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:
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Dell XPS 13 Laptop: Fits cleanly inside the internal sleeve.
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A5 Wide Planner: Slides right in alongside work essentials.
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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.
