I wasn’t prepared for how tough this bag really is

I probably don’t have to educate you on Yeti. Founded in 2006, the company became popular pretty quickly for the Tundra series of coolers, a high-end rotomolded cooler design using polyethylene for strength and longer cooling. With two padlocks, the Tundra cooler is certified bear-resistant. What started out as a niche product for hunters and outdoor enthusiasts quickly became a lifestyle product for nearly everyone when the company expanded to products like the Rambler cup and a full line of outdoor gear like bags and high-quality pet accessories.

Truth be told, I wasn’t prepared for how tough this bag really is. The Yeti Crossroads Duffel 40L retails at $199.99 USD and comes in 3 colors (Aquifer Blue Green/Navy/Black). My navy Crossroads Duffel came in a branded Yeti mailer box. Inside, the bag was sealed in plastic with attached product retail tags, a matching navy luggage tag, and a card explaining the inside compartment system (more on that later).

Firstly, the bag is just the definition of tough. Measuring 22 inches long by 12.5 inches wide and 9 inches high, it’s the perfect size for overnight trips. I tend to pack light, so this size easily suits me for a weekend getaway. Its measurements also allow this to be a great cabin carry-on for worry-free travel. Even if you have to check it, you’ll never have to worry about it surviving the luggage handlers.

From its shoulder strap, abrasion-resistant, and water repellent 700D nylon to its structured heavy-duty bottom that almost feels like a molded, hard-shelled, motorcycle bag. The Yeti Crossroads Duffel will never let you down. I really love the wide opening top completely surrounded by heavy-duty, tough zippers and rubberized shield protecting them from the elements. 

The fully-opening top really allows full access to everything inside the bag. But, again, it’s a well-thought-out design element that really sets this bag apart. 

Inside, you can use the strong divider panels to separate the compartment into three sections for more organization or refer to the card included with your bag to remove the panels and open up the entire compartment into one big space. Another great feature is the handles on all four sides of the bag, perfect for pulling your bag off the airport luggage carousel. Remember those? 

If there’s one thing about this bag I think can be improved, it’s the luggage tag. I know, it’s just a little added accessory, but it’s very flimsy, and although it matches the material and color, I just wish it was a little tougher. Maybe a molded tag or something stainless steel with a rubber surround would stand up to the abuse that repeated travel brings. But this is not a deal-breaker. Replace it with an Apple airtag, and you’ll always know the exact location of your Yeti bag!

In my opinion, when it comes to baggage that protects your valuables during travel, whether it’s overnight camping or a getaway to a warmer climate, the Yeti Crossroads Duffel is a no-brainer. You just can’t find a stronger, well-designed bag for the price. If the 40L Duffel’s size doesn’t work for you, check out the 60, 75, or even 100L Duffels in the same line. Just don’t sleep on this. Buy it for life, buy it from Yeti!