The North Face
The North Face Router Backpack
Best high capacity carrier for heavy commuting and student life.
This high-capacity pack is designed for those who need to carry a significant amount of gear while maintaining organization. With a dedicated, protective sleeve for a laptop and a spacious main compartment, it easily handles books, binders, and tech essentials. The suspension system is engineered for comfort, featuring articulated straps and a breathable back panel that makes heavy loads feel lighter. Its stand-up design ensures it stays upright when placed on the floor, while the water-repellent finish protects contents from light rain. It is a reliable choice for students and commuters alike.
$160.00
More Router Options
Owner Satisfaction
4.6
/ 5
Category Rank
2088
/ 15434
#2088 in Backpacks
Price vs Category Average
+47%
Above average
Capacity
40
/ liters
Who it's for
- Commuters and students carrying heavy loads throughout the day.
- Professionals needing secure, accessible storage for multiple electronic devices.
- Users prioritizing back support during long walks or heavy commutes.
Who should skip it
- Minimalists looking for a lightweight, low-profile daily carry option.
- Frequent flyers or commuters using tight public transportation spaces.
- Budget-conscious shoppers seeking basic functionality without the premium markup.
Performance breakdown
Load Carrying Capacity
Forty liters of volume easily swallows gear for long, demanding days.
Ergonomic Support
FlexVent suspension makes heavy loads feel surprisingly manageable on the shoulders.
Tech Organization
Dedicated compartments keep expensive electronics secure and separated from daily essentials.
Structural Stability
The stand-up design prevents the bag from tipping over when loaded.
Weather Resistance
Water-repellent finish handles light rain but isn't built for heavy downpours.
Commuter Visibility
360-degree reflectivity provides essential peace of mind during low-light commutes.
Key Specs
Capacity
40 liters
Dimensions
12.5 inches x 9 inches x 21 inches
Laptop Compartment
Fits up to 15 inches
Material
210D recycled nylon ripstop
Water Resistant
Yes
Sternum Strap
Yes
Hip Belt
Yes
Closure Type
Zipper
Know before you buy
Yes, the dedicated laptop compartment is specifically engineered to accommodate laptops up to 15 inches, providing a protective sleeve to keep your device secure and separate from your other gear.
Absolutely. The Router features the FlexVent suspension system, which uses articulated shoulder straps and a breathable back panel to distribute weight effectively, making heavy loads feel significantly lighter on your back.
The pack is structured to sit upright on its own, which is incredibly convenient when you are in a classroom or office and need to access your items without the bag flopping over.
The bag features a water-repellent finish that protects your contents during light rain or drizzle. However, it is not fully waterproof, so you should avoid submerging it or exposing it to heavy, prolonged downpours.
Yes, the waist belt is removable. This gives you the flexibility to strip it down for a cleaner look when you are just carrying lighter loads around town, while keeping it attached for extra stability during longer treks.
At 40 liters, it is on the larger side for a daily commuter bag, making it ideal if you carry a lot of tech, gym clothes, or books. If you typically carry only a laptop and a notebook, you might find it more spacious than you actually need.
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$160