Last week, I tossed you a quick review of the Alpha 31—arguably the most versatile bag of the last decade. Today, I’m back with another offering from Remote Equipment: the Bravo 18.

Now, on paper, the Bravo 18 shouldn’t appeal to me at all. It’s one of those jack-of-all-trades bags, master of none. It can be rigged as an awkward tote, a massive sling, an uncomfortable backpack, or some kind of bizarre briefcase. And frankly, I don’t have a burning need for any of those things.

But for the sake of education—and maybe a little masochism—I ordered one anyway. The moment I unboxed the damn thing, I was smitten. Not because of the form factor, mind you, but because of the material. It’s made from a proprietary textile, TPU-coated 500D Cordura. I’ve never felt anything quite like it. Imagine 500D Cordura—only thinner, a bit stiffer, and smooth as hell.

I loved the feel so much that I forced myself to use it, and in doing so, I stumbled upon a new favorite. While the Bravo 18 isn’t exceptional at any one thing, it’s brilliant at being good enough for just about anything. My main use? A beach bag. Its 18-liter capacity is perfect for a towel, sunscreen, my phone, headphones, and all the other little things I want to bring to the beach but don’t want getting wet or sandy.

And thanks to the adjustable tote straps and endlessly customizable back straps (ditch one for a sling, keep both for a backpack), I can carry it however suits the day’s load. It’s not a masterful beach bag, but in a way… it’s a perfect one. And that’s something you only realize after giving it a chance.

Think of the Bravo 18 as a stripped-down Alpha 31—flexible as hell without all the Alpha’s complexities. Or maybe it’s more like a simpler version of another Remote Equipment bag—the Charlie 25.

What’s the Charlie 25, you ask? Well, stay tuned…

In any case, more details on the Bravo 18 can be found here.

Editor’s Note: Remote Equipment is NOT a sponsor of this site. I am not being paid to review any of their shit… I just happen to like the philosophy of their business and the bags that result.