The best tool bags feature plenty of storage space that you can use to organize your tools. From sectioned interior pockets to exterior belts, they should serve as a way to keep your tools in one place, as well as allowing you to quickly pinpoint the location of the tools you need to get the job done.
From wenches to screwdrivers, spare nuts to bolts, misplaced tools can become an all too common fixture for technicians, plumbers, and electricians. So, to make sure you stay on top of your game and competent in your trade, you’ll need to get your hands on a trusty tool bag.
To help you decide which tool bag is best for you and your job, we’re here to help you out. We’ve hand-selected the 5 best tool bags available to buy today, as well as including a helpful buying guide. Ready to make all of your tool bag dreams come true? Let’s begin.
In a hurry? Here are the best tool bags in 2021
OUR TOP PICK
The WORKPRO Top Wide Mouth Tool Bag boasts an attractive blue and black design and is great for those that work both indoors and outdoors.
This bestselling tool bag is tougher than it looks. It is made from 600D polyester fabric and features fine stitching that makes the bag extremely tough and durable, so you don’t need to worry about it breaking.
Right above the unit, there is an extra padded handle that will keep your hands comfortable, and an adjustable shoulder strap if you need to go hands-free. Both the handle and strap are strong enough to hold a number of tools without any breakage.
On the underside of this bag, you’ll find a waterproof plastic bottom. So, even if you place the bag on wet grounds, your tools and tool bag will remain protected. Another standout feature about this tool bag is that it has a wide-open mouth design with an internal metal frame and double-pull zipper. It allows for easy organization, quick access, and ensures that your tools are protected from external factors, like rain or dust.
Boasting multi-pockets and large interior space, this tool bag comes with 8 sturdy pockets inside, as well as 13 exterior pockets and 8 tool belts for holding tools that you would like to have quick access to. In particular, the 8 belts are super handy and stop you from rummaging through your bag and wasting time. Many who have purchased this bag note that the exterior storage spaces are ideal for pliers, screwdrivers, and wrenches.
Pros
Cons
👍 Affordable
👍 Waterproof base and abrasion-resistant polyester
👍 Suitable for daily use thanks to the adjustable shoulder strap and padded handle
👎 External pockets aren’t overly deep for bigger tools
EDITORS CHOICE
McGuire-Nicholas is one of the most recognized names in the workwear industry, so it should come as no surprise that their 15-inch Collapsible Tote has made the list.
This open-top tool bag comes designed with divided compartments so that you can store all your things in order, so you don’t have to worry about wasting time rummaging around. The center storage area isn’t covered, which makes it extra easy to reach tools without wasting time having to unzip the bag. On the inside, there are no pockets, however, along the sides, you’ll find fastened loop stitchings where you can securely place screwdrivers or wenches.
On the outside, you’ll find 14 varied compartments to store your other smaller tools and accessories. Though this is not the biggest or flashiest tool bag on the market, you’ll be able to fit various power tools and bits and bobs easily. The bottom of this tool bag is reinforced and waterproof so, whether it is dusty or wet, you are guaranteed that your tools will remain dry and well kept.
The innovative handle is our favorite part of this unique tool bag. Unlike many other tool bags that feature a padded, soft handle, this one is made of tubular steel which is able to withstand the weights of varying power tools without buckling or bending. Paired with the lightweight design, the McGuire-Nicholas 22015 15-inch Collapsible Tote is ideal for carrying around for long periods of time.
Pros
Cons
👍 Offers space for varied tool sizes facilitated by the different compartments
👍 Features waterproof qualities to keep your tools dry and safe
👍 Offers plenty of space at an affordable price
👎 No zipper
BEST VALUE
The CLC LeatherCraft Multi-Compartment tool carrier provides plenty of space for a wide variety of power tools, parts, and accessories. In particular, it’s a great choice for tradesmen in the carpentry, plumbing, electrical industry.
Roomy and spacious, the LeatherCraft 50 Pocket Tool Bag features a really roomy inner compartment that can hold both power tools and larger hand tools, while the bigger compartments offer plenty of room to organize additional tools and accessories. To make sure you’re never without the right tool for the job, this bag even features a large carabiner and a tape-measure clip on the exterior.
What’s more, this versatile tool bag also comes with vertically placed pockets that will allow for easy access, as well as seven exterior pockets that will help you get to tools quickly and fuss-free.
Built to last, this rugged tool carrier features a heavy-duty poly fabric body and poly ballistic trim and binding. The heavy-duty double-zippered top closure will keep stored tools secure when carrying, while the padded, adjustable shoulder strap, as well as padded handles, will provide a comfortable, secure grip.
Pros
Cons
👍 Consists of a large main inner compartment that can hold a variety of power tools for easy access
👍 Made of heavy-duty poly fabric with poly ballistic trim and binding to guarantee maximum durability
👍 The main compartments close with heavy-duty, double-pull zippers to keep your tools secure and safe
👎 Expensive
RUNNER UP
If you’re on a budget but still want to find a tool bag that you can rely on, look to the WORKPRO 14-inch Multi-Pocket Tool Bag.
A smaller version of our top pick, this affordable and rugged tool bag is made from 600D polyester fabric, ensuring reliability and long service life. The double fabric features thick PE and fine stitching across the entire unit, which makes this mini tool bag extremely tough and wear-resistant.
Plus, offering plenty of versatility, this tool bag boasts sturdy pockets on both the inside and outside. It will keep all of your tools organized and secure, so you don’t have to worry about rummaging through the bag to find that one tool you need. In particular, we love the spacious interior area. Though it’s the smallest bag we’ve selected, it will be able to hold any tool from small to medium size with ease.
The WORKPRO 14-inch Tool Bag has also been designed to aid your work, rather than slow you down. It features a wide-open mouth with an internal metal frame and top double-pull zipper that allows for easy organization and accessibility. All you need to do is pull the zipper to open, locate your tools, and get to work using them. The sturdy base has 4 plastic pads that will keep the bag clean, dry, and will protect your tools from bumps and knocks.
Pros
Cons
👍 It has an adjustable, comfortable shoulder strap
👍 Wide mouth style allows for quick and easy access to tools
👍 Rigid dividers will help to keep tools organized and in their designated place
👎 On the smaller side, so it may not be suitable for those with larger tools
RUNNER UP
Offering a slight alternative to the standard tool bag design, we have selected the Klein Heavy Duty Tradesman Pro Tool Backpacker as our final choice.
Unlike our other selections, this tool bag from Klein is in the form of a backpack, so it’s an ideal choice for tradesmen who like to go hands-free! Designed by Klein, a company spanning over 6 decades, the Heavy Duty Tradesman Pro Tool Organizer has been created by engineers, workers, and craftsmen, and has been made using only the highest quality materials and superior workmanship.
To start, the Klein Tools' Tradesman Pro Organizer Backpack features 39 pockets that will ensure you always have your tools and valuables just within arms reach. If you wear safety glasses or like to have a pair on you just in case, this backpack even includes a hard, molded front pocket that has been specifically created to hold safety glasses. There’s also a discreet front zipper pocket that can be used to keep your phone or wallet safe, while the bright orange interior has been strategically included to provide better visibility, helping you find your tools faster.
Ensuring a long service life, this tool backpack is constructed of a rugged 1680D ballistic weave construction that can withstand regular use and heavy tools. The durable molded base protects from the elements and is water-resistant, while padded shoulder straps mean that you’ll be able to carry it without any strain.
Pros
Cons
👍 Slim and sturdy design with plenty of space to keep power tools in varying shapes and sizes
👍 It has a fully molded, hard bottom that will keep your tools safe and protected from external factors
👍 Contains 39 pockets to ensure you’re never without your tools
👎 Zippers can be prone to getting stuck
Best Tool Bags Buying Guide
Things to consider when purchasing a tool bag
Now that you’ve reached the end of this article we’re sure that you already have noticed the many different shapes and sizes that tool bags come in! If you still need a little help making a decision, or you want to learn a little bit more about what your tool bag should have, keep reading:
Material
From polyester to canvas, leather to nylon, tool bags come in a variety of different materials! Generally, the stronger the material, the longer the tool bag is going to last. We recommend considering a tool bag that has strong stitching, as well as being abrasion-resistant and waterproof.
Storage Space
The best tool bags will offer versatile storage space. However, not all tool bags are made the same. Some feature an ‘open’ design, which allows the user to dip their hand in and rummage around to find the tool that they need. Though these types of tool bags do not tend to have divided compartments on the inside, they often have belts and pockets on the outside. On the other hand, some tool bags feature divided compartments, and these are often the tool bags that come with a closable zipper function. There’s no right or wrong, it all comes down to your preferences. However, you should make sure that the tool bag you select has enough room to store all of your tools, as well as having space for valuables.
In case you're looking for a tool storage that features more space, you should check portable tool boxes.
Zippers
If you do plan on buying a tool bag that has zippers, you’ll need to make sure that they’re durable and reliable. We recommend going for double pull zippers that are non-snagging, as these are going to last the longest, making them the most cost-effective option.
Comfort
Comfort and support are one of the most important factors to think about when weighing up options. As you’re most likely going to be carrying your tool bag around from place to place on the daily, a tool bag that features ergonomic handles and adjustable straps are a great investment. Your tool bag is going to get pretty heavy when it’s filled up, and a padded handle and sturdy shoulder strap will ensure that transportation is easy and strain-free.
Durability
The last thing you want is to buy a tool bag, only to discover that you need to replace it a few months later! Make sure that you’re going for high-quality materials that you know are going to be able to withstand heavy-duty, regular use. The best tool bags will be able to last you for several years, possibly even longer.
Waterproof
It’s highly likely that you’re going to be spending a portion of your working week outdoors, so you’ll need to make sure that your tool bag will be able to withstand varying weather conditions and changing environments. We suggest that you select a tool bag that has a waterproof base, as well as being abrasion-resistant.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I care for my tool bag?
Tool bags are tough, so you don’t have to be gentle with them! You also don’t require any fancy cleaning products, soapy warm water, and a scrubbing brush will do the job just fine. It’s also a good idea to give your tools a quick clean before putting them into your bag, as this will reduce the chance of any dirt or grease getting inside.
Can I buy accessories for my tool bag?
Yes, you can! Some of the most popular accessory choices are LED lights (which will come in handy if you’re working into the night, or you’re in a lowly lit area) and plastic liners, which help to keep your tool bag clean and fresh.
What is a tool bag?
A tool bag isn’t too different from a regular, everyday bag, or rucksack. The only difference is that they’re specifically designed to hold tools for tradesmen. They tend to be double stitched, made of durable materials, and often have waterproof, reinforced bases that are waterproof.
Final Verdict
Made of wear-resistant material and able to handle even the heaviest of power tools, the WORKPRO Top Wide Mouth Tool Bag will stand the test of time. It's made with rugged 600D polyester fabric and features a waterproof rubber base, so it’s great for both indoor and outdoor use.
Here are its key features:
- Made from strong polyester fabric which provides both unmatched strength and durability.
- It is spacious and boasts 8 sturdy pockets inside, as well as 13 exterior pockets and 8 belts that can be used to hold wenches
- As the name suggests, it features an ‘open mouth’ design for easy organizing and accessibility
- It comes with an extra padded handle and adjustable shoulder strap for comfort
- Features a hard waterproof molded base and is abrasion resistant
Not only will the WORKPRO Tool Bag keep all of your tools organized and easy to access, but it’s very affordable and great for anyone on a budget. It’s so strong, many people do not find themselves needing to replace this bag for many years, if ever. We highly recommend it.
