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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 Surge Commuter Laptop Backpack, TNF Black/TNF Black, One Size

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,119
Capacity
Compartments and Pockets
Material

Most important from
1568 reviews

Capacity
Generous capacity and well-designed compartments allow for carrying everything from daily work essentials to extended trip gear without sacrificing accessibility.
Compartments and Pockets
Generous capacity and well-designed compartments allow for carrying everything from daily work essentials to extended trip gear without sacrificing accessibility.
Material
Durable construction with strong zippers and high-quality nylon fabric that withstands heavy use, frequent washing, and rough handling without signs of wear.
Comfort and Fit
Exceptional comfort and fit with a suspension system that breaks in nicely, making it easy to wear even during long commutes or trips.
Laptop Compartment
Thoughtful organization with multiple fleece-lined, padded sleeves designed specifically for laptops, tablets, phones, and other electronics.
Hydration Compatibility
Deep, secure side pockets perfectly hold water bottles without risk of slipping, ideal for active commuters and travelers.

The North Face Surge Commuter Laptop Backpack is a solid choice for anyone looking for a reliable and comfortable everyday backpack, especially for commuting or work. It offers a generous 31-liter capacity, which means you’ll have plenty of space for your laptop, books, and other essentials. The organization is thoughtful, with three main zippered pockets, a padded laptop sleeve that fits up to 15-inch laptops, and side mesh pockets for water bottles or small items. The material is durable nylon, which should hold up well to daily use.

Comfort is a strong point here thanks to the FlexVent suspension system, which includes padded, breathable straps and back support recommended by a chiropractic association—this helps reduce strain on your shoulders and back during long wear. The backpack also includes a removable waist belt and sternum strap, improving stability and fit. It weighs just under 3 pounds, making it lightweight enough for daily use but still sturdy.

One minor drawback is that it doesn’t mention specific hydration compatibility like a built-in bladder sleeve, so it’s not specialized for hiking or extended outdoor activities requiring water storage. Also, while the design is very functional, some might find it a bit bulky if they prefer a slimmer bag. This backpack suits students, professionals, or commuters seeking a durable, well-organized, and comfortable laptop backpack that can handle daily demands with ease.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,119
Capacity
Compartments and Pockets
Material

Most important from
1568 reviews

Capacity
Generous capacity and well-designed compartments allow for carrying everything from daily work essentials to extended trip gear without sacrificing accessibility.
Compartments and Pockets
Generous capacity and well-designed compartments allow for carrying everything from daily work essentials to extended trip gear without sacrificing accessibility.
Material
Durable construction with strong zippers and high-quality nylon fabric that withstands heavy use, frequent washing, and rough handling without signs of wear.
Comfort and Fit
Exceptional comfort and fit with a suspension system that breaks in nicely, making it easy to wear even during long commutes or trips.
Laptop Compartment
Thoughtful organization with multiple fleece-lined, padded sleeves designed specifically for laptops, tablets, phones, and other electronics.
Hydration Compatibility
Deep, secure side pockets perfectly hold water bottles without risk of slipping, ideal for active commuters and travelers.
#2

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

Rating
8.5
Capacity
Compartments and Pockets
Material

Most important from
92 reviews

Capacity
The backpack impresses with its spacious design and thoughtful organization, including a convenient front access zipper for easy packing and retrieval.
Compartments and Pockets
The inclusion of multiple compartments and pockets helps keep essentials accessible and well-organized during hikes.
Material
The pack feels durable and well-made, inspiring confidence even before the first use.
Comfort and Fit
Comfort stands out as a major feature, especially when the pack is properly adjusted and worn on the hips, making it suitable for extended wear on the trail.

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.

Rating
8.5
Capacity
Compartments and Pockets
Material

Most important from
92 reviews

Capacity
The backpack impresses with its spacious design and thoughtful organization, including a convenient front access zipper for easy packing and retrieval.
Compartments and Pockets
The inclusion of multiple compartments and pockets helps keep essentials accessible and well-organized during hikes.
Material
The pack feels durable and well-made, inspiring confidence even before the first use.
Comfort and Fit
Comfort stands out as a major feature, especially when the pack is properly adjusted and worn on the hips, making it suitable for extended wear on the trail.
#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
8.2
Capacity
Compartments and Pockets
Material

Most important from
31 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
8.2
Capacity
Compartments and Pockets
Material

Most important from
31 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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