Description of The North Face Basecamp Duffel - Pakhe:
People might ask about the Khumbu Climbing School picture on the end of your The North Face Basecamp Pakhe Duffel. When they do, you can tell them that the proceeds from this large, rugged bag went toward supporting the Khumbu Climbing School, which is an instructional and vocational training program for the Nepali people. Haul handles and alpine-cut shoulder straps make it easy to transport this duffel, and internal mesh pockets help organize your small stuff.
I was skeptical, but when this bag came in the mail I was surprised. The material was tough, and the seems are tight. The bag was designed for use, and where it was going it would be tested. For the next five days we were going on a river trip, and this was carrying all my gear.
Well, it made it and my gear was dry. The bag was easy to clean afterwards, and my stuff inside it was safe and sound during the trip.
These bags are bomber, rad, great, awesome, whatever you want to call it, they work well.
The TNF Base Camp duffel is loved by all and I knew I needed to get one. I decided I'd get the Pakhe version because it theoretically helps fund the Khumbu Climbing School (very cool project helping the Nepali people--look it up) AND I had contacted TNF to confirm the "Phthalate-free TPE fabric laminate" wasn't environmentally friendly at the cost of durability. According to TNF this material should be even more durable than the standard PVC Tarpaulin fabric! Plus you get an even more unique looking bag for trips and airports than the already unique Base Camp bag (so long as you didn't pick black).
Size wise the reviews of the standard Base Camp are right, I'm completely happy with the Large (XL not available) and can't see needing more room unless I were to be bringing very large odd shaped things. At 5600 cubic inches if I pack efficiently this bag should hold far more than I care to carry or would want to pay for in airport fees! The handles are solid, the shoulder straps/backpack straps both functional and very eaasy to remove and stow. The zipper is a huge gauge.
Now that it's showing as a % off they're practically begging you to make this purchase, but I got mine for nearly full price and don't feel bad about it at all. BUY IT.
