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 Women's Jester Everyday Laptop Backpack, TNF Black, One Size
- BACKPACK FOR WOMEN: While others are fumbling around looking for their stuff, you'll have the last laugh with the updated style, women-specific design, and superior organization of The North Face Jester backpack. It features a bungee system that allows you to hold items that need to be easily accessible. The 360-degree reflectivity of the backpack enhances visibility while you're commuting in the evening or low-light environments.
- FLEXVENT SUSPENSION SYSTEM: This hiking backpack comes with a women-specific FlexVent suspension system that features a flexible yoke built from molded shoulder straps; a comfortable, padded back panel; and a lumbar panel for the ultimate in carrying comfort. It comes with two side mesh water bottle pockets and has a volume of 27.5 liters (1678 in³). The two webbing top handles of the bag allow you to easily open the main compartment and provide a perfectly balanced one-hand carry option.
- MULTIPLE COMPARTMENTS: This women’s backpack for traveling comes with a large main compartment that fits books and binders. The updated front organization panel simplifies organization with essential storage features including secure-zip pockets, a tablet sleeve, and a key fob. This women’s travel bag comes with a flat pack bottom that allows it to stand on its own for easy loading and unloading of essentials.
- PROTECTIVE PADDED LAPTOP SLEEVE: This imported large travel backpack from North Face comes with a protective padded laptop sleeve that fits devices up to 15". The 100% polyester construction of the bag makes them durable to withstand daily wear and rough rides. It has a handle length of 7” with a handle drop of 1/2”. This backpack bag weighs 1 lb and 7.8 oz and comes in a one-size. The sturdy sternum strap offers added functionality.
- PERFECT DIMENSIONS: This carry-on backpack has a bottom width of 9-1/2” and a depth of 5-1/2". The strap length of the bag is 22” with a strap drop of 8”. You can also choose from its different color options - Almond Butter Fall Wanderer Print/Almond Butter/Gravel, Ashen Purple/Silver Metallic, Asphalt Grey/Peak Purple, Beta Blue Dark Heather/Goblin Blue, Bleached Sand/Burnt Ochre, Blue Wing Teal/Tin Grey, Boysenberry Coleus Camo Print, Boysenberry/Mandarin, Boysenberry/Mandarin, and more.
No. 2
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. 3
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. 4
The North Face Borealis Commuter Laptop Backpack - Water Repellent, Laptop Sleeve, Large Main Compartment, TNF Black U Borealis Patch/TNF White, 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. 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 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. 7
The North Face Borealis Mini Backpack, TNF Black/TNF Black-NPF, One Size
- BOREALIS MINI: Meet the Borealis Mini, the scaled-down, 10 liter version of our much-loved travel classic. Still featuring the iconic front bungee system of its sibling, the mini carries a smaller load for city life.
- DURABLE CARRY: This mini backpack is made from tough, abrasion resistant fabric with a non-PFC Water Repellent coating. The padded top handle and tough U-pull YKK zippers are easy to grab and use on the go.
- SMART ORGANIZATION: Featuring external bungee-compression, the 10 liter main compartment has zippered mesh pockets for small valuables, plus a padded tablet sleeve for your device. 2 durable water bottle sleeves double as quick-access smartphone pockets.
- EXPLORATION WITHOUT COMPROMISE: Easily find our most sustainable products with this badge. To qualify, apparel, equipment, and accessories must be made with 75% or greater recycled, regenerative, and/or responsibly sourced renewable materials by weight.
- TECH SPECS: Dimensions: 8.65" x 4.15" x 13.5" (22 cm x 10.5 cm x 34.3 cm); Avg Weight: 12 oz; Volume: 10 Liters; This item is not intended for use by children 12 and under.
No. 8
The North Face Borealis Commuter Laptop Backpack - Water Repellent, Laptop Sleeve, Large Main Compartment, Gravel/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.
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.