Tool bags
Tool Storage
Made in USA
Tool Bags By Trade
Everyday Carry
The toolbox black hole is every tradesman’s worst nightmare–a messy, sometimes dangerous void of screwdrivers, pliers, hammers, exacto knives, and other tools. While toolboxes may be durable, they become more cumbersome over time as your collection grows.
That’s why the tool bag has become the popular alternative to the standard toolbox. The organizational ability alone elevates them, but tool bags are also typically lightweight, making them easy to carry, and durable, so you still get added protection for your tools. But with so many tool bags on the market, it can be hard to figure out which one will provide you the most bang for your buck.
Why You Need to Think for the Long Term and Invest in Quality
While it might be preferable for your wallet to go with whatever’s cheapest, I caution against that for several reasons:
Durability: It’s just good sense and more cost-effective to invest in a quality product that will last you years. More expensive tool bags come with durable materials that can hold up to the damage sustained at work sites and general wear and tear. More importantly, the durability of the bag also protects your tools, ensuring you don’t have to add tool replacements to your list of things to buy.
Organization: The promised organizational ability not only keeps your tools right where you need them but also increases your efficiency when you don’t have to spend minutes rummaging around for the right tool.
Comfort: Tradesmen are at an increased risk of developing chronic conditions such as shoulder pain and back pain. A quality tool bag factors in comfort with its design to ensure that it can be worn for long periods without adding strain to the body.
When evaluating a tool bag, there are several key factors to consider:
- Size: The size of the tool bag will depend on the number and type of tools you need to carry. Make sure to choose a bag that is big enough to hold all of your tools, but not so big that it is too heavy to carry.
- Purpose: Before choosing a bag, make sure you know what you’re intending to use it for. If you just need a simple backpack that holds a laptop and a few other professional tools, a large bag with 40 compartments may be unnecessary. Conversely, if you need something that will hold a lot of tools, make sure you choose an appropriately sized bag to avoid overloading.
- Material: Tool bags are typically made from canvas, nylon, or leather. Canvas is a durable material that is resistant to water and abrasion. Nylon is a lightweight material that is also durable. Leather is a more expensive material that is known for its durability and style.
- Features: Some tool bags come with features like a shoulder strap, a carrying handle, and compartments for different types of tools.
- Carrying options: You will want to choose a tool bag that makes transportation easy and efficient. When hauling heavy equipment from multiple sites, it may be preferable to look for a wheeled option over a carry.
- Price: Tool bags typically range in price from $20 to $300. Choose a bag that fits your budget and your needs.
Why Veto Pro Pac
Veto Pro Pac is a family-owned business that has been making high-quality tool bags since 1999. Their bags are made with durable materials and construction, and they offer a wide variety of features to suit the needs of any professional. Veto Pro Pac bags are also backed by a lifetime warranty, so you can be confident that you’re making a wise investment.
Our Picks
Best Overall
Veto Pro Pac Tech Pac Backpack Tool Bag
Looking for the ultimate tool bag that combines organization with portability and comfort? The Veto Pro Pac Tech Backpack is perfect for pros on the go, especially if you’re often up and down ladders or covering long distances. It’s designed with dual bays and a smart center panel that holds up to 46 pockets for everything from drills to tablets. Its heavy-duty base keeps it upright and dry, while the quick-release handle and comfy, adjustable straps make it a breeze to carry around. Despite being a bit on the pricey side and a tad heavy when full, its top-notch durability and smart design—complete with a 5-year warranty—make it a solid pick for any tech needing to keep their tools sorted and ready.
Features:
- Patented center panel design with dual bays
- 46 pockets for various tools and accessories
- Heavy-duty construction with waterproof base
- Quick-release handle for easy access
- Thermo-formed EVA padded back panel
- Adjustable, padded shoulder strap system
- Durable double-stitched, heavy-duty zippers
- Powder-coated steel D-rings and marine-grade rivets
Best Wheeled Bag
Veto Pro Pac Tech Pac Wheeler
Tradesmen looking for versatility in their tool bag will enjoy the Tech Pac Wheeler. The Tech Pac Wheeler is a wheeled version of the Tech Pac Backpack that offers the same quality with an alternative method of carry. This tool bag is designed to meet the needs of professionals who work in various environments and require a reliable and convenient way to transport their tools and equipment.
Features:
- A waterproof polypropylene base.
- V-SWAP™ System allows you to customize the bag’s interior layout.
- 48 interior and exterior pockets.
- Integral wheels and trolley system make it easy to transport the bag.
- Stowable Backpack Shoulder Harness: Convert it from a rolling bag to a backpack effortlessly.
Best Laptop Bag
Veto Pro Pac Tech Pac LT Backpack Tool Bag
Need something that will keep your laptop and other tech safe while you’re on the job? Look no further than the Tech Pac LT Backpack Tool Bag. This is the ultimate laptop backpack tool bag designed specifically for professional service technicians who need to carry their tools and technology in various settings. The Tech Pac LT has 36 pockets of various sizes to organize and access your tools quickly, as well as a separate compartment for your laptop, tablet, folders, and business accessories.
Features:
- 27 vertical interior and exterior pockets
- Injection-molded weatherproof base
- Dedicated back storage bay that can accommodate a 15-inch laptop and a tablet.
- The center panel allows you to arrange your tools systematically
- A convenient quick-release metal hasp for effortless access to your tools.
- Padded shoulder strap
Best for Fire & Safety
Veto Pro Pac HB-XL Firehouse Hydrant Bag
If you are a firefighter looking for a reliable and durable tool bag to store and organize your hydrant or plumbing tools, you might want to check out the HB-XL Firehouse Hydrant Bag. This extra-large bag has 40% more cargo storage space than the HB-LC model and can accommodate adaptors, couplings, gate valves, wrenches, hammers, flares, and more. The HB-XL features a patent pending design that keeps the bag standing upright and open at all times for easy access.
Features:
- 3mm thick polypropylene waterproof base
- 1800 denier body fabric
- Leather handle grips
- D-rings for optional shoulder straps
- Load tested to destruction at 2215 pounds
Best for Everyday Carry
Veto Pro Pac EDC Pac LCB Carbon
The EDC Pac LCB Carbon is great for those looking for something they can carry between work and everyday life. This backpack is designed with the same quality and functionality as the TECH PAC backpack tool bag but with a sleek carbon fiber look and optimized capacity for your personal and professional essentials. Whether you need a backpack for work, school, travel, or leisure, the EDC Pac LCB Carbon is a reliable and stylish choice that will last for years.
Features:
- A waterproof injection molded base
- A spacious main compartment
- A separate laptop compartment with a padded sleeve, a semi-rigid sunglasses compartment, multiple zippered pockets and organizers, and expandable side pockets for water bottles or other items.
- D-Ring lashing points and Molle loops for attaching additional gear
- A trolly handle pass-through
How to Keep Your Veto Pro Pac Tool Bag in Tip-Top Shape
After investing in a quality tool bag, you’ll want to ensure you’re performing regular maintenance to get the most out of your bag. Here are a few tips:
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- Clean It Out Regularly: Make it a habit to empty and clean out your backpack now and then. A simple wipe-down with a damp cloth and some gentle soap usually does the trick. Steer clear of any strong cleaners that might harm the material.
- Check for Wear and Tear: Keep an eye on your backpack for any damage, especially where it gets a lot of action—like the straps, zippers, and seams. Catching small problems early can save you from bigger headaches later.
- Play Close attention to the zipper:
- Dirt and gunk can clog up a zipper if left uncleaned over the years. If not cleaned regularly, your zippers may not stay closed. You can easily increase the life of zippers by cleaning them twice a year with soapy water, and then lubricating them with a special spray or lubricant.
- Protect your zippers by keeping them away from excess heat. Additionally, ensure that all of your sharp tools are kept away from the zipper coil to avoid any cuts or piercing.
- Don’t overstuff the bag: Pushing your backpack to hold too much can wear it out quicker, especially the seams and zippers. Try to spread out the load evenly and don’t exceed what it’s built to handle.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a tool bag a better choice than a traditional toolbox?
Tool bags offer several advantages over traditional toolboxes. They are generally lighter and more flexible, allowing for easier transportation and access to tools. The soft structure of a tool bag can adapt to a variety of tool shapes and sizes, providing better organization and storage options. Tool bags also often feature multiple pockets and compartments, which help keep tools separated and easily accessible, reducing the time spent searching for tools at the bottom of a box.
How does investing in a quality tool bag save money in the long run?
Investing in a quality tool bag can save money over time by protecting your tools from damage, loss, and wear. Durable materials and construction mean a quality tool bag will last longer, reducing the need for frequent replacements. Additionally, the organizational benefits of a good tool bag can decrease the time spent searching for tools, increasing productivity. By safeguarding your tools with a robust bag, you also minimize the chances of having to replace expensive tools prematurely due to damage from poor storage conditions.
How can I decide which type of tool bag material is best for my needs?
The choice of material for a tool bag should be based on durability, weight, and working conditions. Canvas is tough and resistant to wear, making it suitable for general use, while being lighter than leather. Nylon is lightweight, durable, and often water-resistant, ideal for those prioritizing ease of transport and water resistance. Leather is very durable and offers the best protection against sharp objects and rough handling, but it’s heavier and usually more expensive. Consider your daily work environment, the tools you carry, and your personal preferences when choosing the material.
Are tool bags waterproof?
The waterproofing of a tool bag depends on its material and design. Many tool bags are made from water-resistant materials like nylon, which can protect against light rain and spills. Some tool bags also feature waterproof bases or have been treated with waterproof coatings to further enhance their resistance to water. However, not all tool bags are fully waterproof, so it’s important to check the specifications if you work in wet conditions frequently.
