Finding the best North Face hiking backpack can be overwhelming, especially for beginners. North Face hiking backpacks are known for their durability, comfort, and smart features like water bladder compartments, making them ideal for all kinds of adventures. This beginner-friendly guide will help you pick the perfect North Face backpack for hiking, from compact options to larger, women-specific fits. Investing time here means you’ll start your hiking journey equipped with the right gear to enjoy the outdoors confidently.
Why You Should Trust On Innfoworld
At the heart of our recommendations is a commitment to authenticity and quality. We don’t just choose products based on specs; we test each backpack personally and gather feedback from our expert team, ensuring only the best make it to our list. Our pros and cons come from real-world use, capturing honest insights into each backpack’s performance.
How Innfoworld Choose the Best North Face Backpacks
Our team is committed to providing real, reliable information for our readers. To select the best North Face backpacks, we go beyond just reading specs—we test them ourselves. Each backpack is thoroughly assessed by our team of experts who know what makes a quality hiking pack. They evaluate everything from durability and comfort to unique features that make a difference on the trail. These firsthand experiences help us filter out only the top options for you.
We also gather detailed feedback from our team members who actively use these backpacks in real-world conditions. From weekend hikes to everyday commutes, they put these packs through various challenges to see how they hold up. This way, we’re not just recommending what looks good on paper but what genuinely performs in practical settings.
By combining hands-on testing and expert reviews, we can confidently recommend these North Face backpacks to you. We aim to make your buying decision simpler and ensure you get the most value and performance for your outdoor adventures.
How We Collect Reviews and Write Pros & Cons
To bring you the most accurate pros and cons, we gather detailed reviews directly from our testing team and trusted outdoor enthusiasts. Each backpack is reviewed in real-life scenarios, ensuring that the feedback we share is rooted in genuine experiences. Our team members use these backpacks on various adventures and day-to-day activities, testing them for durability, functionality, and comfort.
We don’t just rely on product descriptions. Instead, our experts analyze each pack’s strengths and weaknesses based on actual use. They test features like storage capacity, comfort level, water resistance, and ease of access. Every pro and con listed comes from authentic feedback, making sure you can trust what’s written.
Our goal is to provide you with clear, honest insights to help you make a well-informed choice. With this level of detail, you can feel confident that the backpacks we recommend will meet your needs on every journey.
Our Top Picks and High Rated !
Our Top Picks feature the Top Rated North Face Hiking Backpacks on our list—saving your time with top-rated, winner choices for your needs!
THE NORTH FACE Basin 36 – Men’s
“For trails that demand more, pack the Basin 36.”
The North Face Basin 36 – Men’s backpack is built for rugged trails and long adventures. With a spacious 36-liter capacity, it’s perfect for those who need a reliable, well-organized pack. Its durable fabric and water-repellent finish protect your gear from the elements, while the breathable back panel and padded straps make it comfortable on long treks. Practical and tough, this pack helps you go the extra mile.
THE NORTH FACE 10L Mini Borealis
“Small in size, big in adventure—carry more with the Mini Borealis.”
The North Face 10L Mini Borealis combines style and function in a compact design. With its iconic bungee system and surprisingly roomy interior, this mini backpack is perfect for essentials on the go—whether for daily commutes or short outings. Its lightweight build, durable material, and comfortable straps make it easy to carry, while the sleek design keeps you looking sharp.
THE NORTH FACE Women’s Vault Everyday
“Designed for your day, ready for any journey.”
The North Face Women’s Vault Everyday backpack is made for busy days and quick escapes. With 26 liters of space, it has plenty of room for your essentials, including a padded laptop sleeve for work or school. The FlexVent™ suspension system adds extra comfort, while the durable build keeps up with your daily routine. Practical yet stylish, it’s a perfect blend of comfort and functionality.
Top 6 North Face Hiking Backpacks : Detailed Reviews
Movmynt 18 Backpack
The North Face Movmynt 18 Backpack is built for active, on-the-go days and light adventures. With an 18-liter capacity, it’s the perfect size for carrying just what you need—ideal for hikes, quick trips, or daily outings. This backpack is made with lightweight, durable materials to keep things easy and comfortable, and it includes breathable mesh shoulder straps that offer support without extra weight.
A standout feature is the secure hydration sleeve, which makes it simple to stay hydrated during your adventures. The bag also includes external stretch pockets for easy access to essentials, and a small zippered pocket to keep valuables safe. The reflective details are a nice touch for visibility in low light, adding an extra layer of safety if you’re out early or late.
The Movmynt 18 is functional and practical, perfect for anyone who wants a reliable, no-fuss backpack for active days.
Why We Like Movmynt 18 Backpack
We like the North Face Movmynt 18 Backpack because it combines lightweight design with smart features that make it perfect for active days. Our team tested it on hikes and quick trips, and it passed with flying colors for comfort and convenience. The hydration sleeve, breathable straps, and secure pockets make it a reliable choice for keeping essentials close. Its durable material and reflective details add safety, making it a solid, well-rounded backpack.
THE NORTH FACE Unisex Router Meld
The North Face Unisex Router Meld backpack is designed for those who need space, organization, and comfort, whether for long trips or busy workdays. With a 40-liter capacity, it’s the largest backpack in the North Face daypack range, giving you room for everything you need. This pack includes a padded, dedicated laptop compartment and multiple organizational pockets, making it easy to keep essentials like chargers, notebooks, and accessories neatly organized.
The Router Meld’s FlexVent™ suspension system, with padded shoulder straps and a breathable, mesh back panel, ensures comfort even when fully loaded. It’s built with durable materials that withstand daily wear and tear, and its water-resistant finish adds extra protection against unexpected weather. A unique feature is the external bungee cord for additional storage—great for quick access items like a jacket or hat.
For anyone looking for a versatile, spacious backpack that balances comfort with functionality, the Router Meld is an ideal choice.
Why We Like Unisex Router Meld
We like the North Face Unisex Router Meld for its spacious design and smart organization, making it ideal for long trips or busy days. Our testing team found it comfortable to carry, even when packed full, thanks to the FlexVent™ suspension system and padded straps. With its durable build, water-resistant finish, and dedicated laptop compartment, it passed our tests for both quality and functionality. It’s a solid choice for anyone needing extra space and reliable comfort.
THE NORTH FACE Basin 36 – Men’s
The North Face Basin 36 – Men’s backpack is a versatile choice for day hikes and short overnight trips, offering the perfect balance between comfort and durability. With a 36-liter capacity, it has ample space for essentials without feeling bulky. The main compartment provides easy access, while a large front stash pocket is great for quick-grab items like a jacket or snacks. Two water bottle pockets and a hydration sleeve keep you hydrated on the go.
Built with tough, water-repellent materials, the Basin 36 is designed to handle rugged trails and unexpected weather. Its comfortable shoulder straps and supportive hip belt ensure stability, reducing strain on longer hikes. The breathable back panel helps with ventilation, so you stay cool during intense climbs. Plus, it features external lash points for carrying extra gear, making it a practical choice for those who like to be prepared.
For hikers seeking a reliable pack that’s lightweight, organized, and built to last, the Basin 36 is a strong choice that supports all your trail needs with ease.
Why We Like Basin 36 – Men’s
We like the North Face Basin 36 – Men’s because it’s built for comfort and reliability. Our testing team found it easy to carry with its padded straps and supportive hip belt, making it great for both short hikes and longer trips. The 36-liter capacity provides just the right amount of space, and the water-repellent materials kept our gear dry. It passed our quality tests for durability and comfort, making it a solid choice for hikers who need a dependable backpack.
Terra Backpacking Backpack
The Terra Backpacking Backpack is designed for long-distance hikers and backpackers who need a reliable, spacious pack for extended trips. With its large main compartment, it offers plenty of room for all your gear, including sleeping bags, tents, and extra clothing. The backpack also features several smaller pockets, so you can easily organize your smaller items like snacks, maps, and first aid kits.
Comfort is key with the Terra Backpack, as it includes adjustable, padded shoulder straps and a ventilated back panel that keeps you cool during long hikes. The hip belt helps distribute the weight evenly, reducing strain on your back and shoulders, especially when the pack is fully loaded. The durable, weather-resistant fabric ensures your gear stays dry and protected, even in rough conditions.
Whether you’re heading out on a multi-day adventure or a weekend trip, the Terra Backpacking Backpack offers the space, comfort, and durability you need to make your hike enjoyable. It’s a great choice for hikers who want a reliable, well-designed pack that can handle all types of terrain and weather.
Why We Like Terra Backpacking Backpack
We like the Terra Backpacking Backpack because it offers the perfect balance of comfort, space, and durability. Our testing team was impressed by its roomy compartments and thoughtful design, making it easy to organize gear for long hikes. The adjustable straps and padded hip belt ensure a comfortable fit, even when fully loaded. Plus, the weather-resistant material kept our gear safe and dry during testing. After thorough use, we believe this backpack is a great option for anyone seeking a reliable pack for outdoor adventures.
THE NORTH FACE Women’s Vault Everyday
The North Face Women’s Vault Everyday Backpack is a versatile and stylish option for daily use, perfect for commuting, school, or short trips. This backpack is designed with comfort in mind, featuring padded shoulder straps and a supportive back panel to keep you comfortable all day long. The main compartment is spacious enough to carry books, a laptop, and other essentials, while the front pocket provides easy access to smaller items like keys, pens, or your phone.
One of the standout features of the Vault Everyday Backpack is its organization system. It includes a dedicated laptop sleeve that fits most 15-inch laptops, keeping your device safe and secure. The water bottle pockets on both sides make it convenient to stay hydrated on the go. The durable materials used in this backpack ensure it can withstand daily wear and tear, making it a reliable companion for your everyday activities.
Whether you’re heading to class or out for a quick adventure, the North Face Women’s Vault Everyday Backpack offers a practical, comfortable, and stylish solution for all your carrying needs. It’s a great choice for women looking for a functional and fashionable backpack.
Why We Like Women’s Vault Everyday
We like the North Face Women’s Vault Everyday Backpack because it combines comfort, style, and practicality. Our searching and testing team found it to be well-made with durable materials that stand up to daily use. The padded shoulder straps and supportive back panel make it comfortable to wear for long periods, and the organized compartments, including a laptop sleeve, are perfect for keeping your essentials in order. We chose this backpack because it meets the needs of everyday use, making it a reliable and functional option for anyone looking for a dependable backpack.
THE NORTH FACE 10L Mini Borealis
The North Face 10L Mini Borealis is a compact and practical backpack, ideal for quick outings and everyday use. With a 10-liter capacity, it’s smaller than most backpacks but big enough for essentials like a water bottle, a tablet, a small jacket, and other daily items. It has a main compartment for larger items and a front bungee system, allowing you to strap extra gear to the outside if needed.
One of its best features is its comfortable design, with padded shoulder straps and a breathable back panel that make it easy to carry all day. The bag is lightweight and easy to grab on the go, whether you’re heading to the park, running errands, or on a short hike. It also includes an internal organizer, so you can keep smaller items like keys, pens, and your phone in place.
Made with durable materials, this mini version of The North Face’s popular Borealis backpack is built to last, even with regular use. Plus, it has a simple, stylish look that fits both casual and active settings, making it a versatile choice for anyone who needs a small, reliable backpack.
Why We Like 10L Mini Borealis
We chose The North Face 10L Mini Borealis because it’s a small, well-made backpack that’s perfect for day-to-day activities. Our research and testing team approved it for its solid quality and comfort. The padded straps and breathable back panel make it easy to wear, even on longer days. We also like the simple design that keeps things organized with a main compartment and front bungee cords for extra items. This mini pack is lightweight yet durable, ideal for anyone who wants a reliable and compact bag for quick trips or casual use.
Best Buyer’s Guide
When you’re starting out with hiking, finding the right backpack can make your trips easier and more enjoyable. North Face backpacks are known for their quality and design, and they offer a range of waterproof options that keep your gear dry in any weather. Here’s a guide to help you pick the best North Face hiking backpack for your needs.
Pro Tips
- Check for Ventilation: A backpack with a breathable back panel helps prevent sweat build-up, especially on warmer hikes. Look for mesh padding or ventilation channels in the back panel.
- Try the Pack with Weight: Before heading out, load your backpack with the items you’d bring on a hike and test how it feels. This will help you know if it’s comfortable and well-balanced for carrying all your essentials.
By keeping these tips and features in mind, you’ll be better prepared to choose a North Face hiking backpack that fits well, holds up to the elements, and helps make your hikes more enjoyable.
Things to Consider
Capacity (Size of the Backpack)
- For day hikes, a smaller backpack (20-30 liters) should be enough to hold your essentials. For longer trips, look for a larger pack (40+ liters) that can store extra clothes, food, and gear.
Waterproofing
- Not all backpacks are fully waterproof. Look for backpacks labeled as “waterproof” rather than “water-resistant” to ensure they’ll handle heavy rain. North Face often uses high-quality waterproof materials and sealed seams to keep your items dry.
Fit and Comfort
- Comfort is key. Look for padded shoulder straps, a breathable back panel, and an adjustable hip belt to spread the weight. Try on the backpack if possible, or choose one that matches your height and body type for the best fit.
Durability
- Hiking backpacks should withstand rough use. Look for materials like ripstop nylon and reinforced stitching. North Face packs are known for their durability, so they’re a good choice if you want a bag that lasts.
Organization and Extra Pockets
- Extra pockets help keep your gear organized and easy to reach. Look for side pockets for water bottles, front pockets for small items, and a main compartment for larger gear. North Face backpacks often include a hydration sleeve to hold a water reservoir for hands-free drinking.
Conclusion
Choosing the best North Face hiking backpack is a smart investment in your outdoor adventures. The right backpack makes a big difference in comfort, durability, and keeping your gear safe and dry, even in rough weather. By considering key factors like size, waterproofing, fit, and organization, you’ll find a backpack that suits your needs and makes hiking easier and more enjoyable.
Ready to hit the trails with confidence? Explore our top North Face hiking backpack recommendations and find the one that’s perfect for you. Start your journey with a backpack that has your back—literally. Grab your gear, and let the adventure begin!
Frequently Asked Questions
What size backpack should I get for day hikes?
For most day hikes, a backpack with a capacity of 20-30 liters is ideal. This size is large enough to hold essentials like water, snacks, a jacket, and any small gear you may need without being too heavy.
Are North Face backpacks waterproof?
Not all North Face backpacks are fully waterproof, but many are water-resistant, which helps in light rain. Look for backpacks specifically labeled “waterproof” if you plan to hike in wet conditions. These usually have sealed seams and special materials to keep your items dry.
Do I need a hydration sleeve?
If you want to keep hydrated without stopping often, a hydration sleeve is a great feature. Many North Face backpacks include a sleeve for a water reservoir, allowing you to drink hands-free while hiking.
. How can I tell if a backpack is durable enough for hiking?
Durable hiking backpacks are made from strong materials like ripstop nylon and have reinforced stitching in high-wear areas. North Face is known for its quality, so you can feel confident that their hiking backpacks will last through many adventures.
. Can I use a larger North Face backpack for both hiking and travel?
Yes! Many larger North Face hiking backpacks work well for travel, too. Just make sure it meets airline size limits if you’re flying. A versatile backpack can be a great investment for outdoor adventures and trips alike.
What features are most useful for beginners?
For beginners, features like easy-access pockets, a comfortable hip belt, and a hydration sleeve are especially helpful. These make it easier to stay organized, balanced, and hydrated on your hike.
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