Trade Travelers: 8 Best Tool Backpacks

At first glance, it’s hard for many old-school professionals to not scoff at the idea of a tool backpack on the job site. For many – and rightly so we might add – the concept of a backpack might draw up allusions to college classrooms or a leisurely afternoon hike along the local trail but certainly not something purposed to house all the tools you need for work as a tradesman. Surprisingly, however, tool backpacks are gaining steam in popularity among younger working professionals – especially when you consider their composition and “hands-free” perks while either on the job or while in transit to the job.

For these reasons, we went ahead and scoured the inventory of several prominent brands we know and love to determine whether or not their tool backpacks were up to snuff so to speak. Needless to say, some brands made the cut while others fell by the wayside. What’s left then is this list of 8 tool backpacks we feel offer plenty in terms of durability, utility, and convenience. Because at their core, function most certainly trumps form in this regard. Not to mention the mobility each of one of these tool backpacks offers in and around the “office.”

Nupla Black Label Backpack

For job sites that demand military-grade gear, there’s the Nupla Black Label backpack. Complete with a 1680 Ballistic nylon material and double stitching throughout the piece, each pack features a 20% heavier grade fabric than most other Pro grade brands out there. In addition, the Nupla comes equipped with nylon threaded double stitched stressed seams and a double-walled construction to keep things as durable as possible, breathable shoulder and chest straps, and a rubber bottom to protect against any unwanted water penetration.

Purchase: $52

CLC 1134 Carpenter’s Backpack

If you’re an installation professional or repair technician looking to for an easy way to transport much-needed tools in an easy and carefree manner, Custom Leathercraft’s 1134 Tool Backpack is certainly a viable option for consideration. The toolbox-inspired design features up to 48 separate pockets throughout the bag, and is adjustable to safely carry and harness just about any tools on the market. Most prominent users work in satellite/cable television installation, stadium lighting, HVAC, and telecom industries. Basically, any occupation where it pays to have your hands free could benefit from the Carpenter’s Backpack.

Purchase: $63

Revco GB100 BSX

For all those welders out there, it may be impossible to find a backpack that suits the demands of the trade. Specifically speaking, what’s the point if you still have to carry your welding helmet to and from work? Well, now with the Revco GB100 BSX – a tool backpack built specifically for welders – you can now keep both hands free while in transit or on site. It’s all thanks to a quick-release padded HelmetCatch to help consolidate everything in one convenient pack. Also, padded straps help reduce any strain from heavier loads, and its spacious storage compartment can house anything from a jacket to gloves to your grinder among other tools.

Purchase: $66

Dewalt Lighted Tool Backpack

Dewalt is included with several other esteemed power tool equipment manufacturers that were without a doubt choice additions to this list – which makes sense considering their vast repertoire of trade tools for the taking. Their Lighter Tool Backpack, for instance, was built in conjunction with Custom Leathercraft that now features 48 internal pockets, 9 outside facing tool pockets for quick access to your most used tools and boasts enough storage for power drills, extensions cords, and electrical testers among others. Not to mention the 39-lumen built-in light on the outside of the backpack to help light up your workstation.

Purchase: $80

Klein Tools Backpack

Outfitted for electricians on the go, this tool backpack from Klein works to stand up to the quality-built guarantee they’ve stood by since first getting started in 1857. Here, we find upwards of 39 pockets throughout the bag’s design for ample storage while a hard, molded front pocket keeps things like safety glasses protected throughout the day. Additionally, a front zip pocket keeps small yet useful tools and parts organized and within arms reach when you need them, it’s built with a durable 1680D ballistic weave, comes equipped with extra padded shoulder straps, and hosts a fully molded bottom that protects what’s inside from the elements.

Purchase: $90

Milwaukee Job Site Backpack

Designed with professional tradesmen in mind, Milwaukee’s Job Site backpack is built to last thanks to a highly durable 1680 denier material in conjunction with an impact and water resistant molded base. Also, each Jobsite Backpack boasts upwards of 35 internal and external pockets for organizing much-needed tools for everyday use, a laptop sleeve that will house a 15” personal computer, and features a fold-down front pocket for easy storage of large items. Plus, the backpack works to lighten heavier loads compliments of a load bearing harness that’s both padded and breathable.

Purchase: $94

Carhartt Legacy Tool Backpack

Carhartt is a brand that needs no introduction. As a premier workwear staple brand, it’s no surprise they’ve decided to break into the tool backpack market as well. Best of all, you can trust in the composition of the Legacy backpack thanks to the same heavy duty polyester construction Carhartt is known for. Additionally, the Legacy also features a Rain Defender water-repellent exterior, two large main compartments in addition to 43 pockets and loops to house additional gear, and an expandable front flap with tool organization along with an exterior side compartment for more lengthy tools.

Purchase: $96

Veto Pro Pac Tech Pac

Based on their award-winning design, Veto’s Pro Pac is a beefy tool backpack designed specifically for professional tradesmen who’s daily tasks include climbing ladders or walking extended distances while on the job. Here, user-friendly features include YKK locking zippers, a magnetic screw catcher, 56 pockets inside and outside the bag, a padded load displacing shoulder-strap system, quick release handle for easy access to the tool bay compartment, and an injection-molded waterproof base to keep things dry no matter what.

Purchase: $300