If you ever watched a reality cooking show, you’ve probably seen the contestants carrying around bags with a strap that they unroll to reveal their knives. Knives are an investment, and finding a way to safely transport them is crucial for any chef who cooks on the road. Knife bags provide an excellent way to easily move knives safely and securely. They also look really cool, and there are many affordable options.

Knife bags are nylon with pockets for knifes and other kitchen utensils. To transport they are simply rolled up, and they come with ties or Velcro to secure the knives. The smallest knife bags carry three or less knives. The most common affordable knife bags hold 8 – 10 knives. A good knife bag for the hobbyist cook or the beginner is the J.A. Henkles 7-slot knife storage roll. For under $20 it will transport a basic knife set. It seems very durable. It is also light at less than 1 lb. Its dimensions are 20.3 X 6.3 inches, so it will not work for longer knives. Also pouches for storing the knives could fit a bit more snugly. Over all though it has a good quality and would work well if you only have a small knife collection.

Another good knife bag for under $20 is the Winco 10 Piece Cutlery Bag in black. It doesn’t roll up, it folds up. It has 4 sections, and folds into a 20.5 X 2.5 X 6.5 inch rectangular carrying case. It is a little heavier than a knife roll at 2.64 lbs. Sturdier than a knife roll/bag, it will take up more room than a roll. It isn’t too big to take on the run however, and it does carry more knives than the 7 piece roll.

Messermeister, a brand known for quality in their knives as well as their knife bags, makes a 5 pocket knife bag in black, also for under $20. It folds in half and contains a durable zipper, so you never have to worry about your knives slipping out. It comes with a shoulder strap, making transportation easy. This is a very basic, sturdy knife bag that has a lifetime manufacturer’s warranty.

To get a very good basic knife bag for under $20 is entirely possible. This can be a great addition to any cooks equipment. It also protects the investment you made in your knives. This is an item you will actually use and not let sit a drawer or cupboard.