1.04 kg. It's available in a wide range of colours and with different patterns printed on the fabric. There's also a built-in laptop sleeve for laptops up to 15 inches in size.

ETMAY4 2016