When your schedule includes morning commutes, weekend hikes, and the occasional last-minute trip, having one bag that handles it all isn’t a luxury, it’s a necessity. That’s where the Base Camp Voyager Travel Pack from The North Face steps in.
Built with a combination of lightweight construction, smart organization, and rugged durability, the Voyager is designed for those who need a travel backpack that pulls double duty. It’s minimal enough for office days and strong enough for spontaneous overnights or rugged city escapes.
If you’re the type who packs fast, moves often, and needs a pack that won’t slow you down, this might just be the gear upgrade you’ve been waiting for.
What Is the Base Camp Voyager Travel Pack?
The Base Camp Voyager is a 32–35 liter travel backpack designed for short-haul adventures and daily urban mobility. It’s a hybrid between a commuter backpack and a technical travel bag, tailored for those who want one pack that transitions smoothly from plane cabins to trailheads to co-working spaces.
While The North Face originally built its Base Camp line for expedition duffels, this pack version shrinks the bulk while keeping the toughness, offering a sleek, weather-resistant shell and thoughtful internal organization.
It’s available in both 32L and 35L versions, with the 32L being slightly more compact and better for minimalist daily carry.
What Are the Key Features?
You’ll notice right away that this pack doesn’t try to overcomplicate things. Instead, it focuses on functionally designed compartments and carry comfort. Here’s what you get:
- 32L–35L capacity for 2–4 days of gear or daily office needs
- Recycled ballistic nylon exterior with DWR finish
- Clamshell-style main compartment with flat lay opening
- Dedicated padded laptop sleeve fits devices up to 15″
- Zippered mesh dividers inside for clean packing
- Quick-access top pocket for sunglasses, travel docs, or tech
- Water bottle pocket that fits a 24 oz bottle
- Side compression straps to manage bulk
- Luggage pass-through sleeve for rolling carry-ons
- Sternum strap and padded shoulder harness for balance
Everything is where you expect it to be, and every pocket serves a clear purpose.
How Does It Perform for Travel?
The Voyager hits a sweet spot for travelers who want to avoid checked bags but need more than just a personal item.
- The 32L version meets carry-on standards for nearly every airline, including budget and international carriers.
- Its clamshell design makes TSA checks smoother, you can lay it flat to access the laptop sleeve or repack quickly post-security.
- Internal mesh dividers help you separate clothes from tech or toiletries without extra pouches.
- It slides easily into overhead bins or under seats, especially in its compressed form.
For trips lasting two to four days, it offers enough room for clothes, chargers, a toiletry kit, and a laptop, without the bulk of a duffel or roller.
Is It Good for Daily Carry and Commuting?
Yes, and that’s part of what makes this pack so compelling.
The side-access laptop compartment allows you to grab your device without opening the full pack, perfect for cafés or shared workspaces. The low-profile frame hugs your back, making it comfortable for bike commutes or public transit. And with minimal branding and a clean exterior, it transitions easily into professional environments.
Whether you’re heading to the office, class, or a coworking space, it doesn’t scream “outdoor bag,” but it’s ready for rougher use if needed.
How Durable Is the Base Camp Voyager?
This pack takes its material cues from The North Face’s expedition gear. The outer shell is made from recycled 840D ballistic nylon, treated with a durable water-repellent (DWR) coating. That means:
- It resists light rain and splashes
- It holds up well to abrasion from rocks, concrete, and gear
- It stays clean-looking after repeated travel use
The YKK zippers are smooth and strong, and the reinforced bottom panel prevents premature wear even when tossed on rough surfaces.
For its weight class, the Voyager offers excellent toughness without feeling overbuilt.
How Does It Compare to Similar Packs?
If you’re weighing the Voyager against other popular lightweight travel packs, here’s how it stacks up:
| Feature | Base Camp Voyager 32L | Cotopaxi Allpa 28L | Peak Design Everyday 30L |
| Capacity | 32L | 28L | 30L |
| Laptop Sleeve | Yes (15″) | Yes (15″) | Yes (16″) |
| Water Bottle Pocket | Yes | No | No |
| Best For | Travel + daily carry | Weekend travel | Photo gear + commuting |
| Weight | 2.6 lbs | 2.8 lbs | 4.0 lbs |
Compared to its closest rivals, the Voyager stands out for being lighter, more versatile for everyday use, and offering the right balance between structure and flexibility.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Lightweight but rugged , ideal for fast travel
- Sleek and low-profile design for urban or office use
- Made from recycled materials with water-resistant finish
- Simple, functional layout with smart compartments
- Good laptop protection and carry comfort
Cons
- Not ideal for long-term travel or heavy packing
- Limited color options compared to lifestyle brands
- No built-in hip belt, which may limit comfort when fully loaded
If you plan to haul heavy gear for hours, you may want more structure. But for fast-moving travelers or hybrid daily users, this design stays impressively agile.
What Are Users Saying?
The Base Camp Voyager receives high marks from users across REI, The North Face, and Backcountry. Ratings typically fall in the 4.7 to 4.9-star range, with common praise for:
- Weight-to-performance ratio
- Great fit for short travel and hybrid office days
- Clean, non-technical look that still performs in the field
- Practical layout with just enough pockets
Several reviewers mention that it’s become their go-to travel bag, even replacing roller carry-ons for short trips.
Price and Availability
The Base Camp Voyager retails for $149 to $159 USD, depending on the colorway and capacity (32L vs. 35L). It’s widely available through:
- REI
- TheNorthFace.com
- Backcountry
- Amazon
- Select outdoor and gear retailers
You’ll find color options ranging from black and asphalt gray to seasonal tones, depending on availability.
Is the Base Camp Voyager Travel Pack Right for You?
If you’re looking for a one-bag solution for weekend trips, urban adventures, and daily carry, the Base Camp Voyager Travel Pack checks nearly every box.
It won’t replace a full duffel for multi-week travel. But it excels at short-range mobility, combining everyday practicality with travel-ready features. It’s especially compelling if you want weather resistance, sustainability, and smart design, without excess bulk.
For fast-moving, no-fuss travelers who value form and function, this pack delivers. And for many, it’s the only one they need.
FAQs About the Base Camp Voyager Travel Pack
What is the capacity of the Base Camp Voyager?
It holds 32 to 35 liters, depending on the version.
Is it a carry-on size?
Yes, it fits all major airline carry-on requirements.
Does it have a laptop sleeve?
Yes, it fits up to a 15-inch laptop.
Is it waterproof?
It’s water-resistant with a DWR finish, but not fully waterproof.
Can I use it for daily commuting?
Yes, it’s designed for both travel and everyday carry.
Does it have a water bottle pocket?
Yes, it includes an external bottle pocket.
Is it good for long trips?
It’s best for short trips (2–4 days) or as a secondary bag.
Where can I buy it?
Available at TheNorthFace.com, REI, Backcountry, and Amazon.