I bought it primarily as a book bag for school. It fits my 15" HP notebook and keeps it secure along with books. Organization pocket is handy for my calculator, pens, keys and whatever else I seem to stash in it. It holds a lot of things while maintaining a slim look. I also use it as a daypack, It has a hydration hanger and opening. I don't think they mention that in the features. I took the bladder out of my Camelback and presto! I've gone thru a bunch of packs, but like I said this is the last pack I'll ever had to buy. I do have my eye on the Heckler though, but that's just 'cause I like the camo scheme.

I have had a Borealis for over 5 years and it's still going strong. I used it for school at the University of Colorado in Boulder and it weathered snow storms, rain, and being thrown on the lawn for relaxing in the sun. I've continued to use it as a gym bag, a school bag (I know teach), and on travel through airports. Perfect number of compartments, easily adjustable to fit all sizes (I have a smaller frame and it still works great for me). Highly recommended, durable bag.

I bought my Borealis primarily for graduate school, books that is. I bought a separate laptop bag and used it once or twice and then tried the laptop compartment in the Borealis. Well the laptop bag was a total waste of money, this pack is awesome for carrying your laptop. I have a 14in widescreen HP notebook and it fits great secure and snug. The padding on the pack is awesome and the waist belt tucks away unless your're carrying some heavy loads. I have used it for day hikes and its just as awesome for hiking as it is toting around textbooks and my laptop at the same time. Durable too, I have used it literally 5/7 days a week for nearly 2 years and it looks pretty mcuh new. Additionally, the organizer compartent is great for whatever you need to put in, its nicely organized. Overall amazing pack, I promise you will not be dissapointed.

Very impressed with the quality for the price. Size is perfect for a multitude of uses - school, hiking, traveling, etc.

Great all-around pack that has a lot of convenient features. The bungee cord on the outside is strong enough to hold a shirt or a jacket while the padded back with waist-belt allows a load to remain comfortable. It is made of the normal, durable North Face nylon and has waterproof zippers. There is a laptop compartment but be aware that it is not tremendously padded.

Its a great backpack cause all stuff i want to pack fit in it. Its got alot of sraps so u can make it tight. I just love it.

After about 3 weeks of use, I'm pretty pleased with this backpack. Here are the things I love about the product:
--I bought the Amethyst Quartz Purple one, and the color is really pretty.
--The material seems very durable and stain resistant.
--My laptop fits nicely in the back pocket.
--Plenty of pockets for storing keys, mp3 player, gum, etc.
--It doesn't hurt my back.
--I think it looks cool.

The things I don't like so much:
--part of the North Face decal on the shoulder strap started to peel off. It now says "Orth Face," which to me sounds like how you might insult a science fiction fan.
--the reflective material (in the photograph, it's the silver stuff) is starting to wear already.

i love this bag- it works great for my computer and all of my books :) love the gypsy pink color!

The product does not suck, the price does. I just happen to be on the web site and see that I overpaid for this item!!! Nice. I am surprised I haven't received and email with the coupon for the discount yet.