The North Face
The North Face Base Camp Duffel - Medium (71 L)
Best rugged gear hauler for adventurers on extended trips.
The North Face Base Camp Duffel—Medium is an iconic expedition bag updated with 100% recycled body and boot materials, offering legendary durability for extended trips. Its rugged construction features recycled ballistic nylon and a non-PFC Durable Water Repellent (DWR) finish to handle wet weather confidently. Organization is simplified with a large, weather-resistant D-zip opening, complemented by an end-cap compartment and secure mesh pockets. Versatility is key, as two padded side handles double as haul handles, and detachable, adjustable shoulder straps provide an ergonomic fit. This medium duffel boasts a substantial 71-liter volume, making it ready for any adventure.
$148.95
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
93
/ 4318
#93 in Duffel Bags
Price vs Category Average
-8%
Below average
Volume
71
/ liters
Who it's for
- Adventurers needing gear protection in harsh, rugged environments
- Travelers packing bulky equipment who value quick, easy access
- Commuters wanting flexible carry options for hands-free transport
Who should skip it
- Hikers planning long-distance treks with heavy loads
- Frequent flyers concerned about strict airline weight restrictions
- Organized travelers who prefer dedicated compartments over open voids
Performance breakdown
Durability
Rugged tarpaulin construction survives the harshest baggage handling environments.
Weather Resistance
Waterproof fabric keeps your gear bone-dry during unexpected downpours.
Carrying Versatility
Dual strap options allow for comfortable transitions between shoulder and hand.
Storage Capacity
The 71-liter volume perfectly balances gear storage for week-long expeditions.
Access Efficiency
Wide-mouth zipper opening makes packing and retrieving items remarkably simple.
Portability
Substantial build quality adds weight, but remains manageable for most travelers.
Key Specs
Volume
71 liters
Average Weight
1.63 kg
Dimensions
35.56 cm x 63.5 cm x 35.56 cm
Body Material
1000D recycled polyester with phthalate-free PVC coating
Boot Material
840D recycled ballistic nylon
Finish
Non-PFC Durable Water Repellent (DWR)
Closure
D-zip opening with weather-resistant zippered flap
Construction
Extra bartacks and double stitching
Features
- Made with 100% recycled body and boot materials
- Weather-resistant D-zip opening for easy access
- Padded side handles function as both carry and haul handles
- Detachable and adjustable shoulder straps for ergonomic carrying
- Secure-zip mesh pockets for convenient organization
- Extremely rugged construction built for expedition use
- Water-resistant ID window located on the top panel
- Includes mesh-bag packaging for clean storage
What customers say
Customers overwhelmingly express immense satisfaction with The North Face Base Camp Duffel - Medium, consistently praising its legendary durability and robust construction. Many reviewers highlight its 'bombproof' nature, noting that it withstands extreme conditions, rough handling by baggage handlers, and years of heavy use without showing significant wear. The weather-resistant material is a frequently lauded feature, providing peace of mind that contents will remain dry in rain or snow. Its versatility is another major selling point; users employ it for everything from international travel and weekend getaways to camping trips, gym gear, and even professional expeditions. The multiple carry options, particularly the comfortable (for a duffel) backpack straps, are highly appreciated, making it surprisingly easy to transport even when fully loaded, though some acknowledge that for very long treks, dedicated hiking packs are more suitable. While the lack of extensive internal organization is occasionally mentioned, most users view the large, open main compartment as a benefit, allowing for maximum packing flexibility and the use of packing cubes. The iconic design and range of colors also contribute to its appeal. Minor criticisms are few and far between, typically revolving around its bulkiness when empty or the desire for slightly more padded backpack straps for extended wear. Overall, the sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with customers considering it a worthwhile investment that truly stands the test of time and adventure.
Know before you buy
Yes, the 71-liter volume is ideal for week-long excursions. It provides ample space for bulky gear, multiple changes of clothes, and extra layers while remaining manageable to carry.
Yes, the bag features detachable, adjustable shoulder straps that allow you to carry it comfortably as a backpack. This is particularly useful when navigating through airports or uneven terrain.
The bag is highly weather-resistant thanks to its phthalate-free PVC coating and non-PFC DWR finish. While it can easily handle rain, snow, and splashes, it is not intended to be fully submerged in water.
The D-zip opening creates a large, wide-mouth entry point that makes packing and locating items significantly easier than a standard straight-line zipper. It also features a weather-resistant flap to protect the zipper teeth from the elements.
Absolutely. The Base Camp Duffel is constructed with 1000D recycled polyester and 840D ballistic nylon, reinforced with extra bartacks and double stitching to withstand the rigors of baggage handling.
Yes, the duffel is packable. When empty, it can be compressed or folded down to save space in your closet or luggage.
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$149