The Best Tool Backpacks for DIYers and Pros, Tested 

Tool backpacks have become must-have gear for on-the-go DIYers and industry professionals because of their flexibility, durability, and portability. Instead of struggling with a bulky tool box that’s difficult to carry or pack into a vehicle, a tool backpack lets you carry the load over your shoulders or down by your side. The material lets you easily shape it to fit into a packed car or truck.

The best tool backpack for you depends on your profession, the tools you use regularly, and any features that you want in your tool backpack, such as waterproof material or heavy-duty construction. 

We tested seven of the top tool backpacks, putting them through a series of tests to evaluate how well they store tools and their ability to endure the rigors of a jobsite. We found Milwaukee’s Ultimate Jobsite tool backpack, with its numerous pockets, large storage capacity, and durable construction, to be the best tool backpack we’ve strapped to our backs.

Milwaukee’s ultimate jobsite tool backpack’s many pockets and pouches, coupled with its ample storage capacity and comfortable fit, made it our top pick.

Any tool backpack that’s worth its salt should allow you to organize your hand tools, so you don’t need to hunt and dig to find the one you need. With its 48 pockets, we were easily able to fit a full set of screwdrivers, multiple sets of pliers, adjustable wrenches, and locking pliers in the Milwaukee Ultimate Jobsite backpack. We only wished the bag would open more. As it was, it was more challenging to access the interior even with the zippers completely opened. 

There’s also a rigid front pocket with small pouches that were handy for storing smaller items like pencils, a voltage tester, and a small torpedo level. Many of the pouches and pockets have neoprene straps that hold each tool securely in place, even after some aggressive jostling and being dropped from 4 feet. We were also able to fit an impact driver and drill/driver with batteries in the main compartment, thanks to its large volume and broad flat base.

There are also other thoughtful features for storing specific items, including a pocket that’s reinforced with hard plastic for tools with edges or blades, and a metal clip on the side that holds a tape measure. 

To test how comfortable this pack is to wear, I loaded it up with 35 pounds of tools. The load felt well-balanced and rested comfortably on the shoulders thanks to the ample padding in the straps. The pack also felt well-balanced and stable enough that I felt confident when climbing an 8-foot ladder with it strapped to my back. 

Get the Milwaukee Ultimate Jobsite Tool Backpack at The Home Depot.

More Tool Backpacks We Recommend

Milwaukee’s Ultimate Jobsite tool backpack wasn’t the only model we tested that impressed us. We also recommend the tool backpacks below. 

How We Tested the Best Tool Backpacks

After conducting research and poring through user reviews, we selected seven top backpacks from trusted tool brands and set about testing each one. We loaded each pack up with about 35 pounds worth of tools, including sets of screwdrivers, various types of wrenches, pliers, tape measures, and other common hand tools. We also added a few small cordless power tools, including a drill/driver and impact driver, and a couple of spare batteries.

While loading each pack, we considered how easy it was to organize the tools based on the type and number of pockets in each tool backpack. Once loaded up, we strapped on each pack. In an effort to get a true feel for each pack, we spent time walking around in each one and also ascended a step ladder. We evaluated how well each one distributed weight and how comfortable each pack was to wear. Finally, we tested each pack’s durability and ability to hold tools in place by putting them through a gauntlet of abuse that involved dropping them from a height of 4 feet, jostling them around, and dragging them across a concrete driveway. 

Our Testing Scores

What to Consider When Choosing a Tool Backpack

A backpack for tools should offer pockets and pouches that allow you to organize your tools in such a way that you don’t have to dig for the one you want. It should also be made of a durable material and be comfortable to wear. 

Size and Organization

The tool backpack should suit your trade and your preferences. Before making a purchase, consider the size and number of tools you regularly need on hand. Then, determine the number of pockets, the size of those pockets, how you want the backpack to open, and if you need a certain type of loops, pockets, or storage areas for specific tools. Also, decide if you prefer your tools to be easily accessible in pockets and loops on the exterior of the backpack or if you want all of your tools secured in an enclosed backpack.

Material

Heavy or sharp tools in a backpack can quickly wear on its material. If you know you’ll be hard on your tool backpack, choose a durable material like canvas or nylon. These strong materials not only hold the weight of your tools as you move, but they’re also excellent options for carrying piercing tools or any equipment with sharp blades. 

In addition, a rubber or plastic base on your tool backpack gives it the ability to stand up vertically on its own bottom for easy access from the top. This type of base is typically constructed of waterproof or water-resistant materials, which allow you to work in a variety of environments without worrying about your tools getting damaged.

Comfort and Weight Distribution

Since you might be carrying your tool backpack around all day, comfort is another top priority. For added comfort, tool backpacks have padded shoulders, straps, or back to help reduce pressure and strain on your body. 

The weight distribution of your tools in your backpack and how it affects your shoulders, back, chest, and body is an important factor to consider. Your long-term comfort impacts the size of the backpack and whether the backpack is suitable for heavy-duty applications. If you know you’ll be carrying a lot of tools in your backpack, look for a heavy-duty tool backpack with adjustable shoulder straps, lumbar support, an adjustable chest strap, and additional padding to help offset the weight of those tools. 

FAQs

Before investing in a new tool backpack, take a look at these frequently asked questions and their answers.

Q. Are backpacks available that can carry a cordless drill?

Yes, many tool backpacks are designed with enough space to hold a cordless drill. In fact, some backpacks have an individual storage space for your drill.

Q. How do you wash a tool backpack?

You can wash most tool backpacks in your washing machine on a “light” wash setting—of course, after you remove all the tools, fasteners, or debris from the bag! If you prefer to hand-wash it, then use a cloth, soapy water, and stain remover.

Q. Can a tool backpack hold a laptop?

Yes, but it depends on the tool backpack. Most tool backpacks are large enough to carry a laptop. Some tool backpacks have a specialized compartment for a laptop or a built-in charging system, so you always have power for your devices.

Q. Are there any tools that I shouldn’t keep in a tool backpack?

Yes, there are some tools that you shouldn’t carry in a tool backpack. Unsecured blades and utility knives with exposed blades can cut into the fabric of a backpack and also cause injury to anyone reaching into the pack. Avoid putting tools that are longer than the bag, including pry bars, levels, or saws, that don’t allow you to close the zippered opening on the pack. Also, avoid storing wet or oily tools in a tool backpack as they can cause mold growth or damage the material.

Q. Why should I keep my tools in a tool backpack?

A tool backpack offers several advantages over a tool box or tool bag. For starters, tool backpacks leave your hands free, which is key if you need to climb a ladder or open doors. Since tool backpacks distribute weight evenly over your body, they’re more ergonomic than a tool box or bag, making them especially ideal if you have to carry your tools into a building or up a flight of stairs.

Q. How do I keep my tool bag organized?

First, use a zoning system to organize your pack. For example, group screwdrivers, pliers, and wrenches together in one area, and measurement devices in another area of the pack. Make use of the pouches and pockets the backpack offers and avoid just tossing loose tools into the pack. Use separate cases or pouches to store drill bits, hardware, and other small items.

Meet the Tester

Tony Carrick has contributed to BobVila.com since 2020. He writes how-to articles and product reviews in the areas of lawn and garden, home maintenance, home improvement, auto maintenance, housewares, and technology.

Additional research provided by Timothy Dale.

 

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