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10 Best North Face Backpacks 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

THE NORTH FACE Women's Terra 55 Backpack | Hiking Pack with Women-Specific Fit, Padded Hipbelt, Cinch-Top Opening, Pole & Ice Axe Attachments, Blue Moss/Sapphire Slate-NPF, Medium/Long

The North Face Women's Terra 55 Backpack is designed for multi-day hiking trips and suits women seeking a comfortable, well-organized pack tailored to their needs. It offers a generous 55-liter capacity, enough to carry clothing, gear, and essentials for several days. The backpack features multiple compartments including a large main cinch-top area with quick U-zip access, a removable lid with internal pockets, zipper hipbelt pockets, and side stretch bottle pockets, helping keep things organized and reachable on the trail.

Comfort is a strong point of this backpack, with a women-specific padded back panel, shoulder straps, and hipbelt all made for breathability and support, plus adjustable straps and a removable frame sheet for a better fit and load control. It also includes trail-ready attachments for hiking poles and ice axes, along with an internal hydration sleeve compatible with water reservoirs, which is handy for staying hydrated on longer hikes. Weighing around 4 pounds, it is reasonable for a pack of this size and durability. This pack is best for women who prioritize comfort, storage, and functionality on extended hikes rather than everyday use or urban carry.

#2

THE NORTH FACE Terra 40 Backpack | Unisex Hiking Pack, Padded Hipbelt, Top Panel Opening, Pole & Ice Axe Attachments, Hydration Sleeve, TNF Black/Asphalt Grey-NPF, Large/X-Large

Rating
9.4
Capacity
Compartments and Pockets
Material

Most important from
6 reviews

Capacity
Ideal for those who prioritize functionality and ample storage space in their backpack.
Compartments and Pockets
Comfort and organization make it an excellent choice for multi-day outdoor trips.
Material
Durable construction ensures the pack withstands rugged use over time.

The North Face Terra 40 backpack is designed for hikers, offering a capacity of 40 liters which is suitable for multi-day trips. With an upgraded back panel and padded shoulder straps, it aims to provide improved comfort and breathability during long hikes.

The backpack features a large zippered top panel, an external stuff-it pocket, three secure zip pockets, two stretch mesh water bottle pockets, and an internal water bladder pocket, ensuring ample organization and hydration options. It is constructed to carry trekking poles and ice axes, making it versatile for various outdoor activities.

At 3.4 pounds, it is not the lightest backpack available, which might be a drawback for those looking to minimize their load. The materials used are durable, promising longevity, but the weight might not be ideal for everyone. The pack is best suited for adults and is not intended for children under 12. If comfort, organization, and durability are your priorities, the Terra 40 could be a great choice, though you should consider the weight factor based on your needs.

Rating
9.4
Capacity
Compartments and Pockets
Material

Most important from
6 reviews

Capacity
Ideal for those who prioritize functionality and ample storage space in their backpack.
Compartments and Pockets
Comfort and organization make it an excellent choice for multi-day outdoor trips.
Material
Durable construction ensures the pack withstands rugged use over time.
#3

THE NORTH FACE Terra 55 Backpack | Unisex Hiking Pack, Cinch-Top Opening with Zipper Access, Padded Hipbelt, Pole & Ice Axe Attachments, TNF Black/Asphalt Grey-NPF, Large/X-Large

Rating
9.1
Capacity
Compartments and Pockets
Material

Most important from
16 reviews

Capacity
Perfect size for 3 to 5-day trips, avoiding the unnecessary weight of larger packs.
Compartments and Pockets
The large 'J' zipper is a top feature, highly recommended for its durability.
Material
Durable fabric that is both waterproof and resistant.
Comfort and Fit
Excellent back support with good breathability.

The North Face Terra 55 Backpacking Backpack offers a solid option for those looking to embark on extended hikes and camping trips. With a capacity of 55 liters, it provides ample space for your gear. The backpack includes multiple compartments and pockets, such as a large zippered top panel, an external stuff-it pocket, and three secure zip pockets, which help keep your belongings organized.

Additionally, the two stretch mesh water bottle pockets and an internal water bladder pocket ensure you stay hydrated on the go. Constructed with quality materials, the backpack is designed to be durable and withstand the rigors of outdoor adventures. The updated back panel foam, along with the strategically patterned shoulder straps and hipbelt, enhances comfort and breathability during long hikes.

However, at a weight of 4 pounds or slightly more depending on the size, it is relatively heavy compared to some other backpacking options. Furthermore, while it excels in many areas, the backpack does not have a dedicated laptop compartment, which may be a drawback for those who need to carry electronic devices. The pack also includes specialized features like trekking pole and ice-axe attachments, making it a good choice for more technical hikes.

Rating
9.1
Capacity
Compartments and Pockets
Material

Most important from
16 reviews

Capacity
Perfect size for 3 to 5-day trips, avoiding the unnecessary weight of larger packs.
Compartments and Pockets
The large 'J' zipper is a top feature, highly recommended for its durability.
Material
Durable fabric that is both waterproof and resistant.
Comfort and Fit
Excellent back support with good breathability.

Buying Guide for the Best North Face Backpacks

Choosing the right North Face backpack involves understanding your specific needs and how different features of the backpack can meet those needs. Whether you're looking for a backpack for school, travel, hiking, or daily use, it's important to consider various specifications to ensure you get the best fit for your lifestyle. Here are some key specs to consider and how to navigate them.
CapacityCapacity refers to the volume of the backpack, usually measured in liters. This spec is important because it determines how much you can carry. For daily use or school, a backpack with a capacity of 20-30 liters is typically sufficient. For travel or hiking, you might need a larger capacity, ranging from 30-50 liters or more. Consider what you need to carry regularly and choose a capacity that fits those items comfortably.
Compartments and PocketsCompartments and pockets help organize your belongings. This spec is important for keeping your items easily accessible and separated. Backpacks with multiple compartments are great for students or professionals who need to carry books, laptops, and other gear. For hiking or travel, look for specialized pockets for water bottles, sleeping bags, or other essentials. Think about what you carry daily and choose a backpack with compartments that suit your organizational needs.
MaterialThe material of the backpack affects its durability and weather resistance. Common materials include nylon, polyester, and canvas. Nylon and polyester are lightweight and often water-resistant, making them good for outdoor activities. Canvas is durable and has a classic look but may be heavier. Consider where and how you will use the backpack to choose a material that offers the right balance of durability and weight for your needs.
Comfort and FitComfort and fit are crucial for a backpack, especially if you plan to carry it for extended periods. Look for padded shoulder straps, a padded back panel, and adjustable straps to ensure a comfortable fit. Some backpacks also have hip belts and sternum straps for added support. Try on the backpack if possible, and make sure it fits well and distributes weight evenly. Consider your body size and the weight you plan to carry to choose a backpack that offers the best comfort.
Laptop CompartmentA laptop compartment is a padded section designed to protect your laptop. This spec is important for students and professionals who need to carry their laptops safely. Check the size of the compartment to ensure it fits your laptop. If you carry a laptop daily, choose a backpack with a dedicated, well-padded compartment to keep your device secure.
Hydration CompatibilityHydration compatibility refers to the backpack's ability to hold a hydration reservoir or water bladder. This spec is important for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts who need to stay hydrated on the go. Look for backpacks with a dedicated sleeve and a port for the hydration tube. If you plan to use the backpack for outdoor activities, this feature can be very convenient.
WeightThe weight of the backpack itself can affect your overall comfort, especially if you need to carry it for long periods. Lighter backpacks are generally better for daily use or travel, while heavier, more durable backpacks might be better for rugged outdoor activities. Consider how much weight you are comfortable carrying and choose a backpack that balances weight and durability according to your needs.

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