YETI Crossroad Backpack review: Why this durable bag is my new go-to for travel

I tried this Yeti backpack, and it's my new go-to for travel. Image via Yeti.
I tried this Yeti backpack, and it's my new go-to for travel. Image via Yeti.

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When it comes to a travel, I tend to prefer a backpack rather than a carry-on since it's lighter than standard suitcases and easier to carry around. However, finding a bag that has space and can endure anything isn't an easy task.

I've already started to plan my next trip to Vancouver, and knowing I'll be spending a great deal of time outdoors, I wanted to make sure I find and use a versatile backpack that can last me throughout my trip and beyond.

With my bag being tossed around in cars, trains, and planes, the YETI Crossroads backpack was high on my list of potential winning styles.

YETI Crossroads 22 L Backpack

YETI Crossroads Backpack. Image via Amazon.
YETI Crossroads Backpack. Image via Amazon.

$250 at Amazon

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The details

This travel bag from Yeti is a minimalist backpack that can fit your everyday items, including laptops and cameras, if needed. It has a smaller pocket for essentials that can be easily reached at the top, and side zips that also enter the main bag component for convenience.

For added durability, the bag has a suspended sleeve with padding around it for extra protection and TuffSkin nylon construction, which is inspired by motorcycle gear. The material is water- and abrasion-resistant — making it ideal for travel or daily commutes.

Coming in at a carry-on friendly 11.5 by 8.5 by 18.5 inches, you can shop the bag in several neutral colours.

My thoughts

The look and feel of this Yeti backpack gives off major outdoor vibes, but I personally think this is a bag you can venture with even when not travelling thanks to its convenient laptop sleeve. I got the smallest size (22L), which has been great for everyday use.

On a recent weekend trip from Ottawa to Toronto, I snapped a quick photo of everything I could fit in my bag. I had my water bottle, laptop, chargers, wallet, skincare and makeup bag, and multiple articles of clothing. The bag was perfect for a weekend getaway, and compact enough to fit and carry everything around easily.

Here's everything I could fit in my 22L Yeti backpack.
Here's everything I could fit in my 22L Yeti backpack.

For people who are doing road trips or camping this summer, the bag is a great choice since it has plenty of space, is super durable, and is resistant to water.

Overall, YETI's Crossroads backpack is the most durable backpack I've come across. Although it is pricey, I know this will last me for years which I'm happy about. I've already used it for shorter trips, and I'm excited to keep using it on a daily basis and for longer trips alike.

What shoppers are saying

Though this backpack is a fairly new addition to the Amazon Canada site, it's already earned a 4.4-star rating from shoppers.

One reviewer who recently purchased the backpack agrees it is "good value for the money." There are many features such as "convenient pockets"and "multiple places to clip breast straps," making it "customizable" to your liking.

Another shopper added the computer sleeve is "nicely padded." However, they did wish it was "a little bigger."

Since Yeti is a well-known cooler brand, the backpack could be mistaken as a cooler in a backpack shape (as one shopper quickly found out after placing their order). However, it's important to note that this bag does not have any cooling pockets and is strictly a backpack.

The verdict

When it comes to travel gear, I don't mind paying a bit more for high-quality products that I know will be durable through many trips. Considering the backpack is priced at $250 CAD, it's certainly a splurge that may warrant a bit of though before making the investment.

If budget is a concern, you could always check out other affordable options on Amazon. But, if you want a durable backpack for school or travel that's sure to last, this one is it.

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