Travel Lifestyle

The 7 Best North Face Backpacks For Travel & Adventure: Ultimate Buyers Guide 

by Hannah Collerson

North Face Travel Backpacks

Whilst traveling, be it for a day or a few weeks, your backpack is home to your beloved belongings, so you want it to be strong and protective. It also helps to have different sections, pockets and dividers if you want to keep organised whilst on the go.  

But as well as looking after your belongings, your travel backpack needs to look after you. What I mean by this is, you want a backpack that makes carrying heavy items easier, without hurting your back. A good travel backpack will make your adventures easier.  

North Face is a top brand for outdoor gear, and several of their backpacks have been made with hiking, climbing and mountaineering in mind. So North Face backpacks can handle an adventure.  

But to help you find the best North Face backpack, here’s a buyers guide and a list of the top choices.  

What is The North Face?  

The North Face is a brand that specialises in outdoor clothing and gear for adventurous campers and travellers.  

They sell fleeces, coats, tents, sleeping bags, travel and camping accessories, and of course backpacks.  

North Face gear is designed to help you venture off the grid, and take on more challenging adventures. The name ‘The North Face’ refers to the north face of a mountain, which is the coldest and hardest route to the peak, and their gear has been designed to be suitable for even the hardest of journeys.  

Why choose a North Face Backpack?

The North Face designs backpacks that are suitable for all kinds of adventures. So whatever corner of the world you’re heading to, whatever climate or adventure you’re tackling, a North Face backpack is going to protect your gear.  

North Face backpacks are also comfortable and they make carrying a heavy pack easier on your back.  

The Best North Face Backpacks

1: north face borealis.

best travel backpack north face

The Borealis is one of the most popular North Face backpacks,  because it’s the classic day bag. It’s fairly small in size, and it’s lightweight too, so it’s great for day trips, or shorter getaways.

It’s also water-resistant, so there’s no need to worry about your belongings being damaged by bad weather or damp ground.

The Borealis’s interior is also designed for those who like to keep organised. It has different compartments, and some padding to keep your belongings from becoming squashed, damaged or bashed.

  • It comes with a lifetime warranty 
  • It’s a popular backpack model
  • Water resistant so little risk of water damage to your belongings
  • Organised interior with different compartments
  • Mesh compartments on the sides for extra storage, or for a water bottle
  • It’s the perfect size for a day bag
  • It’s a unisex design
  • It’s too small for anyone wanting a large capacity backpack for bigger trips

2: North Face Surge

best travel backpack north face

The North Face Surge  is an elegant day bag that doubles as a laptop bag. It has a dedicated space for a laptop up to 15″.

The Surge is also one of the most comfortable North Face backpacks to wear on long journeys. It’s padded, and features North Face’s FlexVent suspension system which makes the bag easier on the shoulders and back.

The back panel is breathable, allowing air to pass through and keep your back cool, because no one wants the dreaded sweaty back that often comes with carry a rucksack.

One thing to note with this backpack  though is that it’s designed for women. There are several colourful design options, and the bag is designed for a woman’s smaller build.

  • Very comfortable for a woman as it’s specifically designed for a female body
  • Laptop compartment with soft lining to prevent scratches and bashes
  • FlexVent suspension for comfortable carrying
  • Perfect for those who like to work on the go
  • It’s not a backpack for men
  • It’s not waterproof, which may cause a problem if you’re using it to carry your laptop a long way
  • It’s not as lightweight as other models

3: North Face Recon

best travel backpack north face

Another women’s North Face backpack, the North Face Recon. This backpack has a classic design, and it’s a popular choice for travel addicts because it’s got a larger capacity than other North Face day bags.

Much like the Surge, this also has a dedicated laptop compartment, which makes it ideal for digital nomads. The laptop compartment is well padded and protected, so there’s no risk of any damage to your laptop.

It also has a FlexVent suspension system and a sternum and waist straps to make it more comfortable to carry.

  • 31 litre capacity makes it a better option for traveling on short trips
  • Very comfortable for a woman as it was designed for the female form
  • FlexVent suspension system
  • Sternum and waist straps
  • Laptop compartment makes it perfect for digital nomads. It can also be used as a work bag. 
  • Different colours to choose from
  • Only suitable for women
  • Can’t be stood up on a flat surface, so needs to be carefully placed down if it contains valuables

4: North Face Router

best travel backpack north face

The North Face Router  is another laptop day bag, but this is one for the gents. It comes in red or black, so there’s a couple of different style options.

The guys out there will be pleased to hear it’s designed to be just as comfortable as the ladies’ Surge and Recon, with the same FlexVent suspension system and padded straps providing ultimate comfort.

This laptop day bag is bigger than the women’s alternatives, being 17″ rather than 15″. So it fits much more than just a laptop.

The larger capacity and durable material make it a perfect backpack for traveling. As long as you don’t mind packing light, this can easily cope with larger and longer adventures.

  • It’s large capacity means it can fit more than just a laptop
  • Flexvent suspension system and padded straps make it super comfortable 
  • You can choose between red or black 
  • Specifically designed to suit male bodies 
  • Not a great choice for women

5: North Face Terra

The best North Face backpack for travel

The North Face Terra is a unisex backpack that comes in different sizes, so you can find one that fits you and your belongings perfectly. You can choose a 50, 55 or 65 litre rucksack, so it’s definitely a rucksack designed for travel.

You can also use it with a hydration bladder, and it has a compartment for a laptop too, making it one of the most versatile backpacks.

It’s got a vertical channel that gives the backpack good ventilation and a padded shoulder harness and hip belt for comfort.

It also has a sleeping bag compartment, making it a great bag for outdoors and adventure travel.

  • The best North Face backpack for travel 
  • Designed with hiking in mind 
  • Large capacity makes it perfect for backpacking and longer trips
  • Sleeping bag compartment makes it a good adventure bag
  • Laptop compartment useful for digital nomads
  • Can be used with a hydration bladder
  • Super comfortable and ventilated 
  • Not suitable for cabin baggage or smaller trips  

6: North Face Fovero 85

North Face Travel Rucksack

The North Face Fovero 85  is THE backpack for long term, adventurous travellers. It has even more room than the North Face Terra, and it has a separate sleeping bag compartment that can be attached/detached.

The lid also doubles as a day bag, and can be attached and detached from the bag so you don’t have to worry about carrying two bags at once.

The suspension systems makes carrying heavy weight easier, which is especially useful if you plan on hiking with a lot of gear.

It also comes with a waterproof cover that can be easily pulled over the bag, so there’s no need to worry about traveling in bad weather.

  • Perfect for carrying lots of gear
  • Sleeping bag compartment
  • Detachable day bag
  • Great suspension system  
  • Padded straps for comfort
  • Waterproof cover
  • It’s massive, which means it’s not suitable for  small  trips 

7: North Face Banchee 50

Travel Backpack From The North Face

This is a great backpack for anyone who likes to travel  on shorter trips, as well as big adventures. It can hold up to 50 litres worth of kit, but it can be adjusted to become a smaller backpack for smaller trips.

It’s suitable for both men and women, and it’s one of the most comfortable North Face backpacks. The straps have some really cushy padding, and you can use the front straps to spread the weight of your bag.

It also comes in two colours, red and green, so you can choose the style that suits you best.

  • Great for all kinds of travel – short trips and long adventures
  • Super comfortable to wear, thanks to the cushy padding
  • Suitable for both men and women
  • Size of the bag can be adjusted
  • Two colours to choose from
  • No laptop compartment 

What to look for in a North Face backpack?  

Different backpacks suit different people, mainly because we all lead different lifestyles. So before rushing out and buying a backpack for your next trip, here are some things to look for and consider  

Capacity: how much can it hold?  

Depending on where you’re traveling and for how long, you might need a smaller or larger backpack.  

You can get some really massive backpacks for bigger trips, some even hold up to 120L. But these will be heavy to carry, even with comfortable straps, and if you’re traveling by plane these will need to be checked in.  

North Face also do a huge range of smaller backpacks, up to 40L, and most of these can be carried comfortably, and can be used as a cabin bag when flying.  

Padding: is it comfortable?  

If you’re traveling with a backpack, you need to be able to carry it for a while without the straps cutting into your shoulders or the weight hurting your back.  

So for your backpack to be comfortable and safe to wear, you need it to have cushy straps that are soft on the shoulders. And a padded back will stop the backpack from feeling lumpy and bumpy to wear.

Protection: how much protection does it offer your belongings?

Some bags will have internal padding that gives your belongings extra protection. So if you’re carrying valuables like cameras or a laptop with you on your travels, you’ll definitely want to make sure your bag keeps them safe from bumps and bashes.  

Another way to make sure your bag offers enough protection is to get a waterproof bag. This way if you’re venturing somewhere with bad weather, or you’re hiking and get caught in the rain, water isn’t going to dampen your possessions or ruin your electricals.  

Ventilation: how good is the air flow?  

If you’re used to wearing a backpack you’ll know the ever-embarrassing problem of back sweat. Some backpacks can make you sweat like crazy. I’m not talking like a little bit of moisture, I’m talking dripping wet t-shirt back sweat.

It’s embarrassing and uncomfortable, but it can be so easily avoided with a good backpack! All you need is good ventilation.

Lots of North Face backpacks will have ventilated backs, allowing air to flow, keeping your back cool and significantly non-sweaty.

Internal features: what’s it like inside?  

Having one big open interior will allow you to fit more in your backpack, but it means your things are probably going to be quite unorganised. You’ll have to just throw everything in, without having any sort of structure.

If you want to organise your backpack a bit more, you might want to look for a backpack with internal features and dividers.

Some North Face backpacks will have laptop compartments, and smaller phone or money pockets. This makes for convenient packing.

Quality: will it go the distance?  

North Face is a top outdoors brand, so they always make quality backpacks. Choosing a North Face backpack means you won’t have to worry about your rucksack breaking under pressure or ripping when carrying a heavy load.

Straps: does it have supportive straps?

Whether you’re heading out for the day, or for a long term travel trip, you need your backpack to be comfortable to wear. Supportive and padded straps make carrying a heavy bag easier. You won’t have to put up with straps cutting into your shoulders.

If you’re traveling long distance with your backpack, and you plan on carrying it around for longer than an hour or two, you might want to consider a rucksack with chest and sternum straps. This helps you spread the weight of your bag, making long walks easier.

Size: will it double as cabin luggage?

If you’re going to be traveling with your bag, you’ll need to think about size. Choosing a massive backpack will allow you to take all the gear you need for several weeks or even several months. But you will have to check it in when you fly.

Choosing a smaller backpack will mean you’ll have less capacity but you can take it on smaller trips, and use it as your cabin bag.

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The best North Face backpacks to tackle any task

Whether you’re navigating twisting trails or urban terrain, make sure you’ve got the right North Face pack for the job.

By Brian Smyth | Updated Jul 29, 2022 9:07 AM EDT

  • The Gear Locker

best north face backpacks

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs.

Take a look around, and it seems like everyone has a North Face backpack. Everyone except you, that is. For some, trends pale in comparison to traditions, but let’s face it: How many people do you know who actually like those not-so-sporty, generic packs? Sure, they get the job done decently enough, but when you live out of your pack, there’s nothing like a quality backpack from The North Face to do the job well and with style.

Whether you’re a traveling professional, a full-time student, or an avid hiker, you need a backpack that’ll keep your gear safe and secure without breaking down after a few months of hard use. While The North Face originally created packs for outdoor enthusiasts, a massive number of its bags end on the backs of urban dwellers. Whether you need a pack for an afternoon on a local trail or a bag for your daily commute, we’ll help you figure out which North Face backpack is best for you.

  • Best Overall: North Face Borealis
  • Best Budget: North Face Jester
  • Editor’s Choice: North Face Recon
  • Best Minimalist: North Face Route Rocket 16
  • Best for Students: North Face Surge
  • Best for Travel: North Face Kaban 2.0

North Face Borealis

North Face Borealis

Few North Face backpacks offer the versatility of the well-loved Borealis. A natural evolution of the OG bag, this pack sports all the standard features you would expect from a TNF pack plus plenty of much-appreciated extras. Add to that a massive color palette, and it’s hard not to love this pack

This 28-liter pack features a standup design, an updated version of the original Borealis’ iconic external bungee storage system across the front and sides, and TNF’s FlexVent suspension system with its padded, ventilated back panel, and free-moving, padded shoulder straps plus a seemingly self-adjusting sternum strap. The Borealis incorporates plenty of storage and organizational options, and notably, it also includes dual bottom compression/gear attachment straps, a suspended laptop sleeve, and multiple fleece-lined storage pockets.

While the Borealis receives a full-body water-resistant finish, both the bottom panel and the external water bottle pouches perform particularly well in this department, a handy feature if you frequently set your bag down in wet or damp locations. Also, located above the laptop sleeve is a hydration reservoir hook, although the Borealis lacks a hydration hose port, an oddity to say the least.

The Borealis does have a couple of noteworthy drawbacks. First, we would like to see the laptop compartment include the tablet and file sleeves found on some of The North Face’s larger packs. Second, while the removable hip belt does stabilize the bag, it does little to reduce the load on the wearer’s shoulders. Admittedly, both shortcomings are a bit nitpicky, but it does pay to know what you’ll get before you checkout.

  • Capacity: 28 liters
  • Type: Urban
  • Suspension: FlexVent
  • External gear attachment: Bungee storage system
  • Dedicated laptop storage: Yes
  • Hydration reservoir compatible: Yes

Standup design

Suspended laptop sleeve; plenty of fleece-lined storage pockets

Water bottle pouches and bottom panel use highly water-resistant build materials

Sternum straps seems to self-adjust to the proper position

Minimalist laptop compartment lacks tablet and file sleeves

Hip belt stabilizes pack but isn’t designed to be load-bearing

Lacks dedicated hydration hose port

North Face Jester

North Face Jester

If you need a budget-friendly North Face backpack, the Jester is the only way to go. It packs in every TNF standard feature plus a few extras, but does so without breaking the bank.

In many ways, the Jester is a cost-conscious version of the Borealis, complete with the padded, ventilated FlexVent system and external bungee cord storage system (but only on the front). The Jester sports dual external water bottle pockets, dual carry handles, and dual compartments. The admin compartment takes a “low drag” approach to organizational pockets and pouches, covering all the basics but little else. The “slick” main compartment contains nothing but a padded, suspended laptop sleeve — a major bonus.

Compared to other TNF backpacks, this affordable pack lacks stiffness which gives it a less robust feel, but also makes it very lightweight and comfortable to wear. Despite using lower-cost build materials, such as SBS zippers, the Jester never suffers from construction quality issues.

While this TNF backpack is inexpensive, its low-cost design lacks a little in the organization and ease of access departments compared to its more expensive siblings. For example, the top panel can get in the way when withdrawing a laptop from the sleeve. While the Jester does employ a standup design, it doesn’t always like to stand up on its own, although proper weight and object distribution in the main compartment should diminish this issue.

  • Suspension: Padded
  • Hydration reservoir compatible: No

Very comfortable, lightweight

Good build quality (despite not feeling quite as robust as other TNF packs)

Suspended laptop sleeve

Simple layout lacks some organizational options, cuts down on ease of access

Doesn’t always stand up on its own

Water bottle pouches eat up internal space when used

North Face Recon

North Face Recon

While the Borealis is the undisputed champion among North Face backpacks, the Recon is a dark horse that we love just a little bit more. The Recon features most of the other pack’s standout features, including its standup design, but its unique characteristics ensure that it stands out on its own merits.

This 30-liter pack includes all the standard features you might expect on a TNF backpack plus most of the Borealis’ features, although it boasts two extra liters of storage space than the best-seller. Both packs feature a standup design, the FlexVent suspension system, the same basic layout, and almost identical organizational features. The fleece-lined sleeves, bottom compression straps, water bottle pouches, highly water-resistant construction, and padded laptop sleeve also match the Borealis.

Visually, however, the Recon stands out thanks to its external mesh stretch pocket, dual daisy chains, and side compression straps, all handy features which we think make for a nicer aesthetic as well. This pack’s lower half is slightly narrower and more compressed than the Borealis, giving the Recon a sleeker feel despite the extra cargo space. Also, the women’s Recon has the same cargo capacity as the men’s pack, something the Borealis series cannot say.

In terms of drawbacks, the Recon suffers from many of the same issues as its famous brother, including the minimalist laptop compartment, non-load-bearing hip belt, and missing hydration hose port. Like with the Borealis, these may be little things in the grand scheme of things, but they are worth noting. Unfortunately, the Recon also has a non-suspended laptop sleeve which could be a bigger hiccup for some.

  • Capacity: 30 liters
  • External gear attachment: Mesh pocket, daisy chains

More streamlined, slightly larger than the Borealis

Plenty of fleece-lined storage pockets

Same drawbacks as the Borealis

Laptop sleeve isn’t suspended

North Face Route Rocket 16

North Face Route Rocket 16

Minimalists, rejoice! The Route Rocket 16 is here to serve. While originally designed as a rock climbing daypack, this little bag excels in the backcountry and around town without weighing you down with unnecessary extras.

The Route Rocket 16 features a streamlined design with a tapered build and minimal external pockets and straps. It includes most standard TNF backpack features, but it does lack a slick main compartment, water bottle pouches, and a bright interior lining. That said, it does include a padded back panel, breathable shoulder straps, a removable hip belt, and a few handy external gear attachment points, including dual daisy chains.

At 16 liters and 1.2 pounds, the Route Rocket 16 is both compact and lightweight. Since it technically is an outdoor pack, it sports both a water-resistant and a carbon-based abrasion-resistant finish to effectively counter environmental threats. The backpack’s design and build make it both tough and comfortable.

As an EDC pack, this small North Face backpack does suffer in a couple of areas. Mostly, it lacks organizational features almost entirely, even in the small admin pouch, and due to its intended use case, it lacks dedicated electronics storage entirely. Its other main drawback is that it does not come in a female-specific version. None of these downsides are dealbreakers for minimalists, but they are worth noting.

  • Capacity: 16 liters
  • Type: Climbing
  • External gear attachment: Daisy chains
  • Dedicated laptop storage: No

Comfortable

Very lightweight

Very tough construction

Water- and abrasion-resistant

Limited organization

Lacks dedicated electronics storage

No women’s version

North Face Surge

North Face Surge

Students looking for a North Face backpack should look no further than the Surge. Whether you’re rocking the halls at your local high school, college, or tech school, this pack can handle it all. In addition to all the standard features you can expect from The North Face, this bag has quite a few extra features worthy of your hard-earned cash.

The 31-liter Surge features a standup design and more nooks and crannies than you can shake a finger at, yet each compartment, pouch, and pocket is ideally positioned for quick, easy access while seated. The spacious main compartment, comfy yet sturdy grab handle, and FlexVent suspension system are perfect for handling heavy loads of books, and both the sternum strap and removable hip belt help stabilize those loads. Dual external water bottle pouches encourage hydration, but the laptop compartment really steals the show.

The Surge boasted a padded, fleece-lined laptop compartment that can take all comers. The gusseted compartment features a suspended laptop sleeve as well as two extra sleeves for a tablet, file folders, or both. The North Face didn’t forget the ladies either, as the women’s version has the same features and cargo capacity as the men’s pack.

All these extras have the adverse effect of boosting the Surge’s weight to a porky 2.75 pounds. Unfortunately, the bag’s shoulder straps seem to lack a little of the extra padding necessary to maximize its weight and potential payload. Finally, the U-shaped zipper pulls only appear on the main and laptop compartments, making access to smaller items slightly more annoying.

  • Capacity: 31 liters

Lots of storage and organization space, including fleece-lined electronics storage

Gusseted laptop compartment has space for laptop, tablet, and file folders

Shoulder strap padding is a bit lacking

U-shaped zipper pulls only on main and laptop compartments

A bit heavy

North Face Kaban 2.0

North Face Kaban 2.0

The North Face makes plenty of travel-ready backpacks, but the Kaban 2.0 tops them all. It sports all the TNF backpack essentials, but with features like a luggage handle passthrough and a slightly more weather-resistant construction, this bag is ready for just about anything in the air or on the ground.

As highlighted, this 27-liter pack sports a luggage handle passthrough for easy airport navigation as well as low-profile top and side carry handles for grab-and-go functionality. Externally, the Kaban 2.0 sports two hidden slit pockets and two hidden carabiner loops for quick stowage of and access to travel essentials. The pack also includes a deep admin pouch with lots of organization options, a top access main compartment, and padded laptop compartment. The laptop compartment is divided and gusseted so it can handle a laptop, tablet, and/or file folders or magazines, and the entire bag features multiple electronic-friendly fleece-lined storage pockets.

In addition to its sleek standup design, the Kaban 2.0’s toughness and weather resistance are noteworthy. The North Face makes durable backpacks, but this bag’s TPU laminate front and ballistic nylon bottom panel enhance its ability to resist wear, tear, and weather. Unlike its brothers, this urban pack also features drain holes in the water bottle pouches (a nice if superfluous feature), and the laptop compartment boasts a highly weather-resistant zipper.

Of course, the new Kaban isn’t perfect. The main compartment lid does not unzip very far, making access to sunken gear a bit challenging at times. The laptop sleeve isn’t suspended, and the bag itself is a little hefty, weighing in at 2.8 pounds. These drawbacks are not dealbreakers, but it pays dividends to understand them before spending your next paycheck.

  • Capacity: 27 liters
  • Suspension: Padded, ventilated
  • External gear attachment: Dual carabiner loops

Streamlined standup design

Tough, weather-resistant design

Main compartment doesn’t open very far

Things to consider before buying a North Face backpack

Many people who are familiar with The North Face know that the company started life as an outdoor gear supplier, and over the years, it has stayed true to its roots. That said, the 1990s launched a trend that turned The North Face into a premier outfitter for both the Grand Canyon and the steel canyons of New York. As such, the company classifies its backpacks into urban and outdoor categories. Most urban packs are designed with students, commuters, and techies in mind, while outdoor bags are built with hikers and mountain climbers in mind. That said, these backpacks can straddle those distinctions as needed thanks to TNF’s solid build quality.

Standard features

Just as you’d expect to find a bowtie on a Chevrolet, North Face backpacks usually come with the same standard features, regardless of use case. As a result, these packs tend to have many of the same strengths (and weaknesses). So, what can you expect to find on a TNF backpack? While features may vary for one pack type to the next, standard elements usually include a top-access design, “slick” main compartment, light-colored interior linings, padded shoulder straps, dual water bottle pouches, recycled bag materials, and non-PFC durable water repellent finish. For urban TNF backpacks, a padded laptop sleeve is another standard feature you can expect.

Key features

Backpack manufacturers offer all kinds of bells and whistles (literally!) with its packs, so make sure you know which elements are essential and which fall into the “nice to have” category instead. For our many, we see cargo capacity, weight-distribution features (padded shoulder straps, hip belt, etc.), organizational options (pockets, pouches, electronics sleeves, etc.), and external gear attachment points (daisy chains) to be the most valuable in an EDC/around town backpack. If you tote a computer often, track down a pack that offers a suspended laptop sleeve for some extra protection against bumps and bruises.

Generally, The North Face packs usually run somewhere in the $90 to $110 range. That said, EDC backpacks can drop as low as $60 or shoot up to $400 for technical outdoor bags.

FAQs about North Face backpacks

Q: how good are north face backpacks.

A: The North Face has a reputation for producing quality products, and its backpacks are no different. Plenty of TNF packs have endured years of heavy use without breaking a sweat. Whenever you purchase a TNF pack, you will pay for the name, but the quality that goes with it usually will justify the price.

Q: How much protection do North Face backpacks offer your belongings?

A: As backpacks go, The North Face’s packs do a good job of providing protection for your gear. In addition to water-resistant finishes, TNF’s bags usually include fleece-lined phone and tablet sleeves, as well as padded laptop sleeves. Some laptop sleeves are even suspended for extra protection, although don’t bother trying to predict which packs will have it.

Q: Are North Face backpacks good for your back?

A: That depends on what you mean. The North Face backpacks equipped with the FlexVent suspension system are certified by the American Chiropractic Association, which basically means the system is designed to anatomically match your back and shoulders. Of course, a heavily loaded pack won’t do your body much good over long periods of time no matter how good the ergonomics.

Q: Do all North Face backpacks include a lifetime warranty?

A: All North Face backpacks come with a limited lifetime guarantee. This means that if the bag fails due to a manufacturing defect, it’s covered so long as it isn’t a “renewed” pack. Unfortunately, packs are only warranted to the original owner. For more details, visit the company’s warranty page .

Q: What North Face backpack has the most room?

A: The L/XL version of the Griffin 75 offers a whopping 74 liters of cargo capacity, while the S/M “only” offers 69 liters. Of course, most city dwellers will need or use such a pack, so take a look at the Router which has 40 liters of space inside. The women’s Surge is the largest women’s backpack, coming in at 31 liters.

Final thoughts

You asked us which North Face backpack is the best, and we are compelled to nominate the world-famous Borealis . More than any other pack, the Borealis defines The North Face, and with good reason. Its combination of build quality and organization with comfort and versatility are impossible to beat, although a few packs put up a stiff fight. In the end, though, the classic wins as it should.

Methodology

Evaluating a single product type from a single manufacturer is a bit more daunting than it sounds, especially when many of them sport the same add-ons. Nevertheless, I suffered and bled for you, dear reader. I picked apart every detail to see which North Face packs were most worthy of your money. To ease my travails, I paid attention to both standard and not-so-standard features, as well as each bag’s intended use case to see how each one came together in its own unique way. To simplify things, I focused on “urban” bags, backpacks designed for EDC carry, travel, school, or work.

Objective evaluations were also a challenge. In 2021, The North Face conducted a product line refresh, so I looked long and hard to find relevant reviews, a significant test in its own right. In the end, though, I did prevail. Special thanks goes out to Desy Cheng , the GearLab staff,  Moorlander EDC , and Traveling Salseros ( more than once ). I also appreciate Company Man , Logically Answered , and Slidebean for their breakdowns of The North Face’s history and cultural influence.

Brian Smyth

Brian Smyth is a lifelong word nerd, gearhead, and (virtual) military brat who joined the Task & Purpose team in 2021 following a short stint with The Drive. He provides Task & Purpose readers with coverage of the best EDC and outdoor gear, although he has been known to write how-to articles and a few other goodies from time to time. Contact the author here.

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6 Best North Face Backpacks – From Big to Small

The North Face is one of the most popular brands around the world known for its sturdy, functional, and stylish bags. The sheer durability and functionality of North Face bags are the reason people favor them over most other brands.

At A Glance: Our Top 5 North Face Backpacks

  • Best North Face Commuter Backpack Surge Backpack Jump To Review
  • Best Hiking Backpack North Face Diad Pro 22 Jump To Review
  • Best Backpack for Backpackers North Face Terra 65 Jump To Review
  • Best Carry-On Backpack North Face Router Backpack Jump To Review
  • Best Women's Backpack Women's Borealis Backpack Jump To Review
  • Best Pack For College North Face Jester Jump To Review

TNF develops bags, gear and technologies based on the feedback of athletes and world-class adventurers. There is a lot of research behind finding the best material, structure, and construction in every backpack they make. And that is why we have collected the best North Face backpacks in this review. So dive right in…

Top Product Overview

The top north face backpacks, surge backpack.

THE NORTH FACE Surge Commuter Laptop Backpack, Cordovan/TNF Black, One Size

The Surge Backpack is one of the most popular day packs from the North Face.

This 33-liter pack is constructed of hyper-durable ballistics nylon and crafted with a padded haul handle on the exterior. It has the FlexVent™ suspension system , which has custom injection-molded shoulder straps, a padded mesh back panel with a spine channel, and a wicking lumbar panel for maximum support and ventilation.

This backpack from TNF fits a 15-inch laptop in its dedicated laptop compartment. If you have way more stuff inside, carrying this laptop backpack throughout the day will still be comfortable.

It has several fleece-lined exterior pockets designed for quick access on the go including pockets for your tablet, gadgets, and sunglasses.

Night commuters and cyclists will also appreciate the 360-degree reflective bike-light loop . On the side, there are two water bottle pockets made with Teksever fabric which can also conceal content. It will be safe to stuff smaller items in there if you need to just reach back without taking the straps off your shoulders.

There are several interior pockets for better organization. It also has a sternum strap and a removable waist belt so you can adjust the way you carry your bag any way you want.

It’s clearly meant to hold a lot of things big and small, which can be its main fault. Because of its shape and the distribution of the weight, the bag will tip over when it’s set down . You’ll have to prop the front up against a wall or any other structure to keep it upright.

  • Many pockets for organization
  • Padded and ventilated back and shoulder straps
  • Dedicated laptop compartment
  • Tips over when set down

Product Information

  • Dimensions: 19.75" x 13.75" x 8.5"
  • Laptop sleeve: 10.5” x 13.25”
  • Volume: 33 liters
  • Weight: 3 lbs
  • Material: Ballistic Nylon

North Face Diad Pro 22

The North Face Diad Pro 22 Pack

A good hiking backpack is roomy, secure, and lightweight. This is exactly what the Diad Pro 22 backpack is. Its 22-liter capacity is enough for you to bring the essentials on any kind of day hike while helping you limit the unnecessary stuff you might end upbringing. The last thing you want on a hike is to carry around a huge bag the whole day up and down trails with things you don’t really need.

It’s crafted of high-tenacity ripstop nylon , keeping this bag at its lightest. It’s also very easy to stow when not in use and won’t take up too much space. This minimal pack offers storage in the lid and large mesh exterior pockets for easy access.

Despite its minimalistic design, it doesn’t skimp on features. It has a hydration sleeve , a sternum strap , and a daisy chain to hook on more items that don’t fit in the pack. The padded back panels help keep the bag comfortable against your bag.

There are few options for organization , so if you have smaller items, you might need extra pouches inside the bag.

  • Extremely lightweight
  • Made of durable and stowable material
  • Roomy and adequate for a day or summit hike
  • Few pockets and options for organization
  • Dimensions: 21" x 11" x 9"
  • Volume: 22 liters
  • Weight: 0.8 lbs
  • Material: Ripstop Nylon

North Face Terra 65

THE NORTH FACE Terra 65 L Backpacking Backpack, Agave Green/Sulphur Spring Green, S-M 65L

The North Face Terra 65 is the backpack you need for those long-distance hikes or if you are backpacking around the world!

This bag is made not only for storage and space but for ultimate fit and comfort . Its slim design and lightweight material make carrying 65 liters of weight more comfortable and manageable.

It features an OPTIFIT harness system for better load control on the trails or on the streets. It also has dials to adjust the fit between the pack and your body without sacrificing ventilation . This updated harness system basically ensures that the placement of the bag against your body, suits exactly the way you want to carry the bag.

The wide hip belt also ensures that the weight is spread out and not all concentrated on your shoulders. After all, this is the biggest North Face backpack in this review!

There are over 7 pockets, a huge side pocket for the main compartment, and a sleeping bag compartment . While the bag itself is durable, some of the external straps don’t seem to be made with equal care. The sternum strap and external clips will hold, but if handled carelessly or forced to compress too many items in the bag, there is a tendency for these smaller external parts to break .

  • Customizable and extremely comfortable fit
  • Large capacity
  • Excellent weight distributionCons
  • Lower-quality external parts
  • Dimensions: 11" x 6.3" x 19.3"
  • Volume: 65 liters
  • Weight: 4 lbs
  • Material: Polyester

North Face Router Backpack

THE NORTH FACE Router Everyday Laptop Backpack, TNF Black, One Size

The North Face Router Backpack is one of the most functional travel backpacks North Face has made and is ideal as carry-on.

Of course, that does not mean they have not worried about the straps and back panel. They have incorporated their FlexVent suspension system with custom injection-molded shoulder straps, and a padded mesh back panel. This also includes a well-thought-out spine channel and a wicking lumbar panel for maximum ventilation. So, no worrying about standing around in a city or airport for hours and having a sweaty back!

This backpack’s nifty external pockets and sleeves are great for the traveler that loves to bring lots of tech and gadgets along on a trip. The two water bottle pockets on the outside are ideal for a long day out.

And yes, it has a dedicated lie-flat 17″ laptop compartment on the back. So you can get to your laptop easily for that ever-present TSA security check. Unfortunately, there are no straps to secure your laptop or tablet in place.

The frontmost area has a well-organized compartment with a neoprene tablet sleeve and other smaller pockets. This means lots of space for your mobile phone, power bank, camera, and Kindle if you brought it along!

It has lots of space with a 35L capacity, but not too much that you won’t be able to fit it under the seat in front. It is also plenty big enough for a day out on the town if you are doing a city trip, and also enough room for your gear on a day hike.

The presence of a small, but still present hip-belt will be a godsend to those who have loaded this backup. Sure, it’s not a proper hip harness, but it will certainly help.

All in all, this is a great hybrid North Face backpack for those who want a little of everything.

  • Pockets and dividers for easy organization
  • Stowable straps to carry as a duffel
  • Lightweight and durable
  • Lack of weight support straps and padding
  • Size: 19.7 x 8.7 x 13.6 inches
  • Material: Nylon
  • Volume: 35 liters
  • Weight: 2.2 lbs
  • Special features: FlexVent Suspension System, 17-inch Laptop compartment, Tablet Sleeve, Several Pockets and Compartments, Tuckable Lumbar Straps, Removable Sternum Straps

Women's Borealis Backpack

The North Face Women's Borealis, TNF Black, One Size

While North Face backpacks are generally unisex, much care has been put in designing for women’s smaller frames and different builds. The Women’s Borealis Backpack   is a crowd favorite. It has an excellent design that molds a woman’s body , and also comes in tons of  different colors  to match any kind of personality.

The updated version of the Borealis Backpack is designed with the updated FlexVent suspension system for all-day comfort. The shoulder straps are contoured for an ergonomic fit .

This 25-liter pack is equipped with several exterior and quick-access pockets . Inside is a dedicated 15-inch laptop compartment  as well. There are side compression straps to keep items snug and a removable waist belt for added weight support if needed.

A padded top-haul handle makes for easier handling. And don’t forget the side water bottle pockets too!

This North Face backpack is durable, but not meant to carry heavy items such as books for school. It will fit documents, but textbooks and binders will be a challenge. As it’s meant as a day pack, it travels well for day hikes or the daily commute to work .

Note:  We have compared the  Borealis before with the Jester

  • Designed specifically for women for an ergonomic fit
  • Several pockets for organization
  • Lightweight and comes in different colors
  • Too small for textbooks and larger documents
  • Dimensions: 18.75” x 12.5” x 8”
  • Laptop compartment: 12” x 13”
  • Volume: 25 liters
  • Weight: 2 lbs
  • Material: Nylon and Polyester

North Face Jester

THE NORTH FACE Jester Everyday Laptop Backpack, TNF Black 2, One Size

This is the best North Face backpack for college or school, for sure!

It comes with a 28L capacity and lots of organization options in various spots throughout the pack. First, there is the padded laptop sleeve (15 inches) in the back of the main compartment. That main compartment also fits lots of books and papers too.

Then, North Face has placed on the front and organization pocket for all your small things – phone, pens, small notepad, keys, etc.

On the outside, there are of course two side water bottle pockets (great for umbrellas too) as well as the bungee cord on the front where you can stash an extra jacket or sweater if your backpack is full

All in all the perfect North Face backpack for a day at school or college.

  • Perfect size for college
  • 15 inch Laptop compartment
  • Lightweight & comfortable
  • Bungee straps for extra capacity
  • No hip strap
  • Dimensions: 19.75" x 13.25" x 7.5" (50 cm x 34 cm x 19 cm)
  • 27.5L Capacity
  • Padded laptop sleeve: 15 inch

North Face Backpacks Comparison Table

Why go for north face.

North Face bags have been around for a reason – it’s a very reliable brand that can endure a lot of wear and tear. It also comes in a variety of shapes, sizes, form, function and price tags. Whatever kind of bag you need, you’ll surely find something that suits your criteria.

Technology . North Face is one of the most advanced brands when it comes to storage and carriage technology. The suspension systems built into the bags guarantee ultimate comfort regardless of the weight and length of time the bags are on your back.

Build . North Face bags are built to last. If not forever, at least for as long as you intend to use and abuse the bag for rough travels or long-haul flights. The materials and structures of the bags are well thought out to allow the bag to deliver according to its function.

Design . North Face bags are not subtle. While you’ll find more minimalistic designs from the brand, most of the bags are loud and packed with pockets, straps, mesh, and clips. If you’re looking for a sleek and futuristic bag, look somewhere else. North Face bags are designed to stand out and be as functional as you need them to be.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the largest north face backpack.

The largest North Face backpacks are 65 Liters and include the Terra, Trail Lite and Evolution backpacks.

How Many Liters Is a North Face Backpack?

The North Face backpacks range in size from 18 - 35 Liters for most of their daypacks and hiking backpacks. Larger packpacks between 40-65 Liters are available for backpacking, camping and hiking.

Why Are North Face Backpacks So Popular?

North Face backpacks are popular due to their exceptional durability, functional design, and the brand's reputation for high-quality outdoor gear. They are versatile for various activities like hiking, traveling, or daily commuting, making them a preferred choice for many.

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The North Face Router Backpack Review

The North Face Router Backpack is a large 40-liter travel backpack that can compress well enough to be used as a daypack.

Our Verdict

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  • Compresses enough to look and feel like a daypack
  • Shoulder straps articulate and move easily
  • Just the right balance of organization and spaciousness
  • Water bottle pockets don’t grip slender bottles well
  • Hip belt doesn’t add a lot of support
  • Inverted access to front top pocket unintuitive

Technical Details

Carry-on compliance.

View 93/145 Airlines

Disclaimer: We take the measurements of the bag provided by the manufacturer and compare them to the allowance listed on airline websites. This should be used as a guideline rather than a rule. Bags can change size as you pack them out, and every airline's interpretation of compliance is different. Just because a bag is listed as carry-on compliant here doesn't mean that the airline will interpret it that way.

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Weight (lb)

2.94 lb (1.3 kg)

21 in x 12.5 in x 9 in (53.3 x 31.8 x 22.9 cm)

Notable Materials

Ripstop Nylon, YKK Zippers, Duraflex Hardware, ITW Hardware

Manufacturing Country

Laptop Compartment Size

Warranty Information

Return & Warranty Policy

Buying Options

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Full Review

Large travel backpacks typically have the unfortunate Achilles’ heel of being well-sized for the occasional vacation but too large for everyday use. Sure, some users actually need the large capacity of a travel backpack because they’re packing a lot of gear, but for those who pack light most of the time, it makes more sense to go with a daypack. Luckily, travel backpacks like The North Face Router Backpack can pull double duty as daypacks without being too cumbersome to carry around.

The North Face Router Backpack Outdoor

All of that said, The North Face didn’t do anything too drastic to make the Router act more like a daypack. They just added a few compression straps here and there to an aesthetic oddly reminiscent of their other prominent daypacks, and voila! You have a 40-liter travel backpack that doesn’t look out of place in an office full of daypacks.

External Components

The first thing that stands out about the Router Backpack is its scale. It’s a large backpack, yet it still looks like a daypack. It kind of plays this mind trick that makes you think it’s smaller by closely resembling other smaller daypacks like the 28-liter Borealis or 31-liter Surge . Perhaps it’s because the large logo immediately focuses your attention and blurs the rest of the bag, but that’s just a theory. Regardless of how it pulls this off, it’s a positive thing. Let’s put it this way: It’s a 40-liter backpack that doesn’t look intimidating for day-to-day use. It’s not boxy, and it’s not sack-like; it’s just a big-ified daypack.

The North Face Router Backpack Brand

The front handle is one of the more obvious clues that denote the Router’s larger-than-daypack size. Most daypacks settle for a top handle, usually a plain thin piece of nylon between the shoulder straps. Meanwhile, travel backpacks throw some at the sides, the front, and maybe even the back for good measure. Here, the Router has a beefy front grab handle, so you can pull it fairly easily from a car trunk or the floor if you set it lying on its back panel. There’s also one at the top that’s just as reassuringly thick as the one on the front.

Unfortunately, there are no side handles, but there are water bottle pockets. The Router has two, so you can double up on insulated bottles if you want to drink plenty of water while traveling. However, both are so big that they don’t really hold slender bottles (like an 18-ounce Hydro Flask) in place. You’ll either have to use a larger bottle that fits snugly in place or utilize the side compression straps with a carabiner to lock your bottle’s handle.

The North Face Router Backpack Water Bottle

We’re a bit puzzled at the tarpaulin-like material on the water bottle pockets. Based on other bags we’ve tested, elasticated fabric or stretchy mesh usually do a better job of holding bottles in place. We think that The North Face went with tarp for better water resistance. Either that or it’s an aesthetic design choice; the matte black’s slick texture is arguably appealing.

Speaking of materials, the main fabric on the Router is a 210-denier recycled ripstop nylon with a DWR-coating of water resistance. That’s almost as puzzling as the decision to go with tarp for the water bottle pockets. It’s a notably light fabric, denier-wise, for a travel backpack. For example, you’ll see ballistic nylon on bags like the Aer Travel Pack 3 or ALPAKA Elements Travel Backpack with deniers north of 800. Rest assured, though, that the Router feels well built, as expected of a backpack from a reputable brand like The North Face. Plus, a lighter fabric undoubtedly helps keep the weight down on this 40-liter backpack.

The North Face Router Backpack Model

A key factor in taming the Router’s 40-liter size is compression straps. As mentioned, there are some on the sides near the water bottle pockets and an additional two at the bottom. Cinch these down, and the Router slims much closer to daypack-like proportions. As a bonus, the bottom straps have elastic strap keepers, which minimize the strap-dangly look of the Router.

Now let’s check out the harness system, which The North Face calls the FlexVent suspension system. It’s certified by the American Chiropractic Association, so make of that what you please. Since we’ve made a big deal about the Router’s size being tameable, you’d expect this harness system to be fairly robust and comfortable—and that’s exactly how it is.

The North Face Router Backpack Full Back

That said, we think the most notable feature of the harness system is how the shoulder straps are mounted. Instead of being continuously thickly padded, there’s a narrow segment of fabric bridging the shoulder straps to the top edge of the bag. It’s a small detail, but it allows the straps to flex and fall more freely depending on the shape of the users’ shoulders. We’ve seen other backpacks do this, like Bellroy’s 16-liter Oslo , but it’s arguably more impactful on large backpacks, like the Router.

The shoulder straps themselves are thickly padded for comfort and naturally curve to match the body’s shape. If you want to attach a carabiner or other small accessories, there are reflective loops on each shoulder strap, plus one on each side of the bag itself. As you might expect, there’s also a sternum strap, and it’s on a rail that lets it slide, granting you very granular adjustments. The buckle also has a built-in whistle, by the way, in case you need to call attention to yourself. Sadly, there are no strap keepers to accompany the adjusters, so you’ll either have to fashion some yourself or let them dangle as is.

The North Face Router Backpack Detail

Should you need additional support, the Router also sports a simple hip belt. There’s nothing fancy about this belt, like thick padding, pockets, or magnets. It can’t shift a ton of weight away from the shoulder straps, but it can help keep the Router’s lower section close to you since it’s also a fairly tall bag.

The North Face Router Backpack Buckle

Last but not least is the back panel. It has many padded sections with breaks in between that act as air channels. The Router can carry a ton of weight, and this amount of padding suffices to cushion a lot of it when the going gets tough for lengthy periods of time, like waiting in an airport, for example.

The North Face Router Backpack Side By Side

As expected, the Router is very easy to carry despite being a large 40-liter backpack. Once we had the compression straps cinched down, the shoulder straps were more than up to the task of cushioning the load onto the shoulders. That said, we still wish the hip belt provided more support beyond just keeping the bag’s lower portion close to us. However, moving around, walking, and reaching for gear is not bad since the fabric bridging the shoulder straps to the bag lets them flex as freely as your arms.

The North Face Router Backpack Strap

More so than freedom of movement, the Router doesn’t make us self-conscious when using it as a daily backpack. Other travel backpacks, as functional as they are, often come across as too boxy and imposing, and they definitely stand out when you’re carrying them to a local coffee shop or park. The Router disguises itself well as just another The North Face daypack—it’s pretty lowkey.

Inside The Backpack

Make no mistake, the Router is a full-fledged travel backpack, and it’s hard not to ignore that fact once you start looking at the finer details. Secondary pockets include a large front fold-out compartment with two large interior mesh pockets. This pocket alone was enough to eliminate an entire packing cube we would’ve dedicated to socks and gloves. Dirty ones go in one, clean ones in the other; it’s that simple. And yes, the pockets are spacious enough to spread compressed socks to prevent them from bulging out the front.

The North Face Router Backpack Front Compartment

A neat little detail is how the compartment’s zipper resides in a triangular garage up in the corner. As reliable as the #5 YKK zippers are, it never hurts to add another layer of protection and seal to prevent debris from sneaking in.

The North Face Router Backpack Front Pocket

Above is another zippered pocket lined with very soft fleece to prevent damage to easily scratched items, primarily sunglasses, and smartphones with particularly scratch-prone chassis. However, it’s very strange that it’s oriented upside down, so the space goes up the curve instead of down toward the base of the bag when you reach inside. You would usually expect a pocket to flow down since that’s where gravity pulls objects towards, but not in this case, it seems. There is a shallow bottom lip that can catch gear as it falls down, but it’s not an ideal layout overall.

The North Face Router Backpack Secondary Compartment

Next up is the Router’s admin panel. This compartment handles a more granular organization of smaller gear. Inside are two side-by-side mesh pockets, two wide pen pockets next to a liner pocket, a zippered pocket, and, at the very back, a tablet sleeve. Overall, we like the variation in pocket sizes since we can store anywhere from a small tablet to an AirTag if we want to. If we were to nitpick, it’s that the pen pockets are too wide for pens but too narrow for anything beefier we tried to fit. Still, the organization level is just right for our use case, as it can accommodate most everyday carry items.

The North Face Router Backpack Stuffed

Laptops get their own separate compartment all the way at the back, where such compartments typically are found on travel backpacks. The compartment opens up horseshoe-style with gussets at the sides to prevent it from opening too wide. You can fit up to a 16-inch MacBook Pro inside with enough space left for a false bottom. It’s not the biggest false bottom we’ve seen on a travel backpack, but it’s enough to absorb an impact if you set the bag down a bit too hard. The back panel’s rigidity also helps absorb some of that impact. You can fit a tablet in the pocket in front of the laptop sleeve, too, along with extra accessories in the open space.

The North Face Router Backpack Laptop

With all of those compartments and pockets out of the way, what is left in the main compartment? As expected, it’s an open space where you can pack all of your main gear. There are no dividers or pockets, so it’s an ideal space to use packing cubes and pouches to keep clothing and accessories grouped together. The pockets adjacent to it at the front can cut into this space, but it’s fairly easy to squeeze them out and make everything fit.

Usage Timeline

Condition: Excellent

  • Dig that this can really cinch down and maybe passes as an everyday bag along with a travel bag due to detailing and shape
  • Like that the straps have a nylon piece that attaches them to the bag for more flexibility, though the straps themselves seem a little thin
  • Overall dig the look of the bag
  • Really enjoyed the look & feel of this bag being close to a daily carry bag
  • Main compartment is great for packing cubes, but some may want a little organization
  • We appreciate that the front top pocket is fleece-lined, but it’s a bit odd that the majority of the pocket space is above the zipper
  • Overall this is a great, affordable, travel bag

mm

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The Best North Face Backpacks

By Jack Crosbie

Jack Crosbie

Contributor

collage featuring various north face backpacks

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North Face is a legend in the outdoor adventure world — the core of its business is consumer-focused gear for anyone from casual hikers to hard-core athletes. That said, years of gear development has left the brand with a glut of designs and a ton of choices for someone looking for the best pack for any type of expedition. 

What the Experts Say

To learn more about the best North Face backpacks, SPY sat down with someone who knows them the best: professional skier and North Face athlete Griffin Post . Post has used North Face gear in pretty much every adventure setting there is, from heliskiing the biggest slopes in the world to hiking gear up to backcountry routes that few people ever get the chance to see. “Quality is so important,” Post says. “A backpack has so many small pieces that if one fails, it can really ruin your trip.” (Hip buckles, for instance, can get slammed in car doors or crushed underfoot. Ties can snap. Zippers can break.)

“The money you invest into a backpack is going to pay dividends in the long run,” Post adds.

One thing that Post says might not be obvious is that a larger capacity isn’t always a good thing. The biggest bags will hold more, but that means more weight. Plus, some space constraints space can make packing more focused and intentional. (Sure, there will be times when you need every liter of volume in a certain pack, but adapting your kit to a smaller-size one can be easier than having the biggest bag on the trail.)

North Face Cobra 65

For a pack that performs, no matter the terrain, Post recommends the Cobra 65. This is where the size constraints really come into play, he says. Sure, there are bags that go up to 80 and 90 liters of space, but after years of trekking and exploration, Post has found he just doesn’t need that much. “However big my bag is, I end up filling it,” Post says. “So having that smaller capacity forces you to choose what you really need.” The Cobra 65 has gotten Post through dozens of expeditions. It’s comfortable enough to wear all day and feels balanced, which can help a hiker remain agile on tricky terrain. (Pro tip: To test how a bag distributes weight, Post recommends weighing it down in the store and trying it on. This will give a better idea of the fit and function of any pack — and is, in Post’s opinion, where the Cobra excels in particular.)

Snowmad 34 Series

Made For: What it sounds like. This is the backcountry and groomed run pack for skiers and snowboarders who have specific needs — it features waterproofing, helmet and gear carry, and supreme balance to stay locked in during tricky maneuvers.  Coolest Feature: Its waterproof wet gear storage area. This one flies under the radar as opposed to flashier features like ice ax storage, but Post says it’s invaluable if you’ve got a soaked piece of kit.

North Face Borealis

Made For: Casual commuters, day hikers, and office workers who want to show off their adventurous side.  Pro Tip: The interior pockets allow for organizing gear by category, Post says, which makes it ideal for compulsive organizers.

Base Camp Duffle XXL

Made For: Frequent fliers. Post says this is best for air travel, when the situation requires packing tons of gear (and even other bags) inside one massive carry-all.  ROI: This is pricey but it can fit everything — and it’s much more portable than a comparably-sized traditional suitcase. It’s great for an ambitious packer on the move, provided you’ve got a big frame to carry the weight.

Frequently Asked Questions About North Face Backpacks

What’s the point of the hip straps.

  On any bag that’s carrying a decent amount of weight — something other than a commuter, for instance — hip straps are your best friend. They set much of the bag’s mass on the hips, rather than the shoulders, easing the strain on the upper back and allowing for much more freedom of movement. 

More pockets, or fewer?

This is personal preference, but fewer pockets generally means more open space to work with, while more pockets means a more organized arrangement inside the bag. If you know you’re going to be working with a lot of larger gear, like shoes or jackets, you might not want a pocket-dense interior. If you have a lot of smaller items — keys, flashlights, tech ‚ then go for something pocket-heavy to have everything easily accessible without having to dig around. 

Why do these all look like space backpacks?

You want another canvas thing trying to look like a WWII rucksack? Go buy one. They’re everywhere. You want to look like a hiker despite the fact that the only walking you do is between your office and Sweetgreen? Then these are the packs for you. 

Jack Crosbie is a writer based in Brooklyn, NY.

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10 Best North Face Backpack 2023

Another hiking trip? Another adventure? Then ‘North Face Backpack’ is your best friend on your way to the top. As hikers you need to keep in mind that you can’t go empty-handed and don’t even think that you don’t need survival tools I mean c’ mon even ‘Bear Grills’ need it.

You should have gotten my point that I know that we love adventures, who doesn’t? But before that let’s keep in mind safety is the key to another thrill. In my point of view if the word hiking comes I only choose the North Face backpacks, so how do you choose your Best North Face Backpacks ?

And why not I mean they are ridiculously comfortable and reasonable in price, I mean not all backpacks are the same some are good and some are not but trust me you haven’t seen the real deal yet if you didn’t go with the North Face. It gives you a real hiking experience if you want your trekking to be full of adventure without any problem.

best travel backpack north face

Top 10 Best North Face Backpack

1. the north face unisex jester backpack.

best travel backpack north face

Available in over 20 different colors and a flex vent suspension, Dude I think it’s high time you get a grab on this.  How about going cycling on a Saturday afternoon with this monster on your back with all your books, laptop, your ECD and your water bottle and still return with a dry back? I don’t think it could get any better than this.

Different styles available.

Durable and washable polyester.

Very sturdy

A 360-degree bike tight loop works wonders.

Bulky when about 75% capacity

Bungees on the front are rarely used if the interior products are utilized actually.

2. The North Face Borealis Backpack

best travel backpack north face

When you want to stand out in style the Borealis is what you choose. It comes with a 28 liters water capacity which is 14 on each side as there are dual water bottle carriers. You can choose from 40 different vibrant colors and patterns. To top it all it comes with a lifetime warranty so I think it’s time to stop thinking and get on the hills.

Available in over 40 different styles.

Cordura nylon mini-ripstop material.

The capacity of holding a 28-liter cargo.

Fleece-lined pocket for the laptop is difficult to wash/dry, even in a machine.

Dual water bottle holders dropped out water bottles a few times. I know it’s a little ironic.

3. The North Face Big Shot, TNF Black

best travel backpack north face

Yes, you read it right ‘Big Shot’ and believe me this name suits this baby like perfect. Coming with 33-liter cargo storage and no matter where you go, work or your spontaneous weekend, this is your new partner to accompany you anywhere you wish. I know you might be wondering about the space but with your 17” laptop and your office essentials with water storage, this is ‘Big Shot’ to you.

Great for traveling

Very spacious

Many storage uses

Flex vent technology is stellar on this model

It comes in 7 different and epic styles.

Washable and Easy to clean.

It has a narrow opening.

The fleece lining is extraordinary and also a significant factor for this model but takes up extra space.

4. The North Face Vault Backpack

best travel backpack north face

Going on long trips? Have work tomorrow? No problem, this is exactly what you want with you. Comes with an ultra-sturdy zipper is why you call it ‘The Vault’, built for a complete bad-ass who is tough on the inside out. With the polyester, 600D-rating throw this thing around and still be able to rock it. With its unique designs, it adjusts with your spine making it your back pain reliever.

It comes in over 15 different styles.

Ultra-durable polyester.

Comfortable

Contours to the shape of your spine beautifully.

Ultra sturdy zippers.

Storage is not that good to fit items into.

Doesn’t stand up on it’s own

It has a 15” laptop space, but it is tough to fit, it works best with a 12” laptop.

5. The Surge-North Face Backpack

best travel backpack north face

This might be the one you’re looking for if you into rugged colors and designs. Never look back once you own this because with the fleece-lined quick grab pocket takes out your essentials like your wallet or smartphone with ease. There’s more, more space to put your snacks on your way to go. But the best part with the space that they give for laptops, just put it and forget about it breaking.

Available in 5 rugged designs.

It comes with a 33-liter storage cargo.

Padded sleeve present in the front for quick access.

It contains a lot of pockets, so storing larger items can be a bit difficult.

Although the flex vent is present on this model it does not work on the shoulders despite working everywhere else.

6. The North Face Recon Backpack, TNF Black, One Size

best travel backpack north face

Traveling light and you want to look great as well, my friend, this bag is designed for you. Crafted with the most advanced and durable material on the planet, The 2100 Cordura nylon mini rip-stop. Storage of a 31-liter cargo and more external pockets make your journey easy and enjoyable.

Having a 360-degree bike-tight loop makes it easier for you to carry a piece of extra baggage. It comes with a lifetime warranty and specially designed for high school and college students so they can look great with the ‘Recon’.

It comes with a 33-liter storage capacity.

North Face has provided a lifetime warranty for this model.

Present with a 2100 Cordura nylon mini rip-stop.

360-degree bike tight loop.

It does not have the flex vent technology.

Designed more for school use professional use.

7. The North Face Wise Guy Backpack

best travel backpack north face

Well, If you want something in your budget and still look cool, then my friend this bag is designed just for you. With a 27 liter storage of cargo and made up durable polyester this is your new ‘take it anywhere’ thing.

It also comes with a lifetime warranty and believes me I also owned this once for 4 years and while traveling it got a little tear so what do I do? I mean I did have a lifetime warranty so just to check the North Face I returned them this bag and they gave me a new one. Yes, seriously these guys have excellent customer service so just relax and order yourself this one, might come in handy.

The price is inexpensive.

Has 27-liter water storage.

Made up of durable polyester

Foam back panel doesn’t do its job quite well.

No designated laptop space available.

Apart from the all-hazard orange flagship design, all the other designs are funky, strong and wild. You don’t want people using words to describe your backpack.

8. The North Face Router Laptop Backpack

best travel backpack north face

Now, this is what you want if you are an Alpha. The military design and the 500D Cordura nylon ripstop, this is what suits your personality when you go out. It only weighs 3.3 pounds and has balanced weight distribution across the entire bag, it also has 31-liter water storage and enough space to keep your 15” laptop in it and stop worrying about your screen breaking in it.

Wait! There’s more, how can we forget about the flex vent technology to give you a sweat-free shoulder and back, the padded mesh backing panel which eliminates joint pain and gives you full spinal support which I know we all need when carrying larger backpacks. So if you’re going on a hiking trip next time I think this is what you should choose.

It is an excellent choice if you’re going hiking.

Comes with the flex vent technology to reduce strains on long walks.

It also has a lie-flat laptop compartment which is useful.

A tough military design to speak for your personality.

It is a little expensive.

It is not resistant to rain.

9. The Recon CLG4 North Face Backpack

best travel backpack north face

It’s Recon’s Big Brother and it comes with more features. With a 15” laptop space, Carved with the Ballistic Cordura nylon ripstop and fleece-lined sleeve if you carry your tablet with you, you just earned yourself enough space and durability. It weighs only 2.63 pounds and is designed to support your shoulder even more than before.

The Recon CLG4 comes at an excellent price and is designed mainly for commuters, but if you have a hiking plan on the weekend, Take this nature tough bag with you and trek through your favorite trails and return to the ground safely with no scratch. If you don’t know it has a lifetime warranty also so stop worrying and get ready for your next adventure.

Fleeced lined and dedicated laptop compartment

Padded 15-inch laptop sleeve.

Comes with a lifetime warranty by North Face.

Made with the Ballistic Cordura nylon.

It has not been designed for professional use.

It doesn’t have support on the bottom so it won’t stand on its own.

10. The Surge Transit North Face Backpack

best travel backpack north face

I know you get anxious when you lose items while traveling, everyone does, but with The Surge Transit, it’s time to kiss your worries goodbye. With ultra-sturdy zippers and solid construction, this bag is designed to keep your items safe and sound when you’re in transit.

The flex vent gives you the coolness that you need while traveling and have sweat-free back. The dedicated media pocket lined with fleece will keep all your electronics safe. The cosmic blue and the grey mist color sure give contour to your style that you need. It also has storage for your books if you are a book lover who loves to read on their way. It is suitable for workplaces and professional occasions. Don’t forget the lifetime warranty.

Ultra-sturdy zipper makes it easier for us.

Has a quick access panel in the front to go for your electronic items.

Additional lumber panel for maximum support.

Round bottom so won’t stand on its own.

Not enough capacity as compared to other North Face Backpacks.

I just love hiking more now… Don’t you? If I am right you are probably guessing which bag to choose because I know it’s quite a lot to take in and you want the best of the best for your every experience, So why don’t I make it easy for you and tell you by my personal experience that which bag do you want to choose. I know thrills are exciting and dangerous as well but for me the more dangerous the better.

I have been hiking for more than 6 years now and believe me that even I don’t know yet which bag to take with me as you don’t know what are you going to face on your way and what things you might need so the bag should be capable of anything so it doesn’t make this trip my last.

It is tricky to choose from so many varieties today and as a hiker, I know it can be difficult to choose from a bag which will be durable and will help you put all the things that you need as well as secure your things while passing. I have made a list of bags that will be suitable for every occasion.

North Face Backpack

How to Choose the Best North Face Backpack

1. for hikers.

Yes, I know how much you love hiking, Even I do but we can’t go empty-handed we need some essentials and even massive storage for carrying our things. So, the best choice would be “The Big Shot North Face Backpack”. This bag will be your new friend while hiking in the mountains.

2. For Travelling

Can you smell the fresh air while going on a family weekend? Yes, it’s time for you to dress in your best clothes but what about your accessories ? I’ve got just the thing for you “The Vault and The Recon North Face Backpack”, with the unique design and the adjustment with your spine The Vault is what you should be taking it because it is tough as a rock, but with the 31 liter cargo storage and the 2100 Cordura nylon The Recon will your second best choice.

Who doesn’t like to go out in style and make their personalities even more appealing? “The Borealis North Face Backpack” will be your best choice. With 40 different vibrant colors and designs, a 28-liter storage cargo and a lifetime warranty this is what you should opt for.

4. Professional Occasions

Time for work? No problem I have got just the right thing for you. ”The Vault North Face Backpack” will be your best choice. You can also choose this bag for your workplaces and I am sure it won’t let you down.

Why choose North Face Backpack?

With a lifetime warranty on the majority of their bags and suitable for every occasion with reasonable prices I think it might be the right choice to switch to North Face from your old brands.

Is North Face cruelty-free?

Yes, the company guarantees 100% cruelty-free down.

Does North Face sell anything other than bags?

Yes, the North Face is an American Company that also produces clothing, footwear, and outdoor equipment.

Is North Face cheaper than other brands?

Well, if compared to Columbia North Face is expensive but mainstream as well if compared to other brands.

What does North Face mean?

As the northern hemisphere is the coldest, iciest and the most formidable route to climb this brand was made to tackle all obstacles no matter the condition.

Who is the Founder of North Face?

Doug Tompkins.

Is North Face the best for winter clothes?

With the real fur puffer jackets and the materials of goose feathers, I think this is the brand you choose in winter.

North Face Backpack

Unique Features Specific to North Face Backpack

Did you wonder what makes these bags so special? Let me tell you.

This is designed to keep space between the pack, and your back/shoulders to make you dry on the back while you strolling. These are even great lumbar supports and reduces 10% of the physical strain you feel while carrying your bag.

Fleece-lined pockets

There are other brands with the fleece line pockets but North Face did it first and they do it way better than their competition. Fleece is a great way to carry fragile electronics and items such as your glasses or souvenirs you grab on vacation.

Unique designs

Well, if you want to stand out of the crowd and make yourself noticed, you have to make sure that you look good in every possible way. Thanks to North Face, It puts dozens and dozens of designs and patterns on each pack, not to forget their other items are also to be included. To make their products truly unique and noticeable to everyone they don’t take any chances and put out multiple and vibrant colors of different designs of their product that is eye-catching to their customers. When you see a North Face product you just know that this is it.

So far so sure and you now know that if you want anything in your adventure trip who to ask for, In my personal opinion I think that North Face is one and the most selective brands I have chosen for  a while now and so far I didn’t have any complaints, I mean what should I say about their customer service and their products, They are absolutely the finest brands I have seen so far and I don’t know how they manage such great tactics to satisfy the customer’s need but I have to say one thing, I really had trust issues when they were giving a lifetime warranty at that time when I was buying my first Bag pack from North Face.

On returning from my hiking trip my bag just ripped from the sides so just for the sake of seeing as it had been 4 years I just returned them the bag and it was shocking when the delivered me a brand new bag, I was like really?? This was the best experience I had so far in buying products from this type of brand. I don’t think that I have faced a such loyal and customer satisfactory brand up till now but I assure you once you bond up with this brand and use their products I don’t think you will to another brand because they make customers feel like family and help them out in anything they need

In the end, North face is an amazing choice if you going for your first hiking gear, your winter accessories or your stunning footwear, they got you covered in almost everything. With their unique designs and multiple color products that are eye-catching, I think that if you want people to notice you must try North Face and you will notice for yourself.

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Angelita McCrory

Hello! My name is Angelita E. McCrory, I like writing about travel, food and lifestyle. My hobbies are learning about culture, language, history and cuisine.

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