A tool bag is a portable container for carrying tools. A tool bag typically has one or more compartments for storing tools and a shoulder strap or handles for easy transport. Tool bags are used by tradespeople such as electricians, plumbers, carpenters, and mechanics to store and transport their tools.
So how to choose a bag for tools and what they are?
Advantages of using a tool bag
When it comes to lugging around your tools, there are a variety of options available to choose from. Some people prefer a toolbox, while others prefer a tool belt. But one of the most popular choices among professionals is a tool bag.
Tool bags come in a variety of sizes, shapes, and styles, so you can find one that fits your needs perfectly. Quality tool bags also have a variety of pockets and compartments, which makes organizing your tools a breeze. And because they’re typically made from durable materials, you can rest assured that your tools will be well-protected.
Another advantage of using a tool bag is that it’s much more comfortable to carry than a toolbox. And when your tools are organized and within easy reach, you’ll be able to work more efficiently.
If you’re looking for a convenient and durable way to transport your tools, a tool bag is a great option.
List Of The Best Tool Bags
- Best Overall: DEWALT DG5543 16 in. 33 Pocket Tool Bag
- Best Portable Tool Bag: Klein Tools 5541610-14 Tool Bag
- Best Budget: Workpro 12-inch Close Top Wide Mouth Storage Tool Bag
- Best Tool Bag For Power Tools: Klein Tools 55469 Tradesman Pro Wide-Open Tool Bag
- Best for Large Hand Tools: GOLDSKYUS 20 Inch Wide Mouth Tool Bag
- Best on Wheels: Klein Tools 55452RTB Tool Bag
- Best Backpack: CLC Work Gear 1134 Carpenter's Tool Backpack
- Best for In-Home Use: Milwaukee 17 Inch Heavy Duty Canvas Tool Bag
- Best Tool Bag For Carpenters: CLC Custom LeatherCraft 1529 16 In. Center Tray Tool Bag
- Best Mechanic Tool Bag: Carhartt Legacy Tool Bag 16-Inch w/ Molded Base
- Best for Electricians: CLC Custom LeatherCraft 1539 Multi-Compartment 50 Pocket Tool Bag
Our Verdict: 11 Best Tool Bags Reviews
1. Best Overall: DEWALT DG5543 16 in. 33 Pocket Tool Bag
The Dewalt DG5543 16 in. 33 Pocket Tool Bag is a top-quality bag that is perfect for carrying around your tools. It is made of heavy-duty nylon cloth material that is much thicker and more durable than other bags on the market.
The bag also features a comfortable shoulder strap, four rubber feet on the bottom to protect against wet and dirty conditions, 13 interior pockets of various sizes, and 20 exterior pockets. The bag is tall and roomy, and can easily hold a Dewalt 7 1/4″ circular saw with a 6.0 amp battery attached. This bag is a great value and well worth the purchase price.
- Great size;
- Very durable;
- The price is great for the quality;
- The size is perfect for any tool.
- None found.
2. Best Portable Tool: Bag Klein Tools 5541610-14 Tool Bag
The Klein Tools 5541610-14 Tool Bag is heavy duty and durable bag that is perfect for carrying all of your tools. With 40 pockets, including a large zipper pocket for small parts, this bag has plenty of room to store everything you need.
The molded bottom protects your tools from the elements, and the shoulder strap is padded for comfortable carrying. The bright orange interior makes it easy to find what you need, and the 1680D ballistic weave ensures that this bag will last for years.
- Lightweight;
- Large;
- Nice color.
- The pockets are a little smaller than they seem in the picture.
3. Best Budget: Workpro 12-inch Close Top Wide Mouth Storage Tool Bag
Best small tool bag with a 12-inch top, 7 exterior pockets, and a wide mouth that is easy to open, this tool bag is perfect for storing your tools and small to medium accessories in a versatile way. This is a pretty cheap tool bag.
The exterior of the bag is made of 500D polyester fabric with durable and reliable construction. The inside of the bag has 6 pockets for boxy items and 7 pockets for smaller items like screws, nails, and wrenches.
- It is made of durable material;
- Low price;
- The bag is waterproof.
- Dark lining;
- The bag can be a little difficult to clean.
4. Best for Power Tools: Klein Tools 55469 Tradesman Pro Wide-Open Tool Bag
If you’re looking for a toolbag that will hold all your tools, but also stay open for easy access, Klein Tools 55469 Tradesman Pro Wide-Open Tool Bag is the perfect bag for you. This bag has a smart design that is wider at the opening and bright orange on the inside so you can find your tools quickly.
The wide variety of pockets means that you can store all your tools, from your drill to your Klein wire strippers. It also has an outside metal tape measure holder, side mesh pockets, and shoulder strap with extra padding and handles. The bag is made of 1680D ballistic weave polyester and is 42 pockets. It also has a fully-molded bottom to protect it from the elements.
- Wider opening to accommodate larger tools;
- Durable.
- Expensive.
5. Best for Large Hand Tools: GOLDSKYUS 20 Inch Wide Mouth Tool Bag
The GOLDSKYUS 20-Inch Wide Mouth Tool Bag is a durable, water-resistant bag for the professional, serious DIY person, or someone who wants to keep their tools neatly arranged.
The bag has 8 sturdy pockets inside, 6 exterior pockets, and a waterproof base that protects the tools inside the bag from hard falls. The bag is designed with plenty of room that affords easy retrieval of any tool. The bag also comes with a small utility zipper bag for small parts.
- Very durable;
- Large pockets;
- Looks high quality;
- The price is fair.
- Some may find it too big.
6. Best on Wheels: Klein Tools 55452RTB Tool Bag
The Klein Tools 55452RTB Tool Bag is a rugged and durable bag that can easily be used to cart tools and materials around the job site. The bag is 19 inches x 14 inches x 12.5 inches and is capable of carrying up to 100 pounds of weight inside, and another 100 pounds stacked on top.
The bag is constructed of a 600D ballistic weave and features 24 pockets for easy tool organization. The bag can be easily opened and closed with a telescoping handle that is designed to bear up to 200 pounds.
- The bag is made with quality material;
- It has a lot of pockets for organization;
- It is durable;
- It has wheels.
- It is bulky.
7. Best Backpack: CLC Work Gear 1134 Carpenter’s Tool Backpack
The CLC Work Gear 1134 Carpenter’s Tool Backpack is a 100% heavy-duty bag that is designed to transport all types of tools while having the convenience of hands-free use. This backpack was created with 50 different pockets, making it easy to store and quickly look up the tool you need while on the job.
The design includes a wide back and adjustable padded shoulder straps for easy carrying. The CLC Work Gear 1134 Carpenter’s Tool Backpack is also equipped with feet for extra protection for tools in wet conditions. The tool organizer also includes a superior organization system to make accessing tools easy.
- Durable;
- Provides padding;
- Holds tools in place.
- Not recommended for heavy tools, like metal hammers.
8. Best for In-Home Use: Milwaukee 17 Inch Heavy Duty Canvas Tool Bag
The Milwaukee 17 Inch Heavy Duty Canvas Tool Bag is made of a thick, 17mil canvas and is ideal for storing your valuable equipment safely, even if you’re leaving it on the ground in a danger-prone job site. It is fitted with a reinforced bottom and heavy-duty handles, which are mounted onto the bag with a metal fastener and cross-x stitching.
This bag is equipped with support bars, which prevent the mouth from flopping around when it is not full. The included shoulder strap rings are perfect for attaching a strap for maximum portability.
- You can easily buy one of these on a budget;
- The bag is a nice size, with 6 Interior pockets.
- It doesn’t come with a shoulder strap;
- The bag could be a little sturdier.
9. Best for Carpenters: CLC Custom LeatherCraft 1529 16 In. Center Tray Tool Bag
The CLC Custom LeatherCraft 1529 16 In. Center Tray Tool Bag is a great tool bag for anyone with lots of tools and a lot of jobs to do. The bag’s 16 pockets provide ample space to store your tools, and the 13-1/2 inch x 9-inch plastic tray can hold more tools as needed.
The center tray has 6 individual compartments which are 2 inches cubed. The front exterior of the bag has a velcro pocket that can hold a large tape measure, and the back has a large zipper pouch that can hold a child’s pencil case.
- The center compartment is easy to access;
- The tool bag is sturdy and well-made;
- The shoulder strap is comfortable.
- It is not waterproof.
10. Best Mechanic Tool Bag: Carhartt Legacy Tool Bag 16-Inch w/ Molded Base
The Carhartt Legacy Tool Bag 16-Inch w/ Molded Base is an extremely popular item and is well-known for its durability and quality. The Carhartt Legacy Tool Bag 16-Inch w/ Molded Base is covered by a limited warranty against manufacturing defects in materials and workmanship for the normal life of the product. This best tool backpack for mechanics is large, durable, and well-organized, making it perfect for job-site professionals or serious DIYers. The 18-Inch and 16-Inch bags are also available with a load-bearing, abrasion-resistant molded base for even greater support for heavy tools and gear.
- Lightweight;
- Durable;
- Easy to carry.
- Zippers are a bit stiff.
11. Best for Electricians: CLC Custom LeatherCraft 1539 Multi-Compartment 50 Pocket Tool Bag
The CLC Custom LeatherCraft 1539 Multi-Compartment 50 Pocket Tool Bag is a large, durable bag that is perfect for contractors and repair technicians who need to keep their tools close at hand and neatly organized.
The roomy interior compartment of the bag holds both power tools (drill, nailer) and larger hand tools (torque wrench, tool kits), while the large exterior compartments provide ample storage space for a large number of tools and spare parts. The outside of the tool bag also has a large carabiner and tape measure clip.
- Durable;
- Plenty of room;
- Great for organizing.
- A little heavy.
Buyer’s Guide: How do I choose a tool bag?
A tool bag is a necessity for anyone who works with tools regularly. Not only do they keep your tools organized and easily accessible, but they also protect your tools from damage and the elements. With so many different tool bags on the market, it can be hard to decide which one is right for you.
What to Consider When Choosing the Best Tool Bag
The design of the bag is also very important. The bag should have pockets, compartments, and other configurations that allow you to carry the tools that you need while still allowing you to carry more items.
Some tool bags are designed for specific tools like a hammer bag that has a place for a hammer and a few other tools. Bags like this will be smaller and less expensive.
The most popular tool bags on the market today are the ones that are designed to have a place for every tool. These bags offer more space and are more versatile.
Durability
The quality of the tool bag is important. Think about what you need the bag for. If you are someone who needs to carry around many tools and other items, then a top quality bag is a necessity. You want the bag to be durable and able to hold up to the rigors of daily use.
The bag should also be able to carry a lot of weight if it is going to be used to carry heavy tools and the necessary tools to do the job.
Material Quality
The first thing to consider when choosing a tool bag is the material it is made from. The most common materials are canvas, nylon, and leather. Canvas is the most durable option, and is ideal for carrying heavy tools.
Nylon is lighter and more water-resistant, making it a good choice for carrying smaller tools or for use in wet weather. Leather is the most expensive option, but it is also the most stylish and will last the longest.
Size
Once you have decided on the material, you need to choose the right size. Tool bags come in a variety of sizes, from small pouches that can fit in your pocket, to large bags that can carry everything you need. Consider how much space you need, and choose a bag that is big enough to carry all of your tools, but not so big that it is cumbersome to carry.
Number of Storage Pockets
Some tool bags have just a few pockets, while others have dozens. The number of pockets is often related to the size of the bag. Larger bags tend to have more pockets, while smaller bags have fewer.
The number of storage pockets can be an important consideration when choosing a tool bag. If you need to carry a lot of small items, then a bag with many pockets may be a good option.
On the other hand, if you only need to carry a few larger items, then a bag with fewer pockets may be a better choice. Ultimately, the decision of how many pockets you need will depend on your specific needs.
Mobility
The best mobile tool bags are small and lightweight, yet still, have enough space to store all the necessary tools. They should also have a comfortable shoulder strap for easy transport.
There are a variety of different types of mobile tool bags available, so it’s important to choose one that will best suit your needs. If you need to carry a lot of heavy tools, for example, you’ll want a bag with wheels. If you only need to carry a few light tools, a backpack-style bag might be more suitable.
Carrying Options
There are a few available options. The most common is a bag with straps to carry over the shoulder. These are usually padded and the straps are usually adjustable to different lengths. The downside to this type of bag is that it can’t be stored easily during a break. The other option is a backpack, which is usually more comfortable to carry and can be worn on the back for a break.
Zippers and Buckles
Tool bag zips are an important detail in any tool bag. The zipper is what you use to open and close the bag. Tool bags typically come with a variety of zippers. Some zippers have a zipper pull on one side and a tab on the other. Other zippers have a zipper pull on both sides. The length and width of the zipper pull affects the ease of use.
Zipper pulls that have a longer and wider size make zipping and unzipping your tool bag easier. Zipper pulls that are shorter and narrower are not very practical.
Price
Of course, price is always a consideration when making any purchase. But when it comes to tool bags, you want to make sure you choose a bag that’s high quality and will last a long time. It’s worth spending a little extra to get a bag that will serve you well for years to come.
FAQs
What is the ideal size for a tool bag?
There is no definitive answer to this question as it depends on the specific needs of the individual. However, most tool bags are designed to be large enough to hold a variety of tools and supplies, so they are typically around 20 inches long by 12 inches wide.
What should I look for in a tool bag?
The most important thing to look for in a tool bag is durability. You want a bag that is made from tough materials and can stand up to being tossed around. Also, look for a bag with plenty of compartments and pockets to keep your tools organized.
Are there water-resistant tool bags?
Yes, there are water-resistant tool bags. They are made with a water-resistant material that helps to keep your tools dry and protected from the elements.
How do you organize tools in a tool bag?
Most tool bag organizer have multiple pockets that are designed to hold specific types of tools. The best way to organize tools in a tool bag is to group similar items in the same pocket. For example, all of the screwdrivers can go in one pocket, all of the wrenches can go in another pocket, and so on.
How do you clean a tool bag?
To clean a tool bag, remove all of the tools and other items from the bag. Empty any pockets and shake out the bag. Vacuum the bag with a handheld vacuum cleaner or a brush attachment. Wipe the inside and outside of the bag with a damp cloth. Allow the bag to air dry completely before storing it.
Conclusion
The best tool bag should be strong and durable. It should have a compartment to hold tools, with a separate compartment for screws, nails, and other small tools. There are various tool bag brands on the market.
A good tool bag should also have a handle, a shoulder strap, and a place to attach the strap to make it easy to carry. Tool bags come in many shapes and sizes. The best tool bag for you depends on how many tools you will be carrying, how often you will be using it, and how long you plan to use it. Expensive tool bags won’t always be of high quality, so choose carefully.
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