Backpacks & Rucksacks

Backpacks and rucksacks for every day
A good backpack earns its place by disappearing on your back so you can focus on the day ahead. The North Face builds every rucksack to that standard, whether the load is a laptop and a packed lunch or three days of kit above the snowline. The range runs from compact daypacks for school and commuting to expedition carries with hip belts and compression straps. Durable fabrics, reinforced stitching and reliable zips keep contents secure across thousands of uses. If you need a pack shaped for technical terrain, start with men's backpacks for trail-ready fits and load-bearing support.


Comfort that holds up under weight
Weight is not the problem. Badly carried weight is. Padded, ventilated back panels and adjustable shoulder straps shift the load onto your hips and off your shoulders, stopping a long walk from turning into a long complaint. Larger rucksacks in the 45 to 65 litre range add hip belts and load lifters so contents stay stable on uneven ground. Smaller packs use the same ergonomic principles at lighter volumes, keeping notebooks, water bottles and tech organised. For multi-day routes, women's backpacks sit on their own frame geometry rather than being the same pack in a different colourway.


Waterproof rucksacks for British weather
British weather rarely gives notice, so every backpack in the range is built with that in mind. Water-resistant fabrics, coated finishes and protected zips keep the inside of a rucksack drier than the outside of you. A waterproof backpack means the laptop, the map and the spare layers come out in the condition they went in. For younger explorers heading to school or on family hikes, kids' backpacks bring the same weather protection in smaller, lighter builds.


Find the right pack for your journey
Choosing a rucksack comes down to how you carry. Torso length, strap shape and capacity all change how a pack rides, so pick by use rather than looks. Daypacks suit commutes and short hikes. Mid-volume packs handle weekends away. Large expedition rucksacks carry everything for multi-day treks. Each product page includes sizing details so you can match the pack to your frame. Browse our hiking backpacks for packs built around technical trail use.

How do I choose the right capacity (litres) for my North Face backpack?

Choosing the right backpack size depends on your daily needs. For everyday commuting, school or day hikes, a 20-30 litre backpack (like our classic Borealis, Jester or Vault models) provides ample space for a laptop, extra layers and daily essentials. If you are packing for short overnight trips, travel or need to carry heavier gear, look for backpacks in the 30-40 litre range. For technical mountaineering and longer hiking expeditions, explore our 50+ litre specialised outdoor packs.


What ergonomic features should I look for in a backpack to prevent back pain?

To prevent shoulder fatigue and back pain when carrying heavy gear, choose a pack built around active weight distribution and supportive design.

Essential ergonomic features include:

• Custom Injection-Moulded Shoulder Straps: Articulated straps that contour naturally around your body without digging in.
• Padded & Ventilated Panels: A supportive back panel with airflow channels to reduce heat and sweat build-up.
• Sternum Straps: Load-stabilising chest straps that keep the pack close to your centre of gravity.
   

How do I choose a backpack that safely fits my laptop or tablet?

To keep your tech secure on daily commutes or travel, look for a backpack with a dedicated, padded laptop sleeve that sits elevated off the bottom of the bag. This prevents your device from hitting the ground when you set your pack down. Use our backpack finder tool to narrow your search by features, size and more.


Are The North Face backpacks waterproof or water-resistant?

Most of our everyday backpacks are water-resistant, but not waterproof. They are crafted from durable, tightly woven fabrics and typically feature a Durable Water Repellent (DWR) finish to keep your belongings dry during light showers and unexpected drizzles. For extreme alpine conditions or heavy, continuous rain, we recommend our waterproof technical backpacks or adding a separate rain cover.

How should I properly clean and maintain my North Face backpack?

To maximise the lifespan and preserve the protective coatings of your backpack, we recommend spot-cleaning it by hand. The best way to clean our backpacks is to spot clean with a damp cloth, then let it air dry. Never machine wash or tumble dry your bag, and avoid fully submerging it in water.