The Best Tool Bags for Organizing More Tools

If you are a tradesman regardless of your actual profession, you will most likely be bringing quite a lot of tools when you are working. If that’s the case then you will need something sturdy to carry them in – that is where the best tool bags come into the picture.

Note that these are not your ordinary bags. As you will learn later, heavy-duty tool bags will allow you to carry dozens of pieces of tools with relative ease. Can you not use any old bag as your tool bag? Technically, you can use any bag to carry your tools but the result will not be the same.

First of all, your tools and equipment will all be disorganized, making it difficult for you to find one particular item you have to use at a certain moment. Also, they will all be rubbing against each other, causing irreparable damage in the long run. Finally, the bag will most likely deteriorate, tear, or get punched full of holes in just a couple of days.

If you are a professional tradesman then you need to treat your tools with care and carrying them in an old gym bag is not the way to go about it. You need a good tool bag that will keep your tools organized and undamaged so you can use them at your work site all the time.

If this is your first time buying a proper one with tool carriers, there are some things that you need to know. By understanding such things, you can buy the right kind for your particular needs, especially since there are many different tool bags on the market these days, including the ones reviewed here.

14 Top-Rated Tool Bag Reviews of 2023

1. Amazon Basics ‎TB002 Tool Bag

Versatility is probably this zippered tool bag’s strongest suit. Its comfy strap allows me to wear it like a shoulder tool bag, leaving my hands free to carry other things. Alternatively, I can carry it by hand, thanks to the padded handles. Its large size provides ample space for nuts and bolts to power tools that various carpenters, plumbers, painters, and other professionals often use.

Impressively, the tools with sharp edges do not tear up the heavy-duty fabric. Likewise, the construction is durable. It holds well despite the 30 pounds worth of items I pack almost every day. Thanks to the double zippers, I can use a padlock to ensure that my stuff is safe when I travel.

Design-wise, this tool carry bag reminds me of a gym bag. Perhaps the only difference is that it can stand. Outside of work, I can use it to store my clothes or camping gear when traveling. When I’m on a project site, I only need to open the main compartment wide to find and grab the tools I need.

2. DEWALT DG5543 16-inch 33-pocket Tool Bag

My most favorite feature about this choice for top-rated tool bags is the huge number of different-sized pockets. There is a total of 33 storage pockets in this compact item that help support a multitude of organizing combinations. There is also a pocket with a flap and Velcro closure for keeping small items.

Another neat feature is the wide and open design of the top. It is a central open top bag that pops open to completely expose the interior. The bag has a wide mouth opening that makes it easy to place larger tools inside, including small power tools and accessories like hand drills and grinders.

All these storage options will be useless if this bag is so weak that it will deteriorate within a few weeks but this is not the case. This bag is made of very tough and durable ballistic poly fabric. This feels and looks like denim but it is exponentially more durable.

The DEWALT Tradesman has a ton of other features that adds to its toughness and durability, like reinforced corners and edges. The bottom of the bag also features hardened rubber pads so you can place it down on any surface without worrying about potential damage on the bottom. This also gives it a good footing so it will not slip.

3. McGuire-Nicholas 22015 Collapsible Tote

I like how this best tool tote looks like an upgraded version of the old wooden tool buckets that tradesmen from decades ago used to use. It has an open design that also has a huge central storage space, accommodating a lot of large tools. It can even hold a couple of power tools.

Besides the large central storage, there are fourteen external webbed pockets for small tools and other items. There are smaller slots for small screwdrivers, pens, and similarly-sized items. I like these pockets because I can easily see where my smaller tools are.

The handle on this tool bag, which I genuinely like, is nice and comfortable to hold. It is made of a steel tube with foam padding in the center. The diameter of the handle is just right and fits perfectly inside the hand, making it easy to carry around.

Another great thing about it is that it is ridiculously cheap. For such an affordable price, you will be getting a sturdy yet lightweight tool storage bag that anyone, regardless of profession, can use.

4. Custom LeatherCraft 1539 Multi-Compartment Tool Bag

The best thing about this soft side tool bag is the sheer number of pockets. In total, there are fifty different-sized pockets that you can use to keep all of your tools and essentials organized. Even if you are an experienced tradesman, you will find that there are more than enough compartments here for all your needs.

I also love the large center compartment that this tool’s bag has. It is deep and big enough that you can carry a couple of power tools, like a hand drill and an angle grinder, along with their accessories. This makes it perfect as a contractor tool bag.

The side panels of the bag also zip up to protect and prevent the tools from spilling out in case it topples over while in transit or storage. In addition, there are several pockets outside the panels for high-quality tool bags like pens and notebooks.

The vertical pockets inside the soft-sided tool bag from CLC help a lot by keeping the tools stored inside visible. With that, I am no longer surprised why many consider this as one of the top tool bags currently available. I do not have to dig inside this tool bag with compartments when I am looking for a particular tool.

5. Rhino USA Tool Bag Roll

Did you know that Rhino USA’s waterproof rolling tool bag receives a near-perfect rating from its users? For starters, I thought that this thing was only as big as a pen case when I was looking at the product images. I’m delighted to see that it is big.

What sets it apart from other tool storage bags is that each compartment is labeled. All I have to do is put my pliers, sockets, and wrenches in their corresponding pouches. This way, I don’t have to randomly open each one just to see where I put the hand tools I’m looking for. Impressively, the pouches are spacious enough to accommodate all the items I need for work.

By the way, each pouch has a velcro that lets me attach and detach it if I only need to bring fewer tools. Once I load the tools, I can simply roll the tool bag with tools in it and fasten the clips. The exterior pockets would face outward so I could quickly access the most commonly used tools. Apart from that, this canvas tool bag will not rip easily, even with sharp items inside.

6. Klein Tools 55421BP-14 Tool Bag

This tool backpack might look like the ones used for school but it will transform into a full-blown tradesman’s tool bag once the main zipper is opened. You will discover that there are lots of pockets for all of the tools that you might need for your job – 39 storage compartments to be exact. This easily turns it into one of those cool tool bags today.

Outside the bag, you will find that there is a molded zippered pocket made of hard plastic designed for carrying safety glasses. It is large enough for all brands of safety glasses that you might have.

It is one of those lockable tool bags that are quite tall. This allows for deeper slots that are useful for carrying longer screwdrivers and other long-handled tools. Speaking of the interior mesh pockets, they keep all the tools vertically positioned, making them visible all the time.

I also like the molded hard, water-repellent rubber foam bottom of the waterproof tool bag. It is wide and rigid so that the backpack tool bag can stand on its own when you lay it on the floor. Many also consider it as one of the most comfortable tool bags for electricians.

7. Veto Pro Pac TECH PAC Tool Bag

The thing that I truly enjoy about this Veto Pro Pac tool bag with a backpack style is the huge number of compartments. There are 56 interior and exterior pockets and slots for different-sized tools and items necessary for your job. Even if you do not fill up all these pockets, it is always nice to have vacant compartments in case you need them.

Probably my favorite feature of this tool bag for plumbers is the non-tip injection-molded polypropylene base. This plastic base is 3mm thick and completely waterproof, so you do not need to worry about water seeping from the bottom. The bottom is also wide enough that it helps keep the backpack stand up when setting it on the ground.

I also like that even if you can manage to fill up all 56 pockets with tools, it will still be comfortable to carry on your back, thanks to the straps and padded back. The handle straps are nice and wide, spreading out the weight more evenly. It is also padded so it will not dig into your skin.

The back is also ergonomically-padded with dense EVA foam. Moreover, it has air channels to help your back breathe. Another great thing about this backpack is not a feature but the warranty that Veto provides. If you buy this tool bag with a backpack design, it will be covered by an amazing 5-year warranty on factory defects.

8. WORKPRO 16-inch Tool Bag

What I liked the most out of this bag is the way it is constructed. First of all, the main body is made of heavy-duty 600D poly fabric. This material feels and looks like denim but it is much more durable and has a waterproof coating.

The base of the bag is made of very durable and thick injected polypropylene rubberized plastic. This provides a strong and durable base, thereby protecting the tools from getting wet because it is completely waterproof.

This bag also has a wide opening top for easy access to tools. It has a metal frame to retain its rigidity. The interior storage is large enough for several power tools and large hand tools. You can also access thirteen vertical interior pockets for additional storage space. These are useful for smaller tools like screwdrivers and pliers.

You can also use the additional 8 exterior pockets of different sizes. Some are large and deep enough for the tools that are commonly used, like screwdrivers and pliers. There are also smaller pockets for pens and notebooks.

9. Carhartt Legacy 14-inch Tool Bag

Aside from the bag looking classy, it is also made of heavy-duty polyester blend. This fabric material is lightweight but it is highly resistant to abrasion and tearing. Also, polyester material is very water-resistant, so the tools kept inside the bag will be completely protected from rain or snow.

The overall construction is also quite impressive. All the seams are triple-stitched using tough nylon thread. The zippers are also heavy-duty and there is a metal frame that lets the bag keep its shape.

I am greatly satisfied with the actual number of different-sized pockets integrated into this bag. It consists of 17 exterior pockets and an additional 10 for the external. The interior pockets are vertically oriented so you can easily see what tools are inside.

The top opens up to 14 inches wide so you can easily fit large hand tools and even a couple of power tools. The interior storage space is large enough that you can carry an electric drill and an angle grinder along with a couple of wrenches. You can still properly close the top of the bag even if you put several tools inside.

10. G & F Products Government Issued Mechanics Heavy-duty Tool Bag

One thing to keep in mind about this product is that it is a tool bag for mechanics. This means you only use this for carrying the basic tools that mechanics will need for the job. This is ideal for working on relatively small automotive issues, like replacing fuel filters, batteries, and such.

I am glad that this auto mechanic tool bag is made of old school cotton canvas material. This fabric is very thick and durable yet still soft enough that it can cradle the tools with care. The bag is also constructed with longevity in mind. All the seams are double-stitched and reinforced by web poly material so they will not pop or fray.

Even the hardware used for this bag is heavy-duty. The zippers used to close the central storage pouch are made of tough brass, which will take a lot of strength to force open. This is ideal when you are taking a lot of large tools with you. You can be sure that the zipper will not accidentally pop open.

Aside from the central internal storage, there are four additional pouches outside the bag for holding even more tools. The pockets are great for keeping smaller tools. They also have a flap to keep the contents from spilling out.

11. AIRAJ 18-inch Waterproof Tool Bag

What impressed me the most about this AIRAJ tool bag is that it is made of very dense and durable 1680D poly fabric. This is even stronger and more durable than canvas fabric, not to mention more reliable. The seams are also heavily reinforced to make sure that the bag can carry a lot of tools without the connecting stitching ripping apart.

Other tool bags just have flimsy plastic feet that keep the bag raised a couple of millimeters above the ground but the AIRAJ tool bag has an entire bottom made entirely of hardened rubberized foam plastic. This material is highly resistant to abrasion and puncture and completely waterproof.

You can place it down anywhere and you can be sure that the contents are perfectly safe. This tool bag is a good choice for electricians mostly because it is completely waterproof. The base is made from hardened plastic while the main body has a waterproofing coating.

It is also lined with polyethylene plastic to prevent even one drop of water from getting inside. There is also an impressive amount of storage in this tool bag. The large interior compartment opens widely so that you can place large tools inside of it. You can place several power tools in there without a problem.

12. BLACK+DECKER Tool Tote Bag

First of all, you need to know that this power tool bag is made specifically for carrying the BLACK+DECKER Matrix system of power tools. However, even if you do not own any of the Matrix power tools, this is still a pretty good compartmentalized tool bag. You just need to use a bit of creativity when putting your tools inside.

The nice thing about this bag is that it is made of 600D poly fabric and coated with waterproofing in order to protect the precious cargo inside. Another thing is that the base of the bag is made of tough and durable injection-molded plastic.

Aside from preventing water from seeping to the bottom, the rubberized base also protects the contents from accidental drops. There are three smaller pockets outside that are suitable for carrying smaller tools like screwdrivers and hex keys. The pockets are also tight enough that you can also use them to carry longer nails or drill bits.

For smaller nails and other fasteners, the pocket in the center with the flap is ideal. Inside the bag, there is a wide storage space that can be compartmentalized using the included rigid dividers. This allows you to bring different power tools and they will not bang against each other.

13. Milwaukee 23x12x12nch Heavy-duty Tool Bag

The craftsmanship on this Milwaukee bag is top-notch. I especially like how the side handles are not just double-stitched almost halfway down the width but also secured in place using metal fasteners. I can load the bag with more than a hundred pounds of tools and still the handles will not give up.

The bottom of the tool bag for HVAC is also reinforced so that you can load it with a lot of tools without worrying about it fraying or ripping open. Because the bag is made of abrasion-resistant material, I am confident that wherever I choose to place it, it will not get holes punched on it.

The bag features a wide and padded shoulder strap to make it easier to carry even when it is loaded with heavy tools. The strap is wide enough to distribute the weight of the load evenly and without discomfort. It is also detachable in case you will be working at a place where it can get tangled easily.

There are also six pockets inside the bag to keep your tools organized and prevent them from banging against each other with every step that you take. They are deep and wide enough to carry several pieces in one pocket.

14. XtremepowerUS Rolling Tool Bag

This is the tool bag that you will need if you need to carry a lot of hand and power tools with you whenever you go out to any of your job sites. This is big enough and has lots of pockets and compartments, so you will always have room for whatever tools you would like to bring with you.

It looks like it can take a lot of abuse and I am happy to report that it can. The bag is mainly made of ballistic poly material fabric, which is highly resistant to abrasion, cuts, and punctures. This means that you can place all kinds of tools into the pockets and they will not cause that much damage.

There is a massive internal central storage that will allow you to carry a lot of power tools and their accessories without a problem. You can also install dividers in the cavernous central pocket to prevent your power tools from hitting each other while you are transporting them.

You will also enjoy the 10 internal, 9 external pockets and two tape measure clips for easier tool organization options. The greatest thing about this tool bag is that it has built-in all-terrain caster wheels. It also features a telescoping handle that tucks into the bag when not in use.

What is a Tool Bag

As its name suggests, a tool bag is a tough and durable bag that you use to carry around your tools when you have to work on-site. This offers convenience when you need to bring a lot of tools, or at least more than what would fit properly in a tool belt.

Tool bags are different from your regular bags. First of all, they are made of tough materials. They need to be tough because they will be carrying sharp and pointy tools. The material should at least be able to resist getting punctured or slashed by its contents.

Another thing that makes tool bags different is that they have a lot of different pockets. To be able to work efficiently, one needs to keep his tools organized neatly so he can find the right tools almost immediately, instead of spending a couple of minutes rummaging through a huge pile of various tools.

With a tool bag, you will always see and know where all your tools are located. If you are a professional tradesman, do not sell yourself short by using the old school bag of your kids to carry your tools. Keep your precious tools inside the proper tool bag to ensure that they stay safe and secure.

How Does a Tool Bag Work

Tool bags work by allowing the user to organize his/her tools. These items do so by providing numerous pockets for storing different tools and materials. For example, a good tool bag has several loops beside one another. These are for holding your screwdrivers.

If the bag is meant for an electrician, there would be more than just three screwdriver loops inside. A good tool bag should also have a huge central storage compartment. This should be large enough that you can place a couple of power tools inside with relative ease.

If the bag is large enough, the central storage should come with removable dividers to keep the power tools from hitting each other during transit. Lastly, the best tool bag should be able to protect your tools from the environment.

It should be at least abrasion-resistant so that it can be plopped onto the ground every day without tearing nor fraying. Also, the bag has to be waterproof so that in case you get caught in the rain, your tools will still stay high and dry.

Types of Tool Bags

Generally, there are three different kinds of tool bags depending on their appearance and how you carry them. These are:

Standard Bags – This is the most common design of the tool bag that you will come across. This looks just like a normal shoulder bag, albeit much larger and has more pockets. You can carry this using any of your hands or sling it across the shoulder using the included shoulder strap.

Backpacks – These look just like the ones that students use for carrying their books and other stuff to school but the difference is that the ones used for carrying tools are more robust and a lot bigger.

These bags can often carry the same amount of tools that standard bags could. The only difference is that they are easier to carry around, thanks to the shoulder straps. This is the ideal bag for tradesmen who need to commute long distances on their way to perform their jobs.

Rolling Cases – These tool bags look like luggage cases. They are large and could carry a lot of tools, including power tools and their accessories. These bags have built-in heavy-duty caster wheels and telescoping handles to make them easy to roll about in the workplace.

In some models, you can load upwards of a hundred pounds of tools and still roll them around easily.

Why Do You Need a Tool Bag

If you are on the fence about whether or not you need to get a tool bag, here are some of the biggest reasons why you should invest in one.

First of all, they help you carry your tools easier. Toolboxes may do the same thing as tool bags but they are not as easy to carry around. They usually only have handles so if you will be commuting or walking a long distance to your job site, this will be tough. You can create a makeshift shoulder strap for it but it will dig into your side.

Tool bags are designed to be carried around, making them superior to toolboxes in this sense at least. Another reason is that they keep your tools organized. Tool bags often come with more than a dozen different-sized pockets and hoops for your tools.

You can organize it whichever way you like putting similar tools together or grouping the ones you usually use. With a well-organized tool bag, you will not be wasting any time looking for a particular tool in a pile of miscellaneous items. You will know exactly where everything is.

Tool bags also protect your tools from getting damaged. Most of them are made of durable materials, so they will not get punctured or slashed by their contents. This means that it is very unlikely that your tools will come pouring out of a hole in the bag.

They also help keep the tools separated so they will not hit and dent each other while you are transporting them. Furthermore, most tool bags are waterproof so even if you are caught by surprise by a sudden downpour while you are in the middle of a job, your tools will still be dry and rust-free.

Buying Guide

Because there are many different brands of tool bags being sold these days, finding the right one can be a tricky task. However, it can be made easier when you consider these key factors:

The number of pockets – If your trade requires you to carry a lot of tools with you on every project, like a master electrician or a framer, then you need a tool bag with a lot of different-sized pockets. There should at least be enough pockets to help you organize your tools efficiently.

For instance, if you are an electrician then you will most likely have several screwdrivers. With that in mind, the bag you need should have enough hoops to carry all of them. The number of pockets is not the only quality you need to keep an eye out for.

It is also important to check how deep they are. They should not be too deep that you need to reach inside to get your tools. However, they should not be too shallow that your tools might fall out.

Materials used and build quality – A tool bag should be built tough. You will be placing a lot of sharp objects inside so you need to ensure that it can handle all that abuse. The most common material being used today for making tool bags are ripstop polyester fabrics.

These look and feel like denim or canvas but they are a lot tougher and more resilient against damage. Aside from the material used for making the tool bag, you should also inspect the craftsmanship that went into making it.

The seams should at least be double-stitched using very strong thread and reinforced at the stress points. This will prevent the seams from popping when you load the bag to capacity.

Tool bags made from top quality materials and expertly built are often pretty expensive. However, when you consider how many years you will be using them, you will find that they are worth the investment.

Size of central storage – Another important factor to consider while shopping for a work tool bag is the size of the central storage. If you will be bringing with you rather large tools, like torque wrenches, pipe wrenches, saws, or carrying power tools, the central storage should be big enough to accommodate the tools.

Aside from the volume of the internal compartment, check how wide the bag opens up, too. Ideally, the bag should open up to the full width. Alternatively, it should at least be big enough that you can put your tools through it.

Care and Maintenance

The neat thing about tool bags is that they are heavy-duty and do not require that much care and maintenance. However, that does not mean that they do not need it.

To make sure that your tool bag will last for many years to come, make sure to empty it after every workweek. Make sure to shake off all the dirt and dust that has accumulated on it. This will also release the stress placed on the seams of the bag by the weight of the tools.

Grab a damp, not dripping wet, piece of fabric and proceed to wipe over the entire surface. This will get rid of most of the dust and dirt stuck onto the surface of the fabric. You should never machine wash your tool bag (unless it is specified in the care instructions) as it will strip away the waterproofing properties.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most popular tool bag brands?

You can’t expect all brands of tool bags to be that reliable when it comes to delivering on their promises. However, in my years of testing tool bags, I find some brands that stood out as being the best in their field.

These are DEWALT, Custom LeatherCraft, Klein Tools, McGuire-Nicholas, Veto, WORKPRO, Carhartt, G & F Products, AIRAJ, BLACK+DECKER, Milwaukee Tools, and XtremepowerUS. These brands of tool bags best describe the most reliable ones that are in today’s market.

What do you put in a tool bag?

As the name suggests, you can put your tools inside a tool bag. However, this does not just mean hand tools like screwdrivers and pliers. A good tool bag will have space for power tools as well.

Additionally, a tool bag will allow you to carry a lot of tools with relative ease, as compared to carrying a clunky toolbox.

What should I store in my tool bag?

Generally, tool bags contain screwdrivers, spanners, hammers, pliers, spirit levels, wrenches, clamps, screws, nails, fasteners, a torch, and a measuring tape.

There is no hard and fast rule on what to put in the bag. Besides, most workers typically need specialized tools to do their jobs. Apart from that, you have the option to bring a small tool bag if you’re working on minor repairs. Some folks bring bigger waterproof tool bags to store their safety equipment and other stuff that needs watertight containers.

What is the ideal size for a tool bag?

Tool bags commonly range from 14 to 24 inches. However, there is no one ideal size.

When choosing a tool bag for your trade, you need to factor in the sizes of your tools, gadgets, and gizmos. Do you use a lot of heavy power tools to perform your job? Then you will have to go for a 20-inch bag or bigger.

On the other hand, if you frequently use hand tools or simply want to keep a few of them in your garage, then small multi-pocket soft tool bags will do.  

Are there water-resistant tool bags?

Yes! Water-resistant and waterproof qualities are essential for certain professions. In this review, I included a handful of waterproof bags that can help you keep your tools dry and safe against the damaging effects of moisture.

Keep in mind that some manufacturers may claim that their cheap tool bags are waterproof even if they are not. Be sure to check the reviews of previous buyers before purchasing.

Toolbox or tool bag: What is better?

In terms of durability, the good ol’ toolbox scores higher, knowing it is made of a combination of materials like stainless steel, iron, aluminum, and plastic. On the other hand, tool bags are typically made of leather, nylon, or polyester. We all know these materials are at risk of tearing, especially when the bag is loaded with heavy tools.

However, there is no doubt that a tool bag is more portable than a toolbox. While it is not impossible to find compact toolboxes, the fabric is still lighter and comfier to hold than a toolbox. Plus, you can flatten and fold the bag after use and store it in a cabinet, which you can’t simply do with a toolbox.

When it comes to organizing your tools, both a toolbox and a tool bag can feature compartments for tools and accessories of every size. The catch is that the toolbox’s compartments are rigid, whereas a tool bag is a bit more flexible. Perhaps the only issue is that the bag can get messy!

As you can see, each one has its pros and cons. Tool bags are more practical for workers who are always on the go. Toolboxes are a better choice for those who can leave their tools unattended in the workplace. But that’s just my opinion!

How do you organize tool bags?

There is no set way for organizing the tools in a tool bag. You can do whatever you want with it as long as it makes your work easier. Some people like their tool bags to look like shelves in a hardware store, that is that all the similar tools are together. For instance, screwdrivers are beside each other, hammers are in one group, and so on.

However, some people use unorthodox methods, like grouping tools according to the tasks they are used for or placing the ones they use more often at the most accessible part. There is no wrong way when it comes to organizing a tool bag, so do it according to what you prefer.

What is the warranty?

Tool bags usually come with a one-year warranty on defects and unintentional damage. However, some brands that extend this warranty for up to five years. This means that if your tool bag were to show signs of wear and tear within five years, you are entitled to a brand new replacement bag for free.

Where to buy?

You can find a huge variety of tools bags in brick and mortar hardware stores like Home Depot and there is a distinct advantage of being able to personally inspect the product before heading to the checkout lane. However, when you choose to shop online using sites like Amazon.com, then you will be treated to hundreds of different options.

Also, you will discover that online prices are much lower than at brick and mortar stores because they do not have high overhead costs to recuperate.

Conclusion

If you are a serious craftsman then you need to treat your tools with the care and respect that they deserve. Do not just throw them altogether inside an old school bag. Not only will they destroy the fragile nylon fabric but they will also damage each other.

It is advisable to find the best tool bags that your money can buy. This will be much cheaper than replacing broken tools every month or so.

Andrew Carnegie

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.