A classic, reimagined. The 30-liter Recon excels as a daypack with its large mesh storage pocket and daisy-chain attachment points. The FlexVent suspension system, sternum strap and removable waist belt make carrying heavier loads a breeze.
A classic, reimagined. The 30-liter Recon excels as a daypack with its large mesh storage pocket and daisy-chain attachment points. The FlexVent suspension system, sternum strap and removable waist belt make carrying heavier loads a breeze.
in 3 offers
The lowest price for The North Face Recon Backpack Asphalt Grey Light Heather/Tnf Black right now is $269.99 at outdooraction.com.au, compared across 3 retailers.
The all-time low was $54.99 on 21 Feb 2026 — today's price is 391% above the lowest ever. It has been notably cheaper before — worth setting a price alert.
Prices last updated 8 Nov 2026.
The North Face Recon Backpack Asphalt Grey Light Heather/Tnf Black
A classic, reimagined. The 30-liter Recon excels as a daypack with its large mesh storage pocket and daisy-chain attachment points. The FlexVent suspension system, sternum strap and removable waist belt make carrying heavier loads a breeze.
A classic, reimagined. The 30-liter Recon excels as a daypack with its large mesh storage pocket and daisy-chain attachment points. The FlexVent suspension system, sternum strap and removable waist belt make carrying heavier loads a breeze.
Last updated at 08/11/2026 20:25:35
The North Face Recon Backpack
Delivery $19.99
Recon Everyday Laptop Backpack, Asphlt Gy Lt Hth/Blk-NPF, OS
Delivery between 15–18 Nov $29
THE NORTH FACE Recon Everyday Laptop Backpack
Free delivery between 17–20 Nov
originally posted on thenorthface.co.uk
I recently purchased a Base Camp Fusebox which felt like a quality product, just a bit too big for a daily commute so I gave it to my nephew who loves it. I then purchased the Recon bag at nearly the same price. The quality isn't there. It feels delicate and isn't waterproof as advertised. Luckily my laptop was in its own sleeve which helped protect it after being caught in the rain. The inside pockets felt damp and so I now cannot leave things in the front pocket unless it's keys or items that can stand the rain. It doesn't stand up as advertised, so a misleading quote. The front pocket is useful but makes it top heavy and it falls over. I don't understand the pointless mesh at the front as it appears to serve no purpose and would have been better as a more solid ... MoreI recently purchased a Base Camp Fusebox which felt like a quality product, just a bit too big for a daily commute so I gave it to my nephew who loves it. I then purchased the Recon bag at nearly the same price. The quality isn't there. It feels delicate and isn't waterproof as advertised. Luckily my laptop was in its own sleeve which helped protect it after being caught in the rain. The inside pockets felt damp and so I now cannot leave things in the front pocket unless it's keys or items that can stand the rain. It doesn't stand up as advertised, so a misleading quote. The front pocket is useful but makes it top heavy and it falls over. I don't understand the pointless mesh at the front as it appears to serve no purpose and would have been better as a more solid pocket. I regret buying this as my previous Under Armour backpack was more useful and a fraction of the price. I feel North Face has become an expensive fashion brand rather than providing quality merch and I wouldn't recommend this backpack, but would recommend the Base Camp Fusebox if you want something a bit larger but feels like its built to last. Unfortunately, the Fuse Box Mini seems impossible to get hold of.
originally posted on thenorthface.com
I hate this bag so much. Not worth the money. The company should seriously reconsider their design. Here's why:1) this bag DOES NOT STAND ON ITS OWN. i tried empty, i tried with only laptop, I tried with laptop and books, i tried with laptops, books, and lunch, filled every compartment and yet will not stand by itself and will face-slam the ground.2) the compartment of these bags are useless and don't utilize space well. The laptop compartment is so thin it just fits the laptop because god forbid you want to carry the charger too in the same compartment. The main compartment is deceivingly large; if you put anything in the other outer small compartments it takes away space from the main one and make it weirdly wide from the bottom but very narrow at the top ... MoreI hate this bag so much. Not worth the money. The company should seriously reconsider their design. Here's why:1) this bag DOES NOT STAND ON ITS OWN. i tried empty, i tried with only laptop, I tried with laptop and books, i tried with laptops, books, and lunch, filled every compartment and yet will not stand by itself and will face-slam the ground.2) the compartment of these bags are useless and don't utilize space well. The laptop compartment is so thin it just fits the laptop because god forbid you want to carry the charger too in the same compartment. The main compartment is deceivingly large; if you put anything in the other outer small compartments it takes away space from the main one and make it weirdly wide from the bottom but very narrow at the top because of their bad design.3) because most space is occupied by the main part, i guess now you have to combine books, lunch, snacks, chargers and anything you have in that mixed bag since all other compartments would not fit.I really regret buying such an expensive bag. I should have replaced my High Sierra with another one.
originally posted on thenorthface.com
I first bought a recon backpack in 2011 for college. It has (and still does) served me well and I love it. I've used it for everything - school, work, gym, hiking, weekend trips, etc. My favorite thing about the old one has been the front mesh pocket and the small front zippered compartment because it's easy to stash / access things like my phone or keys throughout the day.I wanted a new recon because while my older one is still holding up well, the padding has thinned out and there are some spots where it's wearing out.Here are my thoughts so far when comparing the two recons:1 - More compartments = smaller feeling? The new one definitely feels a bit smaller and I think it's because it's more compartmentalized. The old one had a larger main compartment with a ... MoreI first bought a recon backpack in 2011 for college. It has (and still does) served me well and I love it. I've used it for everything - school, work, gym, hiking, weekend trips, etc. My favorite thing about the old one has been the front mesh pocket and the small front zippered compartment because it's easy to stash / access things like my phone or keys throughout the day.I wanted a new recon because while my older one is still holding up well, the padding has thinned out and there are some spots where it's wearing out.Here are my thoughts so far when comparing the two recons:1 - More compartments = smaller feeling? The new one definitely feels a bit smaller and I think it's because it's more compartmentalized. The old one had a larger main compartment with a small laptop sleeve while the new one has a separate main compartment and laptop compartment. While it's nice to have the separate laptop compartment, it seems to take up space that could otherwise be used for packing things. Still, it's nice to have, and I can use that section for other things (like my planner or clothes, even) if I'm not bringing my laptop that day.2 - Front mesh and front little zippered pouch: the old recon's mesh seems sturdier and wider than the new one's mesh. It can hold my running shoes pretty easily whereas the new one is a bit smaller and softer, but stretchier. I can get my shoes in there but I have to work a bit harder to stuff them in there. The old recon mesh has a clip at the top whereas the new one has an elastic band to further support. Both are fine to me and generally keep things in place The front mesh and the little zippered compartment are still my favorite thing about both recons.3 - Water bottle holders: the new pouches are much nicer than the older ones. They can fit my 30oz nalgene. Because the sleeves come up higher, my water bottle doesn't fall out as easily as on the old one, which was pretty annoying.4 - Additional pouches compartment: this compartment on the old recon extended down beyond the little pouches at the top, but on the new one, the compartment stops right under the pouches. This is fine for me because I rarely used this section on the old one, but it might be a little bit of a bummer for people who do.5 - Tightening straps: On the old recon, I used the straps on the side to tighten my backpack when it was stuffed to the brim. This helped squish everything so I could fit it in places like under the airplane seat or just make it a bit less top heavy. The new one has these, and I still like them on the new one, but I don't use them as often because the new recon doesn't seem to protrude as much when stuffed.Overall, I like it. I do wish it was a little less compartmentalized and FELT bigger, but I do like it. This one is definitely great for work/school/day tripping, but I will probably opt to use my old one instead for hiking and weekend trips.
| Brand | The North Face |
| Type | School |
| Material | Nylon |
| Size | One Size |
| Activity Type | Cycling |
The North Face Recon Backpack
Delivery $19.99
Recon Everyday Laptop Backpack, Asphlt Gy Lt Hth/Blk-NPF, OS
Delivery between 15–18 Nov $29
THE NORTH FACE Recon Everyday Laptop Backpack
Free delivery between 17–20 Nov
I recently purchased a Base Camp Fusebox which felt like a quality product, just a bit too big for a daily commute so I gave it to my nephew who loves it. I then purchased the Recon bag at nearly the same price. The quality isn't there. It feels delicate and isn't waterproof as advertised. Luckily my laptop was in its own sleeve which helped protect it after being caught in the rain. The inside pockets felt damp and so I now cannot leave things in the front pocket unless it's keys or items that can stand the rain. It doesn't stand up as advertised, so a misleading quote. The front pocket is useful but makes it top heavy and it falls over. I don't understand the pointless mesh at the front as it appears to serve no purpose and would have been better as a more solid ... MoreI recently purchased a Base Camp Fusebox which felt like a quality product, just a bit too big for a daily commute so I gave it to my nephew who loves it. I then purchased the Recon bag at nearly the same price. The quality isn't there. It feels delicate and isn't waterproof as advertised. Luckily my laptop was in its own sleeve which helped protect it after being caught in the rain. The inside pockets felt damp and so I now cannot leave things in the front pocket unless it's keys or items that can stand the rain. It doesn't stand up as advertised, so a misleading quote. The front pocket is useful but makes it top heavy and it falls over. I don't understand the pointless mesh at the front as it appears to serve no purpose and would have been better as a more solid pocket. I regret buying this as my previous Under Armour backpack was more useful and a fraction of the price. I feel North Face has become an expensive fashion brand rather than providing quality merch and I wouldn't recommend this backpack, but would recommend the Base Camp Fusebox if you want something a bit larger but feels like its built to last. Unfortunately, the Fuse Box Mini seems impossible to get hold of.
I hate this bag so much. Not worth the money. The company should seriously reconsider their design. Here's why:1) this bag DOES NOT STAND ON ITS OWN. i tried empty, i tried with only laptop, I tried with laptop and books, i tried with laptops, books, and lunch, filled every compartment and yet will not stand by itself and will face-slam the ground.2) the compartment of these bags are useless and don't utilize space well. The laptop compartment is so thin it just fits the laptop because god forbid you want to carry the charger too in the same compartment. The main compartment is deceivingly large; if you put anything in the other outer small compartments it takes away space from the main one and make it weirdly wide from the bottom but very narrow at the top ... MoreI hate this bag so much. Not worth the money. The company should seriously reconsider their design. Here's why:1) this bag DOES NOT STAND ON ITS OWN. i tried empty, i tried with only laptop, I tried with laptop and books, i tried with laptops, books, and lunch, filled every compartment and yet will not stand by itself and will face-slam the ground.2) the compartment of these bags are useless and don't utilize space well. The laptop compartment is so thin it just fits the laptop because god forbid you want to carry the charger too in the same compartment. The main compartment is deceivingly large; if you put anything in the other outer small compartments it takes away space from the main one and make it weirdly wide from the bottom but very narrow at the top because of their bad design.3) because most space is occupied by the main part, i guess now you have to combine books, lunch, snacks, chargers and anything you have in that mixed bag since all other compartments would not fit.I really regret buying such an expensive bag. I should have replaced my High Sierra with another one.
I first bought a recon backpack in 2011 for college. It has (and still does) served me well and I love it. I've used it for everything - school, work, gym, hiking, weekend trips, etc. My favorite thing about the old one has been the front mesh pocket and the small front zippered compartment because it's easy to stash / access things like my phone or keys throughout the day.I wanted a new recon because while my older one is still holding up well, the padding has thinned out and there are some spots where it's wearing out.Here are my thoughts so far when comparing the two recons:1 - More compartments = smaller feeling? The new one definitely feels a bit smaller and I think it's because it's more compartmentalized. The old one had a larger main compartment with a ... MoreI first bought a recon backpack in 2011 for college. It has (and still does) served me well and I love it. I've used it for everything - school, work, gym, hiking, weekend trips, etc. My favorite thing about the old one has been the front mesh pocket and the small front zippered compartment because it's easy to stash / access things like my phone or keys throughout the day.I wanted a new recon because while my older one is still holding up well, the padding has thinned out and there are some spots where it's wearing out.Here are my thoughts so far when comparing the two recons:1 - More compartments = smaller feeling? The new one definitely feels a bit smaller and I think it's because it's more compartmentalized. The old one had a larger main compartment with a small laptop sleeve while the new one has a separate main compartment and laptop compartment. While it's nice to have the separate laptop compartment, it seems to take up space that could otherwise be used for packing things. Still, it's nice to have, and I can use that section for other things (like my planner or clothes, even) if I'm not bringing my laptop that day.2 - Front mesh and front little zippered pouch: the old recon's mesh seems sturdier and wider than the new one's mesh. It can hold my running shoes pretty easily whereas the new one is a bit smaller and softer, but stretchier. I can get my shoes in there but I have to work a bit harder to stuff them in there. The old recon mesh has a clip at the top whereas the new one has an elastic band to further support. Both are fine to me and generally keep things in place The front mesh and the little zippered compartment are still my favorite thing about both recons.3 - Water bottle holders: the new pouches are much nicer than the older ones. They can fit my 30oz nalgene. Because the sleeves come up higher, my water bottle doesn't fall out as easily as on the old one, which was pretty annoying.4 - Additional pouches compartment: this compartment on the old recon extended down beyond the little pouches at the top, but on the new one, the compartment stops right under the pouches. This is fine for me because I rarely used this section on the old one, but it might be a little bit of a bummer for people who do.5 - Tightening straps: On the old recon, I used the straps on the side to tighten my backpack when it was stuffed to the brim. This helped squish everything so I could fit it in places like under the airplane seat or just make it a bit less top heavy. The new one has these, and I still like them on the new one, but I don't use them as often because the new recon doesn't seem to protrude as much when stuffed.Overall, I like it. I do wish it was a little less compartmentalized and FELT bigger, but I do like it. This one is definitely great for work/school/day tripping, but I will probably opt to use my old one instead for hiking and weekend trips.
So i'm a bit of a nerd for the details, and wanted to make sure anyone buying this is aware that DWR doesn't mean that material itself is actually waterproof. so don't buy this on the premise that it's going to keep your stuff dry in a downpour; the dwr might just help water bead in a light shower. with that said, it's a great pack. it's pretty lightweight and although the material is light, it feels pretty resistant to me. I prefer this to the newer model of borealis only because i feel the netted compartment on the front is more useable as storage space than the elastic bungee as on the borealis. other than that the two are very similar and both comfortable for a commute, hike or whatever else.
This is the fifth version of the North Face Recon that I've owned over the years. I've used them for an every day "Man Purse", I've used them for skiing, light hiking and every other light overnight function and kept using the Recon because simply put; they work better than anything else on the market. North Face made some changes every year but the fundamental design hasn't changed and that's a very good thing. The side pockets fit water bottles, the front pocket fits a phone perfectly and the inside pockets have enough variety to stash all your everyday junk no problem. The laptop pocket fits up to a 17" screen and the straps work well and don't need an explanation on which ones are for what purpose. Love the contoured padding against your back and the cross strap ... MoreThis is the fifth version of the North Face Recon that I've owned over the years. I've used them for an every day "Man Purse", I've used them for skiing, light hiking and every other light overnight function and kept using the Recon because simply put; they work better than anything else on the market. North Face made some changes every year but the fundamental design hasn't changed and that's a very good thing. The side pockets fit water bottles, the front pocket fits a phone perfectly and the inside pockets have enough variety to stash all your everyday junk no problem. The laptop pocket fits up to a 17" screen and the straps work well and don't need an explanation on which ones are for what purpose. Love the contoured padding against your back and the cross strap between the shoulder straps works great to keep the pack stable even during active movement. Overall this pack is an ideal and reasonable day pack for all uses.
I owned the last gen Recon, which I believe they stopped producing around 2021. I spent quite a bit of time researching and looking at bags before I decided on replacing it with the new Recon. Serious considerations given to Fjallraven and Patagonia bags, but the Recon won out. I don't think there is a better backpack on the market for daily use, commuting, school, light hiking, etc. Starting with pockets and organization: The small, outer pocket is fleece lined and versatile (I generally use it for earbuds). The medium interior pocket with organization is well thought-out, versatile, and all of the organization pockets/spots inside it are usable. The big pocket is spacious and it's easy to access everything. Laptop sleeve is well protected and easy to access. ... MoreI owned the last gen Recon, which I believe they stopped producing around 2021. I spent quite a bit of time researching and looking at bags before I decided on replacing it with the new Recon. Serious considerations given to Fjallraven and Patagonia bags, but the Recon won out. I don't think there is a better backpack on the market for daily use, commuting, school, light hiking, etc. Starting with pockets and organization: The small, outer pocket is fleece lined and versatile (I generally use it for earbuds). The medium interior pocket with organization is well thought-out, versatile, and all of the organization pockets/spots inside it are usable. The big pocket is spacious and it's easy to access everything. Laptop sleeve is well protected and easy to access. Compared to the last version, this one is better aesthetically. The outside quick-grab mesh pocket is a lighter and thinner material than the last Recon, but the pocket is deeper and seems to hold up just as well, and it looks better. Great for quick grab items. I really like the compression straps on the bottom, which can reduce volume if it's not full, or carry a jacket, tripod, etc. Small criticisms include the water bottle holders on the side. As long as you're upright, they are great. But often I lay the bag on a table by my desk and if I am not careful, the bottles will slide out. Compressing with the straps doesn't seem to help. I do like the look of the bottle pockets more on this version, so I'm okay with the minor step back in bottle security. North Face also could have taken the logo down about 20% in size, but it's not obnoxious. Other pros: the zipper pulls are cool and feel premium. Shoulder straps are quite comfortable and the chest strap placement feels perfect for me. I opted for the dark gray color and the fabric and color are great. It's neutral and simple, but I prefer it to the black. If you're looking for a versatile, durable, stylish bag, this is it.
I bought this pack for a business trip where luggage space and weight matter (when doesn't it!). Overall it is a good pack so far. My trip is in 10 days so I'll have a better report at that time, although I'm using the pack for everyday carry to work now.Pros:Lots of space to put things with quiet zipper pulls, adjustable straps, compartment with a soft lining for things like glasses, a separate laptop compartment, and an organizing area. The water bottle pockets are also a generous size with straps that can be adjusted.The materials are nice, the color and logo are subtle (navy with a white logo) and straps feel comfortable.Cons:The laptop compartment is really long allowing the laptop (a Macbook) to drop to the bottom. There isn't much/any padding at the ... MoreI bought this pack for a business trip where luggage space and weight matter (when doesn't it!). Overall it is a good pack so far. My trip is in 10 days so I'll have a better report at that time, although I'm using the pack for everyday carry to work now.Pros:Lots of space to put things with quiet zipper pulls, adjustable straps, compartment with a soft lining for things like glasses, a separate laptop compartment, and an organizing area. The water bottle pockets are also a generous size with straps that can be adjusted.The materials are nice, the color and logo are subtle (navy with a white logo) and straps feel comfortable.Cons:The laptop compartment is really long allowing the laptop (a Macbook) to drop to the bottom. There isn't much/any padding at the bottom so I'l be adding something to keep my laptop from banging against the ground when I put the pack down.The organizing space is nice but the zippers to access it only go half way down so it feels restricted. More use will tell if this is bothersome, or just different from my previous bag (an ebag pro slim).Like most bags, once you fill one compartment, space in another compartment gets infringed on. I hope a designer will figure this thing out. I don't want to lose space in the main compartment just because I filled the organizer section.This pack sits low on my lower back; in hindsight I should have purchased the women's model for a better fit, but I wanted the storage space. I'll try adjusting straps (and there are many to try!) to help it sit higher off my hips. It might also be because my laptop sinks to the bottom of the pack which makes the weight feel low.
I used recon backpacks for school, commuting by bike, day trips, pretty much everything.I've owned recon models since perhaps 2008. I was forced to buy the new 2022 model when my old recon backpack (2016ish) was stolen. The materials seem high quality and there seems to be more water proofing but that's where the benefits end. There have been some strange design choices that make it hard to recommend.The newer model is definitely narrower. When you load up two water bottles the main pocket volume is reduced immensely due to the design of the water bottle sleeves. They seem cut into the internal space of the bag rather than protrude. Also the water bottle sleeves are no longer elastic, they're solid rubber, so if your water bottle is even a little too big, then ... MoreI used recon backpacks for school, commuting by bike, day trips, pretty much everything.I've owned recon models since perhaps 2008. I was forced to buy the new 2022 model when my old recon backpack (2016ish) was stolen. The materials seem high quality and there seems to be more water proofing but that's where the benefits end. There have been some strange design choices that make it hard to recommend.The newer model is definitely narrower. When you load up two water bottles the main pocket volume is reduced immensely due to the design of the water bottle sleeves. They seem cut into the internal space of the bag rather than protrude. Also the water bottle sleeves are no longer elastic, they're solid rubber, so if your water bottle is even a little too big, then too bad, they won't fit. This combined with the main pocket being so small, I barely fit my usual daily things in it.The side straps for cinching down the thickness of the back are permanently fixed rather than buckles now. This could be a problem if you really want to expand the bag and load it to the max. But ultimately the bag doesn't expand as much as the older models so perhaps this isn't an issue.The secondary pocket with smaller pouches and pen/pencil slots is now only half the depth of the bag, it doesn't go all the way down, it stops half way. So you really only get one full main pocket and half a pocket for storage.There is now a dedicated zipper pocket for laptops which is sort of nice but it's so big you sacrifice a huge amount of volume for it. It could easily accommodate a 17in laptop, my 13in laptop is basically lost in a giant cavern and I can't really use that space for anything else. It's kind of wasted space. It's robust and protective, but way too much volume is wasted.The straps seem narrower on the new model, and denser/firmer. The straps attach to the body with a short piece of nylon strap which is different, I'm not certain how that would impact longevity. It seems to increase mobility and flexibility of the strap though.If you've never owned the previous Recon backpacks you may not notice anything amiss. It's a high quality backpack overall. Coming from owning several previous models, this new one feels like a downgrade: smaller, narrow main pocket. 1/2 size secondary pocket. Laptop pocket is ridiculously large. Water bottle holders are not elastic and eat up internal volume. Cinch straps are permanently fixed rather than buckles. Bag doesn't expand at all, much smaller volume.
I purchased this product because the last Recon Backpack I purchased was such a great bag, however once I received this item I soon realized the new Recon wasn't built has good as the one from 2011. The newer design seems smaller and the fabric they're now using felt less durable and more prone to tearing; it seems to have lost its stretchiness.The front pocket isn't as deep as the older generation and the main pouch is much smaller than before. It seems the new design has removed valuable space for organizing and easily getting to your items. It also appears they're using cheaper fabric that doesn't feel as soft or as durable. Unfortunately, until this bag is re-designed with deeper pockets and extra room inside, I won't be purchasing another Northface Recon Bookbag.
I love love love this backpack! As a college student, I've multipurposed this bag for school, short weekend trips, and day hiking trips! Not only has this stood up to carrying all my books around for school, I've also taken this backpack up 2 14ers. It has an amazing number of pockets for all the school items you would want. Also, I've been able to fit in microspikes, extra layers, food, and plenty of water for all my hiking trips. For my 14ers, I lashed my snowshoes onto this backpack and it held up really nice because of the chest and waist straps. I've also used this for weekend trips. It is the perfect size to stuff maybe 3 or 4 different outfits, a change of shoes, and even your laptop. I've taken this bag to 3 different countries and it is my favorite carry ... MoreI love love love this backpack! As a college student, I've multipurposed this bag for school, short weekend trips, and day hiking trips! Not only has this stood up to carrying all my books around for school, I've also taken this backpack up 2 14ers. It has an amazing number of pockets for all the school items you would want. Also, I've been able to fit in microspikes, extra layers, food, and plenty of water for all my hiking trips. For my 14ers, I lashed my snowshoes onto this backpack and it held up really nice because of the chest and waist straps. I've also used this for weekend trips. It is the perfect size to stuff maybe 3 or 4 different outfits, a change of shoes, and even your laptop. I've taken this bag to 3 different countries and it is my favorite carry on. I've also multipurposed it as a grocery bag and the amount of groceries you can fit in the bag is amazing. I would definitely recommend getting this bag as it is the best multipurpose backpack I've seen in the market. I'm buying another one because mine is simply giving out due to the amount of adventures I've taken it on.
| Brand | The North Face |
| Type | School |
| Material | Nylon |
| Size | One Size |
| Activity Type | Cycling |
