Tool bags
Tool Storage
Made in USA
Tool Bags By Trade
Everyday Carry
You’ve got the basics: drill, utility knife, tape measure. But even seasoned pros overlook a few small items that can save the day when something unexpected comes up. Whether you’re on a jobsite or handling emergency repairs, the right gear makes your work faster, safer, and more efficient.
This tool bag checklist highlights 10 items that often get left behind, even though they deserve a permanent spot in every contractor’s tool bag.
1. Non-Contact Voltage Tester
Quick, safe, and pocket-sized, yet easy to forget. A voltage tester helps electricians and general contractors verify live wires without needing to pull out a meter.
2. Headlamp or Clip-On Work Light
When lighting conditions change, having a hands-free option lets you keep working without interruption. Bonus if it fits in your tool bag’s front pouch.
3. Compact Level
Large levels don’t always fit in tight spots. A 6-inch torpedo level (magnetic if possible) is small but mighty.
4. Permanent Marker or Paint Pen
Whether you’re marking measurements, wires, or pipes, these stay visible even in wet or dusty conditions, unlike regular pens or pencils.
5. Zip Ties (Various Sizes)
Great for cable management, temporary fixes, and securing loose parts. Keep a few sizes bundled in a small plastic sleeve or side pocket.
6. Utility Blades (Spare Pack)
Running out of sharp blades mid-job slows everything down. A flat pack of replacements barely takes up space.
7. Electrical Tape (More Than One Color)
Color coding wires or tagging pipes? Black is standard, but red, white, and green tapes are just as useful.
8. Allen Wrench Set (Folding or Compact)
Many fasteners, especially on equipment or fixtures, require hex keys. A folding set is a space-saver with a high return.
9. Compact Inspection Mirror
Perfect for checking behind panels, under equipment, or inside tight spaces. Most fold flat and weigh next to nothing.
10. Small First Aid Kit
Minor cuts and scrapes happen. A simple kit with bandages, antiseptic wipes, and tape belongs in every contractor’s tool bag.
Wrap-Up: What’s in Your Tool Bag?
These overlooked items can help prevent downtime, improve safety, and keep you ready for anything.
Want to level up your gear? Check out our full guide to setting up your tool bag.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I organize my tool bag efficiently?
Start by grouping tools by use (electrical, fastening, measuring), and store them in compartments that match their size. Use vertical storage when possible; Veto Pro Pac’s upright design makes it easier to find what you need without digging. Keep frequently used items in exterior pockets and smaller essentials (like markers or Allen wrenches) in zippered sections.
How can I avoid overloading my tool bag?
Prioritize what you use daily. Keep “sometimes” tools in your van or backup bag. Choose a compact but well-organized bag like the Veto MB3B, which lets you carry just the essentials without sacrificing readiness.
What’s the best tool bag for field technicians or service pros?
The Veto Pro Pac Tech Pac Backpack Tool Bag is one of the most popular bags for field techs. Its ergonomic backpack design makes transport comfortable but offers all the necessary storage through its unique vertical tool pockets.