With so many tools a person can own in this day and age, it can be hard to haul everything around. That is why you should invest in some of the best tool bags to push you in the right direction. There are a variety of options, big and small, that can help protect your equipment from nicks, dents, and scrapes.
If you do a lot of your own do-it-yourself (DIY) work, then you should get a tool bag that fits your needs. Sure, the bag can keep you organized and protected, but the same bag has a lot of innovative concepts that you will not believe that you lived without them. But, there is a lot to cover. So, in this product review, you will be able to sift through over a dozen options for you to choose from. Then, you can hit the buyer’s guide to make sure you are making the wisest of choices.
No matter what you decide, just make sure it follows some of the guidelines written below. This way, you will make an educated decision that you can live with for years to come. So, without further ado, let us dive into the products, shall we?
Contents
Best Tool Bags: Editor’s Top Picks
Top 15 Best Tool Bags Reviews:
1. Veto Pro Pac Tech XL Tool Bag
The Veto Pro Pac Tech is an extra-large bag that you will love. Made purely out of nylon, this imported model has a polypropylene base that is 3 millimeters thick. Additionally, it comes with an ergonomic grip that is made of rubber. There is even a tape clip holder that is primarily made out of stainless steel.
With an ergonomic design, you will be able to fit almost any tool of your choosing. The measurements of 4.75 x 7 x 9.5 inches will make sure you can pack it in. If you are a fan of hard work, this tool bag will handle anything you throw at it. 80 pockets are what you will get to organize drills, hand tools, measuring equipment, and much more. You will not have to look any further than this tool bag from Veto for all your storage needs.
Highlighted Features:
- Toolbag weighs only 7 pounds
- Comes with a limited warranty of 5 years
- Can be shipped anywhere in the United States of America
- You can add a shoulder strap that comes standard with your purchase
- Amazing value for the money you pay
- Extremely durable wherever you take the tool bag
- Sensational customer service that will surprise you
2. CLC Custom LeatherCraft 1539 Multi-Compartment 50 Pocket Tool Bag
Another bag with a heavy dose of pockets is the CLC Custom LeatherCraft 1539. With 50 pockets to choose from, you can make sure you know where every one of your tools goes. Large hand tools can also be placed in the bag as well. No matter if you have power tools or other large accessories, you can even separate your tools with compartments outside.
You will be happy to know this bag is spill-proof as well. With a zipped panel, you can prevent your tools from getting damaged due to any spilling. If you are looking for quick access to your tools, this is the one for you to consider. You can use the product for 30 days, and if you are not completely satisfied with your purchase, you can return it with a money-back guarantee. Then, there will be no harm, no foul for you.
Highlighted Features:
- The bag only weighs 6 pounds
- Made of polypropylene and polyester
- Amazing craftsmanship for the money you pay
- Highly recommended for construction workers and designers
- Plenty of room for more tools in your future
- Great value for the price you pay
3. DEWALT DGL573 Lighted Technician’s Tool Bag
Another great tool bag is the DEWALT DGL573 Lighted Technician’s Tool Bag. The first thing that you will notice about the tool bag is the fact that this is a lighted bag. With an LED light in your bag, you can place it over your work area or in your bag when you are having a hard time finding what you need. There are even 3 levels of light for you to adjust to the perfect setting. One works for wide areas while the other one is great for a close-up.
Comfort is another thing you will love about this Dewalt product. With a padded webbing design, you will be able to carry your bag with ease. There are adjustable straps for your shoulders and back, so you will not get injured and stay pain-free. The durability is great as well. Your tools will stay wear-free and no abrasions will be seen.
Highlighted Features:
- Maximum 39 lumens of light
- Comes with 41 pockets with 13 being outside the bag
- Store items like drills, pliers, screwdrivers, and much more
- Only weighs 4.4 pounds
- Uses a lithium battery of 2 AAs for the light
- Extremely sturdy product
- Essential for an HVAC technician
4. Klein Tools Tradesman Pro Tool Master Backpack
If you are looking for something a little different, you will like this next product. As one of the more expensive options on the list, the tool holder is a backpack. This way, you can carry your tools without wearing yourself down.
As an American manufacturer who has been in business for over 160 years, Klein Tools is an established brand that creates the strongest products. With this backpack, in particular, you will receive a bag with 48 pockets that are perfect to hold wires, accessories, and great tools. You can even store a drill in this bag. A zipper pocket will also help you keep tools concealed where you want them to stay.
Highlighted Features:
- Removable caddy to take certain tools out of the backpack
- The zipper can work with lockable pulls
- Made with the help of a ballistic weaving material
- The backpack weighs over 13 pounds
- Comes with a manufacturer’s warranty of 1 year
- The backpack can stand up on its own
- Excellent for organization
5. STEELHEAD 48-Pocket Heavy-Duty Tool Backpack
Steelhead might not be a product line you are familiar with, but you should be when all is said and done. As the best electrician tool bag, this is not your common option. With back support that is padded and a bottom that is reinforced, you will love the way this bag carries around. When you need to get items out of the backpack, just set it on the ground and use the rubber feet to perfection.
Whether you are a plumber, electrician, HVAC technician, or contractor, this backpack will surely get used by you. One attribute that people love about this backpack is the fact that it is rugged and tough. With the help of 28 pockets, you will be able to store all the tools you want, no matter the size. Think hammers, extension cords, power tools, and more. It is lifetime support that is here in the United States of America that gives people unbeatable protection close by.
Highlighted Features:
- Built-in Atlanta, Georgia
- 7 of the pockets are on the outside of the backpack
- Includes 2 stay straps for ultimate security
- The product weighs just 5.75 pounds
- Backpack is water-resistant
- Can even store a laptop in this backpack
- Zippers are made of quality material
6. AmazonBasics Electrician 50 Pocket Tool Bag
100% polyester bags do not come around that often when it comes to the best tool bags. However, this option from AmazonBasics certainly fits the bill. As an imported option, this tool bag surely will wow you with all its amazing uses.
With the help of 50 pockets (9 on the outside and 41 on the inside), you will be able to have the utmost organization at your fingertips. By keeping your tools uprights, they will always be in view and your access will be constant. The design of this bag is also unique. It will never collapse on you because it is made with the help of a metal frame.
On the outside, the bag is made with Oxford cloth that has the best stitching and sensational zippers around. When you set the bag down to work, rest assured that the foam feet will keep your bag dry and stable wherever you work. When you are done working and putting your items back into the bag, you will be comfortable beyond belief with the shoulder strap, which is adjustable, and the carrying handle.
Highlighted Features:
- Comes with a 1-year warranty
- The base is abrasion-resistant
- Created with a wide-mouth structure
- Weighs just under 5 pounds
- Frustration-free certification
- Made with deep pockets
- Some pockets have Velcro covers for added stability
7. BLACK+DECKER BDCMTSB Matrix Wide-Mouth Storage Bag
As one of the more inexpensive options on the list, this BLACK+DECKER product will certainly blow your mind. With easy storing capabilities and a wide-mouth design, this bag is hard to be matched. The durable base, made of plastic is something else you will like. Whenever you set it down, your bag will not move on you when you need it in the most crucial of times.
When you are done with a project, you can pick the bag up and use the adjustable strap to place it on your shoulder with ease. With every purchase, you will receive the bag itself, 2 extremely rigid dividers, and the shoulder strap.
Highlighted Features:
- The bag only weighs 3.5 pounds
- Backed by a limited warranty of 2 years
- Made of strong cloth material
- Comes in the color black
- The bag can fold flat when it is not in use
- 8 dividing portions within the bag
- Fits air compressions, saws, drills, and much more
8. Rugged Tools Pro Backpack
If you are looking for a beast of a bag, this next option is the one. No matter if you are working on a job site or from the comfortable confines of your own home, this backpack is the ideal storage organizer for you. Whether you are a cable repairman, plumber, or in some other field, check this backpack out.
This backpack is made with sturdy polyester material, allowing your backpack a strong, reinforced finish along with zippers and pockets. With every product, you will receive 40 pockets of storage that are fitting for screwdrivers, levels, fish tape, and so much more. The hard-bottom finish will give you a solid surface to place your tools safely on. Neither mud nor snow will penetrate this backpack.
Highlighted Features:
- Come with a 100% Happiness Guarantee
- Shell Case is a semi-hard design
- Padded for the utmost lumbar support
- Use the sternum trap for distribution of the weight and to help with balance
- The product weighs 5.86 pounds
- Organize to your specific liking
- Heavenly value for the money you pay
9. Carhartt Legacy Tool Bag
If you are looking for an old-school design with new school features, this bag from Carhartt is certainly for you. Coming in colors black or brown, the sleek design makes you feel like you have had the product for years, still looking like it is brand new. With 14, 16, and 18-inch options, you can purchase a bag that will fit all the tools you need to bring around.
Made with polyester material, this imported choice is as durable as they come. With 17 outside pockets and 10 built into the interior, you will have plenty of space to organize. The metal frame will also help your bag from collapsing. Even the triple-stitch construction will impress you about what Carhartt has made for you. Since 1889, Carhartt has proved its value year after year for over a century.
Highlighted Features:
- The base is abrasion-resistant
- Come with a limited warranty
- Uses YKK zippers and other great metal hardware
- Made as a repellent to water
- Built in the country of China
- Customer service is based in the United States of America
- The bag only weighs 2 pounds
10. Husky 18-Inch Water Resistant Contractor’s Rolling Tool Tote Bag
We have all certainly heard about Husky products. They currently own a lot of the hardware market, proving their value to countless customers. Maybe you will be another one for Husky. This best rolling tool bag is essential if you take your tools on the road or if you work in your home. With the help of a telescoping handle, you will be able to balance your tools in the bag no matter the weight.
Made with 600-Denier polyester, you can imagine that this bag can hold up under the toughest of circumstances. Even the Bartec stitching will not let you down. There are also some bonus elements to your Husky purchase. With two solid handles, outside tape measure clips, and a double zipper system, you will be able to rock ‘n roll any project.
Highlighted Features:
- Comes with 11 exterior and 7 interior pockets
- Weighs 13.6 pounds
- The one color choice is red
- Can easily hold over 100 pounds of weight
- The interior height is 13-inches
- The wheel size is 4-inches
- Amazing gliding wheel technology
11. Milwaukee Heavy-Duty Canvas Tool Bag
The Milwaukee Heavy-Duty Canvas Tool Bag is an amazing alternative for you to consider. With reinforced handles, they are metal fastened to the bag itself. This means that you can lug the bag with all your tools organized nicely inside of it. There is also a bottom that is reinforced. This way, you can leave it on the ground without any problems with your tools or the bag. Good to hear about your precious cargo.
A superb shoulder strap will give you the best portability. It will never get tangled either. Inside this bag, you will have 6 pockets to separate your tools in different areas. This will reduce any bumping or movement in the bag when you are traveling around. Even the zipper system is phenomenal because you can pack the bag tight and keep the contents inside where they belong. Saying these zippers are strong is an understatement.
Highlighted Features:
- The product is shipped bulk
- The bag only weighs 2 pounds
- Water and dust will not get inside the bag
- Fits drills, batteries, saws, and much more
- The material quality is unprecedented
- The bag stands 12-inches in depth
- Excellent reinforcement from the material
12. Stanley 12-Inch Soft Sided Tool Bag
Another solid bag option is some to use from Stanley. This soft-sided bag has an adjustable strapping system that gives you the easiest access to the tools you need. The bag itself is perfect for hand tools that range from small to medium sizes. Since the handles are also super comfy, you will not even notice the weight that you carry.
At the bottom of your bag, there are rubber foam inserts. This way, your bag, and tools inside, will be protected from the worst of drops or falls. Even the tools on the outside, in your mesh pockets, will stay safe, from the smallest of accessories to the biggest tools.
Highlighted Features:
- The weight of the bag is 1 pound
- The bag measures out with a height of 12-Inches
- Comes with a limited lifetime warranty
- 4 pockets on the outside and 1 inside
- The bag is water-resistant
- Comes in the color black
- Made in the country of China
13. Florida Coast RB 15002 Leather Trim Tool Tote
Florida Coast also makes a quality best tool bag. The first thing you will notice about this bag is it is soft to the touch. With the help of natural cotton, 100% of it, you will want to haul this bag around at all times. As an imported option, you will love its sleek design that will turn heads when you haul your tools to and fro.
On the outside of the bag, there are 24 great pockets to the easiest of storage. As you open up the bag, it has a wide-throat, which allows the best cargo space inside. When you place your bag down, it will stand straight up and down, even though it does not have a metal frame. Your bag will not scratch anything it touches either.
Highlighted Features:
- Seams are stitched for a longer shelf-life
- The bag is 9-inches deep
- Promoted by the Martha Stewart Living Magazine
- The bag weighs less than 2 pounds
- Comes with 2 handles
- Uses an open pocket structure
- Easy to clean with the use of a gentle washer cycle
14. Bucket Boss Gatemouth Tool Tote in Brown
The Bucket Boss Gatemouth Tool Tote is another choice that will catch your eye. Inside, this bag can hold 11 liters of stuff. As a super durable product, you will love that it is 11-inches deep to throw stuff into. Manufactured in the country of China, this bag is as durable as they come. Made with a poly material, the Bucket Boss will leave no doubt in your mind what its value is.
With 23 pockets inside and 4 outside, you will have plenty of areas to place your precious tools. There are even 16 loops in your bag to hook your tool on. Along with your purchase, you will receive a measured clip and a mighty handle with a subtle rubber grip. Since 1987, the Bucket Boss has been kicking butt and taking names. This product of theirs is no different.
Highlighted Features:
- The bag has been tested in a variety of fields
- Pockets are made from elastic mesh
- Foam walls create the bag’s shape
- Made with water-resistant material
- Weighs 2.65 pounds
- Comes with a limited warranty of 1 year
- Maintains its shape throughout a lifetime
15. Occidental Leather 3-Pouch Pro Tool Bag
The last best tool bag on our list is made by Occidental Leather. With authentic leather, Occidental Leather is proudly made in the United States of America. Every purchase will include 11 pockets to hold every tool imaginable. You can even hold work knives, pencils, hammers, and so much more. It can even hold speed squares.
Since the bag is made of leather, you can be sure that Occidental Leather has waxed and oiled the piece to perfection. By only weighing 2 pounds, your tools will not weigh you down in the process. No matter what bag you buy, you will not find another better leather tool bag on the market today.
Highlighted Features:
- Made in the United States of America
- The belt width is between 2 and 3-inches
- Great value for the price you pay
- Comes in the multicolor brown option
- Easy to treat the leather over time
- Ideal for heavy construction
- Has plenty of room for your tools
Things to Consider When Buying a Tool Bag
When it comes to buying the right tool bag for your lifestyle, it is important you know exactly what you are looking for. So, with that in mind, let us talk through some important points that you should delve into when picking your essential bag. This way, you will make the right choice for yourself and your tools.
You may feel overwhelmed at this point, but keep reading. This comprehensive guide will get you to where you want to be. Then, you can narrow down your options to the best of your ability.
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Strong Construction
There are a few things that you should make priorities when you look for the best bag. The first is rugged construction. Everyone knows that working with tools is hard work. It is certainly not for the faint of heart. With that in mind, get a bag that will survive year after year. Even when you organize your tools, they can start to scrape and tear at your bag. Screw drivers are notorious for this. But, with the right bag that is double and triple stitched, your bag will be reinforced like you never thought possible. Having great handles and a solid base is great as well.
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Material
The material should be identified as well, depending on your needs. Many bags are made with leather, poly material, mesh, and canvas. Depending on what you need, understand the upkeep that it takes to deal with leather. Most of the other materials do not have upkeep in the same way. However, some materials, like canvas and mesh, will not hold up as well over time as leather and poly material can. Just know your options here.
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Water-Resistance
Having a weather-resistant bag should be a priority for you, too. There will come a time where you take the tool bag out into the elements. There may be rain, sleet, or snow you will have to contend with. With a repellent feature, your tools will stay safe and sound with no rust to deal with causing problems.
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A Comfortable Carry
How about a comfortable carry? Does this matter to you? When you are hauling around dozens of pounds of weight, after a while, this can get super annoying to work with. Make sure that your bag has shoulder straps and reinforced handles with padding. Your body will surely thank you.
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Storage Capacity
Storage capacity should not be overlooked either. Start by deciding what kind of tool bag you will need. Some people only have a few tools, so a bag with a few pockets is all they will need. If you buy a bag that is too big, your tools could roll around and get damaged or broken. On the other hand, you might be one who has hundreds of tools. If this is you, get a heavy-duty bag, maybe even one with wheels to chart around. That kind of bag will get very heavy in a hurry.
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Price Point
Price of course always plays a part in a person’s choice of a tool bag. The cheaper options are the bucket bag and standard tool bag just because they have been around for a while and people are not as perplexed with them as they once were. The backpack and roller bag are more wanted, so you can expect the price to go up for these options.
Different Kinds of Tool Bags
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Standard Bag
There are different kinds of tool bags for you to get to know in the process. Most people think of a tool bag and they go to the traditional option in their head. A standard bag is your everyday, average option that is good for carrying and comfortable. But, do not expect this to be the best option because it is not in this day and age.
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Backpack
The backpack style has become popular in the 21st Century to carry around hardware. This option is certainly the most popular because it is sleek, yet effective. The backpack distributes the weight nicely on your back, instead of your upper body trying to make up the difference with a standard tool bag. Additionally, you will enjoy the comfort of a backpack. The only downside to this option is the backpack will not hold as much as a standard tool bag.
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Bucket Bag
You may have not heard about the bucket bag, but this selection is here to stay. It might be a little funny to observe the first time you lay eyes on it, but it can be a handy tool bag choice. They truly are not as cozy as the backpack, but they can get down what you need them to do for you.
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Roller Bag
The last tool bag option is the roller bag. This is ideal for an individual who is looking to hold the most tools possible. With a roller design, you can expect that the tools will weigh you down. But, this does mean you can get a bag with a telescoping handle to make it the easiest trip possible.
Advantages of Using a Tool Bag
There are a lot of reasons why people need a tool bag. The investment may be a little daunting if you are strapped for cash. Some people handle fine with a grocery bag to move their tools around. But, you should have more self-respect for yourself.
Let us start with how difficult it can be to haul tools around with only two hands. If you have a surplus of tools, it will take you several trips to move them from Point A to Point B. So, if you want to limit your trips to and fro, we recommend that you save your hands from added work. Get a bag for yourself.
Another reason for a tool bag is so you can keep things organized. At home, many people use a tool chest to keep everything in order. But, when you are away from your home, you must keep things organized in your vehicle or at an alternative location. That is why you should get a tool bag. This will make unpacking and packing a breeze for you, and you will never lose a tool again. This is because you will know exactly where you left it, instead of it being strewn around your truck or grocery bag.
Some people like to wrap their tools in a blanket or something and place it in their trunks. Do not be that person. Tools are expensive unless you make loads of money. For the common human, respecting tools means getting a bag to help with the protection process. Then, you can use your blanket for what it was meant for: getting cozy in bed or on the couch. Do not ruin a perfectly good blanket with your tools.
How to Organize Your Tool Bag Efficiently
Many people want to know how they should organize their bags. Well, it certainly depends on what you are putting in your bag and what kind of bag you own. But, think about these things when organizing.
First, place your tools on the outside of your bag that you will be using a lot. Nothing is worse than digging into your bag, wasting time to find the right tool. If you have it properly placed on the outside, you will get the tool quicker, getting the job done faster.
Next, put tools that can withstand the elements on the outside. Protect tools that can rust from rain, sleet, and snow inside your bag. Having rust on a tool limits its value and efficiency. So, think ahead about what your tools can handle and organize them in a way that will help them stay brand new.
Another way you can think about organizing is by putting the small tools on the outside and the larger tools inside the bag. There is usually more room inside the bag, so you can have a better hold for your massive tool options. For the outside pockets, you can place multiple tools together and give yourself more room to place other tools in different pockets.
The last thing about the organization is that there are some brands where you can move the pockets and dividers around. This gives you the most customization. People are usually the happiest with this option because they have the most freedom and control to make the tool bag the way they want it. Lastly, you can change the organization around at any time, if you do not like your previous methods.
A Brief History of The Tool Bag
The original creation of the tool bag came in the form of a toolbox. They were small and portable allowing you to hold things inside. This type of toolbox could be carried around or it used casters in one location to stay put. Even though today, toolboxes are made out of plastic and metal, the original toolboxes were built in the early 1800s.
Wood was the primary material used for toolboxes. This was an abundant resource that could be manipulated in a way to store anything you wanted. Over the years, the toolbox has varied in its popularity. Over the last couple of decades, companies have seen a decline in sales. But, since 2010, there has been a resurgence of sorts bringing toolboxes and tool bags into the limelight again.
Not only have people used toolboxes for tools, but others have used them to organize jewelry or collector items to add to their heirlooms. There are many uses for a toolbox and the same can be said for the tool bag itself. Throughout history, toolboxes have morphed into toolbelts, aprons, tool bags, tool chests, bucket organizers, auto carts, and workshop trollies. It is truly amazing what the toolbox started and how far it has come through the years.
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions
You may have a lot of questions still about what tool bag to get. With the help of the FAQ section, we have compiled the top-5 questions that people are asking about the topic. This way, you do not have to check on your own. Additionally, you will feel better knowing others have the same questions as you do.
Q-1: What should I add to my tool bag?
There are a ton of accessories that you can add to your toolbag. Many people like to buy plastic liners so you will not get the inside of your bag dirty from your grimy tools. LED lights are also nice to have. This way, if you are needing some added light in the dark, you can see your tools with no problem at all.
How about a cooler bag? Keep the coldest drinks in your tool bag when you need a little refreshment. You will be the envy of your neighborhood. With these accessories in mind, you will have everything covered.
Q-2: What is the best way to clean a tool bag?
Over time, your tool bag will get dirty. Sorry to break that news to you. The fact of the matter is that tools get gross and some cleaning will be needed. Since tool bags are beasts, you can scrub mightily to get all the dirty, oil, and grease out.
With the help of soapy water, which is a little warm, you will get the job done right. Make sure to keep your tools clean, too. If you do this, then you will not have to clean your tool bag as often.
Q-3: How would you define a tool bag?
As you have seen, there are a ton of tool bag options. But, how is one classified? Well, a tool bag is not like a backpack, grocery bag, or sack. It has been created to organize tools and tools along. The fabric is more durable and the stitching is reinforced. By its very nature, a tool bag is tough and will never back down from a challenge.
Q-4: What tool bags are waterproof?
To find a waterproof tool bag, you will have to be careful to seek out one that is proofed and one that is resistant. A bucket tool bag will not protect you from water. However, if the product is made out of poly fiber, plastic, or nylon, you can bet that it will withstand water a whole lot better.
Q-5: What zipper should I choose for my tool bag?
Make sure you have a full zipper that will open your bag with ease. A dual zipper will be even better by allowing you to open it up from either side to get your tools. Whatever you decide, having a zipper tool bag is the best for ultimate protection. Additionally, you can stow a product away, and a bystander will have no idea what is in your bag. It is amazing to think about how theft can be avoided when they cannot see what is in your bag.
Final Verdict
Now that we have come to the end of the review buyer’s guide, it is time for you to embark on your tool bag journey. We have taught you everything we know. You are certainly ready to pick one that fits you and your lifestyle.
Whatever you do decide to go with, be sure of your purchase. Do your homework and be patient during the process. This way, you will have a great experience buying your tool bag. Who knows? People may start to flock to you asking how you decided on this model. Then, you can show them how pro you are when it comes to tool bags. You do not even have to tell them you read this article. We will not tell. Good luck with your purchase.