The North Face Base Camp Duffel - XX-Large
Quick Verdict
Expedition-grade travel and vehicle-based camping where volume and durability matter (mountaineering, long trips, family/car camping).
Ultralight backpacking, long-distance hiking or daily urban carry due to weight and minimal padding/organization.
Key Specifications
About This Gear
This duffel is spacious, durable, and convenient, making it great for camping trips. It can be bulky when full, but it's an excellent choice for family camping.
Pros & Cons
Synthesized from expert reviews and user feedback
What People Love
5 positive findingsLegendary durability from 1000D coated body and 840D ballistic nylon bottom; survives years of heavy use.
Everyone agreesMassive capacity (150 L XXL) that holds large loads and maintains shape for easy packing.
Most reviewersHighly weather-resistant laminated fabric and storm flaps that keep gear dry in heavy rain and snow.
Most reviewersMultiple carry options (removable alpine-cut shoulder straps, top/end haul handles, daisy-chain lash points).
Most reviewers
Things to Consider
5 considerationsHeavy and bulky when empty (XXL ~6.25 lb), making it cumbersome when packed and carried long distances.
Most reviewersMinimal padding and no hip-belt or sternum strap; straps and haul handles can dig in under heavy loads.
Most reviewersLimited internal/external organization (few pockets), so small items can get lost in the main cavernous compartment.
Most reviewersStiff, tarpaulin-like fabric makes it awkward to fold/pack back into its stuff sack.
Some reviewers
Weather & Conditions
How this gear performs across different environments and seasons
Weather Performance
Climate Suitability
Excels In
- mild to heavy rain
- moderate temperatures
- coastal and dirty/wet environments
Limitations
- Not fully waterproof for submersion; seams and zipper will eventually leak under pressure
- No insulation—contents can get very cold in extreme cold conditions
- Heavy when packed; not suited for long backpacking carries
What People Are Saying
Aggregated insights from expert reviews and user feedback
Users overwhelmingly praise its durability and capacity, while criticizing weight, limited padding and minimal organization. Overall loved for expedition and vehicle-based use, disliked for long carries.
What Users Love
- durability
- massive capacity
- weather resistance
- easy to clean
Common Concerns
- heavy
- zippers/handles lack padding
- few pockets/organization
- stiff to pack
- Virtually every long-term owner reports multi-year use with only superficial wear; few major failures.
- Occasional zipper damage reported under extreme abuse (e.g., crampon puncture) but seams/webbing provide workaround.
true to size
The North Face standard 2-year warranty on defects; owners generally report warranty repairs/replacements are handled reasonably well.
Expert Reviews
Benchmark-setting durability but docked for weight; one of the toughest duffels on the market.Read full review →
Tough as nails, but few pockets and unpadded handles make it best only for those who truly need >120 L.Read full review →
Care & Maintenance
Keep your gear performing at its best with these tips
Maintenance Tips
Keep it in top condition- Wipe clean and dry after wet or muddy trips
- Air out interior and store dry to prevent mildew
- Reapply DWR or waterproofing to bottom panel if heavily abraded
Watch Out For
Known issues to monitor- zippers can be punctured by sharp objects under extreme abuse
- seams and zipper areas can wear with prolonged overloading
- shoulder strap webbing may slip if not secured
Alternatives to Consider
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this gear