The best rolling tool bag is effective in removing the stress and pressure from your shoulders and back. It is a perfect choice for workers in various fields because aside from simplifying their jobs, it also relieves pain and discomfort. With this rolling tool tote, it is possible to carry tools of various sizes in the workplace.
What is even better about this type of tool bag is that it can reduce the weight of all the items you stored in there and remove it from both your shoulders and back. The best tool bag with wheels is a painless and convenient solution if you want to get all the things that you need for every job into the actual worksite.
It is because of its handy wheels as well as its huge storage capacity. The problem is shopping for this item might be stressful and confusing as your options seem to be quite limitless. You may also be unsure and unfamiliar about the specific qualities and features that make a really good rolling or wheeled tool bag.
Also, note that these tool bags on wheels are available in various sizes and shapes while being constructed and designed using different materials. Each one also has its own set of features. This is the primary reason why you have to scrutinize the bag carefully and find out which one will work efficiently based on your needs.
You also have to ensure that your choice is easy to carry both indoors and outdoors. If you are searching for a top-quality and heavy-duty rolling tool bag then you may also want to begin your research with the following dependable products:
Table of Contents
7 Top-Rated Rolling Tool Bag Reviews of 2023
1. Crescent CTBR1850 Rolling Tool Bag
Made of 1680D ballistic weave nylon, Crescent’s large rolling tool bag for electricians comes in sizes ranging from 14” to 20”.
This particular bag I’m reviewing is 18”, perfect for all the tools I bring. It has 35 pockets, 8 of which are on the exterior, where I can place all my frequently used tools.
Apart from pockets, the bag has a large main compartment for drills and safety equipment. It features D-rings where I can attach keys.
Based on experience, looking for the things I need isn’t hard, thanks to the orange lining inside the bag. It contrasts nicely with the colors of my tools, making them more visible.
Construction-wise, I’m confident that the bag can last years under rough conditions. The wheels, for instance, are pretty solid. They can take a beating despite dragging them on rugged and smooth surfaces daily to work.
Meanwhile, the bag’s stitchings are tough, considering they hold heavyweight items. By the way, it can hold up to 90 kilograms of load!
The rolling bag’s weak point is the plastic handle. I could not help but compare it with similar bags with sturdier handles I used. To be fair, it has not broken, and perhaps only time will tell.
- 1680D ballistic weave nylon construction for durability
- A big compartment for large items and ample pockets inside and outside
- Orange interior linings make items more visible
- The wheels can withstand rugged conditions
- Can support 90 kgs worth of tool
- The plastic handle lacks durability
- The tool holder straps need improvement
2. Klein 55452RTB Rolling Tool Bag
If you are after durability and longevity then the Klein 55452RTB Rolling Tool Bag might provide you with the satisfaction you are hoping for. In my opinion, one thing that truly makes this Klein rolling tool bag impressive is its plenty of storage space that can accommodate your different accessories and tools.
It takes pride in its twenty-four pockets that are available in different sizes, so it is possible for all your tools to be well-accommodated inside. I like the overall strength of this compact and small rolling tool bag. It is compact while still having the ability to support up to a hundred pounds internally and another hundred pounds on top.
In other words, it is built in a way that it can accommodate equipment weight up to 200 pounds all at once. I can say that this tool bag also fulfills its promise of lasting for a long time with the aid of its molded metal kick-plate. It is because this feature works in protecting the bag from bumps and other possible damages caused by your job.
This showcases the bag’s high level of durability. I like the built-in metal frame in the interiors, too, because it does a better job than plastic frames when it comes to making the bag more durable and stronger. With this, I can safely say that it truly works even for tough jobs.
The 6-inch wheels integrated into this bag are also advantages because these allow you to move it with ease on all terrains with a lower risk of bumps.
- Plenty of storage space promised
- Can accommodate tools of different sizes and weight (can carry a total of 2oo lbs.)
- Highly sturdy and heavy-duty construction, thanks to its metal frame and molded metal kick-plate
- Features 6-inch wheels that suit all terrains
- Comes with comfy handles that are easy to adjust
- Slightly heavy
3. Stark 20-inch Rolling Tool Bag
Another tool tote on wheels that I urge all workers to pick is the 20-inch rolling tool bag with a wide mouth offered by the trusted and renowned brand, Stark. One benefit I greatly appreciate from this tool bag is its thick and durable construction, thanks to the strong and thick ballistic material used in creating it.
This type of material created a strong structure for the bag, allowing it to handle the total weight of your commonly used tools and equipment. I also discovered that it works perfectly in storing your individual tools and equipment as well as those toolsets.
It has dividers and compartments that are well-designed to accommodate small-sized power and hand tools. I also appreciate the size of this tool bag as it is not too cumbersome and large to carry. Even with its manageable and compact size, it is still capable of packing in tons of amazing organizational features.
These include the eight pockets in the exteriors that make it possible to reach your most used tools with ease. There are also around fourteen pockets in the bag’s interiors, further increasing its storage capacity. I am so satisfied with the eye-catching blue color used in this bag, too.
Another thing that left an incredible impression on me is the telescoping handlebar, which takes pride in its comfy, promoting ease in rolling the bag behind you. You no longer have to deal with the hassle of carrying your tools and equipment up and down your workspace.
You can move around with your tools because of the bag. The all-terrain wheels can also be expected to roll over soft and hard terrains and surfaces.
- Thick and durable ballistic construction
- Several pockets integrated into its interiors and exteriors
- Comes in an attractive blue color
- Features all-terrain wheels that are compatible with both soft and hard surfaces
- Compact and portable
- The handle tends to wobble a bit at times
4. DEWALT DGL571 Lighted Roller Tool Bag
If you are interested to invest in a DEWALT rolling tool bag then you might want to include the brand’s DGL571 Lighted Roller Tool Bag in your list of dependable options. It has plenty of valuable and functional features that make it genuinely helpful for several potential users.
One feature I am truly satisfied with is the treaded wheel. The inclusion of treaded wheels in this tool bag is one of the reasons why navigating it in all kinds of terrain is easy. Aside from being safe to use on rough terrains, you can also navigate it with ease and comfort even on tight spaces.
I like the spacious interiors of this tool bag as this proves that you can put your tools and accessories of different sizes in there, even the large or big ones. It has around seventeen pockets with each one having enough room for basic tools and equipment. The bag is also stable enough that it is possible for it to accommodate heavier tools.
I love the magnetic top attached into the bag’s handle, too, as it increases your possibility of getting into the bag while eliminating your worries about the possibility of the top closing. The telescoping handle is also constructed in a way that it will not disturb you in case you are in search of a tool from the bag’s compartment.
The LED light is also one of the most beneficial and favorable features of the tool bag as you can easily direct it into your work area or inside the bag so you can find some parts and tools.
In terms of comfort, this bag from DEWALT will not disappoint you because of its well-padded web carrying handles.
- Features treaded wheels that can be used in various terrains
- Several spacious and roomy pockets included
- Promotes ease in finding your tools or working in the dark because of the built-in LED light
- Comfortable, thanks to its padded web carrying handles
- Strong and stable that it can accommodate large and heavy tools
- Quite costly
5. Husky 600-Denier Rolling Tool Tote Bag
If you are in search of a compact and portable tool carrier, then the Husky 600-Denier Rolling Tool Tote Bag is suitable for you. At 18 inches, this tool tote bag from Husky is easy to manage and move around. I like the large main compartment of the tote bag because it can hold power tools. It is even possible to store some toolkits here.
The tote bag also comes integrated with external and internal pockets designed to store small items. I super like the body of the tote bag as it is constructed from 600 denier polyester material. This material is tough while being water-resistant, making it perfect for those who are exposed to humid or wet climates and work in job sites that often experience flooding.
I like the reinforced bottom, too, as this further strengthens the bag’s overall construction. The heavy-duty telescoping handle balanced over a couple of rear wheels is also a big advantage as it makes it possible for you to stack extra baggage then lug it.
I am also glad to say that its construction is heavy-duty enough that it can make its contents fully protected from moisture and water. Another nice feature of the bag is its innovative skid plate, which protects its handle all the time. The zipper system applied in this bag also promotes the utmost convenience in terms of protection.
The black and red color combinations applied to this bag are also nice to look at.
- Capable of holding power tools and small items
- Boasts of its sturdy 600 denier polyester construction
- Tough and water-resistant
- Features a heavy-duty telescoping handle
- Nice black and red color combination
- Challenging to maneuver in tight spaces
6. CLC Custom Leathercraft L258 TechGear Rolling Tool Bag
Another smart choice is the L258 TeachGear Rolling Tool Bag offered by CLC. Among the things that this rolling tool bag takes pride in is its several spacious pockets. I can assure you that you can enjoy six multi-purpose interior pockets and eleven exterior pockets when you get this bag, giving you the chance to organize various hand tools.
One fascinating thing about this rolling tool bag is its telescoping LED-lighted handle. I think the inclusion of this feature makes the bag helpful when working on settings or environments with low light. It is even possible for you to adjust the bright LED light to limitless angles, allowing it to illuminate at the specific spot required.
As for the handle, I am pretty sure you will like the fact that you can extend it for the quick transfer or transport of heavy stuff. I am so happy with the featured 8-inch treaded wheels as these promote ease in maneuvering the bag even on rough terrains or job sites.
You will also be pleased to know that it features a magnetic cover, which you can fix into the bag’s handle. This magnetic lid or cover can give you some sort of assurance that you will not experience problems accessing your tools. You will also experience comfort carrying the bag around because of its padded carrying straps.
- Boasts of spacious and multi-purpose interior and exterior pockets
- Features an adjustable LED light, allowing you to work with ease even in low-lighting situations
- Equipped with a telescoping handle, which you can extend
- Ensures ease of tool access, thanks to the magnetic lid or cover
- Comfortable with its padded carrying straps
- Not that convenient when carried over stairs
7. G.P.S. 2215RB Rolling Range Tool Bag
Lastly, I highly suggest the use of G.P.S. 2215RB Rolling Range Tool Bag in any work environment. I immediately noticed that it acts as a well-constructed tool bag with plenty of nice and useful features. Among these incredible features are the well-padded sides and bottom designed to protect whatever it is you decide to put in there.
I like the amazing versatility showcased by this tool bag. It is flexible in the sense that you can use it not only in your profession but also in recreation as it is also ideal for shooters and hunters who wish to protect their gears and guns each time they decide to go out and hunt.
I am fascinated with how sturdy the oversized ATV wheels are. The presence of these wheels makes it effortless to maneuver the bag regardless of the load it carries. I think that the wide mouth opening on top of the bag is also a strength as it allows users to access everything inside with ease.
It has plenty of storage pockets that you can use to store different items, including your work and recreational tools, including ear and eye protection, cleaning supplies, tape, stapler, and extra magazines. This tool bag also promotes the vertical storage of your items, which is a good thing if you want your tools to be more organized.
The materials used in creating the bag’s overall structure are strong enough. It even boasts of a rigid frame in the interiors with six metal rivets that make the bag even sturdier and longer-lasting.
- Versatile as you can use it for both work and recreation purposes
- Features well-padded sides and bottom, making the bag more protective and comfortable
- Strong materials used in its construction
- Long-lasting and sturdy, thanks to its rigid frame
- Promotes ease in storing your stuff, thanks to its vertical storage pattern
- Thinner and tighter pockets than usual
Milwaukee 48-22-8220 Hardtop Rolling Bag (Outdated)
You can also choose to invest in a high-quality Milwaukee rolling tool bag such as the brand’s famous model, the 48-22-8220 Hardtop Rolling Bag. I think this is one of the best products offered by Milwaukee as it holds several amazing and satisfying features.
At around 24 inches, I am quite sure that this rolling tool bag can give you plenty of room to carry several tools. The strength of this rolling tool bag is also incredible as it is capable of supporting tools and equipment totaling 250 lbs. With this strength, it is surely a great investment if you wish to have an easier time moving heavy and large tools.
I am so happy and satisfied with the bag’s 1680D ballistic construction as well as its skid plates made entirely of metal as such combination turns it into an even stronger and more durable tool bag. I like the fold-down front panel, too, because I discovered it works effectively in organizing your accessories and hand tools and making them easy to access.
I am so pleased with the bag’s hardtop lid, as well, because it makes it possible to stack things on top so you can easily access them at work. You can also stack them while you are in transport. The hardtop even features a couple of cup holders, allowing you to put drinks in there when working.
The metal-rimmed wheels used in this bag can also handle all terrains, proving just how stable this product is. Furthermore, it has an extra-wide handle, which promotes ease in mobility.
- Provides plenty of room and space at 24 inches
- Features a hardtop lid with cup holders
- Equipped with metal-rimmed wheels for all surfaces and terrains
- Promotes ease of mobility, thanks to its extra-wide handle
- Strong ballistic construction
- Does not feature a kick-plate
Display4top 18-inch Rolling Tool Bag (Outdated)
I also encourage you to check out the Display4top 18-inch Rolling Tool Bag as it contains a lot of traits and qualities that any prospective user of a tool bag might need. It is compatible with the needs of construction workers, professional workers, and those who are into doing some DIY stuff.
Constructed out of nylon material, I think this bag will do a decent job in ensuring that all your tools will stay in shape. It has a few pockets (eight internal pockets and 9 external pockets to be exact) that can help in the effective organization and storage of your stuff.
Each pocket provides just the right amount of space to hold your stuff without worrying about them getting damaged in the inside. It offers a secure storage solution for your personal items and small parts. Furthermore, it promotes ease in accessing all of your tools.
It is affordable while still showcasing stability and sturdiness. In fact, it can stack around thirty to forty pounds on top without worrying about it breaking down. It also features a telescoping handle balanced on top of two wheels at the rear. The presence of the wheels allows you to roll the bag with ease regardless of the terrain.
- Compatible with the needs of many workers
- Strong nylon construction
- Spacious pockets in both the interiors and exteriors
- Capable of stacking up to thirty to forty pounds of weight on top
- Comes with a couple of wheels capable of handling all terrains
- The quite flimsy handle
Vaughan 050024 18-inch Wide Mouth Rolling Tool Bag (Outdated)
You will not also be disappointed if you decide to pick the 050024 18-inch Wide Mouth Rolling Tool Bag from Vaughan. One thing that genuinely captured my attention is the 600-denier polyester structure of the bag. It is because the material primarily used in the structure is famous for its strength and durability.
The material is also water-resistant, which can eliminate your worries about the tool bag not being able to withstand a damp atmosphere, heavy rains, and moisture. I noticed the toughness of this rolling tool bag, which just confirms its effectiveness in handling all sorts of weather, no matter how harsh it is.
As for the amount of space, you will not be left unsatisfied with this rolling tool bag. It is because of its fourteen exterior and interior pockets combined with eleven loops in the exteriors. With this, you will no longer complain about not having sufficient space for your stuff. It has sufficient room for securely organizing and holding your work tools.
I am also impressed with the built-in business card holder of this tool bag as it allows everyone to see your details without requiring them to ask for these things personally. Another remarkable benefit of this Vaughan rolling tool bag is that you will find it easy to maneuver and transport it on various terrains because of its tough and oversized wheels.
I am also in favor of the bag’s telescoping handle as it is adjustable based on your preferred or needed height. Furthermore, this bag takes pride in its molded EVA bottom, which ensures that your tools will not rip through and fall out.
- Strong and durable 600-denier polyester structure
- Water-resistant, withstanding all kinds of weather and excessive moisture
- Offers maximum storage capacity with its numerous pockets
- Easy to maneuver with the aid of its tough and oversized wheels
- Adjustable telescoping handle provided
- Some pockets do not come with closures
XtremepowerUS Rolling Tool Bag (Outdated)
I also think that the XtremepowerUS Rolling Tool Bag has what it takes to be the best rolling tool bag in the market today. It has main compartments that are large enough for proper tool storage and organization. Equipped with fourteen internal pockets as well as five dividing rooms, I am certain that you will not run out of space to store your items.
What is good about the pockets and compartments integrated into this rolling tool bag is that they are created in a way that accessing your tools will also be easy. I am also fascinated by the way this rolling tool bag is constructed because I instantly sensed its strength and durability through the thick ballistic material used in it.
It has a user-friendly handle, which eliminates the possible discomfort when it comes to carrying the bag. Another advantage of this handle is that you can extend it with ease. It boasts of its adjustable handlebar as well as heavy-duty and rugged wheels that assure you of a much easier experience when transporting your tools.
You just have to let it roll and bring your stuff with you, preventing you from dealing with the hassle of going up and down your workspace just to take hold or return the most commonly used work tools. I like how comfortable this tool bag feels. It has enough padding while also offering good back support.
In addition, it features a dual-zipper, which helps promote safe tool storage. If you need to bring a laptop in the workplace then you will be pleased to know that there is a pocket in this rolling tool bag designed to carry such a device.
- Provides internal pockets and dividing rooms and compartments for your tools
- Features an adjustable and extendable handle
- Heavy-duty and rugged wheels integrated into the bag
- Comfortable, thanks to its adequate padding and back support
- Promotes safe tool storage with the aid of its dual-zipper
- Somewhat weak seams
What is a Rolling Tool Bag
Tool bags come in all shapes and sizes. Some are small while the others are large. Some of the biggest toolbags are so large that carrying them on your shoulders will be too strenuous, which is why they come with wheels at the bottom. This is what we refer to as the rolling tool bag.
Rolling tool bags have the benefit of having a large storage capacity while still being somewhat portable. Unlike conventional tool bags, they can store more than twice the amount of tools.
On the flipside, although traditional tool boxes can carry more tools because their wheels are only meant for moving within a single space, rolling tool bags can be loaded in the flatbed of a pickup truck or even in the trunk of a car and then rolled out.
If you are a professional tradesman, like a general contractor, where you need almost all of your tools in one bag wherever your project is, then you will need to get yourself a rolling tool bag of your own.
How Does It Work
Rolling tool bags are just basically large tool bags, so if you already know how to organize your tools in a regular tool bag then you just need to scale up. These tool bags also come with dozens of compartments of varying sizes, making them ideal for storing different kinds of tools and materials.
For instance, among the staples that always seem to be in tool bags both small and large are the loops for wrenches. However, with the size of most rolling tool bags, you can easily store your whole set of wrenches in them. This means that you can essentially take all of your tools with you.
Just like other kinds of tool bags, rolling tool bags also keep your tools safe and protected from the elements. You can specifically find those that have hard outer shells that protect the contents from heavy impacts while allowing the use of an external padlock to keep the contents secure.
Types of Rolling Tool Bags
Are you now interested to get a rolling tool bag of your own? Then be informed about its different types. Keep in mind that there are several different kinds of rolling tool bags available according to the type of use, including the following:
Bin-type Rolling Tool Bag – This type refers to rolling tool bags that have hard outer cases. These are great in case you intend to carry a lot of power tools. You can often see this type of rolling tool bag in the form of plastic bins with lockable lids.
In some of the bins, you can usually find removable, compartmentalized containers that you can use to store smaller tools and materials. Often, this type is designed in a manner that allows you to remove the other bins from the trolley.
For instance, if you just need to take your power tools with a couple of basic tools, you can take out the top bins and just leave the bin with all the power tools.
Traditional Rolling Tool Bag – This type is often made with soft or pliable materials at the very least. Among the materials used in constructing it, therefore, are canvas, nylon, polyester, or a combination of the two. The advantage of these bags over the plastic-shelled ones is that they have more organizational options.
Unlike the bin-type, the traditional type comes with plenty of different-sized pockets to hold different kinds of tools and other stuff that you might need for your work. Some brands feature a huge opening in the middle so you can carry a couple of power tools.
Others, on the other hand, have additional compartments inside and outside, so you can really take almost all of your tools with you.
Why Do You Need to Wear a Rolling Tool Bag
There are actually quite a lot of reasons why you need a rolling tool bag, especially if you rely on your tools to make a living. If you are on the fence about getting a rolling tool bag, here are some of the biggest reasons why this is actually a good investment.
It keeps your tools safe from prying eyes – If you have experience working in a crowded worksite then you know how often people misplace their tools. There are even some instances when the tools are outright “borrowed” without the owner knowing.
If you own a rolling tool bag, then you have the option to place a lock on it to prevent unauthorized access to your tools. In addition, if you place your tools in your bag when you are not using them, you can expect them to be safe from prying eyes. This allows the saying “out of sight means out of mind” to come into fruition.
It prevents your tools from getting damaged – Just putting your tools in a bucket and then carrying them around your job site will cause them to hit and bang against each other. You might not think too much about this but you are actually doing a considerable amount of damage on your tools.
If you use a proper tool bag, every tool will be cradled in its own pouch/compartment, thus preventing the tools from damaging each other. You will actually extend the usability of your tools just by placing them in a proper tool bag.
It protects your tools from the environment – If you are working in an open environment, you are not just subjecting your tools to dust and dirt. Even the humidity in the area can cause a considerable amount of damage. If you are working near the seaside, you really want to protect your tools from the air coming from the sea.
The salt in the air can cause a serious amount of corrosion on your metal tools. By placing your tools in a rolling tool bag, you are preventing them from getting in contact with the harsh environment.
It keeps your tools organized – Have you ever tried to find that one particular tool under a huge pile of tools in your old tool bag? How many times have you bought two or three pieces of the same tool because you thought that you somehow lost the first one?
If you decide to use a rolling tool bag to organize your tools then you will know exactly where each tool is, thus making you work a whole lot more efficiently. It is because you will no longer be wasting time rummaging through a pile of tools hoping that you will find that tool you were looking for.
It allows you to take most of your tools with you – Unlike regular tool bags, you can virtually take all of your tools with you whenever you need to work in the field. Instead of loading your heavy toolbox with you (which would sometimes need a forklift to pick up and carry), you can take your rolling tool bag.
You just have to load it up with your tools then load the thing up into the trunk of your car. If the bag is a bit too heavy for you, just set up a ramp so you can just roll your tool bag up into your carriage.
There are many more benefits that you can potentially receive just by switching over to using a proper rolling tool bag. You might think that using a bigger tool bag would not make that much of a difference but the truth is that it can actually help a lot, especially if you are a professional tradesperson, like a carpenter, electrician, or a plumber.
You will notice the huge difference in the way you used to do your job just by using a large capacity rolling tool bag, so you should get one right now.
Buying Guide
Rolling tool bags are extremely useful and according to most professional tradespeople, these tool carriers are indispensable for their jobs. However, these sizeable yet portable tool carriers are also quite expensive, especially the good ones.
If you want to make sure that you will get a bag that is truly worth your money, here are some of the things that you need to take into consideration:
Material – When it comes to the type of material used, there are a whole lot more choices with rolling tool bags. There are many models of tool bags that still use the trusty old canvas bag material, mainly because it has proven time and time again that it is quite tough, durable, and can be waterproofed.
Canvas is also quite light and very durable. Other materials that are available include synthetic fabrics like polyester and nylon. You can also find tool bags that actually use a hard plastic shell to provide even more protection for their contents.
If you will not be carrying around some fragile and sensitive tools, then getting the hard-shell rolling tool cases might be a bit overkill, so go for those made with a combination of canvas, polyester, and nylon. These materials can make a bag that is both durable and lightweight.
Zippers – It is a shame that not too many people actually check the zippers when they buy bags of any kind. This is even more important when you are buying a rolling tool bag. The zippers of a tool bag must be heavy-duty and should be as tough as the other materials used in the making of the bag.
Remember that when the zippers break, it will be impossible to close your tool bag. This means that your tools will be exposed and unprotected. Check if the bag you are thinking of buying has beefy zippers, not the slim ones that are usually used on clothes. The zippers should be made of metal and not plastic. Ideally, they should be double-pull for more security.
Pockets, compartments, and dividers – One of the main reasons why you are buying a rolling tool bag is because you want to keep your tools well-organized and easy to access. When shopping around for one, therefore, take into account the number of internal and external pockets it has.
In addition, check the biggest compartment of the bag. If there are no removable dividers or pouches then the only things that the said compartment can carry are electric hand tools and large tools. The ideal tool bag should have a massive central compartment.
Furthermore, it should have pouches or dividers inside it so you can place other tools and items aside from power tools. It is also advisable to check the lining of the pockets and pouches. Make sure that these parts are made of tough materials to prevent sharp tools from puncturing the pocket.
Reinforced seams – Aside from having double-stitched seams, it is also important to make sure that the threads used in stitching are thick and heavy-duty. Popping seams should never be an issue with your rolling tool bag.
It should be able to hold a good amount of heavy tools and the stitches in the seams must be strong enough to carry the heavy loads.
Bottom padding support – The bottom of the bag is probably the most important part that needs to be reinforced the most because the majority of the weight of the tools will be concentrated along this part.
Ideally, the bottom of the bag should be reinforced with strong and stiff material, like MDF or acrylic. This will help spread out the weight of the tools evenly over a wider area.
Maximum weight capacity – This is the most important detail that you must not miss. It does not matter how well-made a tool bag is. If you pack it with tools that are way beyond its intended weight limit, it will fail on you.
This does not mean that you should weigh the tools that you intend to put into the bag. Just have a rough estimate of the total weight and you will be fine.
Weatherproofing/waterproofing – It does not matter if you will be working outdoors or indoors. Your tool bag should be able to withstand anything that nature can throw at it so that its contents will remain safe and damage-free.
The bag that you buy should at least be waterproof to a certain degree. It might not survive getting plunged in deep water but it should at least be able to withstand a bit of rain and the occasional spills.
The type of wheels it uses – Different makes and models of rolling tool bags use different kinds of wheels, and you need to choose the one that can actually be used in your workplace.
For instance, if you will be working mainly on paved surfaces, like a mechanic’s garage or woodworking studio then a tool bag with small, hard casters will work fine. On the other hand, if your worksite is usually outdoors, then your tool bag needs to have larger diameter wheels so it can roll over rocks and other kinds of debris.
With these details in mind, finding the perfect rolling tool bag for your particular set of needs will be much easier. So, before you decide on a tool bag, take the characteristics mentioned above into consideration first.
Doing so will somewhat ensure that the rolling tool bag you end up with will meet and even exceed your expectations and fulfill all your needs.
Care and Maintenance
Even the top-tier rolling tool bags will not last long if you do not take good care of them. Yes, tool bags are meant to be low-maintenance but that does not mean that they will not benefit from a bit of TLC every now and then.
One thing that you need to know about caring for tool bags is that they do not require much to keep clean. In fact, it is recommended that you do not clean them too much at all. Just the bare minimum is enough to keep your rolling tool bag in the best condition.
First of all, these tool bags do not need to be washed regularly. In fact, if you can stand it, you should not launder tool bags ever. For weekly maintenance, you just need to empty the bag then give it a good shake outdoors. This will dump out all of the dust and dirt that settled in the bag and in the pockets.
To get rid of all the dirt thoroughly, take a vacuum with a handheld brush attachment then proceed to clean every nook and cranny of the bag. If you want to clean it further, take a clean, damp rag then wipe down all the surfaces until you are satisfied with their cleanliness.
You might need to wash and wring the rag a couple of times to make sure that you are actually cleaning it and not pushing dirt into the fabric. After wiping down the bag, you can hang it outside so that it can dry thoroughly. You might even want to hang it under the sun to disinfect it.
Putting the tool bag into the washing machine and using harsh detergents will strip away the waterproofing of the bag and make it less resistant to water.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular rolling tool bag brands?
Since most people now recognize how useful a rolling tool bag is, it is no longer surprising to find a lot of brands promising quality, durability, and plenty of storage space to their target market.
If you are still confused as to which brand to choose then you might start your search with reliable brands, like CLC, DEWALT, Klein, Stark, and Milwaukee.,
How high can the handle extend?
It depends on the make and model of the bag. However, most rolling tool bags have telescoping handles that extend up to two to three feet in length. On the other hand, you can also find those that have handles that are fixed in position.
How many pounds can rolling tool bags carry?
Most rolling tool bags are rated to carry up to 100 pounds of weight in tools, and some also have an additional 50 to 100 pounds of additional weight capacity when they are stacked on top of the bag itself. Regardless of how much weight the tool bag can carry, you need to take into consideration your strength when you are loading up your bag.
If you will be working in a construction site then you need to be able to pull your bag behind you with relative ease. However, if you actually fill the bag to its weight capacity, you will be the one who will have a hard time dragging the bag behind you and lifting it up to load it in your car.
Can a rolling tool bag/ backpack hold a laptop?
Most rolling tool bags do not have laptop compartments and you would not want to store your laptop in a compartment that is not padded and comes in contact with your tools. If you will need to bring a laptop with you, just bring a backpack with an inside pouch that is actually meant for transporting sensitive electronic devices.
How to use a rolling tool bag?
The one thing that you need to remember when loading your tools inside any kind of tool bag, not just a rolling tool bag, is that you need to place the tools that you use often in the most accessible places.
For instance, if you are an electrician, your pliers and screwdrivers should be in a compartment that you can access easily, like an external pouch or something to that effect. Also, even though your tool bag provides a maximum weight capacity, that does not mean you should fill it to capacity.
Take into consideration how much weight you can carry because you will be the one who is going to drag the bag around. Also, note that you might need to lift it up a bit when going over obstacles in the worksite.
How much money should I spend on a rolling tool bag?
It depends on your budget. In this review, I included heavy-duty tool bags on wheels with prices ranging from roughly $100 to $200.
For this type of rolling tool bag set, I would say that $100 is already cheap. Unlike ordinary tool bags, it features wheels and a telescoping pull handle that must be sturdy enough to transport the weight in rugged conditions.
Of course, you can find a cheaper or more expensive rolling tool backpack. That said, the recommended ones are popular given their high quality and excellent performance.
Are tool backpacks worth it?
Yes! Unlike traditional toolboxes, a tool backpack with wheels allows transporting your tools around the job site. You don’t have to carry them with your hands or burden your shoulders.
Backpacks are perfect for those who need to constantly move from one place to another with all their equipment.
If you have not used one before, you may be hesitant to put heavy items in rolling tool totes out of fear that the fabric may tear. However, modern technological advancements have enabled manufacturers to design durable fabrics that can support the weight of hefty wrenches, hammers, screwdrivers, and many others.
Furthermore, the fabrics are available in weatherproof versions to ensure the contents of the bags are protected from the elements.
Design-wise, these tool totes on wheels feature multiple compartments and pockets so you can easily organize and grab the items needed for specific tasks. Some even come with laptop compartment.
How long do rolling tool bags last?
Good quality tool carriers on wheels typically carry a load ranging from 10 to 20 pounds, depending on the model. Others can carry over 100 pounds. As such, manufacturers consider durability when designing them.
Based on my research and experience, well-made bags are going strong even after 3 to 5 years.
How to clean a rolling tool bag?
The best way to clean rolling tool bags is to shake off as much of the accumulated dirt and grime as you can and then vacuum it inside and out. If you want to do a deep clean, just get a damp rag and wipe it all over the bag to get any loose dirt off the surface.
What is the warranty?
Many tool bag makers take great pride with their work, so much so that they attach near-lifetime warranties on their products. This means that if the tool bag fails in doing its job, like in those situations wherein the zippers got stuck or busted, the seams popped open, or the wheels failed and broke off the bag, they will provide you with a replacement rolling tool bag absolutely free.
As long as the damage is not due to user error, like overloading the bag, you are entitled to a replacement, or if you want, a complete refund of your purchase.
Where to buy?
You can find tool bags in most hardware supply stores, but with regards to rolling tool bags, you might not find them in most small brick and mortar stores. It is actually much better to shop for rolling tool bags online.
There are many websites that you can choose to shop from, and hundreds of brands and models of bags that you can buy. Online shopping also makes it much easier to compare prices because you just need to pull up the web pages of the products and compare them with each other.
Conclusion
Rolling tool bags are the best option for carrying a lot of tools easily. If you need to take more tools with you, but they will not all fit in your regular tool bag or toolbox, you need to get a rolling tool bag. A good one allows you to take a lot of tools but without putting too much stress on your back and shoulders.
The best rolling tool bag rolls on tough casters that you can pull through all kinds of terrain while ensuring that your tools will still be in their rightful places. Although these bags are quite expensive, they are a good investment to make. Aside from acting as good portable storage for most of your tools, it will also protect your expensive tools so you can actually use them for many years.
Having worked in the field of personal protective equipment for over two decades, Andrew Carnegie is a specialist in the field.
At EDC, he strives to improve performance efficiency and promote workplace safety for EDC’s readers and customers. He also researches the most up-to-date equipment that has earned relevant accreditation for use in a wide range of industries and specialties.