Being an electrician involves more than just skill and knowledge; it requires the right tools and the right bag to carry them. The variety of tool bags available on the market can be overwhelming, but choosing the right one can make work much more efficient and organized. This article will delve into the leading brands on the market and various types of tool bags specifically designed for electrical tools.

Most electricians have different bags they use for a variety of reasons. Electricians tend to have more tools than most other trades because of the variety of jobs we come across and the different types of materials we touch from job to job. It is not uncommon for an electrician to have a tool belt for new construction jobs, a backpack for commercial service calls, a hard-bottom bag with many pouches for tools and several tool boxes of power and specialty tools in the truck or van. Depending on the scope of work they do, some people have many more tool bags than that. So which bags are best for electricians? Let’s dive into it.

Soft tote bags

First on the list are the standard bags most people use for simple carrying. Often, soft tote bags are used to carry belongings that do not require organization. Some people may store a hard hat, vest, work gloves, flashlights, a drill, some batteries and other miscellaneous items to just get them from the truck into the building while they’re carrying tools in another bag. Soft totes such as those made by Custom LeatherCraft (CLC), South Gate, Calif., or DeWalt, Towson, Md., are time-tested, popular choices for electricians. These bags are lightweight and durable while offering a high degree of flexibility and convenience. They can come in an open-top style, or zipper or buckle styles to keep items from spilling out. Totes are generally meant to carry a plethora of tools, and some include optional dividers and pouches inside. The soft-sided design makes them easy to carry and store, even in tight spaces.

Not all bags need to have a variety of pouches and pockets, as some are simply meant to carry miscellaneous drills, batteries, saws and materials. But many electricians favor bags with pouches to keep hand tools organized. Brands such as CLC provide a variety of pockets and compartments, ensuring that every tool has its place. DeWalt’s versions often include a mix of internal and external pockets, with some models featuring a zip-top enclosure to keep tools secure.

Molded-base technician bags

Molded-base technician bags, such as those from Veto Pro Pac, Norwalk, Conn., and CLC, offer a sturdier base compared to soft tote bags. The molded base provides protection against wet and dirty surfaces, which can extend the bag’s life and protect the tools inside. But even better than that, they’re meant to rest on flat surfaces and stand up on their own for easy access to tools.

Technician bags aren’t made for simply carrying things; they’re designed with organization in mind, and often have dozens of vertical pockets, pouches, bit organizers, electrical tape rings, tape measure clips and much more. The secret to the tech bag is that it allows for a high degree of organization as well as easy visibility and access to tools. Veto Pro Pac’s models are known for their durability, abundance of thoughtful features and high-quality construction, which makes them a favorite among professionals. CLC’s bag is often a more affordable option that is still a reliable product with many options to choose from.

Backpacks

For electricians who prefer a hands-free option or need to navigate through tight spaces, backpacks are ideal. Brands such as Klein Tools, Lincolnshire, Ill., and Knipex, Buffalo Grove, Ill., have developed backpacks specifically for electrical professionals who prefer to keep the weight on their upper backs when climbing stairs and ladders, rather than by their sides. These bags distribute weight evenly, reducing strain on the back and shoulders, and feature a range of compartments designed for specific tools and equipment.

These aren’t standard backpacks. They’re often designed for rugged use, with heavy-duty handles and zippers meant to hold sharp tools that will be jammed in place throughout the day. Some models include a laptop or tablet compartment, making them perfect for electricians who also need to carry tech gear. These backpacks often have a molded bottom, which allows the bag to stand up while zipped or unzipped.

Rolling pull-behind cases

For those with a heavier tool set or who simply prefer the ease of stacking multiple bags and rolling their tools like airport luggage, brands such as Husky (a house brand of Home Depot) and Milwaukee Tool, Brookfield, Wis., offer rolling pull-behind cases. These cases typically feature a durable telescoping handle and heavy-duty wheels that can handle rough terrain. The large capacity and structured compartments make organizing and accessing tools effortless.

Milwaukee’s rolling cases are known for their rugged construction and ability to withstand harsh job-site conditions. Husky also has options ranging from 18–24 inches wide with a variety of interior pouches for bulk storage and organization. And when the top is zipped, other bags can be set on top, allowing the user to carry several things by rolling them all with one hand.

Stackable modular tool boxes

Next up, the newest addition to the mobile tool storage solution family is the modular hard-box setup. Bags have been soft for a long time, which is great for storage, but offering similar options in a hard style that all stacks together gives more space and ruggedness, as well as higher organization. Most modular box systems come with a rolling bottom box that has a telescoping handle, offering the best of all the options above in one solution.

The Pro Gear line from Ridgid Tool Co., Elyria, Ohio, Milwaukee’s Packout system and Klein’s Modbox solution all offer this hard-box modular approach to tool storage. These hard plastic, stackable tool boxes are versatile and durable. The modular design allows electricians to customize their storage solution based on the job’s specific needs, often employing options with cubbies, bins, separators and pullout drawers. These systems are particularly useful for electricians who have a wide range of tools and materials and need to transport them to various job sites. The interlocking system ensures that the stack is stable and easy to move as a single unit, and simple to unstack and work out of once in the building.

Small grab bags

Electricians often need smaller bags as a means for organizing small tools that can be carried inside these larger bags. Small grab bags are essential for keeping bits, blades and smaller accessories organized and usually come with a zipper to keep the bags closed so the contents don’t spill out. These bags can easily be thrown into the larger tool bags or boxes, keeping small items from getting lost. They are perfect for holding screws, wire nuts and other small items that are used frequently. Brands such as Klein and DeWalt offer durable canvas or nylon options that resist wear and tear.

Conclusion

The choice of tool bag greatly depends on the electrician’s individual needs. Factors such as the variety of tools, the job-site environment and personal preference in carrying style all play a role. Whether it’s the flexibility of a soft tote bag, the ruggedness of a molded-base bag, the convenience of a backpack, the ease of a rolling case or the modularity of a hard plastic toolbox, there is a tool bag solution for every electrician.

It’s about finding the balance between comfort, durability and organization to make your job as efficient and enjoyable as possible. And it’s more than likely you’ll require several different bags for the variety of work you do. Remember, a well-organized tool bag is not just about storage, it’s about increasing productivity and professionalism on the job.

Stelzer is a master electrician from Austin, Texas. As the CEO of Electrician U, he’s dedicated to revolutionizing the trade industry through education, offering comprehensive courses, hands-on tutorials and insight. Under Dustin’s guidance, the platform aims to empower electricians with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in their craft. To learn more about Electrician U, use this QR code or visit ElectricianU.com.

dustin stelzer / dewalt