Best north face backpack for college

Finding the right backpack for college can significantly enhance your daily routine. A quality backpack not only holds your essentials but also provides comfort during long commutes and busy campus days. When it comes to style and functionality, The North Face offers some of the best options available today. Their backpacks are designed to meet the needs of students who require reliable storage without sacrificing aesthetics.

In this guide, I’ll explore the best North Face backpacks tailored for college students. I’ll share insights into their features, pros, and how they can help streamline your daily activities, ensuring you choose the right backpack to support your academic journey.

Top Picks

1
The North Face Jester Backpack for Commuters
Best Overall
The North Face Jester Backpack for Commuters
Ergonomic design approved by chiropractors
9.8
Amazon.com
2
The North Face Women's Jester Backpack
Premium Performance
The North Face Women's Jester Backpack
Chiropractor approved for comfort and support
9.5
Amazon.com
3
The North Face Borealis Laptop Backpack
High Performance
The North Face Borealis Laptop Backpack
Optimal organization for daily commuters
9.3
Amazon.com
4
THENORTHFACE Women's Jester Luxe Backpack
Best Value
THENORTHFACE Women's Jester Luxe Backpack
Endorsed by the American Chiropractic Association
9.1
Amazon.com
5
The North Face Women's Kaban Backpack
Most Reliable
The North Face Women's Kaban Backpack
Stylish metallic silver design for women
8.8
Amazon.com

Key Takeaways

Here are some essential points to consider when choosing the best North Face backpack for college.

  • Look for padded laptop sleeves for extra protection.
  • Consider water-repellent materials to keep your belongings dry.
  • Choose ergonomic designs for maximum comfort during commutes.
  • Evaluate the storage capacity to ensure it meets your needs.

How to Choose Best north face backpack for college

When selecting the right North Face backpack for college, it’s essential to consider several factors that can impact your daily experience. From comfort and functionality to style and durability, each element plays a role in your satisfaction with the bag. Below are key criteria to help you make an informed decision.

Comfort and Ergonomics

Carrying heavy books and a laptop can strain your back and shoulders. Therefore, choosing a backpack with ergonomic features is crucial. Look for padded shoulder straps and back panels that provide support and distribute weight evenly.

  • Padded shoulder straps for comfort.
  • Adjustable sternum straps for stability.
  • Breathable back panels to reduce sweating.

Storage Capacity

Consider how much you need to carry daily. A backpack with multiple compartments helps keep your items organized and easily accessible. Ensure there’s enough space for your laptop, textbooks, and any additional supplies.

  • Spacious main compartments.
  • Separate pockets for laptops and tablets.
  • Organizational pockets for smaller items.

Durability and Materials

A college backpack should withstand daily wear and tear. Look for backpacks made of durable, water-repellent materials. This ensures protection against spills and rain, keeping your belongings safe.

  • Water-repellent fabrics to keep items dry.
  • Reinforced stitching for added strength.
  • Quality zippers that withstand frequent use.

Style and Aesthetics

Your backpack is an extension of your personal style. The North Face offers a variety of colors and designs. Consider what reflects your personality while still being functional.

  • Variety of colors to match your style.
  • Trendy designs suitable for both campus and casual outings.
  • Room for personalization with patches or accessories.

Price and Value

While it’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, consider the long-term value. Invest in a quality backpack that meets your needs and can last throughout your college years.

  • Assess features versus price.
  • Look for warranties or guarantees.
  • Consider long-term durability over initial cost.

Which Best north face backpack for college Is Best for You?

Different college experiences call for different backpacks. Here’s a breakdown of which North Face backpacks are best suited for various needs and preferences.

Best Overall for Versatility

The North Face Jester Backpack for Commuters is ideal for students looking for a balance of style and functionality. Its spacious design and ergonomic features make it suitable for everyday use.

  • Excellent for daily commutes.
  • Ample storage for books and electronics.
  • Stylish enough for both casual and formal settings.

Best for Women

The North Face Women’s Jester Backpack offers a chiropractor-approved design tailored for comfort. It’s perfect for female students who need a reliable and stylish backpack.

  • Lightweight and easy to carry.
  • Padded laptop sleeve for protection.
  • Multiple organizational pockets.

Best for High Performance

The North Face Borealis Laptop Backpack is designed for those who need extra durability and space. Its adjustable straps and padded design provide comfort for heavy loads.

  • Dedicated laptop compartment.
  • Versatile design for various activities.
  • Comfortable straps for long wear.

Best Value for Money

The North Face Women’s Jester Luxe Backpack combines style and functionality at an accessible price. It’s perfect for students wanting a reliable bag without breaking the bank.

  • Stylish design with eco-friendly materials.
  • Comfortable FlexVent suspension.
  • Multiple pockets for organization.

Most Reliable for Daily Use

The North Face Women’s Kaban Backpack stands out with its sleek design and ample storage. It’s a great choice for students who want both style and function.

  • Durable materials for everyday wear.
  • Spacious compartments for essentials.
  • Comfortable straps for easy carrying.

5 Best north face backpack for college

Best Overall
1

The North Face Jester Backpack for Commuters

Ergonomic design approved by chiropractors
9.8/10
EXPERT SCORE
The North Face Jester Everyday Laptop Backpack combines style with functionality, perfect for college students. Its padded laptop sleeve and water-repellent fabric ensure your essentials stay safe and secure during daily commutes.
Updated: 2 hours ago

Pros

Spacious main compartment for all essentials
Padded laptop and tablet sleeves for added protection
Water-repellent fabric keeps items dry
Ergonomic design for comfortable carrying

Cons

Not suitable for children under 12
Limited color options may not appeal to everyone

Overview

The North Face Jester Everyday Laptop Backpack combines style with functionality, perfect for college students.

Its padded laptop sleeve and water-repellent fabric ensure your essentials stay safe and secure during daily commutes.

Key Features of the North Face Jester Backpack

FlexVent suspension system offers ergonomic support for long wear
Multiple pockets for smart organization of items
Durable construction with recycled polyester for eco-conscious consumers
Lightweight design makes it easy to carry around campus

Practical considerations

This backpack is designed primarily for adults, making it less ideal for younger users.

Additionally, while it is spacious, I recommend checking the dimensions to ensure it fits all your specific needs.

Real-world insight

From my experience, the Jester is not just functional but also stylish enough to carry around campus.

It’s the perfect blend of durability and design, making it a reliable companion for my college life.


Premium Performance
2

The North Face Women's Jester Backpack

Chiropractor approved for comfort and support
9.5/10
EXPERT SCORE
The North Face Women's Jester Everyday Laptop Backpack combines style and functionality, perfect for college life. With a padded laptop sleeve and ergonomic support, this bag ensures comfort during daily commutes.
Updated: 2 hours ago

Pros

Chiropractor-approved design for maximum comfort.
Ample storage with a padded laptop sleeve and organizational pockets.
Water-repellent fabric protects my belongings from the elements.
Lightweight construction makes it easy to carry all day.

Cons

Limited color options may not suit everyone's taste.
Not suitable for very large laptops beyond the specified dimensions.

Overview

The North Face Women’s Jester Everyday Laptop Backpack combines style and functionality, perfect for college life.

With a padded laptop sleeve and ergonomic support, this bag ensures comfort during daily commutes.

Key Features of the Women's Jester Backpack

Ergonomic FlexVent suspension system provides all-day comfort.
Spacious main compartment fits laptops up to 12.75 inches.
Smart organizational pockets and external water bottle holders.
Self-standing design for easy access and stability.

Practical considerations

This backpack is ideal for college students who need a reliable and comfortable bag for daily use.

However, it’s essential to ensure that my laptop does not exceed the specified sleeve dimensions for proper fit.

Real-world insight

In my experience, the North Face Jester Backpack not only meets my needs for carrying books and a laptop, but also excels during unpredictable weather days thanks to its water-repellent feature, making it a dependable choice for my college lifestyle.


High Performance
3

The North Face Borealis Laptop Backpack

Optimal organization for daily commuters
9.3/10
EXPERT SCORE
The North Face Women's Borealis Commuter Laptop Backpack combines style with functionality, perfect for college life. Its padded design and adjustable straps ensure comfort while providing ample space for your laptop and essentials.
Updated: 2 hours ago

Pros

Stylish and versatile design suitable for everyday use.
Dedicated laptop compartment for added protection.
Comfortable padded straps for easy carrying.

Cons

Limited color options may not appeal to everyone.
Size may be too large for users preferring smaller bags.

Overview

The North Face Women’s Borealis Commuter Laptop Backpack combines style with functionality, perfect for college life.

Its padded design and adjustable straps ensure comfort while providing ample space for your laptop and essentials.

Key Features of the Borealis Commuter Backpack

Padded laptop compartment fits most 15-inch laptops and tablets.
Adjustable shoulder straps for a customized fit.
Multiple compartments allow for organized storage.

Practical considerations

While the Borealis backpack is spacious and well-designed, it may be more suited for students carrying multiple items, as its size might feel bulky for those who prefer a minimalist approach.

Real-world insight

I’ve found that this backpack not only looks great but also helps me stay organized during my busy college days, making it a reliable option for anyone balancing classes and activities.


Best Value
4

THENORTHFACE Women's Jester Luxe Backpack

Endorsed by the American Chiropractic Association
9.1/10
EXPERT SCORE
The North Face Women's Jester Luxe backpack combines style and functionality for everyday use. With its supportive design and ample organization, it's perfect for carrying your essentials, including a laptop, while ensuring comfort throughout the day.

Pros

Eco-friendly design with increased recycled materials.
Comfortable FlexVent suspension for all-day wear.
Multiple pockets for organized storage, including a padded laptop sleeve.
Stylish color options that suit both casual and outdoor settings.

Cons

Not intended for use by children 12 and under.
Limited color options may not appeal to everyone.
Slightly heavier than some minimalist backpacks.

Overview

The North Face Women’s Jester Luxe backpack combines style and functionality for everyday use.

With its supportive design and ample organization, it’s perfect for carrying your essentials, including a laptop, while ensuring comfort throughout the day.

Key Features of the Jester Luxe Backpack

Padded laptop sleeve fits a 16" laptop securely.
Two side pockets that can double as storage for quick access.
Dimensions designed for optimal comfort and support.
Stylish design that transitions well from campus to outdoor adventures.

Practical considerations

This backpack is an excellent choice for college students and outdoor enthusiasts alike, although its weight may be a consideration for those seeking a lighter option.

It’s important to ensure that it meets your specific needs for daily use.

Real-world insight

I’ve found that the Jester Luxe backpack not only holds up well during daily commutes but also stands out with its stylish design, making it a favorite among my peers.

It’s versatile enough for classes and weekend hikes, ensuring I always look good while being practical.


Most Reliable
5

The North Face Women's Kaban Backpack

Stylish metallic silver design for women
8.8/10
EXPERT SCORE
The North Face Women's Kaban Metallic Silver Backpack is both stylish and functional, perfect for college life. With its sleek design and ample storage, it keeps my essentials organized and ready for daily adventures.

Pros

Stylish metallic design that stands out on campus.
Spacious compartments for books, a laptop, and daily essentials.
Durable materials that can withstand daily wear and tear.
Comfortable straps that make carrying heavy loads easier.

Cons

Limited color options may not appeal to everyone.
Higher price point compared to other backpacks.

Overview

The North Face Women’s Kaban Metallic Silver Backpack is both stylish and functional, perfect for college life.

With its sleek design and ample storage, it keeps my essentials organized and ready for daily adventures.

Key Features of the Kaban Backpack

Ample storage space for textbooks and a laptop.
Multiple pockets for organizing smaller items.
Comfortable, padded shoulder straps for easy carrying.

Practical considerations

While this backpack is stylish and functional, I found that it may not be suitable for those who prefer a more minimalistic design.

Additionally, the price may be a consideration for budget-conscious students.

Real-world insight

In my experience, this backpack perfectly balances style and utility, making it an ideal companion for my college journey.

I appreciate how it not only looks great but also holds up well during my busy days on campus.

Key Features to Look For

When shopping for the best North Face backpack for college, keep these key features in mind to ensure you make the right choice.

Padded Laptop Sleeve

A dedicated sleeve helps protect your laptop from bumps and drops.

Water-Repellent Fabric

Water-resistant materials keep your belongings dry.

Comfortable Straps

Padded and adjustable straps enhance carrying comfort.

Multiple Organizational Pockets

Keep your items organized and easily accessible.

Durability

Look for backpacks made with high-quality materials.

Stylish Design

Aesthetics matter when choosing a backpack.

Quick Comparison

A quick side-by-side comparison helps show where each option fits before the detailed reviews.

ProductQuick takeWhy we picked it
The North Face Jester Backpack for CommutersThe North Face Jester Everyday Laptop Backpack combines style with functionality, perfect for collegeSpacious main compartment for all essentials; Padded laptop and tablet sleeves for added protectio
The North Face Women's Jester BackpackThe North Face Women's Jester Everyday Laptop Backpack combines style and functionality, perfect forChiropractor-approved design for maximum comfort.; Ample storage with a padded laptop sleeve and organizational pockets
The North Face Borealis Laptop BackpackThe North Face Women's Borealis Commuter Laptop Backpack combines style with functionality, perfect forStylish and versatile design suitable for everyday use.; Dedicated laptop compartment for added protectio

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls when selecting a backpack for college.

Choosing Based Solely on Price

While staying within budget is essential, opting for the cheapest option can lead to dissatisfaction. It’s better to invest in a quality backpack that will last throughout your college years.

Ignoring Comfort

Many students overlook the importance of comfort. A backpack that doesn’t fit well can cause strain and discomfort, especially when carrying heavy loads.

Overlooking Storage Needs

Not considering how much you need to carry can result in a backpack that’s either too small or unnecessarily large. Evaluate your daily essentials before deciding.

Neglecting Durability

Opting for bags made of flimsy materials may save money initially but can lead to frequent replacements. Choose durable fabrics that withstand daily wear.

What Should You Expect to Spend?

Understanding the price ranges for North Face backpacks can help you set a realistic budget while shopping.

Budget Range

Backpacks in this category typically range from $50 to $80. They provide basic features and are suitable for students who need a reliable bag without extra frills.

  • Basic designs with limited features.
  • Good for occasional use.
  • Suitable for students on a tight budget.

Mid-Range

Expect to spend between $80 and $120 for mid-range options. These backpacks often include additional features like ergonomic designs and water-repellent materials, making them a solid investment.

  • Balanced features and durability.
  • Good for daily use.
  • Better quality materials and construction.

Premium Range

Premium backpacks can range from $120 to $200. They offer advanced features, high durability, and stylish designs, perfect for students looking for both utility and aesthetics.

  • High-quality materials and construction.
  • Advanced ergonomic features.
  • Suitable for long-term investment.

Alternatives to Consider

If you’re considering options beyond the North Face backpacks, here are a few alternatives worth looking into.

Patagonia Backpacks

Known for their sustainability, Patagonia offers durable and functional backpacks that appeal to environmentally-conscious students.

Osprey Backpacks

Osprey is renowned for its ergonomic designs and comfort. Their backpacks are a great alternative for those requiring extra support.

Adidas Backpacks

For a sporty look, Adidas backpacks provide stylish options with functional features suitable for college life.

Eastpak Backpacks

Eastpak combines durability and style, making their backpacks a good choice for students who want a trendy yet practical option.

Brands Worth Considering

When considering brands for college backpacks, here are some noteworthy options to keep in mind.

The North Face

A leader in outdoor gear, known for its durable and stylish backpacks.

  • Focus on functionality and comfort.
  • Variety of styles for different needs.
  • Trusted brand with a solid reputation.

Patagonia

Offers eco-friendly backpacks that combine sustainability with style.

  • Commitment to environmental responsibility.
  • Durable materials for long-lasting use.
  • Stylish designs for everyday wear.

Osprey

Specializes in ergonomic backpacks designed for comfort and ease of carrying.

  • Focus on adjustable features for a perfect fit.
  • Ideal for heavy loads and long durations.
  • Durable and weather-resistant materials.

Adidas

Combines sports and style, providing trendy backpacks for students.

  • Sporty designs that appeal to younger audiences.
  • Functional features suited for active lifestyles.
  • Good balance of style and utility.

How We Chose These Products

We evaluated these North Face backpacks based on specific criteria to provide you with the best options available.

User Reviews

We analyzed customer feedback to understand the real-world performance of each backpack.

Comfort Features

Comfort is paramount, so we focused on backpacks with ergonomic designs and padded straps.

Durability

We examined the materials and construction quality to ensure long-lasting use.

Storage Options

The ability to organize essentials efficiently was a key factor in our selections.

FAQs

What is the best North Face backpack for college?

The North Face Jester Backpack is highly recommended for its spacious design and ergonomic features.

Are North Face backpacks waterproof?

Most North Face backpacks are water-repellent but not fully waterproof. It’s advisable to check the specific product details.

How do I clean my North Face backpack?

Spot clean with a mild soap and water solution, and allow it to air dry completely.

Do North Face backpacks come with a warranty?

Yes, North Face backpacks typically come with a limited lifetime warranty against defects.

Can I use a North Face backpack for hiking?

While designed for college use, some North Face backpacks can also be suitable for light hiking, depending on their features.

What sizes do North Face backpacks come in?

North Face offers backpacks in various sizes, from small daypacks to larger models suitable for carrying more gear.

Are North Face backpacks suitable for high school students?

Yes, many North Face backpacks are ideal for high school students, providing the necessary storage and durability.

How much should I spend on a North Face backpack?

Prices can vary, but expect to spend between $50 and $200 depending on the features and materials.

What is the best way to organize a backpack for college?

Utilize compartments for laptops and books, and keep smaller items in designated pockets to avoid clutter.

Can I personalize my North Face backpack?

Yes, many students personalize their backpacks with patches or keychains for a unique touch.

Are there gender-specific North Face backpacks?

Yes, The North Face designs backpacks specifically for men and women, focusing on fit and comfort.

What features should I look for in a college backpack?

Look for padded laptop sleeves, storage capacity, comfort features, and durable materials.

How do I choose the right size backpack for college?

Consider your daily items and choose a backpack that comfortably fits everything you need without being oversized.

Can I find eco-friendly options?

Yes, The North Face offers eco-friendly backpacks made with recycled materials.

Final Thoughts

The North Face Jester Backpack is the best overall choice for college students. The Women’s Jester Backpack offers excellent comfort and performance. For high performance, the Borealis is an excellent option.

In conclusion, the best North Face backpack for college ultimately depends on individual needs. The Jester Backpack stands out for its versatility, while the Women’s options provide additional comfort tailored for female students.

Michael Turner
Michael Turner

Michael Turner is a U.S.-based travel enthusiast, gear reviewer, and lifestyle blogger with a passion for exploring the world one trip at a time. Over the past 10 years, he has tested countless backpacks, briefcases, duffels, and travel accessories to find the perfect balance between style, comfort, and durability. On Gen Buy, Michael shares detailed reviews, buying guides, and practical tips to help readers choose the right gear for work, gym, or travel. His mission is simple: make every journey easier, smarter, and more enjoyable with the right bag by your side.

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