When you go on a trip, especially a long camping trip, you need bags… Lots of bags to carry your personal belongings and all the equipment you need. Durability, weather resistance, and ease of transport are essential for fully enjoying the adventure. In my opinion, The North Face Base Camp Duffel meets these criteria perfectly. Here are the things I liked about this bag.
About The North Face
“Never Stop Exploring” is the philosophy supported by decades from The North Face, testing their products on the world’s highest peaks and most challenging terrains from the Himalayas to Patagonia. Founded in San Francisco in 1966, the company takes its name from the north face of a mountain; traditionally the coldest, iciest, and most challenging ascent route! The North Face actively supports the outdoor community through initiatives like The Explore Fund, which works to increase access to the outdoors for all people, reinforcing their belief that the path of discovery is one of both personal and collective progression.
The Base Camp Duffel
The North Face Base Camp Duffel is quite simple but legendary. Introduced in 1986, this bag is born out of the need for an almost indestructible bag for high-altitude expeditions. It has become the reference for adventure travel, rugged expeditions, and anyone who needs a bag that can handle serious abuse. Here some specifications for the medium size, 71L:
-The Base Camp Duffel is designed with 1000D recycled polyester with a weather resistant coating and an even tougher 840D recycled ballistic nylon boot with a non-PFC DWR finish.
-There is a weather resistant D-zip opening access to the main compartment.
-This Duffel has detachable, adjustable shoulder straps for comfortable backpack carry. It also features two padded side haul handles.
-It is available in six sizes! For all your different needs, you can get from XS (31L) to XXL (150L). The Medium size is a versatile 71 litres.
Testing
The first and most obvious positive is its durability. The Base Camp Duffel material feels almost armour plated. During my recent camping trips, I dragged this bag across rocks and dirt. The material doesn’t scuff easily and the robust zippers never snag. All my content, from clothes and jacket to different camping stuff, were protected from rough handling. I knew I could put this bag in the bed of the pickup without worrying about damage to my equipment or the bag itself.
Unlike a traditional duffel, the rectangular lid allows you to fully open the bag, essentially turning it into a soft suitcase. This feature allows me to see everything inside at a glance. No more digging blind for a misplaced sock.
The game changer is the backpack carry system. The alpine cut straps distribute weight surprisingly. They make hauling a heavy load through a muddy campsite a hands free, comfortable experience. They are easily removable if you don’t want to use them.
To conclude
The North Face Base Camp Duffel is a design masterpiece of function. While the simplistic internal organisation might not appeal to those who prefer excessive pockets, its massive, weatherproof main compartment is the perfect shell for packing cubes and any other adventure gear you can throw at it. For any explorer or serious traveler seeking a single, reliable piece of luggage that will likely outlast its owner, the Base Camp Duffel is a piece of gear that exceeds expectations and defines what a great travel bag should be.
You can have more information about The North Face here:
