North Face W Terra 40 Backpack

by Andrea
(New York, NY)

I bought my North Face W Terra 40 three years ago, and since then I have taken it to 8 countries in Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. I love the bag and I have no complaints! I think it's on the small size for traveling, but it has worked for me. I managed to fit everything I needed for traveling in Africa for 2 weeks, although I had to strap a sleeping bag to the outside with bungee cords.

If I pack it full, it weighs about 25 pounds and, as a female, I wouldn't want anything heavier. The waist strap is large and padded and sits nicely on the hips. There is a pocket in the top flap that I use for my wallet and passport because it's easy to get to fast.

I think the bottom compartment is supposed to be for a sleeping bag but I usually use it for toiletries. The mesh pockets and straps on the outside are perfect for flip-flops, towels, and water bottles.

A salesman told me that North Face backpacks are not comfortable. I ended up buying it anyway because I really liked the look and the size and the price was on the low end of the travel packs I looked at (I think it was around $120).

The bag has also proved to be quite durable. After numerous airplane trips, getting thrown into the luggage compartment of buses, and being hauled around cities and campsites, it's hardly showing any wear.

I noticed when I was shopping, that there are much fewer options for womens' travel packs than for men's. I knew I would be carrying it long distances and really wanted something that was made for a woman's frame. I have been completely happy with this bag and very glad that I chose it.

If you are looking for a decent travel backpack for women at the lower end of the price range, I highly recommend this pack.