If your job requires you to use and carry multiple tools at once, you understand the importance of finding the best tool backpack on the market. You want to manage all of them easily and securely. Whether your tool is a laptop, a stethoscope, or a screwdriver, you wouldn’t want to throw it randomly on your pack, would you?
Tools, of course, come in all sizes and styles, and if you’re a plumber, electrician, carpenter, or some other type of technician, you’re likely to use a variety of tools on a daily basis and need them to be organized and easily accessible as possible. That’s where a specially crafted tool backpack comes in handy. With that, we tried and included some best tool backpacks in this guide which will hopefully enable you to make an informed decision. If rolling bags are your thing, then check out our selection of the best rolling tool bags.
In a Hurry? The test winners after 10 hrs of research
CLC Custom Leathertcraft 1134 Carpenter’s Tool Backpack – Best Value
Why is it better?
- Lots of small tool storage
- Special cable storage compartment
- Padded and comfortable back support
- Adjustable shoulder and chest strap
Dead On Tools DO-DES Gear Destroyer Tech Backpack – Premium Pick
Why is it better?
- Plenty of versatile pocket space for storage
- Heavy-duty zippers and it’s constructed well
- Tech pack, backpack and tool pack all in one
- Good stitching and comfort-grip top handle
Best Tool Backpacks – Overview
Plumbers, electricians, HVAC workers, and contracters, in general, all need specialized equipment to do their job. It makes sense that they also need a specific bag to carry everything, which is why we have put together this guide on picking the best tool bags and backpacks. Let’s check out our recommendations for the best tool backpack for hard-working individuals like you.
Tool Backpacks Reviews
1. CLC Custom Leathertcraft 1134 Carpenter’s Tool Backpack – Best Value
Our Best Value recommendation goes to the CLC Custom Leathertcraft 1134 Carpenter’s Tool Backpack that provides the solution for installers and repair technicians needing to transport tools while still having their hands free, whether for climbing ladders or carrying bulky tools or construction equipment. The inspired design incorporates 41 pockets inside and 7 pockets outside of various sizes and configurations to transport any type of tools and small parts.
There are dual handles so you can hold it your way as well as another handy outside pocket where you can conveniently store essential items that you may need to use more often. There is also an adjustable chest strap so you can adjust both chest and shoulder straps for your convenience and comfort if you are carrying an unusually heavy load. The material is thick and durable, which promises to last as long as you take care of it properly.
Key Features:
- Large pads on back for extra comfort, and adjustable padded shoulder straps
- Two main zippered compartments with plenty of pockets to organize your tools
- Large easy access pocket on top
- Specially designed feet on the bottom to keep your tools dry in wet conditions
- All the internal and external organization space you need even for small items like pens
Specifications:
- Brand: Custom Leathercraft
- Dimensions: 16″ H x 13.5″ W x 8.5″ D
- Weight: 4.6 lbs
- Lots of small tool storage
- Special cable storage compartment
- Padded and comfortable back support
- Adjustable shoulder and chest strap
- Bottom of backpack prone to digging
2. Klein Tools 55421BP-14 Electrician Tool Backpack
The Klein Tools 55421BP-14 Electrician Tool Backpack features 39 pockets for plenty of tool storage, including a hard, molded front pocket for safety glasses and a front zipper pocket to store loose parts. The bright orange interior will help you find your tools faster. The durable molded base protects from the elements.
Built of a special ballistic weave, it is both lightweight and robust. It features reinforced stitching, sturdy zippers, and the exclusive orange and black mark Klein use. The pockets are all large and the zippers are sturdy, plus there is a front zipper section to hold your smaller tools. For your comfort, there are padded shoulder straps as well as optional carry handles.
Key Features:
- 39 pockets for tons of tool storage
- Hard, molded front pocket protects safety glasses
- Front zipper pocket for small parts and tools
- Taller bag and interior pockets allow for long screwdrivers
- Fully molded bottom to protect from weather conditions
Specifications:
- Brand: Klein Tools
- Dimensions: 20″ H x 14.5″ W x 7.2″ D
- Weight: 6.05 lbs
- Slim and compact while still having more than enough pockets to store your tools
- Protective molded base
- Padded should straps as well as carry handles
- Longer length perfect for long-handled tools
- Slightly heavy
3. CLC Custom LeatherCraft 1132 Tool Backpack
The CLC Custom LeatherCraft 1132 Tool Backpack comes with 75 sleeves and pockets. The built-in pockets are designed to hold ratchets, wrenches, deep-well and standard holes, and other tools and accessories that are often carried in their work environment by mechanics. It’s also sectioned off to provide the contractor with several partitions to help ensure the organization of tool groups.
The tool backpack offers a hook and loops section and incorporates flap closure pockets to secure stored items. It also has an included section to hold an extension cord, pliers, a screwdriver, and much more. This backpack’s robust construction can be attributed to the durable and strong ballistic polyester fabric.
Key Features:
- 75 total pockets
- Comfortable, padded, adjustable shoulder straps
- Several pockets with hook-and-loop flap closure
- Multi-compartment plastic tray
Specifications:
- Brand: Custom Leathercraft
- Dimensions: 17.5″ H x 13″ W x 9″ D
- Weight: 5 lbs
- With all the pockets it will be able to hold most if not all of your tools
- Can safely and securely store your stuff through its hook & loop flap closures
- Quality construction
- Equipped with a plated back, which can minimize or lessen drag
- There are more small pockets than there are large ones
4. Milwaukee 48-22-8200 Jobsite Tool Backpack
If you’re performing heavy-duty jobs and need to lug equipment from one site to another in rapid succession, then the Milwaukee 48-22-8200 Jobsite Tool Backpack is the perfect storage solution for you. It boasts more than 30 pockets of different sizes, allowing you to keep many of your wrenches, pliers, scissors, screwdrivers, and other hand tools easily accessible. Zippered pouches located on the interior and exterior let you store fish tape or electrical tape within reach while still protecting them from the elements.
You’ll notice that these pockets are designed to distribute the weight as evenly as possible, but sometimes you’ll need to load it with bulky equipment. For times like this, you can tighten the onboard strap around your chest to keep the load evenly across your body.
Key Features:
- 35 organizational pockets
- Plastic coated bottom
- Constructed from 1680 ballistic fabric for ultimate durability
- Load bearing harnesses for even weight distribution
- Separate laptop sleeve
Specifications:
- Brand: Milwaukee
- Dimensions: 23.4″ H x 14.3″ W x 8″ D
- Weight: 4.41 lbs
- Organized layout
- Room for small hardware cases & drill bit cases on the bottom plane of the tool pouch
- Durable and with a good heft, once it’s fully loaded
- Padded comfort harness
- Not water-resistant
5. Rugged Tools Worksite Tool Backpack
The Rugged Tools Worksite Tool Backpack may have been around for a while, but it is as durable as ever and has plenty of impressive features. Made of high-quality, highly durable 1680D polyester material, this backpack is definitely built to last and designed to withstand the toughest conditions. There are plenty of reinforced pockets with a sturdy zipper closure so you can always put your hands on the tools you’re searching for.
It even comes with zippered pockets that are safe and secure, utility strap laptop sleeve, and a tape measure clip. With that, you can be confident that it carries multiple storage locations for your screwdrivers, wrenches, measuring tape, level, drill, electrical fish tape, electronics & more. A padded laptop sleeve along the back of the main compartment will accommodate most laptops up to 15″ in size. The molded bottom provides a flat surface to stand the tool backpack upright in any environment and elevates your tools so they do not become damaged.
Key Features:
- 68 total internal and external pockets
- Double reinforced stitching
- Molded hard bottom to keep the backpack upright and your tools out of the elements
- Padded shoulder straps
- Padded back lumbar support
Specifications:
- Brand: Milwaukee
- Dimensions: 18″ H x 17″ W x 9″ D
- Weight: 6 lbs
- Lots of space for all your tools
- External USB charging port
- The padded back and shoulder straps make it comfortable to carry the weight of the tools
- The hard plastic bottom makes it great for the field
- The computer pocket is a little too short for a 15″ macbook
6. Veto Pro Pac TECH PAC Technician Backpack
The Veto Pro Pac TECH PAC Technician Backpack is the first backpack tool bag designed specifically for professional tradesmen who need to Climb ladders or Walk long distances on a daily basis. Designed to enable the safe and comfortable transport of a variety of tools when servicing equipment accessible by extension or Cage ladders, or in cities or industrial buildings where walking long distances is required, this backpack features Veto Pro Pac’s patented center panel, heavy-duty construction and stabilizing injection molded waterproof base that keeps tools dry, even in the nastiest of conditions.
With 56 pockets inside and out, this tool backpack has ample room for hand tools, meters, parts boxes, cordless drills, and impact drivers, as well as other Bulkier items such as manifold gauges, hoses, cable wires and even a tablet. The tool backpack features an innovative quick release handle that allows easy access to the larger tool bay compartment and reduces the strain on the shoulder straps, unlike any other backpack bag.
Key Features:
- 56 total pockets
- Padded EVA thermal-formed ergonomic back padding
- Quick-release metal hasp for easy access to back storage bay
- 3 mm thick polypropylene base- won’t tip over with tools stored in the bag
Specifications:
- Brand: Veto
- Dimensions: 21.5″ H x 14.2″ W x 9.9″ D
- Weight: 9 lbs
- Easily carry your tools with plenty of padding in the shoulders and back
- Lots of space for carrying the essentials
- Doesn’t topple over when open
- Rugged design that has withstood the elements
- Gets very heavy very fast
- Expensive, but you get what you paid for
7. Fluke Pack30 Professional Tool Backpack
The Fluke Pack30 Professional Tool Backpack is built with durable high-quality polyester and features over 30 heavy-duty pockets for storing and carrying your tools to the next job. Three main storage compartments for test tools, hand tools, and a laptop/tablet; a fourth smaller molded pocket for protection of smaller items. Rugged waterproof molded bottom offers protection from the elements and keeps the backpack standing for convenient access to tools.
Clips, brackets, and straps on the outside of the tool backpack for frequently used tools such as tape rolls, measuring tapes, voltage detectors. Plus, the Pack30 gives you a more comfortable solution than traditional tool belts that put all the weight on your lower back or tool bags with awkward carrying straps.
Key Features:
- Built with durable high-quality polyester
- Features over 30 heavy-duty pockets for storing and carrying tools
- Three main storage compartments for test tools, hand tools, and a laptop/tablet
- Rugged waterproof molded bottom offers protection from the elements
- Molded EVA covers for the front and top sections for added protection
Specifications:
- Brand: Fluke
- Dimensions: 20″ H x 13″ W x 9.25″ D
- Weight: 5 lbs
- Dedicated netting/meter storage at the side
- You can unzip just the top portion and have access to most anything inside
- It holds it’s shape well
- High-quality construction
- Rather bulky in design, it’s about the same level of bulkiness whether full or empty
8. DEWALT DGC530 USB Charging Tool Backpack
This DEWALT DGC530 USB Charging Tool Backpack by Custom LeatherCraft has USB charging capabilities, allowing you to use your DeWalt 20V MAX* Lithium-Ion battery and the internal custom design battery dock as a USB charging source. The dock simultaneously charges two devices via USB ports delivering a maximum of 2 Amps shared output.
Designed with three internal charging wall pockets to accommodate a laptop, phone and/or camera, large pads on back for extra comfort make carrying heavier loads more comfortable on stress areas of the back, padded web carrying handles and adjustable shoulder straps to make carrying more comfortable plus adding hand flexibility on each end for easy “from stow to go” and base pad feet to help reduce wear and abrasion.
Key Features:
- USB charging battery dock
- 20 Multi-use pockets inside and 3 outside help organize a wide variety of hand tools
- Vertical tool wall to organize a variety of extended screwdrivers and hand tools
- Large pads on back for extra comfort
Specifications:
- Brand: Custom Leathercraft
- Dimensions: 19.8″ H x 14.5″ W x 6″ D
- Weight: 3.45 lbs
- Charging ports on board for your electronics
- Easy internal organization
- Solid and durable construction
- Straps are comfortable and the carry handle on the top is nice for lifting
- Rechargeable battery pack sold separately
9. AmazonBasics Tool Bag Backpack
The AmazonBasics Tool Bag Backpack has plenty to love and the price is just one of them. It’s from the hugely popular Amazon Basics line, so you know you’re getting guaranteed quality, it’s budget-friendly, and it has plenty of pockets and features to hold tools for anyone. This comes in a few sizes so that you can go with utility loops for a standard 22 pockets, all the way up to a large 75 pockets. We suggest their 51 pocket edition with 2 main zippered compartments: one for tools and parts, and one for a cordless drill and battery.
Made of thick, durable polyester fabric, the backpack provides reliable performance and helps keep stored items protected. Its PVC-coated polyester interior lining offers an added layer of strength, and the orange interior makes it easier to find stored items. To help ensure a comfortable fit, the tool bag backpack provides padded back support and shoulder straps with an adjustable chest strap. Sling the backpack over one shoulder for quick transport or place it over both shoulders for longer treks and heavier loads.
Key Features:
- 42 inside pockets and 9 outside pockets
- Large easy-access pocket on top
- 2 main zippered compartments for tools/parts and drill/battery
- Comfortable padded back support
- Shoulder straps with adjustable chest strap
Specifications:
- Brand: AmazonBasics
- Dimensions: 16″ H x 15″ W x 8.5″ D
- Weight: 4.48 lbs
- Works well to carry smaller tools and a laptop
- The zippers and velcro seem to be durable
- The base is nice and it stands up well even when loaded
- Comfortable to carry on the back
- There are only a few large pockets inside the main pack so you may have to compromise for larger items like meters and measuring tools
10. Dead On Tools DO-DES Gear Destroyer Tech Backpack – Premium Pick
Introducing the ultimate experience in a tool bag – the Dead On Tools DO-DES Gear Destroyer Tech Backpack. It’s a tech pack, backpack, tool pack, all-in-one. It’s the definition of a traveling workstation. A molded water-resistant bottom and 1680 denier poly material mean you can bring it just about anywhere and it’ll withstand just about anything. It holds a laptop, files, tools, and keeps it all organized and at the ready. The signature dead skull on the front shows everyone you’re a tough guy (or Girl) which means business.
They did not forget on those all-important comfort features though either and this bag comes with breathable moisture wicking, padding shoulder straps as well as a moisture-wicking on the back panel to keep you cool and comfortable at all times.
Key Features:
- Constructed from 1680D polyester and built to last
- Features reinforced zippers and pockets
- 19 main compartments, 7 front pockets, 3 rear pockets
- Breathable straps, with moisture-wicking lining on back to manage perspiration
- Laptop sleeve can hold up to 17″
Specifications:
- Brand: Dead On Tools
- Dimensions: 20″ H x 17″ W x 10″ D
- Weight: 7.1 lbs
- Plenty of versatile pocket space for storage
- Heavy-duty zippers and it’s constructed well
- Tech pack, backpack and tool pack all in one
- Good stitching and comfort-grip top handle
- The bag is on the heavier side
Buying Guide
Durability
Durability is an important feature to consider when purchasing a backpack as it ensures long-lasting use. This is why it is highly recommended to get waterproof backpacks. When operating, a backpack with a water-resistant lining can effectively protect all your tools and equipment from rain and water droplets. In this situation, heavy-duty ballistic nylon is the best material.
Compartments
Eventually, purchasing a backpack that doesn’t have enough compartments will be frustrating and may result in some tools being damaged. Choosing those that come with a large number of compartments and pockets is recommended. For carrying all sizes and types of equipment, stretchy pockets are particularly suitable.
Comfort
If you need to carry your gear somewhere and it’s always full of heavy stuff, then you want your backpack to be as comfortable as it can be. You can judge if a backpack is comfortable to carry by looking at the amount of visible padding it has. The straps should be wide and heavily padded to avoid them digging into your shoulders. Aside from the padding, the back of the backpack needs to be reinforced so that the tools’ weight is distributed evenly.
Opening and Closures
Choose a tool backpack that comes with solid closures. Because strong closures inside your backpack will keep your tools secure. When you carry a lot of expensive tools, you need to protect your supplies; whether it’s in a van or your back. This is mostly possible with well-designed zips that are rust-proof and lightweight.
Types of Tool Backpacks
Heavy-duty Tool Backpack
Heavy-duty refers to any part of the pack, from sewing to zippering. This tool backpack is the go-to bag for professionals who worry about quality materials and longevity. It’s built primarily to carry large power tools and other bulkier products. Typically this form of device backpack is wear- and tear-resistant and can stand the test of time.
Regular Tool Backpack
If you are holding other items besides tools in your bag, you may need to buy the regular tool backpacks. Such bags are primarily meant for transporting certain forms of items, for hiking or camping. The main exception is that they do have compartments for simple toolsets, such as screwdrivers, a few wrenches, and several other tiny devices. This is great for those who enjoy outdoor leisure time, and who want to do excursions in the wild.
Frequently Ask Questions
What type of closure is best for a tool backpack?
For tool backpacks, a zipper-type closure is ideal because it prevents everything from falling out. Since it is stable and leaves everything intact, handymen who use ladders in their line of work will profit from this closure process. Professionals who do much of their research on solid land, though, have the option of obtaining a bucket type pack. Bucket type can be quickly opened from above. It all depends on the kind of job you do at the end of the day, and whether or not you like zippers in your pocket of clothing.
What type of zipper should a tool backpack use?
Full YKK zippers let you open the bag from the sides all the way open. This gives you easier access to your tools, which helps you to conveniently place them in their assigned pockets. Even dual zippers are a perfect way to get one of your tools without needing to remove the entire bag to reach it. Both the full and dual zippers are nice tool backpacks choices.
Are tool backpacks waterproof?
Not all tool backpacks are waterproof. There are some that are made with a base of rubber and can absorb water effectively. Though backpacks constructed with heavy-duty nylon may even be completely immune to water.
What are the best brands for tool backpacks?
With the advantages of buying a tool backpack, it’s no longer shocking to see many businesses and brands sell and promote their products to the public in this area. Custom LeatherCraft, Carhart, Milwaukee, Klein Tools, DEWALT, and Rugged Tools are a number of famous brands manufacturing and selling tool backpacks today.
How to clean my tool backpack?
Warm soapy water can be used for a soft wash to properly clean a tool bag. It is highly recommended to avoid cleaning backpacks with toxic detergents, alkaline or chlorine because they have harmful and permanent effects on the nylon material. Stained surfaces may be cleaned by scrubbing them softly with a gentle brush.
Conclusion
Besides keeping your tools safe and organized. The right tool backpack will make it easy for you to carry heavy tools without straining your back.
We hope this guide was helpful for finding the best tool backpacks as well as our guide on features to look for in a tool backpack. If you have any questions or concerns regarding this guide, feel free to let us know in the comments section.