7 Best North Face Bags of 2025

This ultra-portable powerhouse redefines what a compact crossbody can do. With its 2.3-liter capacity, DWR-treated fabric, and signature bungee system, the Jester Crossbody delivers surprising utility in a minimalist silhouette. It’s a go-to for urban explorers who want quick access to essentials without the bulk—perfect for those who hate digging through oversized bags just to find keys or a phone.

In real-world testing, it shines during short commutes, hiking day trails, or navigating city streets. The adjustable strap (27–50 inches) lets you wear it snug across the chest or low on the hip, adapting to movement without bouncing. The main compartment swallows a phone, wallet, power bank, and even a light jacket, while the external bungee holds a water bottle or extra layer. That said, the lack of a dedicated tablet sleeve and minimal padding means it’s not ideal for fragile electronics.

Compared to the Borealis Sling or Recon Backpack, this model trades storage depth for nimble convenience. It’s best suited for minimalists, students, or travelers needing a secure, weather-ready sling for daily errands or outdoor jaunts. While the Vault or Recon offer more organization and laptop security, the Jester Crossbody wins on simplicity and affordability, packing core North Face durability into a lightweight, stylish package that outperforms most budget slings.

Meet the stealthy essentials carrier that’s built for motion—light, lean, and loaded with purpose. The Jester Lumbar Pack packs 2.2 liters of smart storage into a 5-ounce frame, featuring a DWR finish, zippered security pockets, and that iconic bungee lash point on the front. It’s engineered for people who want hands-free freedom without sacrificing access to critical items like phones, wallets, or trail snacks.

On the move, it performs exceptionally well for hiking, festivals, or airport transits where agility matters. The adjustable waist strap (19–49 inches) secures tightly without riding up, and the split-level storage—main compartment plus rear zip pocket—keeps valuables separated and reachable. We tested it on humid city walks and drizzly forest paths, and the non-PFC water-repellent coating held up admirably. However, its shallow profile limits bulkier items, and it lacks padding for tech gear.

When stacked against the Borealis Sling or Recon, it’s clearly the minimalist’s pick—ideal for those who carry light but demand reliability. It doesn’t compete with full backpacks in capacity, but it beats them in mobility and weight savings. For anyone prioritizing low-profile carry with outdoor-grade resilience, this lumbar pack offers unbeatable efficiency, especially when you value eco-conscious materials with 75%+ sustainable content.

This is the gold-standard daypack that refuses to compromise—durable, supportive, and intelligently designed for life in motion. With a 30-liter volume, 16-inch padded laptop sleeve, and FlexVent suspension certified by the American Chiropractic Association, the Recon isn’t just built to carry—it’s built to protect your body and gear over long hauls. It’s the definitive choice for students, commuters, and adventure seekers who need one bag to do it all.

We tested it loaded with a 16-inch laptop, textbooks, water bottles, and rain gear—and it handled the weight with remarkable back support. The articulated shoulder straps and rounded back panel distribute pressure evenly, eliminating hot spots even after hours of wear. The daisy-chain webbing lets you lash extra gear, while the fleece-lined pocket safely stores sunglasses or a phone. Rain or shine, the recycled ripstop nylon with DWR finish kept contents dry. The only hiccup? It’s slightly bulkier than slimmer alternatives when empty.

Against the Borealis or Vault, the Recon stands taller in storage and ruggedness, though it weighs more. It’s the most complete package in the lineup, balancing capacity, comfort, and durability like no other. If you want a true workhorse backpack that thrives from campus to trailhead, the Recon outclasses competition with its chiropractor-approved design and bombproof materials, making it the best overall performer despite a higher price tag.

Engineered for all-day comfort and urban resilience, the Borealis Commuter is a back-support champion wrapped in sleek functionality. Its FlexVent suspension system—certified by the American Chiropractic Association—delivers cloud-like support, making it a top contender for anyone logging long commutes or campus miles. With 28 liters of space, a 16-inch laptop sleeve, and 360-degree reflectivity, this pack blends safety, ergonomics, and smart storage into one polished package.

Real-world testing revealed how well it handles heavy loads: even with a laptop, tablet, lunchbox, and water bottles, the padded shoulder straps and removable waist belt kept everything stable and pressure-free. The external bungee system compresses gear or holds a jacket, while dual mesh pockets double as grab-and-go storage. We especially liked the fleece-lined front pocket for glasses or earbuds. However, the laptop sleeve is snug for thicker models, and the main zipper can feel tight when overstuffed.

Pitted against the Recon, the Borealis trades a bit of volume for better weight distribution and commuter-focused safety. It’s the ideal pick for urban professionals and students who walk or bike daily and need ergonomic assurance without sacrificing style. While the Vault offers better value, the Borealis dominates in support and visibility, making it the best choice for those who carry heavy loads regularly and demand long-term back health and security.

This sleek, high-capacity sling brings the legendary Borealis DNA into a crossbody form factor that’s both stylish and seriously functional. With 6 liters of thoughtfully layered storage, including a dedicated tablet sleeve, fleece-lined compartment, and bottle pocket, it’s the most organized sling in The North Face lineup. It’s tailor-made for users who want quick-access tech storage without the bulk of a full backpack.

In daily use, it excelled as a commuter’s sidekick—easy to swing around for wallet access, yet secure enough for crowded trains. The padded shoulder strap stays comfortable even when loaded with a tablet, power bank, and water bottle. The external bungee system lets you strap down jackets or umbrellas, and the DWR-coated recycled ripstop nylon shrugs off rain. However, the asymmetrical design can feel unbalanced with uneven loads, and it’s heavier (10.6 oz) than minimalist slings.

Compared to the Jester Crossbody or Vault, this sling offers far superior organization but doesn’t replace a full laptop backpack. It’s perfect for digital nomads, photographers, or city explorers who need one-bag efficiency with tech-ready compartments. While the Recon delivers more space, the Borealis Sling beats it in convenience and accessibility, offering best-in-class crossbody utility for those who value structure, security, and sustainable materials.

Don’t let the price fool you—the Vault is a value-packed performer that punches far above its weight class. With 27 liters of space, a padded 15-inch laptop sleeve, and ACA-endorsed FlexVent suspension, it delivers 90% of the Borealis’ comfort at a fraction of the cost. It’s built for budget-conscious students and commuters who still demand ergonomic support and weather-ready protection.

On campus runs and transit rides, it proved reliably spacious and comfortable, with a self-standing design that makes packing easier. The dual water bottle pockets are a standout, and the front zip compartment keeps small items like chargers and keys neatly sorted. The padded back panel and shoulder straps absorb weight well, though long-term load distribution isn’t quite as refined as the Borealis. It handles rain impressively thanks to its DWR-treated recycled fabric, but the laptop sleeve is smaller than advertised—best for 14-inch devices.

When compared to the Recon or Borealis, the Vault sacrifices some durability and volume but retains core comforts. It’s the smart pick for those who want chiropractor-backed support without overspending. For students or casual users needing a daily driver backpack that’s organized, eco-friendly, and weather-resistant, the Vault offers the best bang for the buck, delivering premium features at a truly accessible entry point.

This travel-tough, organization-savvy duffel is the ultimate companion for multi-day adventures, blending rugged durability with laptop-ready convenience. With a massive 42-liter capacity, removable divider, and 100% recycled body fabric, the Base Camp Voyager elevates the classic duffel with modern functionality and sustainability. It’s built for weekend warriors, digital nomads, and globetrotters who need versatile, carry-on-friendly luggage that doesn’t sacrifice tech protection.

We loaded it with clothing, toiletries, a camera, and a 15-inch laptop—and the padded external laptop sleeve kept the device scratch-free, while the internal side pockets tamed smaller items. The adjustable divider lets you segment gear or collapse space for flexibility. Carrying options shine: use the padded backpack straps for hiking to hostels or the duffel handles for airport ease. The DWR finish repelled rain during transit, though prolonged exposure soaked seams.

Against smaller packs like the Recon or Borealis, this isn’t a daily carry—but it outperforms them in trip-ready versatility. It’s the best travel-ready bag in the lineup, especially for those who want one bag to serve as both luggage and adventure pack. While pricier than backpacks, the Base Camp Voyager justifies its cost with unmatched capacity and adaptability, making it the top choice for travelers who demand durability, smart layout, and eco-conscious construction in a single, expedition-grade package.