All linked products are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase any of these products, we may earn a commission. Ready to upgrade? We’ve got you. From sleek leather totes to ultra ...

Think slouchy, voluminous holdalls and totes perfect for stuffing with make-up bags, phone chargers, water bottles, books, umbrellas and whatever paraphernalia you need to see you through the day.

But now, James’ company, Soma Bags, is providing a solution: backpacks equipped with solar panels that charge a reading light. What started as a small-scale project with some discarded cement ...