REI
Unfortunately The North Face doesn't do any customizing. You can take it somewhere else to have it customized; just be aware that it would void the warranty on the backpack.
i think the 'recon' style is the best
The North Face Recon backpacks can be purchased from a Bag shop or even a shop like Millets who typically sell North Face gear. You can also get them online at sites such as Amazon, who often sell bags as part of their clothing range.
The North Face Skareb 50 Backpack has light but durable parachute material which is why it is the strongest.
They currently (Spring 2012) range from about $30 (the Homeslice - child's backpack) to about $125 (the Surge Backpack).
There must be a whistle on original TNF bag
U should get 2 composition books because it's always good to have a extra composition book
North Face is a popular outdoor brand. Their products are widely available, and can be purchased from most good outdoor stores, for example Snow & Rock.
I personally think the Recon is a better bag. It looks better (in my opinion), and you can use it for much more things opposed to any variant of the Hot Shot. If you think about it, the regular Hot Shot (and I believe is pretty much the same as the Base Camp) is only really 2 main compartments and 3 daisy chains which I see no use for. The recon has that (minus the daisy chains) plus a stretchy mesh pocket in the front, along with an additional accessory pocket in the front. Recon wins.
Jester is bigger but the difference is only 1-2 liters.
The North Face backpacks can range in price from $50 to about $300. The average backpack has a price of about $90 to $100 dollars, most likely closer to $100.
Any northface retailer some include modells , dicks sporting goods and macys.