I chose to take the small on an extended international trip due to its larger capacity versus other backpacks. Whether you’re heading to Colorado for a ski trip or out to Jackson for some backcountry skinning and split-boarding, you’re going to need a durable duffel. The North Face’s Base Camp Duffel is one of those time-tested bags that hasn’t changed much over the years, mostly because the original was pretty awesome. It’s one of the best adventure duffels available thanks to an exterior made of laminated ballistic nylon that forms a spacious main compartment.
There’s a “D” shaped opening at the top with a burly zipper. There are two carry handles that velcro together and there are two adjustable and removable backpack straps that make it easy to carry. I prefer carrying it backpack style – it allows you to carry two bags quite easily. The North Face Base Camp duffel bags are legendary and have become ubiquitous on remote expeditions to every corner of the world.
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Big enough for even the grandest adventure, The North Face Base Camp Duffel L is a surefire way to get everything you need where you need it to go. Convertible carry straps give you versatility in carrying choices, and the included mesh bag makes it easy to fold up and put away when you get home. Our softside duffels and totes offer more freeform than the polycarbonate shell of a hardside spinner. If you need to squish your bag onto a luggage rack or jostle everything around to fit one more souvenir, you can do it.
I traveled on larger planes that had bigger overhead storage. If you are worried, go with the smaller bag and pack light. I can carry it but the bag has to go in the overhead compartment…
During flight, it’s stored in the overhead bin, as opposed to an underseat personal item, like a backpack. Pack your bag as it’s going to be packed for the trip. (If you’re taking hard-shell or hardside luggage, you can measure the case while it’s empty.) Set your bag on a flat surface.
Durable laminate material ensures complete water resistance, keeping your valuables dry and protected. If you’re gearing up for a backcountry trip, this bag that will make any trek a breeze, and right now you can get it for as much as 35 percent off. With elevated fabric and plenty of storage, this daypack is perfect for your on-the-go lifestyle.
The North Face Base Camp Large Duffel Bag
The only time I had to check it was when I forgot to upgrade and did the basic economy on United and they didn’t let me bring on ANY carry-on. I’ve flown internationally and domestically with it and have never had an issue carrying it on. 51L is also a very impressive volume for a carry on IMO. The Base Camp duffel has backpack straps for carrying as well as a side handle and a handle on each end of the bag to allow for easy carrying. Some duffel bags and other cases really fall down with the zipper, but that is where the Base Camp shines.
Owning and sporting an older, well-loved version is a badge of honor in many adventure circles. These bags last a long time, and their classic design has remained relatively simple throughout the years, with a few useful improvements along the way. Other companies might offer a few fancier features or more comfortable carrying options. Still, the Base Camp keeps plugging along with its simple, robust design that continues to set the benchmark for durability in this category. A broad range of sizes and colors broadens the bag’s appeal for numerous users and travel scenarios.
In our weather resistance ratings, the Base Camp duffel once again scores near the top of the class. The 1000-denier TPE laminate is essentially a mix of plastic and rubber and provides an impenetrable barrier to moisture. With its extremely robust body material and additionally fortified bottom panel, the Base Camp duffel is one of the heavier models in our lineup. The 95-liter version that we tested weighs in at 4.1 pounds.
On the inside of the zipped flap is a large, zipped mesh pocket to store items you’ll need for easy access – like a passport, Buff, or bottle opener. Inside the bag there are no real nooks and crannies so it’s impossible to lose anything. I’m going to Asia for a month and need to pack a carry on for the outbound flights so that I can jump onto a different connecting flight than my official itinerary. I have a large base camp duffel so now I know to only pack it to about 70% capacity to that it will be the same size as the medium and have room to be compressed into the storage bins. Every travel pro knows that the best piece of luggage is one you can depend on for years.
I’ve used mine as my daily commuter in Chile for years. Regardless of size, they all pack down to nothing when not in use. When you take a closer look at The North Face Base Camp Duffel, it’s incredibly simple.
The Base Camp’s classic design and robust build have been recognizable on expeditions around the world for a long time. The durable North Dome Chalk Bag is smartly designed to make in-pack chalk explosions a thing of the past. The color/size of the product you selected is currently unavailable. Either select a different color/size, or purchase through one of our authorized online dealers below. The North Face Base Camp Duffel is simple and burly.
Two compression straps per side allow you to cinch down the bag. On each end, the Base Camp Duffel features two haul handles to make it easy to drag the bag or team lift heavier items. The Base Camp Duffel is built out of Phthalate-free TPE fabric laminate, 840D Jr. ballistics nylon. These things have been tested in some of the most remote corners of the globe and they still get the job done. Backpack StrapsCarry HandlesThe heavy duty zippers are guarded by a weather guard and have a small hole that makes the bag lockable.
Gear Patrol participates in various affiliate marketing programs, which means we may get paid commissions on editorially chosen products purchased through our links to retailer sites. Yes, the wheels and handle are both included when measuring the size of your luggage. How to Choose the Right Duffel Bag for Travel With large storage capacities and excellent durability… You help support OutdoorGearLab’s product testing and analysis by purchasing from our retail partners.
Washing a week’s worth of clothes in a hotel sink is a pain, not to mention the drying time. I got pretty creative on how and where to hang wet clothes in a small hotel room. Detachable, adjustable shoulder straps prevent frustrating twisting, while padded side handles make it a dream duffel to haul around. I hate to carry a bag that is just towing that line and you might have to check on every flight you are taking. If it’s within the limits you should be good, but sometimes you have to check even if it is only slightly over… Right now, thanks to a Backcountry sale, three different sizes and several colors are on going for as much as 35 percent off.