If you're gearing up for an adventure, you already know that a good backpack can make or break the trip. The North Face has long been a go-to for its rugged, high-performance bags that can handle everything from a mountain trail to a daily commute. Their blend of durability, smart design, and style just works.
But when you're looking for something with a slightly different fit, feature set, or price point, it's great to have options. Whether you need a highly technical pack for a multi-day trek or an eco-friendly option for weekend hikes, we've found some amazing alternatives. Here are 20 backpack brands like The North Face you should check out for your next outdoor adventure.
Osprey is a favorite among serious adventurers for a reason. Their backpacks are engineered for exceptional comfort, with innovative suspension systems and clever organization that make long treks feel easier. While they share The North Face's high-performance standards, Osprey really excels in creating lightweight, technical packs that you can customize for the perfect fit on the trail.
Shop now at www.osprey.com
Hailing from Germany, Deuter is all about creating incredibly comfortable and reliable backpacks for serious hiking. Their designs are known for amazing weight distribution and breathable back panels that keep you cool on tough climbs. Compared to The North Face, Deuter leans more into traditional, ergonomic designs with a strong focus on craftsmanship, making their packs a top choice for hardcore hikers.
Shop now at www.deuter.com
Gregory is masterful at crafting outdoor backpacks that prioritize a perfect, tailored fit above all else. With amazing adjustable suspension systems and lightweight construction, their packs feel like they were made just for you. While The North Face offers great all-around packs, Gregory is the brand to check out if you want a bag that molds to your body for ultimate comfort during active hikes and multi-day adventures.
Shop now at www.gregorypacks.com
If you need a reliable and versatile outdoor pack that won't break the bank, Kelty is a fantastic choice. Their backpacks are practical, durable, and come with plenty of compartments to keep your gear organized. Kelty offers the same kind of trustworthiness as The North Face but at a more budget-friendly price point, making them perfect for families, casual hikers, and weekend campers.
Shop now at www.kelty.com
For the streamlined minimalist who demands peak technical performance, Arc'teryx is the ultimate upgrade. Their backpacks are incredibly lightweight yet ridiculously tough, often featuring advanced waterproof fabrics and a sleek, modern aesthetic. While pricier than The North Face, Arc'teryx is the go-to for dedicated climbers and outdoor athletes who need the highest level of performance without any extra bulk.
Shop now at www.arcteryx.com
Known for its commitment to the planet, Patagonia offers rugged backpacks made from eco-conscious materials without sacrificing durability. Their packs are functional, versatile, and designed to minimize their environmental footprint. If you love The North Face's performance but want a brand that puts sustainability and ethical manufacturing at the forefront, Patagonia is your perfect match.
Shop now at www.patagonia.com
Columbia delivers reliable and affordable backpacks that are perfect for everyday adventures and light outdoor use. Their packs offer solid storage and weather resistance at a price point that's often easier on the wallet than The North Face. For casual hikers or anyone needing a dependable bag for daily excursions without a premium price tag, Columbia is a great alternative.
Shop now at www.columbia.com
Built for the absolute toughest conditions, Mystery Ranch creates highly functional, tactical-style backpacks. Their packs are prized for innovative suspension systems that can handle heavy loads with stability and comfort. While they match The North Face in toughness, Mystery Ranch specializes in heavy-duty designs originally built for a military and hunting audience, making them ideal for extreme environments.
Shop now at mysteryranch.com
If your adventures involve a camera, Lowepro is the brand for you. They specialize in backpacks with padded, protective compartments designed to keep your tech and photography gear safe on the move. While The North Face makes great all-purpose bags, Lowepro provides highly organized, weather-resistant packs specifically for outdoor photographers and videographers.
Shop now at www.lowepro.com
Eagle Creek is a traveler's best friend. Their backpacks blend outdoor durability with smart travel features like RFID-blocking pockets and convenient compression straps. Similar to The North Face in versatility, Eagle Creek really shines with its lightweight design and focus on organization and security, making their bags perfect for explorers who are always on the go.
Shop now at www.eaglecreek.com
High Sierra offers affordable, do-it-all backpacks perfect for school runs, weekend travel, and casual hikes. With tons of compartments and hydration-ready designs, their packs are super practical. They share a similar accessible price point with some of The North Face's everyday bags but have a stronger focus on students and casual users who need a reliable pack without all the technical bells and whistles.
Shop now at www.highsierra.com
Timbuk2 blends street style with outdoor function, creating stylish backpacks that are just as at home in the city as they are on a light trail. They often feature bold colors, padded laptop sleeves, and weather-resistant materials. While The North Face has a classic rugged vibe, Timbuk2 appeals to urban explorers who want one versatile, stylish pack for both work and play.
Shop now at www.timbuk2.com
When hydration is your top priority, CamelBak is the undisputed leader. Famous for its integrated water reservoirs, their packs are designed for action-packed activities like trail running, cycling, and fast-paced hiking. While The North Face makes versatile hiking packs, CamelBak is the specialist for lightweight, high-mobility gear that lets you stay hydrated on the move.
Shop now at www.camelbak.com
Hynes Eagle specializes in sleek, minimalist backpacks at a very affordable price point. Their packs are perfect for city travel, daily commutes, and light outdoor use. Think of them as a wallet-friendly alternative to The North Face's casual daypacks, ideal for anyone who needs a simple, functional, and stylish bag without spending a lot.
Shop now at hyneseagle.com
For a lightweight pack that you can stuff into your main luggage, Venture Pal is a brilliant option. Their backpacks are foldable, water-resistant, and super budget-friendly, making them perfect as a secondary daypack for travel or spontaneous outings. They mirror The North Face's more compact models but at a fraction of the price, designed for pure convenience.
Shop now at www.venturepal.com
Thule brings a sophisticated, urban aesthetic to the outdoor gear world. Their durable backpacks feature streamlined silhouettes with smart compartments for both tech gear and trail essentials. Compared to The North Face's rugged style, Thule offers a more refined look that easily transitions from a mountain hike to a weekday commute, perfect for an active lifestyle.
Shop now at www.thule.com
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