Ever stare at a wall of backpacks and feel completely lost? Imagine packing for a big trip, only to have your bag feel heavy and uncomfortable before you even leave the house. That’s a common feeling when picking out a new backpack, especially when it’s a brand as popular and diverse as The North Face.
Choosing the perfect North Face backpack matters. You need something tough enough for the trail but organized enough for school or work. Do you need a huge bag for camping or a sleek one for your laptop? The sheer number of models—from Borealis to Jester—can make your head spin, leading to buyer’s remorse.
This guide cuts through the confusion. We will break down the best features, compare popular styles, and show you exactly which North Face backpack fits your life best. Get ready to find the ideal carry solution without the guesswork.
Top North Face Backpack Recommendations
No. 1
The North Face Borealis Commuter Laptop Backpack - Water Repellent, Laptop Sleeve, Large Main Compartment, TNF Black/TNF Black-NPF, One Size
- CLASSIC BACKPACK: Our classic Borealis features a bungee cord system for storage and compression and has compartments and pockets to help keep your travel essentials organized.
- ERGONOMIC SUPPORT: Certified by the American Chiropractic Association, our FlexVent suspension system features articulated shoulder straps, a rounded back panel, stitch lines, and soft chemise fabric for comfortable, all-day shoulder and back support.
- SMART ORGANIZATION: Two external water bottle pockets double as multi-use pockets and fit most 1L bottles. The front compartment has an extra padded tablet sleeve and zip pockets. An external fleece-lined pocket stores small items or electronics.
- COMFORTABLE CARRY: This backpack has a top handle for easy grabbing and a removable waist belt for a custom fit. A sternum strap with a whistle buckle and 360-degree reflective details add extra support and safety.
- TECH SPECS: Dimensions: 12" x 6.5" x 19.5"; Laptop Sleeve: 13.75" x 11.25"; Tablet Sleeve: 11.2" x 10.6" (Fits up to most 11" tablets); Avg Weight: 2lbs 5oz; Volume: 28 Liters; This item is not intended for use by children 12 and under.
No. 2
The North Face Jester Everyday Laptop Backpack - Commuter Daypack, Water Repellent, Laptop Sleeve, TNF Black-NPF, One Size
- EVERYDAY CARRY: Our classic Jester pack has a huge main compartment for all your travel essentials, padded laptop and tablet sleeves, grab handles, plus a stand-up design for easy loading and unloading.
- ERGONOMIC SUPPORT: Endorsed by the American Chiropractic Association, FlexVent suspension system features a flexible yoke built from molded and flexible shoulder straps, a padded mesh back panel and a breathable lumbar panel for ventilated support.
- WATER REPELLENT: Made from tough, recycled polyester fabric, keep your valuables protected with a non-PFC Durable Water Repellent (DWR) finish. Whether you're commuting, traveling or hitting the trail, this daypack has you set.
- SMART ORGANIZATION: The front compartment has a padded laptop sleeve and zip pockets for additional protection. 2 water bottle sleeves double as multi-use pockets and fit most 1L bottles, quickly securing essentials when you're crossing the quad.
- TECH SPECS: Dimensions: 11" x 8.25" x 18.13" (27.9cm x 21cm x 46.1cm); Laptop Sleeve: 12.75" x 11"; Tablet Sleeve: 11.8 " x 6.3"; Avg Weight: 1 lb 10 oz; Volume: 28 Liters; This item is not intended for use by children 12 and under.
No. 3
The North Face Women's Jester Everyday Laptop Backpack - Commuter Travel Bag, Laptop Sleeve, Water-Repellent, Pink Moss, One Size
- CHIROPRACTOR APPROVED: The Women's Jester pack delivers comfort and support with a padded laptop sleeve, simplified organization, and a self-standing design that's as practical as it is reliable.
- ERGONOMIC SUPPORT: Endorsed by the American Chiropractic Association, the women-specific FlexVent suspension system gives all-day support with a flexible yoke, molded shoulder straps, a padded back panel and a breathable lumbar panel for extra airflow.
- SMART ORGANIZATION: A streamlined front compartment includes zip pockets, a tablet sleeve and a key clip. Two external water bottle pockets fit most 1L bottles, and a front bungee system offers quick access and extra storage on the go.
- ROOMY & PROTECTIVE: The spacious main compartment easily fits all your essentials and includes a padded laptop sleeve to help shield your computer from bumps and drops. Top grab handles offer quick access, while a sternum strap adds extra support.
- TECH SPECS: Dimensions: 11" x 6.75" x 17.25" (27.9 cm x 17.1 cm x 43.8 cm); Laptop Sleeve: 12.75" x 11"; Tablet Sleeve: 11.8 " x 6.3"; Avg Weight: 1 lb 8 oz; Volume: 22 Liters. This item is not intended for use by children 12 and under.
No. 4
The North Face Recon Everyday Laptop Backpack - Daypack, Water Repellent, Laptop Sleeve, 2 Water Bottle Pockets, TNF Black/TNF Black-NPF, One Size
- GO-TO CLASSIC: The iconic Recon excels as a day pack with its large mesh storage compartment, daisy-chain attachment points, and an easy-to-reach fleece-lined external pocket that can hold your sunglasses, keys, wallet, or other travel essentials.
- CHIROPRACTOR APPROVED: The updated FlexVent suspension system has articulated shoulder straps, a rounded back panel, stitch lines for comfort and soft-touch chemise fabric, all certified by the American Chiropractic Association.
- WATER REPELLENT: Made from tough, recycled nylon ripstop fabric, keep your valuables protected with a non-PFC Durable Water Repellent (DWR) finish. Whether you're commuting, traveling or hitting the trail, this daypack has you set.
- MAXIMUM STORAGE: The large main compartment secures your essentials, with a dedicated laptop sleeve and a tablet sleeve that fits most 8" tablets, protecting your device from bumps and falls. 2 external mesh water bottle pockets fit most 1L bottles.
- TECH SPECS: Dimensions: 11.6" x 7.5" x 19.3" (29.5 cm x 19.1 cm x 49 cm); Laptop Sleeve: 18.9" x 11"; Tablet Sleeve: 18.9" x 11"; Avg Weight: 2 lbs 9 oz; Volume: 30 Liters. This item is not intended for use by children 12 and under.
No. 5
The North Face Vault Everyday Laptop Backpack - Commuter Travel Bag, Water-Repellent Finish, Spacious Compartment, TNF Black-NPF, One Size
- EVERYDAY USE: The much-loved Vault pack features a sleek modern design, a protective water-repellent finish, and a self-standing structure for easy access.
- ERGONOMIC SUPPORT: Endorsed by the American Chiropractic Association, FlexVent suspension is designed for comfort, featuring a flexible yoke with injection-molded shoulder straps, a padded mesh back panel and a breathable lumbar panel for ventilation.
- SMART ORGANIZATION: A streamlined front compartment keeps things tidy with zip pockets, a tablet sleeve and a key hook for your everyday essentials. On the outside, two water bottle pockets fit most 1L bottles for quick access to hydration on the go.
- SPACIOUS & PROTECTIVE: The spacious main compartment easily fits all your essentials and includes a padded laptop sleeve to help shield your computer from bumps and drops. Top grab handles offer quick access, while a sternum strap adds extra support.
- TECH SPECS: Dimensions: 11" x 8.5" x 18" (27.9 cm x 21.6 cm x 45.7 cm); Laptop Sleeve: 11.5" x 11"; Tablet Sleeve: 11.8 " x 6.3"; Avg Weight: 1 lb 11 oz; Volume: 27 Liters. This item is not intended for use by children 12 and under.
No. 6
The North Face Router Everyday Laptop Backpack - Daypack, Water Repellent, Laptop Sleeve, Reflective Details, TNF Black/TNF Black-NPF, One Size
- GO-TO CLASSIC: The Router, our largest lifestyle daypack, has a 40-liter capacity, a non-PFC water-repellent finish, and can fit laptops up to 14". It also has a sought-after endorsement from the American Chiropractic Association.
- CHIROPRACTOR APPROVED: The updated FlexVent suspension system has articulated shoulder straps, a rounded back panel, stitch lines for comfort and soft-touch chemise fabric, all certified by the American Chiropractic Association.
- SMART ORGANIZATION: This pack has a large main compartment for books and binders, a front compartment with internal, secure-zip organization, padded tablet sleeve, an external fleece-lined pocket and durable water bottle pockets that fit most 1L bottles.
- COMFORTABLE CARRY: For everyday, work or travel, this backpack has a top handle for easy grabbing and a removable waist belt for a custom fit. A sternum strap adds extra support, while a whistle buckle and reflective details improve safety and visibility.
- TECH SPECS: Dimensions: 12.5" x 9" x 21" (31.8 cm x 22.9 cm x 53.3 cm); Laptop Sleeve: 14.75" x 12"; Tablet Sleeve: 11.6”x10.8” (Fits most 11" tablets); Avg Weight: 2lbs 15oz; Volume: 40 Liters. This item is not intended for use by children 12 and under.
No. 7
The North Face Women's Borealis Commuter Laptop Backpack - Everyday Travel Bag, Laptop Sleeve, Reflective Details, Blue Flax/Twilight Galaxy, One Size
- DESIGNED FOR WOMEN: The Women's Borealis is built with a women-specific suspension system for enhanced comfort and fit. A front bungee cord system offers flexible storage while multiple compartments and pockets keep your essentials neatly organized.
- CHIROPRACTOR APPROVED: The FlexVent suspension system features articulated shoulder straps, a rounded back panel, and soft-touch chemise fabric—designed for comfort and certified by the American Chiropractic Association.
- SMART ORGANIZATION: Two external water bottle pockets fit most 1L bottles, with quick-draw phone access on one side. A front compartment includes a padded tablet sleeve and zip pockets, plus a fleece-lined pocket for sunglasses or keys.
- COMMUTE-READY COMFORT: Built for everyday use, this pack features a padded top handle, removable waist belt and a sternum strap with a whistle buckle for added support. Reflective details boost visibility for safer travel.
- TECHNICAL SPECS: Dimensions: 11" x 5.75" x 18.75"; Laptop Sleeve: 12.5" x 11"; Tablet Sleeve: 11.1” x 10.6” (Fits most 11" tablets); Avg Weight: 2 lbs 1 oz; Volume: 27 Liters. This item is not intended for use by children 12 and under.
No. 8
The North Face Women's Vault Everyday Laptop Backpack, TNF Black, One Size
- VAULT CLASSIC. The much-loved Women's Vault pack has a modern aesthetic, a water-repellent finish and the ability to stand unsupported, and it's endorsed by the American Chiropractic Association.
- FLEX VENT TECHNOLOGY. The FlexVent suspension system features a flexible yoke built from custom injection-molded and flexible shoulder straps, a padded back panel and a breathable lumbar panel for comfortable, ventilated support.
- ORGANIZED DESIGN. A front compartment simplifies organization while maintaining essential storage features with secure-zip pockets, a tablet sleeve and key clip. On the outside, it has two water bottle pockets and a daisy chain for added lash points.
- COMFORTABLE CARRY. A huge main compartment holds all your books for a day at work and contains a padded 15" laptop sleeve to protect your computer from bumps and falls. Top handles allow for easy grabbing, and a sternum strap provides extra support.
- TECH SPECS. Dimensions: 11" x 8" x 17.5" (27.9 cm x 20.3 cm x 44.5 cm); Laptop Sleeve: 11.5" x 11"; Avg Weight: 1 lb 8 oz; Volume: 26L. This item is not intended for use by children 12 and under.
Your Guide to Choosing the Perfect North Face Backpack
North Face backpacks are famous for being tough and good for many trips. Whether you hike mountains or just go to school, finding the right one matters. This guide helps you pick the best bag for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
Good backpacks have features that make carrying things easier and safer. Look closely at these parts:
Comfort and Support
- Shoulder Straps: Padded straps stop your shoulders from hurting. Look for thick padding.
- Back Panel: Many North Face bags have mesh or foam panels. These keep air moving so your back stays cooler.
- Hip Belt: For bigger bags, a hip belt moves weight from your shoulders to your hips. This makes long walks much easier.
Organization and Storage
- Laptop Sleeve: If you carry a computer, a padded sleeve is essential. It keeps your tech safe from bumps.
- Pockets: More pockets mean better organization. Look for small pockets for phones and water bottle sleeves on the side.
- Main Compartment Size: Check the liter size. A 20L bag is good for books. A 50L bag is better for camping.
Durability and Weather Resistance
- Zippers: Strong, smooth zippers are important. Look for YKK zippers; they last a long time.
- Water Resistance: Most bags repel light rain. Some have special coatings for heavy downpours.
Important Materials That Matter
The material decides how long your bag lasts and how heavy it feels.
- Nylon and Polyester: These are the most common materials. They are strong and resist tearing well. Higher denier numbers (like 600D) mean the fabric is thicker and tougher.
- Ripstop Fabric: This material has small, woven squares. If a small tear starts, the squares stop it from spreading. This is great for hiking bags.
- Waterproof Coatings: Many bags use DWR (Durable Water Repellent) finishes. These push water away from the fabric surface.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Not all North Face bags are made the same. Small details show big differences in quality.
What Makes Quality High:
- Reinforced Stitching: Where straps meet the bag, the stitching should be extra strong, often in a box or X pattern. This prevents straps from ripping off when the bag is heavy.
- Sturdy Hardware: Plastic buckles (like Duraflex) should feel solid, not brittle.
- Good Suspension System: For large packs, the frame inside should properly transfer weight. This system is often complex and improves carrying comfort greatly.
What Can Reduce Quality (Watch Out For):
- Thin Bottom Fabric: If the bottom material is thin, it wears out fast when you set the bag on rough ground.
- Flimsy Zippers: Cheap zippers snag often. They are a common point of failure on lower-priced bags.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about where you will use your backpack most often. This helps narrow down the style.
Daily Commute/School (Small to Medium Size: 18L – 30L)
You need quick access and laptop protection. Bags like the Borealis or Jester are popular here. They manage books, chargers, and lunch well.
Day Hiking/Travel (Medium Size: 30L – 45L)
These bags need space for layers of clothing, water, and snacks. Look for hydration sleeve compatibility and good ventilation on the back panel. The Trail Lite series fits this need.
Extended Trips/Backpacking (Large Size: 50L+)
These require serious support. They must have adjustable torso lengths and strong frames. These are built to carry heavy loads for many miles.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About North Face Backpacks
Q: Are North Face backpacks worth the higher price?
A: Yes, most people think they are worth it. They use tough materials and last for many years, even with heavy use.
Q: How do I clean my North Face backpack?
A: You should spot clean it with mild soap and water. Never put it in a washing machine or dryer, as this can damage the waterproof coatings.
Q: Do all North Face bags come with a rain cover?
A: No. Many daypacks do not include one automatically. Larger hiking packs often include a built-in, stowable rain cover.
Q: What does “FlexVent” mean on a North Face pack?
A: FlexVent is a specific back panel system. It uses injection-molded shoulder straps and a padded mesh back panel for excellent comfort and airflow.
Q: Can I take a carry-on North Face bag on an airplane?
A: Most bags under 40 liters are fine as carry-ons. Always check the specific airline’s size limits before you fly.
Q: Are North Face bags good for heavy books?
A: Yes, models designed for school, like the Recon, feature dedicated, padded sleeves that protect your laptop and books.
Q: How do I know if the backpack size fits my back?
A: For large hiking packs, you must measure your torso length. Smaller daypacks usually use a general S/M or M/L sizing system.
Q: What is the warranty like for these bags?
A: North Face offers a limited lifetime warranty. This covers manufacturing defects, but it does not cover normal wear and tear.
Q: Should I choose a bag with an internal or external frame?
A: Internal frames are found in most modern packs. They keep the load close to your body for better balance. External frames are rare now and are usually for very specialized, large gear hauls.
Q: How important is water resistance for daily use?
A: It is very important. Even if you do not hike, water resistance protects your electronics and papers from unexpected rain showers.