As a tradesman, your day doesn’t end when you leave the job site. You often carry your tools and equipment home, prepare for the next day, or even take on side projects. The traditional tool bag, while useful, can be cumbersome and hard on your back and shoulders, especially when loaded with heavy tools. This is where a rolling backpack comes into play. Designed to ease the burden on your body while providing ample storage and organization, rolling backpacks have become a popular choice among professionals. In this post, we’ll look at why rolling backpacks are an excellent investment and highlight some of the best options from Veto Pro Pac.
Why Choose a Rolling Backpack?
Ease of Mobility
One of the primary benefits of a rolling backpack is its ease of mobility. Unlike traditional tool bags or backpacks, a rolling backpack allows you to transport your tools with minimal physical strain. This is particularly beneficial for tradesmen who have to navigate large worksites, long distances, or multiple floors. By reducing the physical load, a rolling backpack can help prevent back and shoulder injuries, making your workday more comfortable and productive.
Back and body safety are crucial considerations. The repetitive lifting and carrying of heavy tool bags can lead to chronic back pain and other musculoskeletal issues. Rolling backpacks significantly reduce the need to lift and carry heavy loads, thereby minimizing the risk of injury. By using a rolling backpack, tradesmen can maintain better posture and reduce the strain on their backs and shoulders, promoting long-term health and well-being.
Organization and Storage
Rolling backpacks, especially those from Veto Pro Pac, are designed with organization in mind. They come with multiple compartments, pockets, and pouches that allow you to systematically arrange your tools and equipment. This organization means you spend less time searching for tools and more time getting the job done. The ability to keep tools in designated spots also reduces the risk of losing valuable equipment.
Durability and Protection
Veto Pro Pac rolling backpacks are known for their durability. Made from high-quality materials, these backpacks can withstand the harsh conditions of a worksite, protecting your tools from damage. They are designed to handle heavy loads and frequent use, ensuring that your investment lasts for years. Additionally, these backpacks often feature reinforced bottoms and weather-resistant fabrics, adding an extra layer of protection.
The Heavy-Hitters: Top Veto Pro Pac Rolling Backpacks
Tech Pac Wheeler
The Tech Pac Wheeler is the rolling version of Veto’s bestselling Tech Pac Backpack. This is a versatile rolling backpack, capable of switching from back carry to wheeled carry, and designed for tradesmen who need to carry a wide variety of tools. This backpack features a rugged construction with water-resistant materials, ensuring your tools stay dry and protected. The Tech Pac Wheeler has multiple compartments and pockets, providing ample space for organization. Its padded shoulder straps and ergonomic handle make it comfortable to carry, whether you’re rolling it or wearing it as a backpack.
Key Features:
- Laptop storage
- 48 interior and exterior
- Exterior manifold gauge & hose storage pocket
- Magnetic screw catcher
Tech-LC Wheeler
This is a rolling version of the Tech-LC Large Tech Tool Bag. It’s tailor made to accommodate HVAC service technicians’ and optimized for tool storage. On wheels, it provides a versatile transport system with even more volume capacity.
Key Features:
- Large front & back zippered storage bays keep tools safe & secure
- Max payload of 85 lbs
- Front tool panel includes removable sub-panels for interior customization and storing of larger tools
- Interior gray pockets for better visibility
Tech-LCT Wheeler
This wheeled take on the popular Tech-LC tool bag offers all the benefits of the tool bag with two extra inches for storing long vertical tools, so your crescent wrench and hammer will be at home. The additional volume capacity and elite wheeled system make this worth the price tag.
Key Features:
- Max payload of 90 lbs
- 61 interior and exterior tool pockets of varying sizes
- Waterproof Polypropylene plastic base with integral 5″(13cm) wheels and trolley system
Other Alternatives
DEWALT DGL571 Lighted Roller Tool Bag
The DEWALT DGL571 Lighted Roller Tool Bag is designed for those who need a durable and practical tool storage solution. Its built-in LED light provides excellent visibility, allowing you to find your tools easily in dark conditions. The spacious interior is perfect for storing large power tools, and the heavy-duty wheels ensure smooth and effortless transportation across various terrains. Weighing just 1 lb when empty, it minimizes physical strain during transport. The magnetic zipper closure ensures the bag remains open when needed, and its robust wheels are built to endure rugged environments.
CLC Custom Leathercraft L258 TechGear Roller Tool Bag
The CLC Custom Leathercraft L258 TechGear Roller Tool Bag offers ample storage for tradesmen who need to carry a lot of equipment. With dimensions of 18.5 x 13 x 17 inches, the spacious interior can accommodate large tools comfortably. It features 17 pockets for organized storage and a magnetic zippered closure for easy access to your tools. The integrated LED light ensures that you can locate your tools quickly, even in low-light situations. This bag is designed to be both sturdy and practical, making it suitable for demanding work environments.
How to Choose the Right Rolling Backpack
Assess Your Needs
When selecting a rolling backpack, it’s essential to assess your specific needs. Consider the types of tools you carry, the environments you work in, and how much mobility you require.
Check for Durability
Durability is a critical factor when choosing a rolling backpack. Your tools are valuable, and you need a backpack that can protect them from the elements and the rigors of a worksite. Look for features like weatherproof materials, reinforced bottoms, and robust construction. Veto Pro Pac backpacks are known for their durability, making them a reliable choice.
Consider Organization
A well-organized rolling backpack can significantly improve your efficiency on the job. Look for backpacks with multiple compartments, pockets, and pouches that allow you to arrange your tools logically. This organization not only makes it easier to find tools quickly but also helps keep them in good condition.
Evaluate Comfort and Mobility
Since you’ll be transporting your rolling backpack frequently, comfort and mobility are essential considerations. Look for features like padded shoulder straps, ergonomic handles, and sturdy wheels. These features ensure that the backpack is easy to carry and maneuver, even when fully loaded.
Prioritize Health and Safety
Choosing a rolling backpack that promotes back and body safety is crucial. Ensure that the backpack’s design reduces the need for lifting and carrying heavy loads, which can help prevent musculoskeletal injuries. Features like ergonomic handles and padded straps contribute to better posture and reduced strain on your body.
Veto Pro Tip: Easy Exercise to Reduce Risk of Injury
While a rolling backpack can significantly reduce physical strain, it’s also essential to incorporate exercises into your routine to further minimize the risk of injury. One simple yet effective exercise that tradesmen can do is the “Standing Hamstring Stretch”.
Standing Hamstring Stretch
How to Perform:
- Stand up straight with your feet hip-width apart.
- Place your right heel on a slightly elevated surface like a step or a sturdy box, keeping your leg straight.
- Keep your back straight and gently bend at your hips, reaching towards your toes.
- Hold the stretch for 20-30 seconds, feeling the stretch in the back of your thigh.
- Switch legs and repeat the stretch on the other side.
Benefits:
- Improves Flexibility: Enhances the flexibility of your hamstrings and lower back.
- Reduces Muscle Tightness: Helps alleviate tightness in the lower back and legs, which is common after a long day of work.
- Prevents Injuries: Regular stretching can prevent muscle strains and other injuries related to tight muscles.
Incorporating this simple stretch into your daily routine can help you maintain flexibility and reduce the risk of injuries, ensuring that you stay healthy and fit for your demanding job.
Takeaway
A rolling backpack is an invaluable asset for any tradesman, offering the perfect blend of mobility, organization, and durability. Veto Pro Pac rolling backpacks, in particular, stand out for their high-quality construction and thoughtful design, making them an excellent investment for professionals who need reliable tool storage solutions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will a laptop get damaged in a rolling backpack?
A laptop can be safely transported in a rolling backpack if the backpack has a well-padded compartment and the laptop is kept separate from heavy tools and items. Ensure the backpack is designed to protect electronics to prevent damage.
How to clean the wheels of a rolling backpack?
To clean the wheels of a rolling backpack, remove large debris with a small brush or fingers, then wipe the wheels with a damp cloth and mild detergent. Rinse if necessary, avoiding the rest of the backpack, and dry with a cloth, letting the wheels air dry completely. Lubricate the wheel axles if they are squeaky or not rolling smoothly, wiping off any excess lubricant. This ensures smooth rolling and prolongs the life of your backpack.
Is a backpack tool bag better than a rolling bag?
Whether a backpack tool bag or a rolling bag is better depends on your needs. A backpack tool bag offers greater mobility, hands-free convenience, compactness, and flexibility, making it ideal for rough terrain, stairs, and quick movements. On the other hand, a rolling tool bag reduces physical strain, has a larger capacity, offers better organization, and provides stability on flat surfaces. Consider the types of jobs, work environments, and your physical comfort when choosing between the two.