Best Tool Backpacks In 2022
If you are in one of the many professions that require skilled tools to carry out your trade, then you will appreciate how important it is to have them all neatly and securely organized. Whether your main daily tool is a laptop, a stethoscope or a screwdriver set, you wouldn’t just throw it into a carrier bag now, would you? Tools, of course, come in all shapes and sizes and functionalities, and if you are a contract worker, carpenter, electrician or some type of technician, chances are you will be using a variety of tools on a daily basis and require them to be organized as well as easily accessible. That’s where a specially designed tool backpack is essential. As with all things, you get what you pay for, and they have a wide range of capacities, sizes and added functionality so it can be difficult knowing where to start. That’s where the following guide and our review on the 10 Best Tool Backpacks will hopefully enable you to make an informed choice and find the right backpack for your own tools which is cost-effective, practical, space saving as well as durable. Let’s check out our recommendations now of the Best Tool Backpacks for worker bees among you.
The Best Tool Backpack
1Custom Leathercraft CLC 1134 Carpenter’s Tool Backpack
We’re getting the guide started with our Best Choice recommendation which comes from CLC Custom Leathercraft and is an excellent example of a Carpenters Tool Backpack. Their 1134 model offers plenty of space as well as being comfortable to carry which is vital as tools can be heavy and cumbersome. It’s durably constructed and will comfortably sit on your back plus it also has a super convenient and adjustable compression pocket for those bulkier and heavier tools in your kit bag. Measuring 8.5” x 13.3” x 16,” it weighs just 4.4 pounds so it a practical choice. Inside this Customer Leathercraft backpack, 2 key compartments open out plus padded back support which is comfortable to wear.
There are dual handles so you can carry it your way plus a further convenient outside pocket where you can handily store essentials that you might need to access more regularly. There’s also a customizable chest strap, so if you are carrying an unusually heavy load, you can adjust both the chest and shoulder straps for your convenience and comfort. The material is thick and of sturdy construction which promises to last a long time as long as you take care of it correctly. Perhaps the most impressive feature though if you do carry a lot of tools is that it has multiple pockets. 41 different pockets on the inside and a further 7 on the outside so there is certainly plenty of room to store all your favorite and essential tools. The pockets are also adjustable too so can accommodate bulkier items. Find more great bags like this by checking out our guide to the best day packs.
36 interior pockets
Eight exterior pockets
Padded shoulder straps
Large easy-access pocket
Reinforced carrying handles
Rubber feet
- BrandCustom Leathercraft
- Model1134
- Weight4.6 pounds
Multiple and practical pockets
Padded and comfortable pack support
Dual handles for easier lifting
Adjustable compression pockets for bulkier items
Adjustable shoulder and chest straps
Fragile zippers
Bottom of backpack prone to digging into base of base
2Klein Tools 55421BP-14 Electrician Tool Backpack
Our next best tool bag recommendation is from Klein Tools and is their heavy duty Pro Organizer backpack, perfect for a whole host of skilled trades but especially convenient for the electricians among you. Klein Tools have a sterling reputation for manufacturing some of the highest quality tools so you would expect them to have constructed a durable backpack in which you can securely and safely house those tools, and that’s precisely what you are getting with this tool holder. Made from a unique Ballistic Weave, it’s both lightweight and long-lasting. Measuring 14.5” x 20” x 7.25”, it’s roomy and comfortable to carry and weighing 6 pounds still manages to be portable too making it an excellent choice.
Looks wise, Klein Tools 55421BP-14 Electrician Tool Backpack also comes up trumps, and they’ve continued the Klein brand theme colors from their tool selection through into this work backpack design. It features reinforced stitching, durable zippers and that trademark Klein use of distinctive orange and black. All told there are 39 individual pockets so you can store plenty of your essential everyday tools and ensure quick access when needed. The pockets are all spacious, and the zippers are durable plus there’s a front zipper section where you could choose to store your smaller tools. The bottom of this Klein best tool bag is also molded which keeps your tools safe while they are in the bag plus there are padded shoulder straps as well as additional carry handles for your convenience.
Made from 1680D ballistic weave
Reinforced stitching
High-quality zippers
39 individual pockets
Fully molded bottom
- BrandKlein Tools
- Model55421BP-14
- Weight6.05 pounds
Good amount of practical pockets
Well designed and comfortable backpack to carry
Spacious inside with protective molded base
Longer length perfect for long-handled tools
Padded should straps as well as carry handles
Shoulder straps prone to fall apart
Bottom of bag is made of plastic
3Carhart Legacy Standard Work and Tool Backpack
Carhart are well known for their high-quality workwear products, fusing reliable and practical clothing and accessories that stand the rigors of being used in a work environment all the while still looking stylish and contemporary too. So whether you happen to be a carpenter, construction worker or a commuter, their Legacy Standard Work Backpack might well be the everyday carry for you. If you love to stay organized when you can’t really go wrong with this durable work backpack that will safely store all your gear in one place. With a zippered main compartment, two convenient front zip pockets and two additional external side pockets which are perfect for stashing items you need to retrieve quickly, it’s heavy duty but a stylish backpack for work.
Constructed out of 1200 denier heavy duty polyester, it also happens to be water repellent and features Carhart’s Rain Defender technology so it will keep all your gear dry in light rain. There’s also an additional reinforced Duravax base panel designed to protect your backpack and belongings. With contoured fit shoulder straps and that padded mesh back panel, wearing and carrying this waterproof backpack is a dream. Overall it measures 12” x 18” x 11” and weighs just 1.4 pounds so is seriously light-weight. With triple stitched reinforcement and sturdy YKK zippers, it’s a dependable and robust choice.
Made from 1200 denier heavy-duty polyester
Two front zippered pockets and two side pockets
Triple-stitch reinforcement
Water-repellent
Contoured fit shoulder straps
Padded mesh back panel
- BrandCarhartt
- Model19032102
- Weight1.7 pounds
Durable and robust construction
Reinforced Duravex base panel
Water repellent
Contoured and comfortable fit
Stylish and practical
Limited pockets and compartments
4Milwaukee 48-22-8200 Jobsite Tool Backpack
We’re taking a look next at what Milwaukee has on offer in the Best Tool Backpack category with their 48-22-8200 which certainly is a highly desirable tool bag. First up it really looks the part and is very striking and bold, but more importantly, it’s a well-balanced, tough and also roomy backpack that is perfect for supporting a wide range of professional trades. Measuring in at 8” x 14.3” x 23.4” it features a total of 35 pockets that enable you to really get your kit and all those essential tools fully organized. It’s constructed from 1680 ballistic material which means that it is super robust and sturdy but also light-weight. When empty this Milwaukee work bag weighs just 2.6 pounds.
A nice additional feature to this Jobsite Backpack is that it also comes with a convenient laptop sleeve. Many trades require access to the internet to review planning and permissions, regulations and contracts or to be able to quickly order additional goods and materials too. As well as that laptop compartment, there is a molded base which minimizes impact and helps to protect your bag when it’s not in use and positioned down on the floor. There are also as you would expect, multiple internal and external pockets with two main interior compartment. One of the pockets is stretchy so is perfect for storing something like a water bottle so you can stay hydrated at work throughout the day. It’s a practical and stylish choice and would make an excellent recommendation for an electrician or a construction worker looking to invest in a new tool bag. With adjustable shoulder and chest straps too, you can ensure that the weight of your load is evenly distributed and comfortable to carry. For more great options for storing your tools, check out our guide to the best tool boxes.
Made from 1680 ballistic fabric
Waterproof plastic-coated bottom
35 multi-sized organizational pockets
Load bearing harnesses
Protective laptop sleeve
- BrandMilwaukee
- Model48-22-8200
- Weight4.41 pounds
Durable and robust construction
Folding down front pockets
Padded comfort harness
Molded supportive base
Attractive design
Isn’t water resistant
Some of the pockets on the small side
5Dewalt DGC530 Charging Tool Backpack
In a collaboration next between Dewalt and Custom Leathercraft, we’re looking at a USB charging backpack which certainly looks as well as performs the part. Two companies with such fabulous pedigrees couldn’t fail but to produce an exceptional looking and performing tool bag and the high-quality construction and functionality of this Charging Backpack won’t disappoint. It truly does make moving your tools around with you from job to job and day to day a complete breeze.
Constructed with superior quality and hard wearing fabric, this is one backpack that has been engineered to last. With robust and durable stitching, it won’t rip and tear under the pressure of whatever you back inside and can easily withstand heavy loads. Pretty remarkable when you consider that this Dewalt bag itself only weight 3.8 lbs when empty. It certainly as an impressive and attractive design with that iconic and instantly recognizable black and yellow color scheme. There are a total of 23 pockets which is on the minimal side compared with many of the others we’ve so far reviewed, but we think it’s adequate for the needs of most regular construction workers to be able to carry with them all their daily tools. With a couple of larger pocket sizes included, you can also easily move your larger items without any hassle.
Perhaps the biggest stand out feature though of this Dewalt DGC530 is that integrated charging wall. What that means is that you can very conveniently connect either a tablet or a smartphone and ensure they are always fully charged while you are at work. With a Lithium-Ion battery, you can always rest assured that your phone and other essential gadgets will be in full working order.
Made from nylon
17 pocket vertical tool wall
Internal charger with device pockets
Low battery cut-off protection
Base pad feet
- BrandDeWalt
- ModelDGC530
- Weight3.45 pounds
Charging ports on board for your electronics
Cost-effective solution
Easy to organize internally
Solidly constructed and durably made
Attractive design
Rechargeable battery pack sold separately
6Veto Pro Pac Tech Tool Bag
We’re taking a look next at the Veto Pro Pac Tech Backpack which is a design and style that more resembles a piece of wheelie luggage rather than a traditional backpack and is fully capable of standing on its own. This tool bag measures 14” x 8.5” x 19” and has a molded base and has undoubtedly been constructed and manufactured to be durable. It doesn’t have the most pockets of any tool bag we’ve so far reviewed today with 27 in total both internally and externally. It’s the durability and stability though of this particular backpack that really set it apart.
The front zip section features dual opening bays which are further reinforced to provide stability, and there is also a flapped, padded pocket, perfect for securely storing a tablet or other small electronic items and valuable. It can take up to a 15-inch laptop. That intuitive front pocket design also ensures that you can store delicate or valuable tools in an upright position so that they don’t get damaged or compromised in transit. Weighing just over 6 pounds, it is portable and great for any tradesman or service technician that is always on the go and moving from one location to the next. Besides all of that, it also features a durable shoulder strap which is padded for your comfort and convenience so you can carry the Veto in multiple ways to suit you. There’s also a chest strap included so when you are using as a traditional backpack, you can ensure even weight distribution for a more comfortable and secure carry. It’s a beautifully designed and solidly reliable tool bag that really has been constructed to last. Be sure to also check out our reviews of the best tool belts for more great products like this.
Made from 1200 PVC impregnated denier nylon
Total of 44 pockets
3mm-thick polypropylene base
Overmolded ergonomic grip
Extra-wide padded straps
- BrandVeto
- ModelTECH-MCT
- Weight7 pounds
Allows for vertical carry of tools
Additional padded pockets for a laptop or electronic equipment
Highly durable and robust material
Spacious internally
Comfortable to carry
Lacking overall in pockets
Not the best for smaller tools
7Fluke Pack30 Professional Tool Backpack
The Fluke Pack30 Professional Tool Backpack is constructed from molded EVA accents and a polyester body which gives it a unique shape. The backpack has a main compartment which has over 30 pockets divided into six main storage compartments. Apart from the main compartment, there is also a front pocket that which is reinforced with molded EVA as well as a well-protected pocket where you can keep laptops, safety glasses or tablets and the bag is very versatile and particularly helpful thanks to the clips, brackets, and straps on the outside where tools such as measuring tapes and tape rolls can be attached. And that’s not all; the base of the Pack30 is waterproof making it ideal for use in all weather conditions and both the polyester body and the waterproof base prevent the backpack from tipping over.
As for comfort, this backpack is very lightweight and comfortable to carry thanks to the padded shoulder straps and a horizontal sternum strap that offer additional support; tools such as power drills, screwdrivers, and extension cords can be easily packed in the Pack30. For easier handling, additional features include a carry handle which is reinforced with aircraft cable, along with an adjustable chest strap for even weight distribution making it sturdy and tension-free.
Made from high-quality polyester
Over 30 heavy-duty pockets
Internal laptop sleeve
Rugged waterproof molded bottom
Clips, brackets, and straps on the exterior
- BrandFluke
- ModelFlukePack30
- Weight5 pounds
8Amazon Basics Tool Bag Backpack
There’s plenty to love about our next Best Tool Backpack, and the price is just one of them. It’s from the hugely popular Amazon Basics range, so you know that you are getting quality assured for them put their own name to it and this looks great, is budget friendly and has plenty of pockets and features for anyone needing to carry tools. It comes in a couple of sizes so you can go for a basic 22 pockets with utility loops, all the way up to a huge 75 pockets. We’re recommending their 23 pocket version that features three zippered pouches that are easily accessible on the front of the work bag and can be used to store your smaller items like tape measures or personal possessions. The larger of those 3 compartments is excellent for keeping your laptop safe. Inside there are 9 further compartments to arrange your tools in.
The entire Amazon Basics Tool Bag Backpack is constructed from heavy duty and hard-wearing 1680D polyester with a further 600-D exterior PVC coating. That means this functional and practical everyday backpack is strong and reliable too. There are adjustable shoulder straps for your convenience that further provide a more comfortable fit plus you also have the option to use with rubber carry handles too. One final safety feature they’ve added to this particular bag is a built-in reflective strip which will provide extra safety and visibility to anyone working at night. This really is an excellent choice which is why we’ve nominated it as our Best Value today.
9 internal and 14 external pockets with 3 front pockets
Constructed from durable 1680D polyester with a 600D PVC coating
Fully adjustable shoulder straps
Built-in reflective safety strip for enhanced visibility
Convenient and comfortable carry handles as well as padded shoulder straps
- BrandAmazonBasics
- ModelZH1709063R2
- Weight2.87 pounds
Reliable and robust construction against the elements
Versatile internal and external pocket space
Practical for a variety of professions
Budget-friendly choice
Adjustable carrying options
Prone to toppling over when left unattended
9Dead on Tools DO-DES Gear Destroyer Tech Pack
Our Premium Pick choice is up next although currently this can be found at a great price with a fairly generous discount. From the Dead on Tools range, this is instantly recognizable as it features that signature dead skull motif on the pocket. It looks and performs the part. It’s not called the Gear Destroyer Tech Pack for nothing! This won’t, of course, destroy any of your valuable gear. Quite the opposite. It’s one seriously durable work bag that will keep all your tools and more besides safe and secure at all times.
It’s a tech pack, a backpack, and a tool pack all in one and can even take a larger 17-inch laptop, so you won’t need an extra laptop bag. Constructed from 1680D poly material, it’s strong and tear resistant plus it has a molded water-resistant base so you can pop your tech pack down on any surface without fear of its contents being damaged by water. It will withstand just about anything, hence the skull motif to denote just how death-defying this Gear Destroyer backpack really is. They’ve not scrimped 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 calm at all times.
Constructed from 1680D polyester and built to last
Features reinforced zippers and pockets plus stylish Skull motif
Comes with plenty of storage options to house all your tools conveniently in one place
Built in laptop sleeve holds up to a 17-inch laptop
Backpack features a molded bottom which keeps backpack and tools upright
- BrandDead On Tools
- ModelDO-DES
- Weight7.1 pounds
Plenty of versatile pocket space for storage
A molded hard base for extra protection
Perfect for all kinds of professions
Stylish and durable choice
Tech pack, backpack and tool pack all in one
Bag is heavy
10Rugged Tools Worksite Tool Backpack
Our final recommendation in the Best Tool Backpack category comes from Rugged Rool and is their Pro backpack which has long been a popular choice. It may have been around for a while, but it’s still as dependable as ever and has plenty of noteworthy features. Made from high quality and supremely durable 1689D polyester material, this backpack is definitely constructed to last and has been engineered to withstand the toughest of conditions. There are plenty of reinforced pockets with a sturdy zipper closure so that you can always put your hands on the tool or multitool that you are looking for. Even out on a dirty construction job site, this backpack won’t let you down.
With 40 internal and external pockets in total, Rugged Tools Worksite Tool Backpack is a practical choice for daily use and allows you to keep all your essential work tools organized. There are pockets specially designed to hold things like torque wrenches, screwdrivers, and your various electronic devices safely and compactly. No matter what your chosen profession, this Rugged Tools pro Backpack offers a versatile and dependable choice. Ruggedly construction as the name would suggest, this backpack is safe from the elements, so if you are working outdoors on a site in harsh weather conditions, your tools will be adequately protected.
Constructed from 1680D polyester and built to last
Features reinforced zippers and pockets, engineered for even the toughest of environments
Comes with 68 different storage options to house all your tools conveniently in one place
Built in laptop sleeve as well as an external USB charging point
Backpack features a molded bottom which keeps backpack and tools upright
- BrandRugged Tools
- Weight6.4 pounds
Reliable and robust construction against the elements
Plenty of versatile pocket space for storage
A molded hard base for extra protection
Designed with a variety of professions in mind
Cost effective choice
Slightly thin shoulder straps
Tool Backpack Buying Guide & FAQ
Durability - Durability is a major feature to consider when buying a backpack as it guarantees long-lasting use. This is why waterproof backpacks come highly recommended. A backpack with a fabric resistant to water will effectively shield all your tools and equipment from rain or water droplets while working. The best fabric, in this case, is heavy-duty ballistic nylon. Additionally, a backpack with a rubber base is equally resistant to water.
Compartments - Purchasing a backpack that doesn’t have enough compartments will ultimately prove frustrating and may lead to damage of some tools. It is advisable to opt for those that come designed with a large number of compartments and pockets. Stretchy pockets are particularly suitable for holding all sizes and types of equipment. What's more, the compartments and pockets should also be evenly distributed to give the backpack the right balance.
Comfort - Tools and equipment are generally difficult to carry around, hence why comfort is the number one priority in a backpack. Comfort is usually guaranteed via extra padding especially at the back and shoulder straps.
Weight Distribution - If the weight distribution of a backpack is out of place, it can potentially result in massive discomfort and possibly damage tools. Chest straps and padded straps are a good way of distributing the weight across the torso and adjustable straps also give additional support.
Opening and Closing Mechanism - A good backpack has to be readily accessible and this can only be possible with well-designed zips. Backpacks with zips that are rust-proof and lightweight are fit for purchase.
Types of Tool Backpacks
Carpenter - Since carpentry involves the use of heavy tools, a durable backpack is essential. Backpacks that have larger compression pockets are advisable to keep tools safe and well-organized. The zippers have to be lightweight but strong to withstand frequent opening and closing.
Electrician - Electricians are better off with backpacks that are water-resistant with a reinforced molded base to prevent contact with water on the tools, which might lead to rusting.
Plumber - For a plumber, a tool backpack that offers easy access is highly recommended. Backpacks that have high-quality polyester materials come highly recommended to prevent scratches during work. Likewise, backpacks with LED light features are equally effective.
Tool Backpack FAQ
Q: What are the benefits of a Tool Backpack?
A: Tool backpacks are designed to keep all your work tools secure and organized. They usually come with designated pockets where various kinds of tools and equipment can be securely stored. Also, using a tool backpack instead of a toolbox reduces workplace hazards as it frees the hands and legs for other activities. The tools are also kept protected from weather elements thereby prolonging shelf life.
Q: Are Tool Backpacks waterproof?
A: Not all backpacks are waterproof. Some are built with a rubber base that can effectively resist water. Also, backpacks that are made from heavy-duty nylon are perfectly capable of resisting water.
Q: How do I clean a Tool Backpack?
A: To efficiently clean a tool backpack, warm soapy water should be used for a mild wash. It is strongly advised to avoid using harsh detergents, alkaline or bleach to wash backpacks as they have adverse and lasting effects on the nylon material. Stained surfaces can be removed by gently scrubbing with a soft brush.
Q: What are the most popular tool backpack brands?
A: The most popular tool backpack brands include Klein Tools Tradesmen Backpack, Lenox Tools Storage Backpack, and DEWALT USB charging backpack.