At 50l, The North Face Banchee is a little big for an overnight pack, but it packs all features one expects on an all-round pack. It’s top-opening, with an adjustable harness and has compression straps, ice axe/hiking pole attachments (but no crampon patch), tent pole/waterbottle pockets and a very useful ‘overflow sleeve’ on the outside. […]
About the author
Mark Watson
Wilderness gear editor Mark Watson divides his workdays between graphic design, writing and photography. His passion for tramping, climbing, cycling and storytelling has taken him all over Aotearoa and the world in search of great trails, perfect moves and epic light. He has published four books and his photographs have featured in numerous publications. Especially motivated by long distance travel, he has tramped Te Araroa and cycled from Alaska to Tierra del Fuego.
The 2026 Wilderness Outdoor Photographer of the Year competition
Dirt bike trial on Tongariro Northern Circuit gets approval
A majestic coastal walk
Knockin’ on heaven’s door
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