Great item, would recommend buying a USB battery pack with it to store your energy to use when you need it. Such as an Anker battery pack.

Not much sun now and item was included in a box with another item and packed in a way that allowed the two items to move around in the box. So not sure about whether that has an effect on its ability to collect sun.

Bought it as a gift. Had no complaints thus far.

UPDATE: Apr. 6, 2015: having used this solar panel for six months now, I realize I actually LIKE the pocket I was initially critical of. There is a small opening on the side of the pocket to slip your usb cords through, which enabled me to put the battery completely in the pocket and securely close it. That said, I have since purchased a highly rated RAV portable solar charger and find the Revive to be better BECAUSE of the folding flap. The RAV will velcro shut BUT if your device is a little bulky, it may not close completely. With the Revive, the flap can accommodate a slightly larger device and STILL close. I don't think you can go wrong with either solar charger, however, the flap/envelope enclosure (for me) gives the Revive a slight advantage. Hope this helps.

VERY happy with this portable solar panel. The two things preventing this from being 5-star (for me): the pocket could stand to be a bit larger. I have an Anker 13000 mAh battery I'm charging as we speak and it does not fully fit in the pocket. Since I'm home, it isn't that big an issue, however, if I were using this while out backpacking, cycling, etc., this could definitely be an issue, as it is my understanding the products being charged should not be in direct sun to prevent overheating. The other thing is that is not clearly indicated anywhere is which USB port will charge at 2.1 amp vs. 1 amp. It was only with some digging and reading through the customer questions here at Amazon, did I read that either USB port will charge at 2.1 amp and will drop to 1 amp if two things are plugged in. That makes sense, though I wish that was more clear. Since many portable batteries have separate ports for 1 amp vs. 2.1, I wasn't sure, when using a solar panel, if the same would apply. Apparently, it does not. That said, I would absolutely recommend this product and would buy again myself. The canvas case is solidly built, the attached hooks seem very secure as well. The unit folds to a very portable size (9x6) and comes with a rain bag and strap with hooks. Just keep in mind that either USB port will charge at 2.1 amp and that the pocket may be a bit small (but will easily fit a smartphone) for large devices and you should be a happy camper.

Perfect gifts