Stanley STST70574 Soft Sided Tool Bag
Klein Tools Tradesman Pro Organise Tool Bag
What is it that they say? A place for every tool and every tool in its place! In this case, that means storing all that essential handyman and DIY equipment and hardware safely and neatly away in one of our best tool bag recommendations. There’s no excuse for lugging around your bits and bobs, spanners and screwdrivers in any old plastic bag! That’s not in the least bit professional. What you need is a sturdy, versatile and good looking bag with plenty of practical compartments so that you can store and access everything you need for your regular jobs in convenient sections that you can readily locate. You need to consider the size, the portability and also the durability. More on that in our Buying Guide and FAQ. For now though, whether it’s a holdall, a backpack or a wheeled tool bag that you are looking to invest in, we’ve rounded up the cream of the crop in our best tool bags review.
The Best Tool Bag
1Dewalt DG5553 Tool Bag
The first product on our best tool bag guide today comes from Dewalt and its feature packed and full of conveniently placed external pockets which is why it gets our Best Choice recommendation today. In total there are 28 exterior pockets alongside 3 flap-covered pockets and also a convenient drawstring one that is great for keeping smaller items secured and safe from spilling out. Internally there are a further 14 pockets with one fully zippered pocket ideal for storing personal possessions and valuables.
The Dewalt DG5553 tool bag is constructed from heavy-duty ballistic poly fabric with a padded base that keeps your tools protected and your bag safe-guarded against water and debris. It’s in Dewalt’s signature striking black and yellow design and features a comfortable and fully adjustable non-slip shoulder strap which is ideal for traveling. This shoulder tool bag comes with heavy duty zippers that are sturdy and easy to pull open, and the open top wide design means that you can very easily access those tools and parts safely stored inside without having to rummage around blindly. It’s ideally suited to storing cordless tool, and we think it makes the ideal contractors or construction workers bag. For more similar options, check out our guide to the best tool boxes.
18-inch pro contractors closed top tool bag
Ideal for carrying power tools
Durable ballistic poly fabric construction
Adjustable non-slip shoulder strap
Base pad feet reduce wear and tear and protect from water
- BrandDEWALT
- ModelDG5553
- Weight5.9 pounds
2Custom Leathercraft CLC 1134 Carpenters Tool Bag
This Carpenter’s Tool Back Pack from CLC offers a fabulous solution to anyone working in a trade where they need to transport their tools with them and ideally retain their hands-free to work. If you are climbing ladders for example and need to have your essential gear with you to complete a project, then you need the convenience of being able to carry those tools on your back. Overall this practical and stylishly designed bag from always popular brand CLC features 48 pockets of varying sizes and configurations. There are small pockets for pens and lights along with plenty of compartments to store wrenches, pliers, screwdrivers and the like. That means you can always quickly access the right tool for the job without rummaging around inside the depths of your bag.
Featuring padded adjustable and comfortable shoulder straps, this bag won’t dig into your body and cause any discomfort. There’s a large easy access front pocket which is ideal for storing essentials while internally there are two main zippered compartments with plenty of pockets for organizing all those tools. The bottom section has been purposefully and thoughtfully designed to keep your tools dry in wet conditions too. If you need to keep your most important tools really handy, consider investing in a tool belt from our list.
Carpenter’s style padded shoulder backpack took bag
Two main zippered compartments for perfect for fools and parts
Adjustable compression pockets adapt to contents
Comfortable padded back and shoulder support
Additional carry handles for your convenience
- BrandCustom Leathercraft
- Model1134
- Weight4.6 pounds
3Stanley STST70574 Soft Sided Tool Bag
Instantly recognizable as a Stanley bag thanks to that trademark black and yellow design that is so iconic, this soft-sided tool carrier from their range is perfect for accommodating small to medium-sized tools along with other handy accessories. The Stanley STST70574 features an adjustable strap and is constructed from durable and hard wearing fabric with a rubber foam bottom so it can withstand the weight of your tools and keeps them all protected and in position, even if you drop your bag down on a hard surface. Please note however that it’s not waterproof so do be careful about what surfaces you set your tool bag down on.
Besides plenty of internal storage space, this Stanley soft-sided tool bag has convenient external mesh products which are excellent for storing essentials that you might quickly need to lay your hands on. The ergonomic padded foam handles along with that adjustable shoulder strap, ensure that this is comfortable and easy to carry. As an everyday tool bag for a wide range of skilled tradesmen, this is an excellent choice. Be sure to also check out our list of the best magnetic wristbands for more great items like this.
12-inch soft-sided tool bag
Ideal for carrying small to medium items
Adjustable strap and ergonomic handles
Rubber foam bottom protects tools
Outer mesh pockets for essentials
- BrandStanley
- ModelSTST70574
- Weight1 pound
4Klein Tools Tradesman Pro Organise Tool Bag
Our next product selection is a tool backpack, and it also happens to be our Premium Choice today. It’s from Klein Tools and it is the Tradesman Pro Backpack which features 39 practical storage pockets enabling any tradesmen to keep those essential tools, accessories, cables, and electronics all neatly organized. If you happen to be in a profession which requires the climbing of ladders as part of your daily routine, then you will most definitely appreciate the convenience of this backpack design. It’s a high quality and durably constructed bag made from robust 1680D ballistic fabric and is an excellent recommendation for carpenters, construction workers, and laborers.
With a fully molded bottom, you can handily set down this Klein Tools rucksack without worrying about your tool bag getting wet or dirty. Internally there are a series of taller style pockets which are ideal for housing screwdrivers and other longer style tools, and that striking orange design enables easy visibility of those tools. Externally there is a large molded front pocket which is ideal for fragile or personal possesses that require a level of additional protection. This really is an excellent backpack tool bag, and there’s little wonder that the brand has been around since 1857! Our handy guide to the best cordless drills features more great products like this.
14.5-inch backpack style rucksack
Ideal for carrying small to medium items
Constructed from 1680D ballistic weave fabric
Fully molded bottom protects from elements
39 pockets in total with longer length storage for screwdrivers
- BrandKlein Tools
- Model55421BP-14
- Weight6.05 pounds
5Custom Leathercraft 1539 Multi-Compartment Tool Bag
Custom Leathercraft is well known among the professional trade for delivering superb stylish and practical tool bags, and this sizeable multi-compartment carrier is certainly no exception. The CLC 1539 tool bag is sure to be appreciated by technicians and DIY enthusiasts alike thanks to its spacious internal capacity which provides plenty of scope for organizing a vast array of tools and accessories. In total there are 50 separate pockets for holding everything from screwdrivers and wrenches to cordless power tools and more. Heavy duty zippers ensure that all your contents are securely stored during transit so that nothing should be dislodged or spill out of that main internal compartment.
Externally this CLC 1530 features a practical and large carbanier and also a tape measure clip plus vertical tool pockets on the outside, perfect for storing essential tools that any tradesmen or installer might need quick, direct and frequent access to. Its constructed from heavy duty durable material with a poly ballistic trim and bringing so is secure and hard wearing. This is certainly one technician tool bag that has been built to last. Form a carrying perspective, it comes with secure, comfort grip handles as well as the option to use with an adjustable shoulder strap. No matter what your profession, this could well be the ultimate tool carrier for you. Love this product? Check out our review of the best portable workbench for our top picks.
18-inch large multi-compartment tool carrier
Ideal for carrying medium-sized power tools and accessories
Adjustable shoulder strap and padded ergonomic handles
Heavy duty poly fabric body with ballistic trim
50 useful storage pockets in total
- BrandCustom Leathercraft
- Model1539
- Weight6 pounds
6Xtreme Power US Tool Bag Organizer
The Xtreme Power US tool organizer system comes in two different but equally well-designed versions according to your preferences. Both are stylish, practical, versatile, incorporate plenty of space for all those essential tools and are in a striking red and black colorway. For those of you who want ease of use there’s a rolling back with wheels, and for anyone who requires wearable portability, then there’s a backpack option.
The rolling wide mouth tool bag with wheels is the one we’ve cherry-picked for today’s review as we thought it was time we threw a larger style capacity tool bag into the mix for your consideration. With the wheel design, it means you’ve no need to struggle carrying this unit yourself so you can afford to load it with those heavier power tools. It also has an adjustable telescoping handle too so it really couldn’t be easier to transport it around your project or construction site. Internally there are 10 pockets and 5 dividing rooms that give you plenty of versatile and practical organizational space and a further 9 external storage pockets. It’s also conveniently water resistant and made from high-quality, durable fabric that’s been designed to last. Find more great products like this by checking out our guide to the best multimeters.
Constructed from heavy duty water resistant polyester
High quality, durable telescoping handle
Wheeled designed for easy maneuvering
9 external and 10 internal pockets
Wide mouth top opening design for easy access
- BrandXtremepowerUS
- Model90700-XP
- Weight13 pounds
7Rugged Tools Trade-ins Tool Backpack
Back with another easy to wear and eminently Rugged Tools portable backpack tool bag which we think is an excellent choice as an electricians tool bag. It provides all day long comfort thanks to a built-in lumbar support with premium dry-comfort padding. With it’s XL capacity, there are 28 pockets to store all your essential gear, and because it’s constructed from heavy-duty 1680D polyester, it won’t split, rip or tear.
Adding to the dependable and durable quality, the base of the bag has a molded hard section which protects your valuable tools from getting damaged and also allows the backpack to be set down on a flat surface and remain upright unassisted. With a semi-hard shell case in an attractive black and orange design, this is a functional and versatile choice for a wide range of professions, facilitating the easy organization and transportation of tools from one location to another. Don’t forget to also check out guide to the best bench grinders.
Total of 28 pockets with a top handle for easy lifting
Semi-hard shell case and molded hard protective bottom
Padded shoulder straps and lumbar support for ultimate comfort
Sternum strap provides extra support when carrying heavy loads
Constructed from high quality and durable 1680D polyester
- BrandRugged Tools
- Weight3.97 pounds
8Veto Pro Pac Technician Bag
Veto Pro Technician tool bag has an impressive 56 interior pockets so that you can correctly organize all your technical gear ready to head out on your site visit. It’s a great choice if you have lots of smaller detailed tools to carry such as meters, testers and drill bits. Designed with Veto Pro’s patented system, this technical tool bag features a central panel which provides 2 separate internal storage bays and 4 storage platforms in a stable environment. It’s designed for heavy-duty use and has adjustable padded shoulder straps as well as an over-molded ergonomic grip handle. The body fabric utilized is weatherproof featuring both 950 as well as 1250 PVC impregnated denier nylon for maximum durability and reliability.
Adding to the handy extra features, this Veto Pro Pack Technician Bag also has an internally stored aluminum hook so that you can hang your bag off the floor or up a ladder for instance. There’s quick release access for when you need to reach for an essential piece of equipment in a hurry. The price may be a bit prohibitive for some people, but if you work in a profession where protecting your tools is vital, then this is an excellent choice. You may also like to check our guide to the best circular saws.
Professional style backpack designed for technicians
Heavy duty construction with stabilizing injection molded base
Innovative quick release handle for easy access
Patented center panel design provides two distinct storage bays
EVA thermo formed comfort padding
- BrandVeto Pro Pac
- ModelTECH PAC
- Weight9 pounds
9Workpro Wide Mouth Storage Tool Bag
The next tool storage bag that we’re reviewing is Workpro Wide Mouth Storage Tool Bag, from a brand which is actually owned by GreatStar, who in case you’re not familiar with, happen to be one of the most prominent tools and accessory producers in Asia. It should come as no surprise then, that their wide-mouthed, 18-inch tool bag is of both premium quality and good like design aesthetics. It’s functional, practical and durable too, constructed out of sturdy 600D polyester which means that even if you load it up with some of your hives hand tools, the fabric won’t rip.
It’s ideally suited for medium and small tools, and accessories and that wide opening design makes the job of identifying and locating your tools, nice and easy. You have two options when it comes to carrying your Workpro bag. Either via the reinforced handles or with the padded, adjustable shoulder strap which is comfortable and makes life easier when you’re transiting from one work location to another. Finally, it’s also be designed to feature a sturdy rubber foam bottom which helps protect both your tools and your bag from wear and tear. If you like to burn the midnight oil with your projects check out our guide to the best work lights.
18-inch close top wide mouth storage bag
Ideal for carrying medium sized tools and accessories
Adjustable padded shoulder strap and reinforced handle design
Sturdy and hard wearing 600D fabric
Rubber foam bottom protects against hard falls
- BrandWORKPRO
- ModelW136008A
- Weight15.4 ounces
10Carhartt Legacy Tool Bag
Last but certainly by no means least, we’re taking a look at something from the extensive Carhartt professional range. The Carhartt Legacy tool bag is a waterproof tool bag constructed from sturdy synthetic fabric which is coated with water repellent rain defender protection to be superbly durable and reliable. Not only will your tools remain clean and dry within your bag but the exterior is also safeguarded against light rain plus it features an abrasion resistant Duravex base. The Carhartt Legacy is a stylish looking bag, durably constructed with triple needle-stitching, rugged YKK zippers and high-performance metal hardware for optimum performance.
Overall there are a total of 11 interior and 23 exterior pockets in different shapes and sizes to accommodate a wide range of tools and accessories you might require on the job, no matter what skilled profession you work in. It’s perfectly roomy enough to accommodate a cordless drill. The bag further features an internal supportive metal frame which helps to retain the shape and form of the bag, even when you’ve loaded up those tools inside. It’s a superb choice and will ensure you look professional on site. Our selection of the best wood axes might be of your interest so check it out.
14-inch water repellent tool bag
Ideal for carrying power tools
Heavy-duty polyester with metal hardware
Inner metal frame retains bag shape and structure
Duravex abrasion-resistant base
- BrandCarhartt
- Model8926010502
- Weight2 pounds
Tool Bag Buying Guide And FAQ
Features To Look For In Best Tool Bags
We’ve already taken some of the pain out of the decision for you by recommending our top ten products in the best tool bag category; however, we can’t make the ultimate decision for you! That will come down to your personal requirements, what trade you work in, what budget you have available and also the kinds of styles you prefer. Some of you may want the convenience and portability of being able to carry a backpack, others may prefer a shoulder tool bag and some of you might just like to pick something up by its handle. We’ll leave that one for you to mull over! Below though are some of the best features to look out for and consider how important they are to you before you bag yourself a winner.
Storage Space - Depending upon what profession you are in and what type and size of tools you require regular access to, you may need more or less storage space so think about the size of your tools and pick out an appropriate bag. There’s no point getting a compartmentalized backpack that can fit 50 different screwdrivers if you use a cordless drill every day. Remember that you can have pockets both internally and externally and create a list of what you need to pack. Are the pockets deep, wide and secure enough to meet your needs?
Material & Construction - The strongest tool bags will most likely be made from either canvas, nylon, leather or a durable poly fabric. Keep in mind that the stronger the material, the more longevity you will get out of your tool bag. Pay attention to things like the seams and zippers too, along with any other hardware and fasteners. For your bag to hold up under the pressure of carrying those tools and accessories it needs to be high-quality and not fall apart the first time you use it.
Weight Capacity - Consider how much weight you are likely to carry and also how you travel to your workplace to ensure that you’re not overloading either your bag or your body. The manufacturer should make reference to the recommended maximum weight threshold or the type and size of tools that particular bag is most suited to accommodating.
Durability - Make sure that you check the quality first of what you are about to purchase to ensure that it’s been built to last and is fit for the specified purpose. Generally speaking, the better quality the material is from which your tool bag is constructed, the more robust and durable the bag itself will be.
Portability - Your bag may well be able to carry the strain but can you? Think about whether you prefer to carry your bag or have something that you can wheel instead? Do you need to travel on public transport for which a backpack style might be more convenient or would it be better to have something that you can pick up by the handles and throw it directly into the back of your van?
Padding on the Bottom - We recommend that you go for a tool bag that has bottom padding support as this will retain the longevity of your investment and help avoid wear and tear to the material of your bag and damage to your tools by cushioning and supporting any blows from drops to the floor.
Clips & Hooks - Besides those internal and external pockets, consider whether having extra clips, hooks and carabiners would be useful to you. Plenty of the best tool bags come with convenient extras that overall just make using your bag far more practical.
Waterproofness - If you do have to work outdoors, or you have to do a lot of traveling that involves exposure to the elements, it’s a good idea to invest in a waterproof or water-resistant design so that your tools are protected and your bag doesn’t get damaged.
Tool Bags Vs. Tool Boxes
Whether you opt for a tool bag or box will mostly be a personal choice and you may well have both; a box for storing your tools in your workshop or garage when you’re at home and a tool bag to take out the essential tools you require for a specific project when you head out on location.
A tool bag is portable, lightweight, useful for small tools and relatively inexpensive but they don’t lock, and they’re not as good when it comes to tool safety.
A toolbox is durable, generally will have the ability to lock, be great for organization but it won’t be as portable as a bag and is, for the most part, going to cost you more money.
How To Organize Tools And Hardware Properly
Depending upon your trade is, you may need to have a particular tool bag; what a plumber needs to regularly access is different to that of an electrician or a carpenter for example. If you do have a lot of tools and are somewhat of a DIY fanatic, then you might even find it useful to have different tool bags related to job specific tools, that way you can more quickly allocate what you are looking for, rather spending hours rummaging around your garage or workshop. Make full use of all the compartments and pockets that your tool bag has and separate out the tools from the hardware and group things together. We recommend that your essential “grab and go” toolbox should ideally hold the following items:
- Level
- Measuring Tape
- Drywall anchors
- Cordless drill
- Drill bits
- Utility knife
- Multi-bit Screwdriver
- Screwdriver Bits
- Adjustable Wrench
- Pliers
- Hammer
- Nails
- Flashlight
- Various random fasteners including screws, nuts, washers, nails, and tacks
- Zip ties
- Hand saw
Tool Bags FAQ
Q: Why do I need a Tool Bag?
A: In our opinion, if you own tools, then you need something specialized to store them in safely and conveniently so that you can grab them when needed and transport them wherever you go. Whether you are a handyman, a tradesman or just a homeowner, a well organized and professional tool kit is pretty much a standard requirement and will help you stay better organized and provide you with the ability to do a more professional job.
Q: Should I choose a Tool Bag or a Tool Backpack?
A: Whether you go for a classic bag with a handle or a shoulder strap or prefer the convenience of a wearable backpack instead is entirely a matter of personal choice and possibly also down to the type of tools you need to carry, their weight and size and where you are likely to be working. If you are heading up a ladder, for instance, there’s no doubt that a backpack will provide you more flexibility to work hands-free. A backpack is also a great choice if you have to do a lot of walking either from one location or another or physically on the site where you are working. On the other hand, with a toolbox, you may find that you have more space to store larger items and if you are headed out in a van and only need to carry your tool bag from your workshop or garage to where you’ve parked, you might benefit from the extra space that a bag can offer.
Q: How do I clean my Tool Bag?
A: Specific instructions on how to properly maintain and take care of your tool bag will no doubt be included along with your purchase and the materials you use will be different if you have a leather tool bag as compared with a canvas or polyester one for example. The important thing to note, however, is that just as would clean and take care of your tools themselves, you should be in the regular good habit of regularly cleaning and clearing out your tool bag so that you keep on top of it and it doesn’t become a chore.
For the most part, the best way of cleaning your tool bag will just be to use warm water to remove any dirt, soil or debris that’s built up.
Don’t use detergents or bleach as these can damage the fabric but a soapy solution should be fine.
Make sure that you don’t apply any toxic cleaning solutions and instead stick to a simple all-purpose green cleaner to remove any more stubborn stains and dirt that have accumulated.
If it’s really necessary to do so, you could also take a medium bristle scrubbing brush to loosen up any ground in dirt but only if the fabric of your tool bag is suitable to be treated in this more rigorous way. The level of scrubbing clearly depends upon the material that your specific tool bag is made from.
Once you’re satisfied that your bag is clean, rinse it again several times with fresh water to ensure that there is no soapy residue left in or on the bag. Before you think about putting any of your tools bag in your bag, check that it is fully air dried first. If you maintain and clean your bag regularly in this manner, you will ensure it’s longevity, and it will also be a much less time consuming or burdensome job!