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10 Best North Face Backpacks 2026 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

The North Face Borealis Commuter Laptop Backpack - Water Repellent, Laptop Sleeve, Large Main Compartment, TNF Black/TNF Black-NPF, One Size

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,356
Material
Laptop Compartment
Compartments and Pockets

Most important from
15180 reviews

Material
The backpack features a sturdy build with quality materials and YKK zippers that promise long-lasting durability.
Laptop Compartment
Its well-padded, fleece-lined laptop sleeve and tablet compartment provide excellent protection for electronics.
Compartments and Pockets
Multiple compartments and pockets, including a hidden fleece-lined space, offer versatile organization for books, gadgets, and small essentials.
Comfort and Fit
Designed with comfort in mind, the breathable padding and FlexVent suspension system make it easy to carry even when fully loaded.
Capacity
Its moderate 28-liter capacity accommodates daily essentials without feeling bulky, ideal for students and commuters.

The North Face Borealis Commuter Laptop Backpack is a solid choice for someone looking for a versatile everyday backpack with a focus on carrying a laptop safely and comfortably. It offers a roomy 28-liter capacity, which is enough for daily essentials and some extras without feeling bulky. There are multiple compartments including a padded 16" laptop sleeve and a tablet sleeve, plus handy external water bottle pockets that can also hold other small items. The material has a water-repellent finish, helping protect your belongings from light rain.

Comfort is a strong point here thanks to the FlexVent suspension system, which is designed to reduce strain during long wear with padded shoulder straps, a rounded back panel, and additional support from a removable waist belt and sternum strap. These features make it suitable for commuting or travel where you might carry it for hours. The backpack weighs about 2 pounds, which is moderate and should feel manageable even when fully packed. While the water-repellent fabric helps with light moisture, it’s not fully waterproof, so heavy rain might be an issue.

With its simple but effective organization and comfortable fit, this backpack is especially good for students, professionals, or daily commuters who want a dependable and stylish pack without extra bulk.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,356
Material
Laptop Compartment
Compartments and Pockets

Most important from
15180 reviews

Material
The backpack features a sturdy build with quality materials and YKK zippers that promise long-lasting durability.
Laptop Compartment
Its well-padded, fleece-lined laptop sleeve and tablet compartment provide excellent protection for electronics.
Compartments and Pockets
Multiple compartments and pockets, including a hidden fleece-lined space, offer versatile organization for books, gadgets, and small essentials.
Comfort and Fit
Designed with comfort in mind, the breathable padding and FlexVent suspension system make it easy to carry even when fully loaded.
Capacity
Its moderate 28-liter capacity accommodates daily essentials without feeling bulky, ideal for students and commuters.
#3

The North Face Vault Everyday Laptop Backpack - Commuter Travel Bag, Water-Repellent Finish, Spacious Compartment, TNF Black-NPF, One Size

Rating
9.1
Comfort and Fit
Compartments and Pockets
Material

Most important from
4009 reviews

Comfort and Fit
The FlexVent suspension system with custom shoulder straps and a padded mesh back panel offers exceptional comfort, even when fully loaded.
Compartments and Pockets
Well-organized with a spacious main compartment, a padded 15-inch laptop sleeve, and multiple front pockets for easy organization.
Material
The water-repellent finish keeps belongings dry and the backpack stands unsupported, adding convenience.
Hydration Compatibility
Two water bottle pockets, a daisy chain for lash points, and a sternum strap provide extra support and practicality for extended use.

The North Face Vault Everyday Laptop Backpack is a solid choice for daily commuters or travelers who need a reliable, comfortable bag with enough space for their essentials. With a 27-liter capacity, it offers a spacious main compartment plus a padded sleeve designed to protect laptops up to 15 inches, which is great if you carry your computer regularly. The backpack features multiple compartments and pockets, including a front organizer with a tablet sleeve and key hook, making it easy to keep smaller items neatly stored. Two water bottle pockets on the sides add convenience for hydration on the go.

Made mostly from polyester with a water-repellent finish, this backpack can handle light rain and splashes, but it’s not fully waterproof, so heavy downpours might still be a concern. It weighs about 1.7 pounds, which is relatively light for its size, and the ergonomic FlexVent suspension system endorsed by chiropractors helps make carrying heavier loads more comfortable, thanks to padded, breathable straps and back support. One limitation is that the laptop compartment size is somewhat average, so larger or thicker laptops might feel snug. Also, the fabric mix includes cotton and polyester, requiring hand washing, which could be less convenient than machine-washable materials. The backpack’s classic fit and adjustable straps should suit most adults well.

This backpack is well-suited for students, professionals, or anyone needing a durable, well-organized bag for daily use or travel. It balances comfort, organization, and moderate weather protection without being too heavy or bulky.

Rating
9.1
Comfort and Fit
Compartments and Pockets
Material

Most important from
4009 reviews

Comfort and Fit
The FlexVent suspension system with custom shoulder straps and a padded mesh back panel offers exceptional comfort, even when fully loaded.
Compartments and Pockets
Well-organized with a spacious main compartment, a padded 15-inch laptop sleeve, and multiple front pockets for easy organization.
Material
The water-repellent finish keeps belongings dry and the backpack stands unsupported, adding convenience.
Hydration Compatibility
Two water bottle pockets, a daisy chain for lash points, and a sternum strap provide extra support and practicality for extended use.

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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