3 Best North Face Backpacks for Hiking: Top Picks Compared (2026)

By Colin Foster

Updated November 2026

Choosing the best North Face backpack for hiking comes down to three things: how well the pack fits your torso, how much gear you need to carry for the length of your trip, and whether the features you use most on the trail, like external attachment points and easy access, are built in. This guide compares three models from the Terra line so you can match a pack to your trip length and body size. Our selection method looks at published specifications, the brand’s fit system, and patterns that owners commonly report about comfort, durability, and access.

Our Top Picks

Quick Comparison

THE NORTH FACE Terra 55 Backpack

THE NORTH FACE Terra 55 Backpack, TNF Black/Asphalt Grey-NPF, S/M | Quick Zip Access to Entire Main Compartment, Highly Adjustable Fit, Removable Top Lid, Stuff-It Pocket, Pole & Ice Axe Carry

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Best for: Overnight and multi-day hikes where you want one pack that handles most trips without feeling oversized.

This is the middle of the Terra line and the most balanced choice for hikers who take one to four night trips and want a pack that is easy to live with on shorter outings too. It suits people who want quick access to their sleeping bag and cooking gear without unpacking everything else.

Key specs

• Size listed: S/M
• Highly adjustable fit system for torso length
• Stuff-It pocket for quick storage
• Pole and ice axe carry points
• Quick zip access to the main compartment
• Removable top lid

Pros

• Quick zip access makes it easy to reach gear at the bottom without emptying the pack
• Adjustable fit helps shorter-torso hikers dial in weight distribution
• External attachment points keep poles and ice axes off the main compartment

Cons

• Capacity may feel limiting for trips that require bulky winter gear
• Smaller sizing range means checking the torso measurement carefully before buying

Bottom line: A strong all-round pick for hikers who want a single pack for weekend and multi-night trips.

THE NORTH FACE Terra 65 Backpack

THE NORTH FACE Terra 65 Backpack, TNF Black/Asphalt Grey-NPF, L/XL | Quick Zip Access to Entire Main Compartment, Highly Adjustable Fit, Removable Top Lid, Stuff-It Pocket, Pole & Ice Axe Carry

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Best for: Longer multi-day trips and hikers who carry bulky or seasonal gear.

The Terra 65 is the largest pack in this group and is designed for hikers who need more volume for extended trips, cold-weather layers, or shared group gear. Its quick zip access to the entire main compartment makes packing and reorganizing faster than a top-loading design.

Key specs

• Size listed: L/XL
• Highly adjustable fit system
• Quick zip access to the entire main compartment
• Removable top lid
• Stuff-It pocket
• Pole and ice axe carry points

Pros

• Large volume handles extended trips and bulky sleeping systems
• Full-length zip access helps organize gear across a long trip
• Removable lid gives flexibility when you want a lower-profile pack

Cons

• Heavier than the smaller models when empty, which adds to base weight
• Oversized for weekend trips where you only need a light daypack

Bottom line: The right choice for hikers planning long or cold-weather trips who would rather carry extra room than repack at camp.

THE NORTH FACE Terra 40 Backpack

THE NORTH FACE Terra 40 Backpack, TNF Black/Asphalt Grey-NPF, L/XL | Highly Adjustable Fit, Breathable Padding, Panel Loader with Large Top Zipper, Stuff-It Pocket, Pole & Ice Axe Carry

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Best for: Day hikes, short overnights, and hikers who want a smaller, more compact North Face pack.

The Terra 40 is the smallest model in the line and suits day hikers and people who keep their overnight kit minimal. Its panel loader design with a large top zipper gives easy access to the main compartment while keeping the pack trim.

Key specs

• Size listed: L/XL
• Highly adjustable fit system
• Panel loader with large top zipper
• Stuff-It pocket
• Pole and ice axe carry points
• Breathable back padding

Pros

• Compact profile is easy to manage on scrambles and tight trails
• Panel loader access works well for day-to-day organization
• Adjustable fit suits a range of torso lengths

Cons

• Not large enough for multi-day trips without very careful packing
• Limited space for bulky winter layers

Bottom line: A focused pick for day hikers and light overnight trips who value a smaller, easier-to-manage pack.

Buying Guide

Torso fit and adjustability

Torso length matters more than the listed capacity for comfort. Measure from the base of your neck to the top of your hip bones, then compare that number to the size chart. A pack with a highly adjustable suspension lets you move the load up or down, which can make a big difference on steep climbs and long descents. Load the pack with weight before you buy, if the store allows it, and check that the hip belt sits on your hip bones rather than your waist.

Good picks for this: THE NORTH FACE Terra 55, THE NORTH FACE Terra 40

Capacity and trip length

Match volume to the longest trip you plan to take in the next season, not your average outing. Day hikes usually need 20 to 30 liters. Two to four night trips often fit comfortably in roughly 40 to 55 liters, and longer or cold-weather trips may need more. Oversized packs tend to encourage overpacking, which adds base weight. Undersized packs force you to strap gear outside, which can be unstable.

Good picks for this: THE NORTH FACE Terra 55, THE NORTH FACE Terra 65

Access style: top loader versus panel loader

Top loaders are simple and light, but reaching items at the bottom means unpacking everything above them. Panel loaders and quick zip access open the main compartment from the front or side, which helps when you need a layer or snack mid-hike. If you frequently reorganize gear at camp, prioritize access over minimalism.

Good picks for this: THE NORTH FACE Terra 65, THE NORTH FACE Terra 40

External attachment points

Check for pole loops, ice axe loops, and compression straps if you hike with trekking poles or carry a shelter on the outside. These features keep wet or dirty gear away from your main compartment. Also look for a dedicated pocket or Stuff-It style storage for rain shells you may need quickly.

Good picks for this: THE NORTH FACE Terra 40, THE NORTH FACE Terra 55

Ventilation and back padding

Breathable back panels reduce sweat buildup on warm days and long climbs. Mesh backs and channel designs improve airflow, but they can feel less stable under heavy loads. Consider where you hike most. Humid, low-elevation trails reward ventilation, while cooler alpine routes may favor a snugger back panel.

Good picks for this: THE NORTH FACE Terra 40, THE NORTH FACE Terra 65

Durability and fabric choice

Look at the denier rating and reinforcement at high-wear points such as the base and the bottom corners. Owners of packs used on rocky or brushy terrain often report that abrasion at the base is the first sign of wear, so check for reinforced panels. Care matters too: rinse the pack after muddy hikes, let it air dry fully, and store it uncompressed to protect foam padding.

Good picks for this: THE NORTH FACE Terra 65, THE NORTH FACE Terra 55

Weight and base weight

Pack weight adds directly to your base weight. An empty pack can range widely across models, so compare the manufacturer’s stated weight for the exact size you plan to buy. Shaving a few hundred grams from the pack is less important than keeping your total kit light, but it still matters on long days with steep elevation gain.

Good picks for this: THE NORTH FACE Terra 40, THE NORTH FACE Terra 55

FAQ

Which North Face backpack is best for a beginner hiker?

The Terra 40 is usually the most approachable starting point for beginners on day hikes or short overnights. Its smaller size is easier to manage on uneven ground, and it encourages packing light. If you expect to carry more gear as your trips get longer, the Terra 55 is a sensible step up.

How do I know if a North Face backpack fits me?

Measure your torso from the seventh cervical vertebra (the bone at the base of your neck) down to the top of your iliac crest (the top of your hip bones). Use the brand’s size chart to match that number to the correct size. Then load the pack with about 10 to 15 pounds and walk around. The hip belt should carry most of the weight, and the shoulder straps should not dig in.

Is a 40-liter pack big enough for multi-day hiking?

It can be, for a minimalist hiker on a short trip with careful packing. Many people find that 40 liters is tight for a full overnight kit that includes a sleeping bag, shelter, food, and cold-weather layers. If you carry bulky gear, a pack in the 50 to 60 liter range is usually a more comfortable choice.

Can I use a North Face hiking backpack for travel or commuting?

Many hikers use technical packs for travel, especially when they want a backpack that works as a carry-on. Keep in mind that hiking packs often lack laptop sleeves and may have hip belts and frames that feel awkward in a crowded train car. If you plan to use one pack for both, a daypack model with a dedicated laptop compartment may suit you better.

How should I clean and store my hiking backpack?

Rinse off mud and sand with a soft brush and lukewarm water, then air dry the pack away from direct heat. Avoid harsh detergents that can break down coatings and foam. Store the pack loosely in a cool, dry place rather than compressed, so the padding keeps its shape. Check the manufacturer’s care label for any model-specific instructions.

Should I choose a pack with a hydration sleeve?

A hydration sleeve is useful if you want hands-free drinking on long, hot days. Check whether the sleeve and hose port are included with the model you choose, since some configurations differ. If you prefer bottles, make sure the side pockets are large enough for the size you carry and that they can be reached while wearing the pack.

How much weight should I carry in a hiking backpack?

Many hiking guidelines suggest keeping the load around 20 percent of your body weight or less for comfortable day-to-day hiking, though needs vary by trip and fitness. Heavier loads require a well-fitting pack with a supportive hip belt. If you regularly carry more, consider a professional fitting at an outdoor retailer and a pack designed for heavier loads.

Are these packs suitable for hiking with trekking poles?

Yes. All three models in this comparison list pole and ice axe carry points, so you can secure poles outside the main compartment while you scramble or cross snow. Practice attaching and removing poles at home first, since fumbling with them on a steep slope is a common frustration.

Conclusion

For most hikers, the best North Face backpack for hiking is the Terra 55, which balances capacity, access, and fit for weekend and multi-night trips. Choose the Terra 65 if you regularly carry bulky gear or plan long, cold-weather outings. Pick the Terra 40 for day hikes and light overnights where a compact pack matters more than volume. Before buying any of them, measure your torso, check the size chart, and load the pack to confirm comfort.

If you are still deciding how to choose a pack from scratch, North Face Backpack Hiking: How to Pick the Right Pack in 6 Steps walks through the same fit and capacity checks in more detail. For wet-weather trips, 9 Best North Face Waterproof Daypack Options for Wet Weather Hiking covers related options. Hikers focused on shorter outings may also want to compare Top 4 Day Hiking Backpacks with Hydration Picks for Trail Days and 5 Best Lightweight Hiking Backpacks for Trail Days (2026).

Sources

• Guidance on physical activity and safe exertion levels that can help you judge how much load and effort is appropriate on hikes (cdc.gov)
• Trail safety, leave-no-trace principles, and preparation advice for backcountry travel (nps.gov)
• Workplace guidance on safe lifting and load carriage principles that apply to carrying heavy packs (osha.gov)

Related reading

• Best North Face Daypack: 7 Models Compared for Hiking and Commuting

About Colin Foster

Colin Foster is part of our editorial team and reviews and edits our backpacks & packing systems guides, checking product details against manufacturer specifications and owner feedback.