Yeti Backpack Review (2024) – Are They Really One Of A Kind?
Yeti is a popular brand known for their rugged and durable coolers. In recent years, they have expanded their product line to include backpacks, bags, drinkware, and other accessories.
Yeti backpacks are built with the same ethos as their coolers – to be indestructible and last a lifetime. They utilize heavy-duty materials like thick nylon and waterproof coatings to create backpacks that can withstand the elements.
In this Yeti backpack review, we’ll take an in-depth look at the key features of Yeti backpacks, who they are best suited for, an overview of the top models, pros and cons, and how they compare to competitors. Read on to find out if a Yeti backpack is worth the investment for your needs.
Overview of Yeti Backpacks
Yeti currently offers three backpack models – the Hopper Flip, BackFlip, and Camino Carryall. Here is a brief overview of each:
- Hopper Flip – A soft-sided backpack made from waterproof fabric. It has a roll-top opening and is designed to carry items that need to stay cold, like food and drinks.
- BackFlip – A rugged backpack with a box-shaped, open compartment. Made from durable 840 denier nylon fabric. Good for carrying gear and equipment.
- Camino Carryall is a refined, premium 35L backpack with leather trim and magnetic closures. It is targeted towards urban professionals.
All three backpacks tout Yeti’s signature cold-keeping technology, waterproofing, and heavy-duty build quality. Let’s look at these and other key features in more detail.
Key Features and Benefits
Durable, Waterproof Fabric
Yeti backpacks use thick nylon fabric, usually around 600-840 deniers. For comparison, standard backpacks are made from 200-400 denier fabric. This added thickness makes Yeti bags extremely puncture and abrasion resistant.
They also apply a waterproofing treatment to make the fabric highly water repellent. Water beads up and rolls off the surface instead of soaking in.
This durability makes them well suited for outdoor activities and rough handling. They can withstand scrapes, scratches, and exposure to moisture without wear and tear.
Puncture-Resistant Base
The base of Yeti backpacks has extra reinforcement to prevent punctures and scuffs. This helps protect your belongings from sharp objects on the ground.
For example, the Hopper Flip has a dense EVA foam base. The BackFlip uses high-density rubber feet to shield the bottom panel.
This is useful when placing the bag on rough terrain or when it accidentally falls or tips over. The puncture-resistant base ensures your gear remains protected.
ColdCell Insulation
Yeti uses proprietary ColdCell foam for insulation in the Hopper Flip model. This closed-cell foam helps block heat transfer and retains cold temperatures.
Items stay cooler for longer compared to an ordinary backpack. The ColdCell material is also very lightweight and flexible while providing insulating properties.
This makes the Hopper Flip ideal for transporting chilled food and drinks, especially for picnics, beach trips, and outdoor barbecues. The insulation will prevent spoilage for several hours.
Waterproof Zippers
The zippers on Yeti bags are custom made to be waterproof, preventing any leaks or seepage. They utilize anti-capillary technology and high-quality seals to keep the zipper teeth from letting in moisture.
Even when holding ice and cold liquids, the secure waterproof zippers will keep the contents dry and locked in. No more concerns about melted ice leaking out and making a soggy mess.
Wide Opening Lid
Yeti backpacks are designed with a wide mouth opening for easy accessibility. The Hopper Flip has a lay-flat clamshell opening while the BackFlip has an open top panel.
You can easily see and arrange all your items. The wide opening also makes loading and unloading the backpack quickly simple. No more rummaging and struggling with a narrow top.
Thick Shoulder Straps
For comfortable carry, Yeti backpacks have thick padded shoulder straps. They are adjustable as well to accommodate different torso lengths.
The BackFlip model has removable EVA foam straps, which can be swapped for a sternum strap. This lets you securely strap large items like jackets to the outside.
The ergonomic shoulder straps help distribute weight efficiently and make Yeti backpacks suitable for lengthy use and heavy loads.
Molded Back Panel
The back panel that sits against your body has moisture-wicking mesh fabric and molded EVA foam. This creates air channels to allow ventilation and discourage a sweaty back.
It is also molded to contour to the spine’s natural shape for ergonomic support. The curved design helps displace weight effectively for a comfortable carry.
Attachment Points and Lash Straps
Yeti backpacks come with daisy chain webbing on the sides and lower front. This allows you to attach extra gear using carabiners and clips.
The BackFlip model also includes adjustable side lash straps. You can cinch down additional items like coats, tripods, or camping pads to the exterior.
The multiple attachment points let you haul extra equipment and accessories that don’t fit inside the main compartment.
Who Are Yeti Backpacks For?
Yeti backpacks are best suited for:
- Adventure seekers – The rugged build can withstand outdoor activities like hiking, camping, fishing, and water sports.
- Travelers and commuters – The bags work great for road trips, air travel, and daily urban use thanks to the durable and waterproof fabric.
- Food and drink transport – The insulation capabilities of the Hopper Flip model helps keep items cold for picnics, beach trips, parties, and outdoor events.
- Professionals and students – Models like the Camino Carryall work well for business and school use.
- Everyday carry – Their toughness and versatility makes Yeti backpacks suitable for daily use and abuse.
Anyone needing a sturdy backpack for travel, outdoors, and daily demands can benefit from Yeti’s construction. The weatherproof features also appeal to those in wet climates.
Top Five Yeti Backpack Models
Let’s look at the top five bestselling Yeti backpack models currently available:
| Image | Product | Features | Price |
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Best Overall  |
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Best Value For Money  |
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Editor's Choice  |
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- Product Dimensions: 13 x 11 x 19 inches
- Weight: 4 pounds
- Color: Black
- Department: Unisex-adult
- Model Number: 26010000083
Overview
The YETI Crossroads Backpack 35L is built for durability, organization, and comfort, whether you’re traversing trails or navigating city streets. With a capacity of 35 liters, this backpack provides ample room for all your daily essentials or enough gear for weekend adventures.
Constructed using heavy-duty 840-denier nylon fabric, the Crossroads backpack is water-resistant and abrasion-resistant. The base is reinforced with EVA foam for protection against punctures when you set it down on rough terrain. The zippers are also water-resistant and lock tightly to seal out moisture.
This backpack features YETI’s signature ColdCell foam insulation lining the main compartment. This proprietary closed-cell foam helps block heat transfer to keep contents chilled. You can easily carry food, drinks, and ice packs for several hours without worrying about leaks or spoilage.
The Crossroads backpack has a padded laptop sleeve and tablet pocket for organization. There are also two stretchy side pockets for water bottles or umbrellas, a front zippered pocket, and smaller organizer pockets for quick access items. The main compartment has a wide mouthed opening and a drawstring closure to compact contents.
The shoulder straps are adjustable, padded, and curved for ergonomic comfort. A molded foam back panel with air channels allows ventilation against your back. Sternum and waist straps help distribute weight evenly when loaded up. Daisey chain webbing lets you attach extra gear on the exterior.
With its rugged build, useful organizational features, and cold-retaining insulation, the YETI Crossroads Backpack 35L is a versatile, durable, go-anywhere backpack suitable for work, school, travel, or outdoor adventure. It’s backed by YETI’s 5-year warranty.
- Product Dimensions: 21.65 x 13 x 9 inches
- Weight: 4.1 pounds
- Color: Black
- Department: Girls
- Model Number: 26010000004
Overview
The YETI Tocayo 26 Backpack offers 26 liters of durable, water-resistant storage to haul your gear and essentials for school, work, or everyday adventures.
This backpack features YETI’s thick 840-denier nylon fabric, double-stitched seams, and weather-resistant coating to protect against abrasions, punctures, and moisture. The base is made of EVA foam to prevent wear and tear when placed on rough surfaces.
The Tocayo backpack has a box-shaped main compartment with wide dual zippered access to easily pack your larger essentials. Inside, it is lined with YETI’s proprietary ColdCell insulation that helps block heat transfer to maintain lower interior temperatures when carrying food, drinks, or ice packs.
For organization, this backpack has a 15-inch padded laptop sleeve, a tablet/e-reader pocket, two expandable side water bottle pockets, and a front zippered stash pocket. The exterior MOLLE-style webbing allows you to attach more gear.
The shoulder straps are contoured, adjustable, and comfortably padded. They can be removed and swapped for a sternum strap to lash taller items to the exterior. A breathable air mesh back panel helps prevent a sweaty back. The top handle and side haul handles provide grab-and-go carrying options.
Made with heavy-duty materials built to last season after season, the YETI Tocayo 26 Backpack is a rugged, do-it-all backpack designed for school, work, travel, and everyday outdoor use. It comes backed by YETI’s 5-year warranty.
- Product Dimensions: N/A
- Weight: N/A
- Color: Slate Blue
- Department: N/A
- Model Number: N/A
Overview
The YETI Crossroads Backpack 23 offers a compact, durable, organized backpack option for daily use. With 23 liters of capacity, it provides ample space for essentials without being bulky.
This Crossroads backpack features YETI’s signature thick 840-denier nylon fabric, double-stitched seams, and a weather-resistant finish. The base is reinforced with EVA foam for abrasion and puncture resistance. The zippers are also custom water-resistant.
Inside, closed-cell ColdCell foam lines the interior to help maintain lower temperatures when carrying food, drinks, or ice packs. The main compartment has a wide opening for easy access. There is also a 15-inch padded laptop sleeve and a fleece-lined tablet pocket for electronics.
For organization, it has expanding side water bottle pockets, a quick-access top stash pocket, a front pocket with an organizer panel, and a secure passport/valuables pocket. External attachment loops allow you to clip on more gear.
The back panel and shoulder straps have padded, breathable air mesh fabric to discourage overheating and sweat build-up. Sternum and hip belts help distribute weight comfortably when the bag is fully loaded.
With its durable, water-resistant materials, useful organization, and just the right amount of capacity, the YETI Crossroads Backpack 23 in fun Slate Blue color is an ideal everyday backpack for school, work, commuting, or travel. It’s built to protect your belongings season after season.
- Product Dimensions: 19.92 x 13.07 x 5.83 inches
- Weight: 3 pounds
- Color: Navy
- Department: Unisex-adult
- Model Number: 26010000081
Overview
The YETI Crossroads Backpack 22L is a compact, durable backpack equipped for everyday use and urban adventures. With 22 liters of capacity, it provides ample room for gear while maintaining a streamlined silhouette.
This Crossroads backpack utilizes YETI’s signature thick 840-denier nylon fabric, double-stitched seams, and weather-resistant finish to resist abrasions, punctures, and moisture. The base is reinforced with EVA foam for durability when set down on rough surfaces.
Inside, closed-cell ColdCell foam lines the interior to help maintain chill while carrying food, drinks, or ice packs. The main compartment has a wide opening for convenient access. There is a 15-inch padded laptop sleeve to protect your electronics.
For organization, it features dual stretchy side water bottle pockets, a fleece-lined valuables pocket, a cavernous top stash pocket, and a front organizational panel pocket. Exterior daisy chain webbing lets you attach more gear.
The shoulder straps are padded, adjustable, and curved for ergonomic comfort. A breathable air mesh back panel with air channels helps prevent a sweaty back. Sternum and hip belts distribute weight evenly when loaded.
With its smart storage design, durable, water-resistant construction, and just-right 22 liter capacity, the YETI Crossroads Backpack in classic Navy color makes the perfect commute, school, travel, or everyday backpack. It’s built to protect your belongings trip after trip
- Product Dimensions: N/A
- Weight: N/A
- Color: Storm Gray
- Department: N/A
- Model Number: N/A
Overview
The YETI Panga Series Airtight is a rugged, watertight gear case designed for protecting equipment in the harshest conditions. With its durable construction and airtight seal, this case is ideal for boating, fishing, camping, and other outdoor adventures.
This Panga case is made from YETI’s thick BiSteel material, a nearly indestructible polyethylene blend that is highly abrasion and puncture resistant. The exterior is coated with a textured finish for added toughness and grip.
The airtight DryDock gasket extends around the perimeter of the case, preventing water, dust, and dirt from seeping in. The watertight zipper folds tightly for a secure seal, keeping contents dry even when fully submerged.
The wide mouth opening allows easy access to load and organize gear quickly. The interior features tie-down points and mesh pockets to secure equipment. The Panga case is also clear-line compatible with TSA travel.
The Storm Gray colorway has black accents on the zipper, hardware, and badging for a sleek, low-profile look. Dual haul handles on the sides and ends provide multiple carrying options.
With unrivaled strength and watertight performance, the YETI Panga Series Airtight case is perfect for kayaking, boating, hunting, fishing, camping, or any adventure where gear needs heavy-duty protection. It’s built to withstand years of rugged use while safeguarding valuables and bone dry.
Backed by YETI’s 5-year warranty, this case delivers uncompromising durability that stands up to the demands of the outdoors. For maximum protection on your next adventure, the YETI Panga Series Airtight is engineered to safeguard your gear, come hell or high water
Pros of Yeti Backpacks
- Extreme Durability – Yeti backpacks are built rugged using thick, abrasion-resistant fabrics like 840-denier nylon or BiSteel materials. This makes them highly puncture and tear resistant. They can withstand years of rough use and outdoor abuse.
- Waterproofing – The waterproof coatings and treated zippers prevent moisture intrusion. Contents stay dry even in wet conditions or when submerged. Great for boating, fishing, rainy hikes, etc.
- Puncture Protection – Reinforced bases with EVA or high-density rubber provide puncture resistance when set on rough ground. Protects your gear from snares or sharp objects.
- Cold Retention – Backpacks like the Hopper Flip have closed-cell ColdCell foam insulation to block heat transfer. Keeps contents chilled for hours. Perfect for transporting drinks, food or ice.
- Breathable Comfort – Yeti’s back panels and shoulder straps use ventilated, breathable fabrics and ergonomic cuts for comfort on long journeys. It helps prevent a sweaty back.
- Versatile Organization – Models have dedicated pockets and compartments for laptops, tablets, water bottles, and accessories. Keeps your gear tidy and accessible.
- Gear Attachment – Integrated lash points, daisy chains, and Molle webbing allow attaching additional equipment externally. It lets you haul even more gear.
- Premium Quality – Top-shelf materials, zippers, hardware, and craftsmanship used throughout. Backed by Yeti’s 5-year warranty. Worth the investment for extreme durability.
Cons of Yeti Backpacks
- Expensive Pricing – Yeti bags cost considerably more than average backpacks. The ultra-durable construction comes at a premium price.
- Heavy Weight – Thick, overbuilt materials add weight. Yeti bags are noticeably heavier than regular backpacks of the same capacity. It can be tiring on long treks.
- Limited Capacity – None are true large hiking/trekking backpacks. The largest is only 35 liters. capacity maxes out at around 30 liters. Not ideal for multi-day excursions.
- Limited Protection – The soft, unstructured fabric provides minimal padding for laptops, tablets, or other delicate gear. More protective than a hard case.
- Lack of Frame Support – No internal frame or back support system. Carrying heavy loads for long periods can become uncomfortable without weight distribution.
- Waterproofing Fades – The water-repellent coatings deplete over time with heavy use. Requires reapplication to maintain water resistance.
- Limited Styling – Most Yeti models come in muted colors like black, navy, or gray. Only a few bright or vibrant options for flair and visibility.
- Narrow Audience – Durable construction may exceed the needs of casual urban users. Best suited for outdoor pursuits where the ruggedness provides utility.
Yeti Backpack Alternatives
Some popular alternatives to consider:
Hydro Flask Unbound Series – It also uses TPU-lined fabric and waterproof zippers. More affordable and comes in larger 25L+ sizes.
RTIC Soft Pack – Comparable cold-retaining technology and hardy build. Lower price point.
Pelican Daypack – Rugged, waterproof bags made for outdoor use. Larger capacities are offered.
Camelbak Rim Runner – Hydration-focused backpack with insulation and water resistant fabric.
Patagonia Black Hole Packs – Outdoor bags with weather-resistant ripstop polyester fabric and water repellent finish.
Final Verdict
Yeti backpacks live up to their reputation – they are impressively sturdy and have excellent insulation capabilities. The waterproof fabric, thick base and high-end details make them very resilient and able to withstand the elements.
They offer great performance for outdoor activities and chilling drinks/food. But you do pay a premium for their quality. Casual users may not need such heavy-duty construction.
But for those who value maximum durability and don’t mind the price, Yeti backpacks deliver fantastic protection for your gear. Their strength is unmatched compared to typical nylon backpacks.
They can really take a beating in rough conditions while keeping contents dry, making them ideal for certain outdoor pursuits and travel.
With their overbuilt design, Yeti backpacks are in a class of their own when it comes to toughness. Yeti offerings are a top choice if you need a bag that can handle abuse and the outdoors while keeping items cool and dry.
They are waterproof powerhouses able to withstand years of use and anything the elements can throw at them. Just be prepared to pay more for the Yeti level of quality.
But for certain activities and users, that investment can be well worth it for a virtually indestructible backpack built to last a lifetime.
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Faiqa brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to The Green Voyage. Through her extensive experience in the field she has developed a deep understanding of various destinations, cultures, and travel trends. Her dedication to providing accurate and well-researched articles allows her to offer valuable insights to readers. She has a strong commitment to quality and a genuine passion for exploring the world. With a passion for travel, product reviews, and researching factual information, she strives to inspire and guide travellers on their journeys through her writing.