College Backpacks

College backpacks are your mobile command center on campus. A good pack should be durable enough for daily use and ergonomic enough to prevent back strain. Learn more about college backpacks at The North Face below.

Key Features To Look For

Laptop Compartment: A dedicated, padded area that fits your laptop is critical since you will likely be carrying tech with you to class, the library, and your favorite study spot. Be sure to pay attention to the size of the compartment to make sure it fits the dimensions of your device.

Comfortable Design: Padded shoulder straps and a padded back panel are a must. A sternum or waist strap can help stabilize heavy loads, but for everyday use, look for the padding as well as ventilation. Several of our backpacks at The North Face incorporate the FlexVent™ suspension system featuring articulated shoulder straps, a rounded back panel, comfortable stitch lines, and soft-touch chemise fabric that was certified by the American Chiropractic Association.

Weather-Resistance: A truly waterproof backpack is likely too much for campus use, but look for backpacks made from materials with a DWR (durable water-repellent) finish that helps light rain bead and roll off.

Capacity: The sweet spot for most students is 23-28L which has room for a laptop, a couple of notebooks, and a lunch or packable jacket. If you tend to carry textbooks, gym clothes, or other gear, consider a larger size (28-35L). Bags over 35L are more appropriate for travel, but can be used for haul lots of items.

Which The North Face Backpack Is Best For College?

One of our best-sellers is the Borealis Backpack. Praised for its versatile 28L size and comfortable suspension system, the Borealis has a dedicated laptop compartment that fits 16" laptops, a large main compartment for books and binders, and water bottle pockets. A removable waist belt can help balance heavier loads while reflective details help you be seen at dusk/dawn. The ripstop canvas material has a DWR finish. Available in unisex and women's versions.

If you need more space, consider the Recon Backpack. Also available in unisex and women's versions, this pack has a 31-liter capacity, DWR finish, 15" laptop sleeve, large main compartment, reflective details, water bottle pockets, and the FlexVent™ suspension system. A sternum strap and removable waist belt add stability for heavy loads. There's even a fleece-lined pocket perfect for sunglasses or your phone.

If you really need the space to carry a lot of gear around, our Router Backpack is the largest everyday backpack we offer with a 40L capacity. It has a dedicated 17" laptop compartment, DWR finish, two padded grab handles, water bottle pockets, multiple compartments and pockets to keep you organized, sternum strap and waist belt, and the FlexVent™ suspension system.

How To Pack Your College Bag Efficiently

- Pack heavy items like textbooks, binders, and your laptop closest to the back panel.

- Pack medium weight items like notebooks and pencil cases in the center.

- Use any front pockets for accessories like keys, cards, and snacks. If the front pocket is fleece-lined, consider stashing your sunglasses and phone inside where they will be better protected from scratches.

- Use dedicated water bottle pockets for your water bottle. Storing bottles inside your pack can damage electronics and books.

- Built-in pockets or separate pouches are ideal for small items like pencils, earbuds, makeup, etc. Otherwise, these items may settle to the bottom of the pack.