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In this post, we’re taking a closer look at an often underappreciated piece of equipment that allows bartenders to travel the world and take their trusty tools with them.
The iconic bartender bag.
Whether you’re a seasoned professional venturing to high-end events, a traveling bartender roaming the globe, or an ambitious amateur honing your craft at home, you need a good bag to hold all your tools.
That’s why today, we’re guiding you through the seven best bartender bags on the market to ensure you’re equipped with the perfect bag to carry your tools in style.
These bags aren’t just good-looking. They’re tough, they hold your tools neatly, and they’re easy to use.
From sleek and compact to spacious and versatile, each one of these bags has been chosen for its unique qualities that cater to a variety of needs and preferences.
So if it’s a bartender bag you’re looking for, stick around as you’re in the right place!
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Top Pick
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Best For Travel
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Best For Style
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$97.00
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$54.99
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$45.99
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1. Barillio Bartender Bag With Bar Tools
Bringing cocktails to life right from my mobile bar station has been an entirely new experience since I invested in the Barillio Bartender Bag Travel Kit some years ago.
With its 17-piece professional bar tool set safely nestled in a portable waxed canvas bag, this bartender bag has become a fantastic option and our top pick for the best bartender bag on the market right now.
If you aren’t sure which bag to choose from this list, go with this one.
You can buy it with (or without) the toolset – but let me add that the tools are of exceptionally high quality and make life much easier than investing in every tool separately.
Shaking, stirring, muddling, or straining – name it, and Barillio’s kit has a tool for it. Each piece has its own designated spot in the bag, giving a nod to the brand’s keen eye for detail and organization.
And let’s not forget about that lovely shoulder strap! It’s made long-haul travels to events not just bearable, but effortless.
Crafted from waxed canvas, this bag has impressed me with its durability and stylish appeal.
It’s been with me through thick and thin. Crowded bars, cocktail parties, you name it. Each time, it’s held up against the rigors of being a mobile bartender, showing no signs of wear or tear.
What truly sets this bag apart from other options on our list is its professional 17-piece tool set. It’s a comprehensive collection that caters to the needs of mixology novices and experts.
If there’s anything to nitpick about the Barillio bartender bag, it’s that the zippers could be smoother.
I found myself sometimes wishing it would be a little more effortless to zip up, but it wasn’t too much of a biggie for me.
Pros:
- High-quality, durable waxed canvas bag
- Includes a comprehensive 17-piece toolset
- Each tool has a designated spot in the bag
- Comes with a comfortable shoulder strap for easy transport
Cons:
- Zippers could be smoother for quicker, hassle-free access.
2. Loculus Bartender Bag
Loculus has hit a home run with their bag. Now, I’ve sampled my fair share of bartender bags, but few have managed to make as much of an impact as this one.
What’s not to love about its sleek black and silver design? Not only does it look the part, but its performance lives up to the promise as well.
Just like its fellow standout, the Barillio Bartender Bag, Loculus offers a unique blend of style and practicality.
However, what sets Loculus apart is its capacity to hold up to six bottles! A feature not many bags in the market, including the Barillio, can boast about.
As a cocktail connoisseur, I appreciate the importance of having my favorite spirits close at hand, and Loculus makes it happen.
This bartender tool bag, however, doesn’t come with any tools. Although I prefer purchasing my own tools, some may find the lack of a pre-included set a bit of a downer, especially when compared to kits like Barillio’s.
Despite this, I’d still vouch for the Loculus Bartender Bag as a top-notch choice.
Its durability, design, and ample bottle storage make it a reliable partner for all bartending adventures.
And though it may not come with any tools, its pocket-heavy design means it can hold a good variety, just waiting to be filled with your personal favorites.
Pros:
- Stylish black and silver design
- High-capacity storage for up to six bottles
- Several pockets for tool organization
- Durable and padded for bottle protection
Cons:
- Doesn’t come with a toolset.
3. Hritok Bartender Travel Kit Backpack
Having access to the Hritok Bartender Travel Kit Backpack for a couple of months has been nothing short of a revelation.
This innovative backpack has reshaped my understanding of what a bartender bag can offer.
What immediately sets Hritok apart is its backpack design. I’ve seen shoulder strap models like the Barillio and handle models like the Loculus, but a backpack? This was a pleasant surprise that I thoroughly enjoyed and decided to keep.
It allows for hands-free transportation, making moving from venue to venue a breeze.
Another standout feature is the insulated cooling pouches. As someone who values a well-chilled bevvy, I cannot overstate how useful these are.
Padded compartments for wine and a cocktail shaker further elevate this bag’s appeal.
A minor gripe I’ve had with the Hritok Backpack, however, is the lack of additional pockets for smaller tools. Having experienced the Loculus Bag’s multiple pockets, I did miss having that extra storage space.
Despite this, Hritok’s Travel Kit Backpack has been a delightful companion on my bartending journeys. It marries style and convenience with its backpack design, insulated pouches, and padded compartments.
While it may not include bar tools, its unique features and focus on temperature control and portability make it a fantastic choice for any bartender who values mobility and loves a well-chilled drink.
Pros:
- Unique backpack design allows for hands-free carrying
- Insulated cooling pouches keep drinks chilled
- Padded compartments for safe wine and shaker storage
- Great for outdoor and summer events
Cons:
- Lacks additional pockets for smaller tools
- Doesn’t come with a toolset.
4. LoDrid Tote Bartender Bag
It isn’t every day that you come across a bartender bag crafted from genuine leather and waxed canvas.
LoDrid’s Tote Bartender Bag stands out in the sea of synthetic options, bringing an air of sophistication and an unmistakable feel of durability.
It’s quite the style statement.
One of my favorite things about this bag is its handle design. A significant shift from the backpack style of Hritok or the shoulder strap of Barillio, the tote-style handle offers a firm grip and easy carriage.
LoDrid’s bag serves as the perfect companion for my cocktail shaker kit. Its compartments are thoughtfully designed to snugly fit my shaker and other tools.
However, one aspect that I missed was the presence of insulated pouches, especially after experiencing this when trialing the Hritok Backpack.
Nevertheless, LoDrid’s Tote bartender bag is a brilliant piece that combines style, practicality, and durability.
While it might not come with an included tool set or cooling pouches, its unique tote design and genuine leather construction make it a stylish, sturdy choice for any bartender who values quality materials and eye-catching design.
Pros:
- Made from genuine leather and waxed canvas
- Tote handle for easy carrying
- Secure compartments for shaker kit
Cons:
- Lacks insulated pouches
- Doesn’t come with a toolset.
5. CURMIO Bartender Kit Bag
Looking for something more on the affordable side? The CURMIO bartender bag has you covered. Compact yet roomy, this bag is a must-have for bartenders on the go.
What I loved about this bag is its rubber handle design.
After juggling various bags like the tote-style LoDrid or the backpack-style Hritok, CURMIO’s rubber handle felt comfortably different, offering a firm and comfortable grip that I’ve not often found in other bags.
Unlike some larger designs, the CURMIO bag keeps things sleek and tidy, making it a breeze to carry to and from events. Don’t be fooled by its size, though – it’s surprisingly roomy when it comes to storage space.
Storage isn’t just about quantity; organization plays a crucial role as well. The CURMIO bag nails this aspect with numerous pockets for an array of bar tools.
It strikes a balance between compactness and storage space, making it ideal for bartenders who prioritize mobility.
While it may lack some of the bells and whistles of other bags, such as insulated pouches or included tool sets, its ease of transport and efficient storage make it a worthy choice for traveling bartenders.
Pros:
- Compact design for easy transport
- Rubber handle for a comfortable grip
- Multiple pockets for bar tool organization
Cons:
- Lacks padded compartments for bottles
- Doesn’t come with a toolset.
6. TREELF 13-Pieces Portable Bartender Bag
TREELF’s bartender bag is a delight for those who like their cocktail kits well-organized and handy.
This bag is a rare find that comes with a 13-piece bar tool set, making it ready to use right out of the box.
Whether you’re a professional bartender or an amateur mixologist, you’ll find these tools invaluable in your bartending journey.
From cocktail shakers to jiggers and a muddler, TREELF’s bag has got you covered.
Crafted from durable canvas, this bag is built to withstand your on-the-go bartending adventures. It’s also designed with travel in mind, compact enough to not take up too much space in your car or camping gear.
Despite its compact size, the interior is impressively roomy, ensuring all your bar tools have a secure spot.
One downside, however, is that the bag does not come with any insulated compartments. While this doesn’t impact the tools, it can affect temperature-sensitive ingredients or beverages you might want to carry.
Although it lacks insulated compartments, its included tools and thoughtful design more than makeup for it.
So if you’re on the hunt for a bag that offers value, convenience, and quality, TREELF’s offering should be on your radar.
Pros:
- Comes with a 13-piece bar tool set
- Made from durable canvas
- Compact and travel-friendly design
Cons:
- Lacks insulated compartments
7. Jillmo Bartender Kit
Introducing one of my favorite bartender bags, the Jillmo Bartender Kit. This 10-piece set, complete with a bartender bag, is a worthwhile addition to any bartending arsenal.
What instantly drew me to the Jillmo kit was its inclusiveness. Along with a high-quality bag, it provides ten essential bar tools.
These tools have been carefully curated to ensure you have everything you need for a full-fledged bartending experience, whether at home or on the move.
The bag itself is crafted with durability in mind. Its solid construction promises longevity and is sure to last for years, making it ideal for both indoor and outdoor use.
Whether it’s a cocktail party at home or an outdoor event, this bag is designed to withstand the rigors of any setting.
One aspect that the Jillmo bag could improve on is the arrangement of compartments.
While it does a decent job at tool organization, it lacks specialized compartments for fragile items like glass bottles. It’s a minor detail but something worth considering if you often carry delicate items.
With its robust build, inclusive tool set, and handy bag, it serves as a fantastic choice for anyone looking to enhance their bartending game.
Despite some room for improvement in its compartment design, it still provides excellent value and reliability.
Pros:
- Includes a 10-piece bar tool set
- Bag is robust and durable
- Suitable for indoor and outdoor use
Cons:
- Could improve compartment design for fragile items.
What To Look For In A Bartender Bag
When on the lookout for the perfect bartender bag, there are several key factors you should consider.
Here’s what to look out for:
Durability
Bartender tools aren’t light, and a good bag needs to handle the weight. Look for bags made from sturdy materials like leather, heavy-duty canvas, or reinforced nylon.
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Size
The size of the bag should correspond to the number and size of tools you need to carry.
Ensure there’s enough space for your shaker, muddler, jiggers, bar spoon, strainer, and other essentials.
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Organization
A great bartender bag has compartments or slots for each tool, keeping them separate, secure, and easy to find.
Check how the bag is designed inside to ensure your tools won’t jumble together.
Portability
Consider how easy the bag is to carry. A shoulder strap or handles can make it easier to transport, especially if you travel frequently.
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Protection
Padding or reinforced compartments can protect your tools from getting damaged in transit.
Some bags also come with lockable zippers for added security.
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Easy to Clean
Spills happen, so it’s important to choose a bag that’s easy to clean. Water-resistant or waterproof materials can be a real asset.
Style
While it might not affect the bag’s functionality, the look and feel of the bag can say a lot about your personal style.
Choose a design that you’ll be proud to carry.
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FAQs
Do bartenders need a bartender bag?
Yes! Bartenders, particularly those who are freelancers or travel can benefit from a bartender bag.
A bartender bag is a necessity, especially for freelance and traveling bartenders. It keeps your tools organized, safe, and readily accessible on the go.
Carrying your own tools ensures consistency in your work and gives off a professional impression.
Plus, it’s helpful for storage at home, protecting your tools, and making sure they’re ready for travel if needed.
Why are bartender bags useful?
Bartender bags are useful because they provide organized storage for tools, ensure safe transport, promote work consistency by using your own familiar tools, and enhance professionalism.
During my time as a freelance bartender in New Zealand, I would have been completely lost without my bartender bag and would have found it uncomfortable to be working with new tools at every gig.
A bartender bag helps keep you in the flow of working with your own tools and it’s a way to showcase your professionalism which can ultimately help with repeat business.
Are bartender bags good for traveling bartenders?
Yes, bartender bags are excellent for traveling bartenders. They ensure the safe and organized transport of tools, enhance professionalism, and allow bartenders to work with their own familiar equipment on the go.
Final Thoughts
That’s a wrap on our rundown of the seven best bartender bags that money can buy.
Each one offers a unique blend of durability, style, and functionality, ensuring your tools are well-organized, protected, and easy to carry wherever your bartending journey takes you.
The perfect bartender bag for you depends on your specific needs and personal style. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a jet-setting mixologist, there’s a bag out there that’s the perfect fit for you.
Investing in a high-quality bartender bag is more than just a purchase; it’s an investment in your craft, a mark of your professionalism, and a companion in your journey.
So go ahead and choose the bag that suits you best, and let it become an essential part of your bartending story.
Catch you in the next one!