Backpacks

There's a reason that The North Face backpacks can be spotted almost anywhere - it's because they are high quality, durable, functional, and iconic.  Whether you've been on the mountain or out around town, it's likely you've seen (or even owned) one of our best-sellers like the Borealis, Jester, Recon, or Surge.  But if this is your first time shopping our packs, you'll soon discover that we not only offer rugged, trail-ready styles for hiking, but also travel packs, kids' backpacks, school bags, commuter backpacks, and more.

Backpacks can be truly versatile.  Styles like our Borealis and Jester are not only popular choices for high school and college, but can double as daypacks for outdoor adventures.  Multiple pockets including water bottle pockets come in handy when you need to carry a lot of stuff but want to keep your hands free (especially when you are riding a bike or navigating public transportation).

Of course if you are looking for something built for adventure, we offer technical packs like our Trail Lite series.  These packs are full of features designed to maximize access to the gear you need during your hike but also distribute weight comfortably.

When shopping for backpacks, pay careful attention to the following:

• Comfort:  Look for adjustable and padded shoulder straps and a cushioned back panel.  If you are looking at technical packs, hip belts can be helpful for better weight distribution and comfort.
• Size/Capacity:  Choose a size that fits your needs.  If you typically enjoy short hikes or need something packable and light for travel, you probably don't need that 50L or 60L pack.  
• Organization:  Do you typically carry a laptop?  Look for backpacks with laptop sleeves.  Do you carry a lot of smaller items?  Look for backpacks with lots of pockets or internal organization.
• Reflective Elements:  Are you a college student that may be out in low light?  Reflective elements can help you stay seen as day turns to night.
• Water Resistance:  Nylon and polyester are great materials that can help with weather-resistance.  If you truly need more protection from the elements, consider a rain cover.
• Style:  In addition to amazing features, a backpack should catch your eye because of how it looks.  Whether you want a striking pattern like those offered in the Jester and Borealis or you prefer the sleek, simplicity of a black backpack, you're sure to find something you'll love at The North Face.

If you're looking for a bag but you're not sure a backpack is what you need, we also offer messenger bags, totes, and other everyday bags.

Where can I buy The North Face backpacks?

The North Face backpacks are available on thenorthface.com and in retail stores. Use our Store Locator to find a retailer or outlet near you.

Can you wash The North Face backpacks?

Yes, though we do not recommend fully submerging our backpacks in water. The use of bleach or irons during cleaning can also damage them. The best way to clean our backpacks is to spot clean using a damp cloth and let them air dry.

Are The North Face backpacks waterproof?

Most of our backpacks are water resistant but only some are waterproof. Please refer to each backpack's product page on thenorthface.com for specific information about features.

What is the largest The North Face backpack?

The largest men's backpack is the Router Transit with a capacity of 41-liters. The largest women's backpack is the Women's Surge with a capacity of 31-liters.

What is the whistle on The North Face backpacks for?

Some of our backpacks come with a whistle on the buckle. This whistle is primarily there for safety, both in nature and city environments. Please note that this feature is not on all of our backpacks. Please refer to thenorthface.com for specific information about each pack.