Best Tool Backpack | Reviews & Buying Guide (2020)
Tired of being slowed down and frustrated by a messy work area? Then you came to the right place. In today’s market, there are a lot of replica products trying to con you out of your money. On this extensive review list though, the real best tool bag is waiting for every type of worker. Big or small, and no matter the job, see which of the ten options below can carry your tools all at once and meet your other unique needs. Whether you’re searching for professional or recreational options, take a look!
| Product Name | Image | Pockets | Overall Rating | Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CLC 1134 Carpenter’s Backpack with Padded Back Support |
|
48 | 10 | Check price |
| Tradesman Pro Organizer, Klein Tools 55421BP-14 |
|
39 | 9.5 | Check price |
| CLC Custom LeatherCraft 1132 Tool Backpack |
|
75 | 9.5 | Check price |
| Klein Tools 55485 TradesmanProTool Master Backpack |
|
48 | 9.2 | Check price |
| DEWALT DGL523 Lighted Tool Backpack Bag |
|
57 | 9.2 | Check price |
| CLC Custom Leathercraft L255, Lighted Back Pack |
|
53 | 9 | Check price |
| Veto Pro Pac TECH PAC Backpack |
|
58 | 8.9 | Check price |
| Rugged Tools Pro Tool Backpack |
|
40 | 8.7 | Check price |
| Milwaukee Jobsite Backpack 48-22-8200 |
|
35 | 8.5 | Check price |
| DEWALT DGCL33 Tool Backpack USB Charging |
|
33 | 8.5 | Check price |
1134 Carpenter Backpack | Professional Looking Option with Back Support
The CLC Carpenter’s Backpack is about as heavy-duty as they come. In addition to delivering durability like no other, it also has 48 different pockets in total. Your workload has never been more organized than it will be in this product. After filling all of its pockets, your bag might get pretty heavy. That’s why this product comes with extra back support. Clip-on your chest strap and let your arms enjoy the heavily padded shoulder straps sewn in for additional comfort. Or, if you do not want to wear it on your back, you can defer to its convenient carrying handles.
If you have any bulkier items you need to lug around, such as a tarp, pack it into the compression pocket. There is also a section of this product dedicated to your favorite cord-free drill. Plus, you can opt to pay a bit extra to receive three extra clip-on bags to expand your load capacity. Lastly, the padding on the back of this product has breathing holes, which will help to keep your sweaty back cooler on even the hottest of days. Because this pack is so professional looking, it is likely a good choice for those who need to organize their equipment for working jobs on the go. That being said, it will also help recreational DIY fixer-uppers keep their workspaces neat and tidy as well.
CLC 1134 Carpenter's Tool Backpack with 44 Pockets and Padded Back Support
- Compression pocket accepts bulky items
- Large main compartments
- Padded shoulder straps
- Rubber feet help prevent water from seeping in
Conclusion: Older workers or those who have experienced injuries in the past may appreciate this option thanks to its back support.
- Straps can be adjusted for comfort
- Added back support
- 48 different pockets
- Can carry on shoulders or with hands
- Optional poly bags
- None
Klein Tools 55421BP-14 | A Name Brand That Everyone Trusts
Klein Tools’ 55421BP-14 model is super lightweight, weighing in at just over 6 pounds when empty. That way, you can shove all of your holy grail products into it without worrying it will be too much to carry. There are 39 different pockets you can use to keep everything you might need with you at all times. On the outside of the product is a special hard-molded area where you can store safety glasses safely. It will help prevent them from breaking or scratching. The bottom of the product is also waterproof, molded to keep out rain, snow, dirt, and other unwanted environmental substances. If you have a hard time trusting reviews, then take a look at this pack’s 4.6/5 star rating, left by over 870 people.
Thanks to its bright orange accents, the different compartments of this product are easy to see, even in darker workspaces such as basements. Much of the material it is crafted from is a ballistic weave that will resist tears and keep your personal belongings safe. Because this company has been around since 1857, it has had plenty of time to establish a solid reputation for being a trustworthy manufacturer. This takes some of the risks out of purchasing this option for those who do not want to deal with the hassle of potentially having to return it.
Backpack, Electrician Tool Bag, Tradesman Pro Organizer, 39 Pockets and Molded Base...
- 39 pockets for tool storage
- Interior pockets for long screwdrivers
- Fully molded bottom
- Durable materials used
Conclusion: Because there is a lot of room for large products in this bag, it could be a good choice for those who work alone and don’t have a partner to help carry the bigger things.
- Recognizable brand
- Bright orange organizing compartments
- 4.6/5 star rating
- Protected goggle area
- Not much room for drills and other large tools
CLC 1132 | An Unbelievable Amount of Pockets
CLC’s 1132 model is the best tool backpack for those who are frequently installing or repairing purchases. It has 75 pockets arranged methodically throughout six different zippering compartments. Additionally, it comes with a plastic tray that is perfect for keeping tiny pieces like screws and washers separate. The material it is made from is strong to prevent any sharp pieces inside from poking out and vice versa. Soft padding inside its straps will keep you comfortable whether you are carrying it on your back or in your hand. Because it only weighs five pounds, you can shove more into it without worrying about hurting yourself due to its weight.
With an all-black aesthetic, this bag is perfectly suited for professionals who want to look tidy. Its bright yellow logo adds a nice accent to its look though. If you do not mind spending a few extra dollars, you can receive some clip-on polyester bags to add some more space to your already-large capacity. The bags are black and brown to match their professional look. Another convenient characteristic of this product is that it has a nice square shape. When packed, it will usually be able to stand up straight on its own without heaving to lean against anything. This will ensure that your tools do not get accidentally scrambled while you are working or in transit.
CLC Custom LeatherCraft 1132 75-Pocket Tool Backpack
- 75 pockets and sleeves
- Separate storage area for a cordless drill
- 6 zippered, padded compartments
- Multi-compartment plastic tray
- Durable ballistic polyester fabric
Conclusion: In addition to being more durable than most, this also might make a good choice for people who have a hard time staying organized on their own.
- The tray helps messy people stay organized
- Professional black color
- 75 pockets in all
- Does not hurt to carry
- Zippers weaken when overpacked
- Some prefer the previous model
CLC 1132 HEAVY-DUTY TOOL BACKPACK
Yotube Video Review: CLC 1132 HEAVY-DUTY TOOL BACKPACK
Klein Tools 55485 | Nifty Removable Caddy
The Klein Tools TradesmanProTool is likely ideal for those who carry primarily hand tools. Inside of it, there are 48 pockets to store things, along with a tool caddy that can actually be removed from the body of the product. This caddy is perfect for workers who use a certain set of tools more frequently than others. They can keep their favorites in their caddy and remove that for the majority of their jobs to lighten their load. Attached to its caddy is a D-ring so that you can hang it up wherever you go.
On the actual pouch, there is a cable that reinforces the handle. Even when you pack your bag full of the heaviest things, you do not have to worry about this handle ripping. The handle also has pulls that can lock and keep your stuff safe. That being said, your purchase of this product does not include tools to lock it with. If you typically come in contact with wet surfaces while working, then you are in luck. The 1680 ballistic weave material that this item is made from is water-resistant. Its bottom is also molded to prevent water from seeping in via its bottom. This is a crucial element of this product, as a lot of what you’ll keep inside of it is likely metal and prone to rusting.
Backpack Tool Bag, 48 Pockets for Hand Tools, Great Electrician Heavy Duty...
- 1680d ballistic material construction
- Handle reinforced with aircraft cable
- 48 pockets overall
- Closed pouches for small tools
Conclusion: Those in search of a bag that will last them many years to come will probably be happy with this one. It offers decent storage space with an easy to access caddy and intense reinforcement to prevent annoying ripping.
- 48 pockets
- Orange interior
- Removable caddy with 11 compartments
- Reinforced handle
- Doesn’t usually stand upright
- Not a lot of room for large tools
Klein Tradesman Pro Tool Master Backpack 55485 New from Klein
Yotube Video Review: Klein Tradesman Pro Tool Master Backpack 55485 New from Klein
DEWALT DGL523 | Great for Dark Workspaces – Find Out Why
DEWALT’s DGL523 bag is popular amongst workers for a number of reasons. First and foremost, the brand is well-known and trustworthy. Anyone knows that when buying from this brand, they can count on quality products and reliable customer service. Another one of its perks is the LED light built into its body. The tool is slightly mobile so that it can be pointed into the direction you need to see better. Pick between its three different levels of intensity depending on whether you need it to illuminate a large area or a small space for close-up jobs. It also comes in handy when attempting to identify small items during dark hours or in ill-lit rooms.
The webbing located on the backside of this product is plush to keep you comfortable while carrying. When you put it down, you can unzip its pockets down so that it stands upright but is filleted open. By doing this, you will have greater access to more of your things at a time. Inside the product are 48 pockets, with exterior pockets to help hold even more. Hard workers will appreciate the sleeve on its side that can hold either larger equipment or a bottled drink to stay hydrated while on the job.
DEWALT DGL523 Lighted Tool Backpack Bag, 57-Pockets
- 48 multi-use pockets inside
- LED light integrated
- Padded web carrying handles
- Adjustable shoulder straps
- Base pad feet
Conclusion: The LED light on this product increases its value a great deal. No matter what your profession is, you will likely be able to put this product to good use.
- Practical LED light
- 57 total pockets
- Stands upright while open
- Zipper wears over time
- Straps break if packed too full
DeWalt DGL523 57-Pocket LED Lighted Tool Backpack Review
Yotube Video Review: DeWalt DGL523 57-Pocket LED Lighted Tool Backpack Review
CLC L255 Tech Gear Backpack | Another Illuminating Alternative
In some ways, the CLC L255 is similar to the item listed above. It also has a built-in LED light that allows you to see in dark places. Like the other, the light has three different brightness settings you can choose between. However, the location of the light is slightly different. Just by looking at the image of the product, you can also tell that it is slightly more compact. This will make carrying it by hand easier should your shoulders or back need a rest. Its hardcore handles will also be able to withstand a lot of weight. Do not be afraid to pack your heavy drills!
With 53 pockets in total, it is unlikely that you will have trouble keeping your things organized ever again. 28 of the pockets are designed to carry tools, 14 of them are for accessory bits, and the last 11 are ideal for multi-use. Shove whatever fits into them and never be without your holy grail items. Zippers, velcro, and fabric lips will ensure that everything stays in place, even while you are on the move. When you get to your location, both sides of this product can completely unzip to form what looks like an upsidedown T. Upon finishing your work, pack it up easily and head home for some well-deserved rest.
CLC Custom Leathercraft L255 Tech Gear 53 Pocket Lighted Back Pack
- 53 pockets for better organization
- Built-in LED light
- Large base pad feed
- Adjustable padded shoulders with sternum strap
Conclusion: This backpack is probably good for mechanics and other workers who work in and under cars or in other tight spaces. It will allow them to easily access their belongings with its dual compartment design.
- Designated pockets
- Stands upright
- Durable hanging hook
- Not comfortable for extended wear
- Light will need replacement after some time
Veto Tech Pac | Stand Out From Your Coworkers
Part of why the Veto Tech Pac is so coveted is that it comes in five different color options. For those who prefer a traditional look, there are simple black and brown options. If you are seeking something that will be easy to spot in a garage or in dark spaces, try the bright orange or yellow options. Lastly, lovers of camouflage can satisfy their woodsy appreciations with the brown and black camo option. There is truly an option for everyone. With many of these choices, you do not have to worry about accidentally mixing up your bag with someone else’s.
Boasting 56 pockets, this bag has a decent amount of space. Stuff hand tools, meters, and more inside, and still have room for larger things like cables and hoses. Though this bag is pricier than many of its alternatives, it is because it is durable and better at protecting what is inside. Due to this, it is considered the best electrician tool bag. The thermo-formed back panel will give your back a breath after a long workday, and its straps have rubber gripping technology to prevent slippage.
Veto Pro Pac TECH PAC (Bright Yellow)
- Water repellant fabric
- 56 pockets inside and out
- Stabilizing injection molded waterproof base
- Front top pockets for better storage
- Memory stick pockets
Conclusion: This is likely a good choice for electricians, who need to be very careful about keeping their tools in good condition if they want to be able to work safely. Plus, this product a handy place to store a memory stick as well as a tape clip. These little things may end up making all the difference in your decision.
- Five color options
- Center panel helps to keep pack upright
- 4.8/5 star rating
- Warranty is not always promised
- Lopsided when standing alone
Rugged Tools Pro Tool Backpack | Perfect for Handymen
The Rugged Tools Pro Tool Backpack is slender but hardcore. It is recognizable by the bright orange accents on the outside facing side of it. On the bottom of the bag is a flat water-tight seal that resembles a crosshatched tire. Since it is flat, it will stay upright, meaning your tools will not become scrambled by it accidentally tipping over. Water will not seep into the bag wetting your materials and potentially rusting or damaging them. For this reason, this could be a good choice for someone who works in plumbing.
In total, the bag has 40 pockets and is made from a tough type of polyester. All of its pockets are reinforced well. Additionally, its zippers are built to withstand a lot of zipping and unzipping with extreme pressure. Usually, the zippers on bags are the first to go, so this is good news. The shoulders of the unit are padded well for comfortable carrying. On the sides of the product are two pockets with closed tops that are good for carrying beverages or large tools. At the top of the bag is a small zippered pocket that makes a convenient place for carrying keys, flash drives, glasses, and other small things you might need to be able to access frequently and easily.
Rugged Tools Pro Tool Backpack - 40 Pocket Heavy Duty Jobsite Tool...
- 4 exterior pockets and 34 internal pockets
- Backpack stays upright thanks to the molded bottom
- A good handle for reliable carrying
- Padded shoulder straps
Conclusion: This product offers you a good balance between quality and price. Its highlights are definitely its molded bottom and ability to stand upright. It is likely a good option for people with expensive equipment.
- Made from 1680D polyester
- Pockets and zippers are reinforced
- Straps are padded and adjustable
- Not a lot of room for large equipment
- Buckles may not last for years
Milwaukee Jobsite 48-22-8200 | All-American Bag Adored by Professionals
Nowadays, technology has officially seeped into nearly every professional career. Most workers receive assignments, organize their schedule, plan their work, or look things up using a laptop or tablet. While most bags do not account for this, the Milwaukee Jobsite 48-22-8200 does. In addition to having pockets where you can store tools, it has a place to safely store your laptop. The area will protect your technology from the other hard and sharp things you also need to keep in your bag. Additionally, its base is molded so that it keeps out water and other things from getting into your bag.
Its bright coloration will make telling its compartments apart easier than some other options. Because the Milwaukee bag breathes easily, it will not get smelly or humid inside. These things could produce rot or mildew that could damage your belongings or the bag itself. It also has padding, which is common, to ensure that its user is comfortable while carrying it around. The aesthetic of the bag is unique in its way. It has clips on the front and is designed to look a bit like the top of overalls. On its sides, there are two pockets to store things like safety glasses and a water bottle.
Milwaukee 48-22-8200 Jobsite Backpack
- 35 pockets for organizing tools
- Holds laptops up to 15.6″
- 1680 ballistic fabric
- Padded and breathable material
Conclusion: As briefly mentioned above, this bag is probably the best option for those who regularly use a latop or tablet at work. It will keep your technology safe so you can do your job well and efficiently.
- Accommodates and protects your technology
- Will stand upright
- Water-resistance bottom
- Daisy chains allow additional clip-on storage
- Customer support is not responsive
- Laptop area reduces amount of tool space
- Pockets are too thin for some users
Dewalt DGCL33 | Never Let Your Device Die on the Job
Some devices might not be able to last throughout your entire workday, and that’s where the Dewalt DGCL3 comes in. Inside of it is a charging dock with USB connections. You can charge up to two devices with the product. This might come in handy if the job you work requires a phone or other device to stay in touch with customers or your employer. On top of that, the product also has an LED light. It is one of the most tech-savvy options on the market for those seeking this type of bag.
On the bottom of the bag are feet that help reduce the amount of contact the bag has with the ground. This will result in a smaller chance of holes forming in the fabric at the bottom of the bag. It will also help keep water and dirt out. With bright yellow accents, your bag will be easy to tell from other people’s bags, as well as easy to spot in darker spaces. It is also reinforced in all the right places so that you will be able to carry it without worrying about it ripping and dropping your precious belongings.
DEWALT DGCL33 33-Pocket Lighted USB Charging Tool Backpack
- Integrated 2-Level, 200 lumen LED light system
- Cut-off protection monitors battery capacity
- Internal charging compartment
- Large pads on back for extra comfort
Conclusion: Because of the USB port and LED light this bag has, it is likely a good option for younger workers who will feel comfortable taking advantage of the helpful technology.
- Built-in lighting good for occasional use
- Zippers will last you
- Straps adjust to fit different sizes
- Phone won’t die while at work thanks to USB
- Takes up a lot of space
- Poor back support
| Product Name | Image | Pockets | Overall Rating | Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CLC 1134 Carpenter’s Backpack with Padded Back Support |
|
48 | 10 | Check price |
| Tradesman Pro Organizer, Klein Tools 55421BP-14 |
|
39 | 9.5 | Check price |
| CLC Custom LeatherCraft 1132 Tool Backpack |
|
75 | 9.5 | Check price |
| Klein Tools 55485 TradesmanProTool Master Backpack |
|
48 | 9.2 | Check price |
| DEWALT DGL523 Lighted Tool Backpack Bag |
|
57 | 9.2 | Check price |
| CLC Custom Leathercraft L255, Lighted Back Pack |
|
53 | 9 | Check price |
| Veto Pro Pac TECH PAC Backpack |
|
58 | 8.9 | Check price |
| Rugged Tools Pro Tool Backpack |
|
40 | 8.7 | Check price |
| Milwaukee Jobsite Backpack 48-22-8200 |
|
35 | 8.5 | Check price |
| DEWALT DGCL33 Tool Backpack USB Charging |
|
33 | 8.5 | Check price |
Buying Guide on Picking the Best Backpack for You
When purchasing a carrier for your tools, there are five features that you should pay close attention to. Dedicating special time to reviewing these key elements will make your decision easier and ultimately help you make the best choice that you can.
- Straps
This step is particularly important when shopping on the Internet, as you will not be able to try on the product before buying it. It is crucial that the straps on whatever you buy are padded well if you plan on carrying your product on your back for long distances. The heavier you plan on packing your bag, the more important this feature becomes. In addition to being comfortable, supportive straps should also include a chest and/or waist buckle. These buckles will help distribute weight evenly and protect your posture and alignment.
- Pockets
Sometimes when searching for a new backpack, people get obsessed with finding the option that has the most pockets. The fact of the matter is though, this is not necessary for everyone. Usually, the more pockets a product has, the more expensive it is. Before even searching through options, figure out how many pockets you actually need to carry your essential belongings in an organized manner. Then, go from there.
- Materials
Some common materials you will see listed in a product are polyester, leather, and canvas. All of these different materials will bring unique characteristics to the table. For example, canvas is cheaper but not all that durable. Leather stretches well but warps when it gets wet. Polyester is usually known for being one of the tougher materials. Choose your material carefully according to how you will use your purchase.
- Construction and Design
If you review the ten above products properly, then it is impossible to miss their individual designs. From their shape to their modular storage systems, they are all different, if only slightly. Some are built to stand on their own, whereas some can be built to lay on their backs and open horizontally. There is no “best” construction or design as long as it is durable. Choose based on your personal preferences.
- Additional Accessories
Some packs have extra quirks that may make your life a whole lot easier. Whether it is a USB connection designed to charge your phone on the go, or an LED light to help you see in the dark, take note of these accessories. The best tool bag for plumbers may have different helpful accessories than the best electrician backpack. They can end up making or breaking your decision to go with a certain product.
What Makes a Tool Backpack Better than a Regular One?
From the outside, regular backpacks look quite similar to ones designed specifically to hold tools. Upon taking a closer look though, there are actually many intense differences that turn an impractical carrier into a lifesaver. For starters, the strength of the material used usually greatly varies. While the actual materials used to make the best backpack tool bags is typically the same across the board, tool bags almost always have more reinforcement. In addition to material reinforcement, they may also have plastic and metal reinforcement. This is especially true for the bottom of the bags, which are often molded with material to keep water from seeping in.
Another difference is the way that the interior of the bags are organized. Most people are familiar with the interior of normal backpacks. There may be two to four compartments. Some are small for holding pens, pencils, and other office supplies. Then, there are rectangular areas to hold textbooks, notebooks, tablets, and laptops. Tool backpacks also have compartments, but they tend to have many more. Additionally, these compartments have mini pockets inside. Unlike regular backpacks which might have three to eight pockets, ones made for tools might have up to 100 pockets. At the very least, they will have 30 to 50.
Lastly, depending on your profession, there are different types of tool backpacks that might be best for you. For example, workers like welders and electrician may carry equipment with them that is more fragile than what regular carpenters might carry. Therefore, they may need a more protective carrying bag, whereas the best tool bag for carpenter use just has to be durable. Some tool backpacks also have fun quirks, such as LED lights or hooks for attaching extra bags, tape, and more.
Essential Tools for Your Backpack
There are numerous tools you need for doing a proper job. However, below are some of the typical items that a good handyman will pack into their bag:
- Screwdrivers
- Pliers
- Drill bits
- Laser measure
- Electric drills
- Tablets
- Cables
- Wires
- Safety glasses
- Tape
You may notice that while most of the items above are tools, some of them are not. Tape and safety goggles or glasses are two non-tool items that you will not want to forget. Sometimes, the best place to keep tape is clipped to the outside of your bag on a handle or a zipper. Common types of tape used are electrical tape, duct tape, and masking tape. Safety glasses, however, are not so easy to store due to their fragile nature. If the jobs you do frequently require eye protection, then seek out a bag with a structured storage area made especially for this. That way, even if your bag rolls around in a truck or gets stepped on, your eyewear will not break or bend.
Before investing in a new pack, it is probably best to organize all of the tools you plan on carrying in it. This way, you will be able to figure out how many pockets you will need. The best small tool bag will be cheaper than a much larger one. This is also good for figuring out what size bag you need, and if you require additional structure. For example, an electrician who frequently carries light bulbs and other fragile material may want to get a hard-shelled bag. A hobbyist who only carries old hand tools, on the other hand, might just need a soft, cheap bag that will get the job done. Never forget that what works for others may not work for you and vice versa.
Materials Used for Tool Backpacks
- Canvas or Polyester
There are many differences between canvas and polyester. In terms of durability, polyester is probably the winner durable, especially in harsh conditions. Polyester is also better suited to withstand damp or wet environments. In some cases, canvas can also provide water resistance. However, this is only possible when the material is coated in wax. Canvas bags are prone to damage and abrasion, which is why most professionals choose polyester options. Polyester provides better resistance to pressure and will likely last you longer.
- Leather
Some manufacturers make leather tool backpacks, which can be a practical choice for some. They stretch nicely and look luxurious. That being said, leather requires more caution and maintenance. Users need to know proper practices for keeping the leather in good condition. Leather can also be easily damaged by water and other liquids unless it is treated with a waterproofing solution. Real leather is also typically more expensive than its alternatives given its animal origin and work-intensive production.
- Polypropylene
Polypropylene is another popular material used in bagmaking. It is a very good insulator and it does not absorb water. There are probably its greatest perks, and why polypropylene is commonly used to construct outdoor backpacks. Because it is a very versatile material, it is also frequently blended with other fabric types such as polyester. This helps to reduce costs and can increase the functionality of whatever it gets mixed with.
Care and Maintenance
Caring for your tool backpack is not unlike caring for your other belongings. It is likely to get dirty if you are frequently taking it to work with you or using it to fix things around your home. If you purchase a high-quality option though, it should be able to withstand these conditions, as well as being cleaned every so often. Owners of bags that are machine washable can just pop the bag in with their laundry and wash normally. If your bag is not machine washable though, you may have to hand-wash it with mild dish soap and lukewarm water.
Leather bags require the most maintenance. To keep your leather bag as durable as possible, it is a good idea to treat your leather with some type of waterproofing solution. Once your leather has been waterproofed, it will be more resistant to dirt and stains. When it does get dirty, you can buy a special leather washer and conditioner to use on it. The cleaner and better conditioned you keep your leather, the longer it will last you.
Warranty
When it comes to warranties, the most common one you will see provided by a seller is what is called a “manufacturing warranty.” This means that the manufacturer will cover any defects or issues the product receives upon its arrival to you. An example would be if your bag gets delivered missing a zipper or torn from shipping. This type of warranty does not cover accidents that happen because of you though. If you drop your bag in a lake or tear a hole in it at work, you cannot cash in your manufacturer’s warranty.
Full warranties, on the other hand, may cover damage done to your product by you. The most common warranty lengths on products that you will see will be for about one or two years. While it is rare, some longer warranties are offered. You might even come across a lifetime warranty.
