Types of Tool Bags

Tool bags are the best way to keep tools organized and carry them from one place to another. They are especially valuable and useful for tradespeople who move from one worksite to the next on a regular basis.

Although the traditional carrying case for tools has long been the trusted tool box, handymen and women today have ventured out and have begun to rely on tool bags instead. For a novice at choosing tool bags it can be difficult to choose one from the variety available. Here are some of the most popular types of tool bags and their pros and cons.

Types of Tool Bags: Handheld Tool Bag

The handheld type of tool bag is the most popular type of tool bag in the market. This is often called the “soft storage” option compared to the traditional hard case tool box. These tool bags vary in shape, size, and material just like all tool bags, but all of them have a carrying handle similar to the traditional tool box which is located at the top of the bag. The handles usually come in twos for added support.

Pros

This it is the most popular type that many trade workers rely on, so it is a tried and tested type of tool bag. Another advantage of a handheld tool bag is its flexible carrying capacity because it has the ability to stretch since it is usually made out of a heavy-duty fabric like polyester or leather.

The handheld tool bag also has numerous pocket sizes that allow users to fit almost every kind of tool they have. Plus, the main compartment of the tool bag can be used to store larger tools like a power drill and its battery.

Cons

The biggest downside of the handheld tool bag is the improper weight distribution. Since it is designed to be carried using just one arm all the weight and strain is concentrated on one side of the body which can take its toll in the long run.

Another disadvantage of this type of tool bag is its shallow pockets. Many long tools end up in the main compartment because they cannot fit inside the pockets. This makes organization a little harder since most tools end up in the main compartment.

The Backpack Tool Bag

This is also a soft storage option because it is made of fabric rather than having a hard case. The main difference is that a backpack is carried on the back while a handheld bag is carried in the hand.

Most backpacks made for tool carrying will have a sturdy and reinforced bottom for safety and added durability, making them popular with workers who are on-the-go a lot.

Pros

It is easier to carry a backpack tool bag because the back can take more weight and pressure than the arms. Backpacks are also taller and bigger than handheld tool bags so they have more room for storing longer tools without looking cluttered and unorganized.

The backpack also opens up wider, giving users easier access to all their tools without needing to dig into the bag.

Cons

The downside to a backpack tool bag is the weight it can carry. Many workers find that the reinforced bottom digs into their back when the bag is too full. The weight can also cause the shoulder straps to wear down easily. And of course it is more expensive than the handheld tool bag.

Wheeled Tool Bags

This type of tool bag is rare because most tool carriers with wheels are tool boxes rather than bags. There are however some that are made with the same soft material as handheld and backpack tool bags.

Pros

A wheeled tool bag is one of the best types of tool bags available for those who use a wide range of power tools. It does not place any weight on the user’s body as the wheels make it mobile. With this type of tool bag you can carry almost every type of tool and power tool with very little effort.

Cons

This type of tool bag is very bulky. It is not recommended for regular maintenance and repair jobs as it takes up too much room and can be a hassle to move around if you are in a hurry.