Looking for a tough tool bag that can withstand daily use? Check these out!
You can have the best tools money can buy, but if you don’t have a convenient way to get to them, you can still run into trouble.
Enter the humble tool bag. It’s not the most exciting accessory to shop for, but it’s easily one of the most practical.
Tool bags provide an easy and neat way to access and transport your tools. They’re much more versatile than toolboxes, which tend to be bulky and disorganized, and they’re a better fit for the smaller tool sets that most people own.
I’ve rounded up eight great tool bags and compiled them in this article, so if you’re in the market for one, read on.
Quick Take
Here are our recommendations from the list:
Drawing inspiration from the classic doctor's bags of yesteryear, the Big Mouth boasts a premium full-grain leather construction, accentuated by robust buckles. Embracing a timeless and straightforward design, this bag offers exceptional durability.
With ample storage for your essential tools, it's the ultimate companion for minimalists. And true to Amazon's commitment to affordability, this gem is regularly priced around $20.
Read on for more info and the complete list…
The Best Tool Bags You Can Buy
Ranging from small to serious, here are my top picks for tool bags.
Carhartt Legacy Tool Bag
Today, Carhartt may be more popular for its fashion-forward WIP line of apparel, but true to its roots, the American company still makes good old-fashioned work gear that’s built to last.
Carhartt’s Legacy Tool Bag is a 14-inch bag with one main compartment, 10 interior pockets, and 17 exterior pockets, all supported by a metal frame that provides structure and facilitates access.
The Legacy Tool Bag is as heavy-duty as it looks. It features triple needle-stitch construction, water-repellent polyester, YKK zippers, and an abrasion-resistant base.
It also comes in 16- and 18-inch versions that are better for storing larger tools (or just a ton of small tools). You can also choose from black or Carhartt brown.
CLC Work Gear 50 Pocket Tool Bag
If you have an expansive tool collection, then you might want to consider the brawny CLC Work Gear 50 Pocket Tool Bag.
In addition to its oversized main compartment, this massive bag has an incredible 43 internal and 7 external pockets that can hold all sizes and shapes of tools.
The main compartment is large enough to hold bigger tools like drills, hammers, and even some smaller saws (such as reciprocating saws).
The adjustable shoulder strap and zippered side panels are a couple of nice practical touches that elevate the usability of the bag.
Simply put, this competitively priced CLC bag is one of the best options for organizing large amounts of tools.
Amazon Basics Tool Bag – 16-Inch
The Amazon Basics line includes everything from dumbbells to desk chairs, and these products are often hit or miss.
However, the Amazon Basics 16-inch Tool Bag is a surprisingly solid bag for the price.
It’s a simple polyester tool bag with 10 internal and 16 external pockets. And that’s pretty much it — there’s no special organizational structure or hidden features.
That simplicity is exactly why this bag is appealing. If you’re not constantly using tools and only need to store a few, this bag will have you covered. And as you’d expect from Amazon, it’s also really cheap, often selling for under $20.
This is a great bag for occasional tool-wielders or for pros who need a backup bag to toss in the trunk or carry additional tools.
DEWALT DGL573 Lighted Technician’s Tool Bag
Find yourself working with tools around the clock in all kinds of conditions? The DEWALT DGL573 Lighted Technician’s Tool Bag is here to help.
This hardy bag features an LED light mounted near the handles that shines into the bag and can also illuminate your working area. The light has three brightness levels with a max output of 39 Lumens.
Even if you already have a flashlight, this little LED is handy for providing better visibility and can help you access the tools you need more easily and with less fuss.
As for other specs, the DGL573 has 41 total pockets (28 internal, 13 external) that vary in size and shape to accommodate all kinds of tools. Additional details include a side hook, a covered Velcro pouch, and a nameplate.
Klein Tools 55421BP-14 Tool Bag Backpack
If you’d prefer a hands-free way to tote your tools, then the Klein Tools 55421BP-14 Tool Bag Backpack may be right for you.
This 39-pocket backpack is made from a water-resistant ballistic weave and has a grippy molded bottom that’s reminiscent of a boot sole.
The 55421BP-14 opens to reveal the assorted pockets and slots, some of which have closures to keep tools and parts from falling out.
While most of the backpack’s compartments are on the inside, there are two external pockets for safety glasses and smaller tools.
Overall, it’s one of the best tool bag backpacks you can buy, so check it out if you prefer carrying your tools on your back.
Dickies Work Gear 20-Inch Durable Canvas Work Bag
Dickies is another brand associated with high-quality American work gear. Like Carhartt, Dickies focuses on apparel but still makes plenty of gear, including this
20-Inch Durable Canvas Work Bag.
Made of ripstop canvas, this 20-inch bag has 8 outer and 6 inner pockets. The webbing handles are reinforced with leather, and the shoulder strap is fully adjustable.
The bag’s design makes it easy to grab tools from the outer pockets without having to fumble around, and the 20-inch length means that you can fit a lot into the main compartment.
While this bag will work for all kinds of situations, it’s best for people using larger or longer tools and who don’t want or need a ton of organization.
WORKPRO 16-inch Wide Mouth Tool Bag
The WORKPRO 16-inch Wide Mouth Tool Bag is a budget-friendly option that offers a lot of value for money.
With 13 exterior and 8 interior pockets, the WORKPRO provides a good amount of storage. It also has 8 belts for securing tools and parts.
This polyester bag has an abrasion-resistant and waterproof base, and the wide-mouth design allows for easy access.
You can often find this bag for under $25, making it one of the most affordable options on this list. If you need a cheap but reliable bag to use around the house, then you might just want to pick one up.
Saddleback Leather Co. Big Mouth Leather Tool Bag
For a more premium option, check out the Big Mouth Leather Tool Bag from Saddleback Leather Co.
Inspired by old-fashioned doctor’s bags, the Big Mouth is made of full-grain leather with rugged buckles. That simple design means that it’s especially hard-wearing (and hard to break).
This 14-inch bag comes with full-length external pockets and three small internal pockets. Two leather pull tabs make for quick and easy opening, and the rolled handles offer comfort when carrying the bag.
Since this is a premium bag, it comes with a premium price, but it’s worth considering if you like leather goods.
Tool Bag FAQs
Here’s a quick dive into some frequent questions about tool bags.
What makes a good tool tote?
A good tool bag should have enough storage for your needs, pockets of different sizes and shapes, a sturdy handle, and a reinforced or molded base.
Are backpack tool bags good?
Many homeowners and DIYers prefer backpack tool bags while others stick to the classic tote or over-the-shoulder styles. The main advantage of tool bag backpacks is that they leave your hands free.
What is the best electrician tool bag?
Most tool bags out there will work well for electricians, but DEWALT and CLC bags tend to be the most popular options.
Conclusion
Everyone knows it’s important to have the right tools for the job, but you also need the right tool bag.
Hopefully, this list has helped you find a bag that will make your next repair a little easier.
Tool bag or toolbelt — which do you prefer? Leave your comments down below!
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