If you’ve followed my bag reviews before, you might remember that I wasn’t initially sold on YETI’s open-top carryall tote bags. I’m big on bag security, and an open top just didn’t suit my day-to-day routine. However, after putting the YETI Camino 18L Zip Top Carryall through its paces for over a month, I have to admit – YETI proved me wrong!
Here is my honest breakdown of the bag’s features, how it handles daily work gear, rainy football games, and my favorite trick to carry it completely hands-free.
1. What Changed: Open Top vs. Zip Top
The top zipper closure on the 18L Carryall is a game-changer. It gives you the peace of mind to zip everything shut and go without worrying about items spilling out in the car or getting soaked when unpredictable weather hits.
2. Size, Capacity & Organization
While the 18L is slimmer than the 20L or 35L models, it expands nicely at the top. Here is what I comfortably pack inside for work:
Dell XPS 13 Laptop: Fits cleanly inside the internal sleeve.
A5 Wide Planner: Slides right in alongside work essentials.
Internal Pockets: Includes one zip pocket for smaller items and a dedicated drink pocket to keep bottles upright.
And… if not using this as my work bag, I can fit all the “game day” essentials when I’m out to sport events for my sons. Snacks, my Brumate 40oz Era, towel and/or extra clothes and even my smaller snack boxes.
3. My DIY Backpack Strap Hack
Because the bag is built out of heavy-duty waterproof material, it carries a bit of weight even when empty. To make it easier to handle during my sons’ football games, where I’m carrying food, standing in line, and moving around – I added D-rings and backpack straps to the side attachment points. Converting this tote into a hands-free backpack makes carrying it through long game days effortless!
4. YETI Camino 18L vs. RUX Waterproof Tote 30L
I’ve also been using the RUX Waterproof Tote 30L (see my RUX review here) alongside the YETI. While the RUX is much lighter and ultra-flexible for gear hauling, the YETI offers exceptional structure, vertical stability, and heavy-duty protection for tech and work planners as well as everyday life. They serve different purposes and similar ones as well, but both have earned a permanent spot in my rotation.
The Verdict: Is It Worth The Price Tag?
If you need a sturdy, weatherproof bag that transitions seamlessly from an everyday work tote to a rugged sports mom bag, the YETI Camino 18L Zip Top delivers on durability and organization.
Have you tried the Zip Top version of the YETI Camino yet? Let me know your thoughts in the comments below!
Disclaimer: The product featured in this video/post was sent for review consideration. All opinions are my own, 100% honest & unbiased. Affiliate links are posted throughout, where I get a small percentage from if you use my link – however, it will not cost you extra.
If you’ve been eyeing the RTIC Ultra Tough Tote or the 2-in-1 Chillout Bag, you’re not alone. These bags have been popping up everywhere (especially now that the…
If you’ve been anywhere on TikTok or Instagram lately, then you’ve probably seen the YETI Camino Carryall everywhere. It’s trending. It’s hyped. Everybody seems to have one. And I almost bought it. But I didn’t.
But I didn’t.
Instead, I picked up the RUX 30L Waterproof Tote – and after using it, I can honestly say… it fits my lifestyle way better. So if you’re trying to decide between the two, let me break it down for you – real talk, no fluff.
Why Bags Are My Thing (And Why This Matters)
If you’ve been following me for a while, then you already know…
“I’ve been doing what’s in my bag videos for almost 20 years.”
As a mom, a sports mom especially, I don’t carry light.
We’re talking:
snacks
towels
wipes
drinks
random “just in case” items
I need a bag that can handle real life – not just look cute on camera.
“I have nothing against the YETI Camino… it just does not serve the purpose that I need.”
The biggest issue for me?
It doesn’t close.
And that’s a dealbreaker.
“I like that compact, keeping it out of the way… not worried about things falling out.”
As someone who is constantly on the go, I don’t want:
my stuff exposed
things falling out
people looking into my bag
The RUX gives me privacy + security – and that matters.
RUX vs YETI Camino (Real Comparison)
Here’s the honest breakdown:
✔️ Where RUX Wins (For Me)
Fully waterproof (not just water -resistant)
Roll-top closure = nothing falls out
Modular system (lash points = customizable)
Can convert into a backpack 👀 (of course, you will need to add your own straps to make this possible)
✔️ Where YETI Camino Wins
Rigid structure
Built – in bottle pockets
Slightly larger capacity
But here’s the thing…
“The Camino doesn’t fit the needs that I need it for.”
And that’s what it comes down to.
Do You Even Need Bottle Pockets?
This is something a lot of people hype up. But for me?
“I’ve never really used those pockets… it’s easier to just throw everything inside.”
Between my Brumate and other bottles that don’t leak, I don’t need dedicated space for them. So that “feature” wasn’t actually a selling point for me.
Real Life Use: Why This Bag Works
This isn’t just a “cute tote.”
This is a:
beach bag
sports bag
adventure bag
everyday carry
“This is the perfect everyday beach bag… biking bag, off -road bag – all the things.”
And because of the lash points? You can literally:
strap it to a bike
attach it to gear
customize it however you want
That modular aspect is 🔥
Let’s Talk Price (Because It Matters)
Yes – the RUX is more expensive than the YETI Camino.
But…
“In my opinion, absolutely worth it.”
Why?
Because I’m paying for:
durability
waterproof protection
functionality that fits MY life
Not just hype.
Final Thoughts: Which One Should You Get?
Here’s the truth:
If you want:
an open tote
easy grab – and – go
trendy aesthetic
👉 The YETI Camino Carryall might be your vibe.
But if you’re like me and need:
structure + closure
waterproof protection
versatility
The RUX 30L Waterproof Tote is the better choice.
Let’s Talk
Have you tried either bag?
Are you team YETI Camino or team RUX?
Or are you like me… and need your bag to actually function in real life?
Drop a comment and let me know 👇
Watch the Full Review
Check out my full video review here where I break everything down and show how I actually use the bag:
👉
Disclaimer: This is not a sponsored video. Some products were sent for review consideration while others were purchased by me with my own money. All opinions are my own, 100% honest & unbiased. Affiliate links can and may be linked throughout this post. Clicking on these links will give me a small cut of your purchase – but please be rest assured that it will not cost you anything out of pocket other than the actual cost of the products you are buying.
There’s something that’s been sitting heavy on my mind lately… When did relationships become content for views? Scrolling through social media, it’s almost impossible not to come across…
Are Work Wives and Work Husbands something you’ve heard about before? The topic of work wives and work husbands is always controversial — and today I’m sharing my honest opinion.
In this episode of Honey, Unscripted, I break down why the term “work spouse” isn’t as harmless as people like to claim, how emotional boundaries get blurred at work, and where the line between a professional friendship and an emotional affair actually gets crossed. We’re talking about: – What “work wife” and “work husband” really mean – Emotional intimacy vs professional relationships – Why secrecy matters more than labels – Boundaries, respect, and accountability in relationships – Would it still be okay if your partner did the same? This conversation isn’t about insecurity — it’s about respect, transparency, and protecting your relationship. 🎙️ Also available as a podcast on Spotify & all major platforms.
In this episode of Honey, Unscripted, I’m answering a question I get all the time: Is it cheating if it happens online? From liking provocative posts to signing…
Everyone wants to have a happier, less stressful life. But, that doesn’t mean all of them know what they’re doing. You could want to have a better life…
One of the best ways to enhance your lifestyle is to get really good at gardening. The more skill you have, the more likely you are to generate results that look spectacular.
The only problem is that you’re not there yet. There’s still a long way to go before you can transform your garden and turn it into something special.
So, what should you be focusing on if you want to get really good at gardening? Here are some of our ideas:
Talk To Other Gardeners
The first step (as with most of these things) is to talk to other gardeners. Chatting with them about what they do and how they take care of their impeccable plots can provide you with exceptional insights.
The easiest way to do this is to walk around your community and strike up conversations with the owners of gardens you like. You can ask them about their techniques and everything they do to maintain their aesthetics.
You can also join local clubs or online groups. These are great for swapping seeds or stories and give you a community you can plug into whenever you want support.
Next, you’ll want to learn the somewhat lost art of being patient. As a gardener, the temptation is to always do something, but that’s just not how nature works. It always takes its time.
For example, if you want to be a gardening pro, it is essential to nurture seeds and allow slow growers to catch up. You’ll also need to wait for the right time of year to plant bulbs and some other species simply because they have an optimal growing season.
When it comes to growing fruit trees, you often have to wait many years for anything to happen. Apple and plum trees may require twenty years to reach maturity.
Experiment
You also want to become a bit of a scientist in your backyard, unafraid to experiment. Trying new things is how you learn.
For example, you could set up a hydroponics station and see whether it manages to yield any food. You could also try vertical gardening if you’re low on space.
Another thing you’ll want to do on your way to becoming an expert is to study plant cycles. For example, you’ll want to learn how some plants only live for one season (annuals) and others come back year after year (perennials). You’ll also want to explore the interesting case of biennials, which only appear every two years (missing out on blooming during the intervening year). These can often come as a surprise, especially if you think the underlying plant is dead (which has been known to happen!)
Use High-Quality Equipment
Becoming a gardening pro also sometimes means investing in high-quality equipment. Working with the best tools means you can do a better job.
Many aspirants start with a battery operated lawn mower and work from there. Removing wires improves safety substantially while eliminating the need for an outside socket. You also want to ensure you have the proper watering equipment and any hand tools you require.
If you have a lot of chopping and pruning to do, choose something that can shorten the time it takes and reduce the load on you. You can easily spend a couple of hours outside with your bare hands, so using a trimmer is often a better option.
Embrace Pest Control
Of course, while you’re creating your eco-friendly garden, you also need to consider issues like pest control. These can be severe in some areas, ruining your otherwise lovely garden.
The best way to prevent pests is to use natural means to prevent them from gaining a foothold. Ensuring your garden has plenty of ladybugs is one way. These are great at gobbling up smaller pests that can turn plants to nothing.
You might also want to use neem oil. It’s an antifungal treatment that comes from the neem tree. It’s extremely bitter, but it is also highly effective and prevents unwanted life.
Learn Plant Placement
Finally, on your journey, you’ll want to learn the lost art of plant placement. Studying sunlight patterns will teach you what to put where.
For example, tomatoes are a plant that loves to be in the light all day long. It needs all the energy it can get to produce its wonderful fruit.
Meanwhile, hostas prefer the shade. They tend to be more delicate and don’t require a lot of light.
Your job is to put plants in the right place, considering things like tree cover and building shadows. Then, you’ll really be a pro.
Disclaimer: This is a collaborative post. All opinions are my own, 100% honest & unbiased. Affiliate links are posted throughout. Feel free to read my Disclaimer Page for details and information on collaborative (collab) posts, guest posts, sponsored posts, affiliate links, and more.
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If there’s one thing that all parents can agree on, it’s that parenting is one of the most challenging jobs in the world. And, things only get harder as they get older and puberty hits. It can be particularly challenging when you feel like your teenager is going through a hard time and you can’t do anything about it. Sadly, there’s not much you can do about the things teenagers have to face like worries about their grades, peer pressure, and the ongoing changes in their body.
When this happens, it can lead to emotional and behavioral struggles, and while you want to do everything in your power to make things better for them, it’s simply impossible. If you’re worried about your teenager, check out these tips on how you can help them tackle these struggles and learn positively from their experiences.
Teenagers are well known for their erratic mood swings and out-of-the-ordinary behavior. And, while it can be challenging, it’s completely normal for them to push boundaries or struggle with the way their changing hormones are making them feel and act. So how do you know when there are signs that you should be worried about? Your teenager might show signs like:
Unexplained decline in their grades
Consistently changing friend groups
Use of drugs or alcohol
Talk of self-harm or suicide
Unusual anger or defiance
These signs usually indicate deeper issues that will need lots of attention and support. Remember that if your teenager shows these signs, it doesn’t necessarily mean they are “troubled”. These signs are usually a cry for help because they are experiencing things they don’t know how to process yet. Being there for them (without judgment) is the best first step you can take when it comes to tackling these behaviors.
Keep communication open at all times
Teenagers often close themselves off because they don’t feel like they’re being listened to or because they feel whatever they say is going to get them into trouble. And, while it’s important for you to take action if you hear something alarming about them, it’s how you handle the situation that will make all of the difference.
Take the time to actually spend time with your teenager! While it’s natural for teenagers not to want to spend every waking moment with Mommy, they also want that time to talk. Make the effort to actually listen to what they have to say, and avoid interrupting them. Even if you don’t agree with what they’re saying or don’t particularly like it, you’re building their trust to come to you no matter what’s going on in their lives.
How you communicate with your teen is also something to concentrate on. Sometimes asking “Did you have a good day?” might make them focus on all of the things they feel may have gone wrong. Instead, try asking, “What was the best part of your day?” or “Is there anything challenging happening to you that I can help with?” Again, prepare yourself to remain calm and really listen to what they have to say.
While your teenager trusts you with lots of aspects of their life, building that trust in communication will take time, so be patient!
Lay out some boundaries
Your teenager is at a place in their lives where they’re naturally going to want more independence. However, as a parent, you also want to make sure their health and well-being is a top priority. That’s why it’s important to sit them down and lay out some boundaries as soon as possible.
As an example:
“We’re happy for you to go and visit your friends after your homework is done, but you must keep your location live at all times, and you must be home on time”
Approaching situations where both parties have to give and take will help teach your teenager self-discipline and respect for other people’s boundaries. These skills will help them in their adult life as well.
Setting boundaries will also mean respecting their privacy as well. Yes, you need to stay informed in their lives to make sure they’re not making any bad decisions, but at the same time, they also need to learn how to make those decisions.
It might take some adjusting and patience, but over time you will find that balance and find that they respect your wishes when you give them that little bit more space.
Support their mental health
More and more teenagers are experiencing mental health challenges like depression and anxiety these days. A large part of that is their exposure to the online world. Not so long ago, you couldn’t speak to your friends until you were back at school. Nowadays, you can speak to complete strangers! Make sure you’re monitoring their social media use, especially if they are joining in with trends on platforms like TikTok, as this can have a negative effect on their mental health.
It’s not just social media that causes feelings of anxiety and depression in teenagers. They might be experiencing bullying at school, a drop in their grades, or even peer pressure to do things they’re not comfortable doing. If you notice a change in their behavior or they tell you they’re struggling with their mental health, it’s time to take action ASAP. Remember to be open-minded when talking about mental health, and never hesitate to get professional help. The sooner action is taken, the sooner your teen can recover.
Teach them about peer pressure
Speaking of peer pressure, it’s something that every teen goes through at some point or another. As a parent, it’s important to teach your teen early on how to find the strength to say no to something they don’t want to do. Don’t be afraid to talk about certain scenarios that they might find themselves in like trying a cigarette, underage drinking, sex, or even drugs. Your teenager might even have experienced some peer pressure that they want to talk to you about.
Your teenager might even find it helpful to rehearse their responses for certain situations. Sometimes knowing exactly what to say will make it easier for them to say no and escape the situation. Remember, if your teen calls you to go and collect them after getting out of a situation like this, it’s important to praise them for not succumbing to peer pressure. This will give them the confidence to do it if needed in the future.
Unfortunately, some teenagers don’t get the support they need right from the start, and this can lead to them ending up in a youth detention center. And, if that’s happened to your teen, it doesn’t mean you can’t help them turn things around!
However, in these detention centers, your teenager might experience awful things like physical and sexual abuse. If you suspect (or know) your teenager has been a victim of something like this, it’s time to take action.
Your best bet is to start by speaking to a sexual abuse lawyer for youth detention centers as soon as possible. They can help pursue legal action, get monetary compensation for suffering, and offer you and your teen guidance to get through this difficult time.
Now is also the time to get some medical advice for your teenager too. A Doctor will be able to recommend therapy sessions and check your teen for any physical damage to help them begin the healing process. It’s awful to think about, but it’s also something to make sure you’re wary of.
Encourage them to explore new activities
Teenagers often lack self-confidence, especially when they see others online that look and act differently from the way they do. That’s why it’s important to encourage them to find activities they enjoy and thrive at. When this happens, their self-confidence levels rise, and your teen will find it much easier to navigate each day.
Whether it’s joining a local team or joining a music club to play their favorite instrument, that feeling of accomplishment will help boost their spirits! Make sure you’re there to celebrate their hard work!
Find trusted adults (aside from their parents)
Finally, as much as it might hurt, sometimes teenagers find it easier to talk to adults who aren’t their parents. Make sure you encourage your teenager to talk to other trusted adults like teachers, other members of your family, or even a close family friend. This will allow you to rest assured that even if they don’t come to you for advice, they will be given advice from someone you know will have their best interests at heart.
Not only that, the larger the circle of support around your teenager, the better. It’s good for their mental well-being to know that in all walks of life, there is an adult that they can lean on if they’re in trouble, scared, or even want to share some great news with.
Raising teens can be a challenge for anyone but with a little guidance and love, you can help your teen overcome and navigate through their challenging years.
Disclaimer: This is a collaborative post. All opinions are my own, 100% honest & unbiased. Affiliate links are posted throughout. Feel free to read my Disclaimer Page for details and information on collaborative (collab) posts, guest posts, sponsored posts, affiliate links, and more.
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