The North Face
The North Face Youth Mini Explorer Backpack
Best durable backpack for active preschoolers and young children.
The Youth Mini Explorer pack from The North Face is perfectly sized for little explorers and preschoolers, blending fun aesthetics with practical functionality. It features padded back panels and shoulder straps for comfortable wear. Organization is simple with a spacious internal zippered compartment, two water bottle pockets, and a metal-snap pocket on the front. The top-loader construction includes a fleece lid and shaped zipper pulls for easy identification. Built with durable recycled polyester and featuring 360-degree reflectivity, this pack is designed for everyday use and safety.
$29.25
Owner Satisfaction
4.6
/ 5
Category Rank
1886
/ 13466
#1886 in Backpacks
Price vs Category Average
-73%
Below average
Volume
610.210
/ in³ ( liters)
Who it's for
- Parents seeking gear that survives rough playground play
- Students requiring organized storage for daily essentials
- Young children needing a comfortable, properly scaled fit
Who should skip it
- Older students carrying heavy textbooks or large binders
- Budget-conscious families prioritizing value over brand names
- Parents looking for a long-term, multi-year investment
Performance breakdown
Ergonomic Comfort
Padded back panels and shoulder straps ensure a gentle, supportive fit.
Child-Friendly Accessibility
Shaped zipper pulls and top-loader design make independent packing effortless.
Safety Visibility
Integrated 360-degree reflectivity provides essential peace of mind during low-light outings.
Durability
Rugged 600D recycled polyester withstands the rigors of daily preschool wear.
Storage Organization
Smart pocket placement keeps small essentials tidy and easy to find.
Secure Fit
The hook-and-loop sternum strap prevents slipping during active play.
Key Specs
Volume
610.2 in³ (10 liters)
Average Weight
10.6 oz (300 g)
Body and Boot Material
600D recycled polyester with non-PFC DWR finish
Dimensions
8.875'' x 5.5'' x 11.875'' (22.5 cm x 14 cm x 30.2 cm)
Top Lid Material
Recycled polyester fleece or 600D recycled polyester with non-PFC DWR finish (varies by color code)
Closure Type
Top-loader construction with zipper
Features
- Sized and padded specifically for preschoolers and young children
- Easy-to-use top-loader design with distinct fleece lid and shaped zipper pulls
- Includes a hook-and-loop sternum strap for secure fit
- Features 360-degree reflectivity for enhanced visibility
- Internal name tag for easy identification
- Equipped with two external water bottle pockets
- Front metal-snap pocket offers extra organization
What customers say
Customers consistently praise the Mini Explorer Backpack for its exceptional quality and perfect small size. Parents appreciate that the durable materials hold up well to daily use by young children, reflecting the reliable North Face standard. The design is frequently highlighted as ideal for toddlers or preschoolers needing a bag for snacks, small toys, or a change of clothes, without being bulky. This combination of robust construction and thoughtful sizing makes it a highly recommended purchase.
Know before you buy
Yes, it is specifically designed for young children. The 10-liter capacity is sized appropriately for preschool essentials, and the padded straps and back panel ensure it remains comfortable for smaller frames.
The pack features a top-loader design with shaped zipper pulls that are easy for small hands to grip. The fleece lid adds a tactile element that makes accessing the main compartment straightforward for children.
It includes a hook-and-loop sternum strap that helps keep the shoulder straps in place, preventing them from slipping off while your child is active.
Yes, the backpack is equipped with two external water bottle pockets, allowing your child to carry their hydration securely on the sides of the pack.
The pack is designed with 360-degree reflectivity, which helps improve visibility in low-light conditions. Additionally, there is an internal name tag to help ensure the bag can be easily identified and returned if misplaced.
The pack is constructed from 600D recycled polyester with a non-PFC DWR finish, making it rugged enough to handle daily wear and tear while offering some protection against light moisture.
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$29