THE NORTH FACE Borealis Sling Bag - Compact Crossbody with Tablet

In this review of the Borealis Sling Bag the bottom line is simple: this is a compact, well-made crossbody for travelers and commuters who want organized storage without the bulk of a full backpack. The sling keeps essentials accessible with a built-in tablet sleeve and fleece-lined pocket, and its recycled nylon ripstop with a non-PFC Durable Water-Repellent finish protects gear in wet conditions. For anyone who values thoughtful pockets, a slim profile and a comfortable adjustable strap, this sling delivers most of the functionality of the larger Borealis in a lighter, travel-friendly package.

Key Features

• Slimmed-down classic: A smaller cousin to the Borealis backpack that carries essentials comfortably while keeping the signature external bungee system for extra storage.
• Crossbody carry: An adjustable, padded shoulder strap lets users find a secure, comfortable fit for hands-free travel and daily use.
• Maximum storage: Dedicated tablet sleeve, external fleece-lined pocket and water bottle pocket keep devices and small items organized and protected.
• Water repellent: Recycled nylon ripstop with a non-PFC DWR finish helps keep belongings dry in light rain and damp conditions.
• Thoughtful organization: Multiple secure-zip pockets make it easy to access phone, keys and travel documents without digging through a large bag.

Who It's For

The Borealis Sling suits frequent flyers, daily commuters and anyone who wants a compact pack that holds a tablet, wallet and a few extras while keeping items organized. It works especially well when moving through airports or city streets because pockets are easy to reach and the sling stays close to the body.

Those who need to carry larger items or change-of-clothes for long days outdoors should look elsewhere in The North Face lineup; the 6 liter volume and slim profile mean it will not replace a full-size daypack for longer hikes or heavy loads.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• High-quality construction and recycled nylon ripstop with a DWR finish offer durability and light water protection.
• Excellent pocket layout including a fleece-lined compartment and tablet sleeve for secure, organized storage.
• Comfortable adjustable crossbody strap that adapts to different carry styles and body shapes.

Cons

• The slim size and 6 liter capacity mean it can feel too small for users who expect backpack-level space for everyday carry.
• Some users report mixed comfort related to strap length and fit depending on body size and how much is packed.

Specifications

Brand	The North Face
Dimensions	7.28 in x 4.72 in x 13 in
Volume	6 Liters
Avg Weight	10.6 oz
Material	Recycled nylon ripstop with non-PFC DWR finish
Carry Style	Crossbody sling with padded adjustable strap

Our Verdict

The Borealis Sling is a practical, well-built crossbody for travellers and commuters who want a tidy, weather-resistant bag that holds a tablet and daily essentials. It is good value for anyone prioritizing organization and lightweight carry, but not intended to replace a full-size daypack for heavy loads.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can it fit a tablet?
Yes, there is a dedicated tablet sleeve designed to hold most tablets securely inside the main compartment.

Is the sling water resistant?
The fabric is recycled nylon ripstop with a non-PFC Durable Water-Repellent finish, which sheds light rain but is not fully waterproof for heavy downpours.

Who should choose a different bag?
If you regularly carry bulky items, extra clothing or long-hike essentials, a larger daypack will be a better choice than this 6 liter sling.