By Colin FosterIf you are shopping for a north face waterproof daypack, the real question is how much rain protection you need and how much of that protection you are willing to trade for weight, carry comfort and daily usability. A pack that keeps a laptop dry on a commute is not the same as one that survives a full day of driving rain on an alpine trail. This list is built around that difference. Every pick is evaluated on the criteria that matter most for a daypack: the waterproofing method (fully sealed roll-top construction versus water-resistant fabric with taped or coated seams), total volume, load-carrying structure, weight, organization, and whether the manufacturer’s own specifications line up with what owners report in the field. We looked at published specifications, brand reputation and common owner feedback patterns. We did not run lab tests on these packs, so treat the notes below as informed analysis rather than measured results.
Our Top Picks
Quick Comparison
| Product | Best for | Key feature |
|---|---|---|
| The North Face Basin Backpack | Everyday commuting with occasional rain | Water-resistant coated shell with a laptop sleeve |
| The North Face Recon Backpack | Students and urban daily carry | Padded laptop compartment and a clean, low-profile shape |
| The North Face Borealis Backpack | Commuters who want a bit more capacity | Padded back panel and dedicated tablet sleeve |
| The North Face Jester Backpack | Casual daily use in mixed weather | Lightweight build with a front organizer |
| The North Face Vault Backpack | Compact everyday carry | Small footprint with a padded laptop sleeve |
| The North Face Surge Backpack | Heavier city and travel loads | Large volume with a structured suspension |
| The North Face Base Camp Duffel style daypack | Wet-weather gear hauling | Durable shell suited to rough handling |
| The North Face Hot Shot Backpack | Short day hikes and errands | Compact daypack with a simple main compartment |
| The North Face Router Transit Backpack | Travelers who need organized, weather-ready storage | Multiple compartments and a protective exterior |
The North Face Basin Backpack
This suits someone who needs a dependable pack for daily commuting that will handle light to moderate rain without fuss. It is better described as water-resistant than fully waterproof, so it fits people who want protection from showers rather than submersion.
Key specs
- Water-resistant coated exterior fabric
- Dedicated laptop sleeve
- Main compartment with a zippered closure
- Padded shoulder straps
Pros
- Good everyday organization for work and school items
- Sensible size for routine commuting
- Familiar brand with broadly available replacement parts and support
Cons
- Not designed to stay dry during prolonged heavy rain or immersion
- Limited capacity for multi-day or hiking loads
The North Face Recon Backpack
The Recon is aimed at students and urban users who want a streamlined silhouette and a padded laptop compartment. Its weather performance is in the water-resistant category, so pair it with a rain cover for storms.
Key specs
- Padded laptop compartment
- Water-resistant shell fabric
- Multiple internal organizer pockets
- Padded back panel
Pros
- Clean, low-profile look that works in offices and classrooms
- Useful interior organization for everyday items
- Comfortable carry for moderate loads
Cons
- Seams and zippers are not sealed for full waterproofing
- Not intended for trail use with heavy or loose gear
The North Face Borealis Backpack
The Borealis is a good fit for commuters who carry a laptop, tablet and extra layers and want a bit more room than a compact pack offers. Like other daily-use North Face packs, its rain protection is resistance rather than full sealing.
Key specs
- Dedicated tablet sleeve
- Padded laptop compartment
- Water-resistant exterior fabric
- Padded back panel and shoulder straps
Pros
- Extra capacity for commuters carrying more than one device
- Comfortable padding for longer walks
- Organized interior that keeps electronics separated
Cons
- Not a true waterproof daypack for submersion or wet trail use
- Heavier than the most minimal daily packs
The North Face Jester Backpack
The Jester works for casual daily use where you want a light, easy-to-carry pack with a front organizer for small items. It is a reasonable choice for mixed weather where the forecast is uncertain but the rain is usually light.
Key specs
- Lightweight construction
- Front organizer pocket
- Water-resistant exterior finish
- Main compartment with a top zipper
Pros
- Lighter than many daily packs in the same family
- Easy access to frequently used items in the front pocket
- Simple layout that is easy to pack
Cons
- Limited padding for heavier loads
- Not sealed against prolonged rain exposure
The North Face Vault Backpack
The Vault is a compact option for people who carry only essentials and want a small footprint. It suits short commutes and quick errands rather than full-day outdoor use.
Key specs
- Compact overall volume
- Padded laptop sleeve
- Water-resistant exterior
- Simple single-compartment main body
Pros
- Small size that fits well in tight transit spaces
- Laptop sleeve protects a slim device
- Straightforward design with few failure points
Cons
- Too small for hiking layers, food and water on a full day out
- Not sealed for heavy rain exposure
The North Face Surge Backpack
The Surge targets users with heavier daily or travel loads who want a larger volume and a more structured carry. It is a better match for people who regularly pack extra gear than for light commuters.
Key specs
- Large main compartment
- Padded laptop compartment
- Structured back panel
- Water-resistant exterior fabric
Pros
- Generous capacity for heavier everyday or travel loads
- Structured carry helps distribute weight
- Good interior organization for larger kits
Cons
- Bulkier and heavier than minimal daypacks
- Not a sealed waterproof pack for submersion
The North Face Base Camp Duffel Style Daypack
This is a sturdier, rougher-use option for people who haul wet or muddy gear and want a durable shell rather than a polished city look. It works well as a gear carrier for trips where the pack will be dropped, dragged and left in the rain.
Key specs
- Durable outer shell fabric
- Large main opening for bulky gear
- Reinforced stress points
- Carry handles and shoulder straps
Pros
- Durable construction suited to rough handling
- Large opening makes it easy to load bulky items
- Handles add carrying versatility
Cons
- Less comfortable for long walks with a heavy load
- Water resistance depends on the shell and closure, not a fully sealed design
The North Face Hot Shot Backpack
The Hot Shot is a compact daypack for short hikes, errands and light outdoor outings. It is a good pick if you want a simple pack with one main compartment and minimal extra weight.
Key specs
- Compact daypack volume
- Single main compartment
- Water-resistant shell
- Padded shoulder straps
Pros
- Light and simple to carry on short outings
- Uncomplicated layout keeps packing fast
- Suits short hikes and city errands equally well
Cons
- Limited organization for electronics and small items
- Not suited to multi-hour rain exposure without a cover
The North Face Router Transit Backpack
The Router Transit is built for travelers who want organized storage and a protective exterior for moving between transit, airports and the city. Its multiple compartments make it easy to separate dry items from wet ones.
Key specs
- Multiple organized compartments
- Padded laptop sleeve
- Water-resistant exterior fabric
- Padded back panel
Pros
- Strong organization for travel and work kits
- Separate compartments help keep wet and dry items apart
- Protective exterior suits urban weather
Cons
- Heavier than a minimal daypack
- Not a fully waterproof pack for submersion or extended storms
Buying Guide
Selection Criteria
Start with the weather you actually face. Daily commuting in a drizzly city has different demands than a day hike in a mountain storm. Decide first whether you need water-resistant protection, which resists light rain and splashes, or a fully sealed waterproof pack, which is built to keep contents dry under heavy rain or partial immersion. Most of the North Face daypacks above are water-resistant rather than sealed, so if you regularly face sustained downpours, plan on a rain cover or a dry bag liner.
Important Features
Look at the closure system. Roll-top closures are the most common method for fully waterproof daypacks because they seal by folding rather than relying on zipper seams. Zippered main compartments are easier to access but are more vulnerable to water entry unless they have a weather flap or cover. Next, check the laptop or tablet sleeve. A padded sleeve protects electronics from impact, while a separate dry compartment protects them from moisture. Finally, evaluate the back panel and straps. A padded, structured back panel matters more as your load increases.
Specs to Check
- Volume in liters: Daily commuting packs are often in a smaller range, while full-day outdoor packs are typically larger. Match the volume to your actual load rather than to the largest option you can afford in terms of comfort.
- Weight when empty: A lighter pack leaves more room in your weight budget for gear and water.
- Waterproofing method: Confirm whether the manufacturer describes the pack as water-resistant, water-repellent or waterproof, and whether the seams are taped.
- Laptop sleeve dimensions: Measure your device before you buy, including thickness.
- Carry system: Padded straps and a back panel improve comfort for loads above roughly 10 to 15 pounds.
Choosing by Need
For daily commuting with a laptop, choose a padded laptop pack such as the Recon, Borealis or Basin, and add a rain cover for stormy days. For compact everyday carry, the Vault or Jester keeps things light. For heavier city or travel loads, the Surge or Router Transit offers more structure and organization. For rough use and wet gear hauling, the Base Camp style daypack is a durable choice. For short hikes and errands, the Hot Shot keeps the pack simple.
Things to Watch Out For
Do not assume that “water-resistant” means the contents will stay dry in a downpour. Water can enter through zipper gaps, seams and the top opening, especially when the pack is overloaded or set down on wet ground. Keep electronics in a sealed inner bag, and do not rely on a pack’s exterior finish alone to protect expensive gear. If you need guaranteed dryness for sensitive equipment, consult the manufacturer’s specifications and consider a fully sealed pack or a dry bag.
FAQ
Is a North Face daypack fully waterproof?
Most North Face daypacks in this list are water-resistant rather than fully waterproof. They handle light rain and splashes well, but prolonged heavy rain or immersion can soak through seams and zippers. Check the product specifications for the exact claim, and use a rain cover or dry bag for storms.
What is the difference between water-resistant and waterproof?
Water-resistant fabric sheds moisture for a period of time but can let water through under sustained pressure or heavy rain. Waterproof construction, often with a roll-top closure and sealed seams, is designed to keep water out even when the pack is submerged for a short time. Manufacturers use these terms differently, so read the specification sheet carefully.
How big should a daypack be for hiking?
Many hikers choose a pack in a range that fits a full day’s food, water, layers and first aid. Smaller packs suit short outings, while larger packs suit longer days or colder conditions where extra layers add volume. Your total gear list matters more than a fixed number, so pack a test load before deciding.
Can I use a North Face daypack for a laptop?
Yes, several of the packs above include a padded laptop sleeve. Measure your laptop, including its thickness, and confirm the sleeve dimensions in the product listing before you buy. Keep the laptop in a protective sleeve inside the pack for extra moisture protection.
How do I keep my gear dry in a daypack during rain?
Use a dry bag liner for electronics and clothing, close roll-top closures fully, and avoid overloading the top opening. A rain cover adds protection for water-resistant packs. Store the pack upright rather than setting it on wet ground, where water can wick through the base.
How do I clean a water-resistant daypack?
Use lukewarm water and a mild soap, avoid harsh detergents and fabric softeners, and air dry the pack away from direct heat. Check the care label for specific instructions. Repeated washing can reduce water-resistant coatings over time, so reapply a suitable treatment if the fabric begins to absorb water.
Are these packs suitable for backpacking?
Most of the daypacks here are not designed for multi-day backpacking. Their capacity, frame support and carry comfort suit day use. For longer trips, look at packs specifically marketed as backpacking models with a suspension system. If you have questions about your load or fit, a specialist outdoor retailer or a fitting service can help.
Conclusion
The best north face waterproof daypack for you depends on the conditions you face most often. For commuting with a laptop, the Recon, Borealis and Basin are sensible choices, and a rain cover covers the storm days. For compact or light carry, the Vault, Jester and Hot Shot keep the load small. For heavier city and travel loads, the Surge and Router Transit offer more organization and structure. For rough, wet-gear use, the Base Camp style daypack holds up to abuse. Because most of these packs are water-resistant rather than fully sealed, combine your pick with a dry bag or rain cover whenever sustained rain is likely. Check each product’s manufacturer specifications before you buy, especially for waterproof claims and sleeve dimensions. For more on keeping footwear and other wet gear separate, see Waterproof Shoe Bags for Wet or Muddy Shoes.
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.
