Open this resource
RelatedEvent Cancelled or Postponed?Open this resource
RelatedHow to Avoid Fake TicketsOpen this resource
RelatedTheatre Seating GuideOpen this resource
RelatedBrowse VenuesOpen this resource
The short answer
Many stadiums only let you bring a small clear bag, and many arenas and concert tours have their own bag rules. Rules differ from venue to venue and even from event to event at the same venue.
Check the bag policy on the venue's or the event's official page before you leave home, pack light and have your mobile ticket ready at the gate.
Why venues use clear-bag rules
Clear-bag rules let security staff see what is inside a bag at a glance. That makes searches quicker, shortens the lines at the gates and helps keep banned items out of the venue.
Small size limits work the same way: fewer and smaller bags mean faster checks for everyone.
The common clear-bag standard (typical, not universal)
The NFL and many other stadiums use a similar clear-bag standard. It typically allows one of the following, plus one small clutch:
- A clear plastic, vinyl or PVC bag no larger than 12" x 6" x 12".
- Or a one-gallon clear plastic freezer bag (resealable).
- Plus a small clutch or wallet of about 4.5" x 6.5", with or without a handle or strap. It does not usually need to be clear.
Why the standard is only a starting point
This standard is typical, not universal. Some venues allow only the small clutch, some set different sizes, and some change their rules for concerts, playoff games or special events held at the stadium.
Treat the sizes above as a guide for what to expect, and confirm the exact rules for your event.
Arenas and concert tours
Indoor arenas and concert tours set their own rules, and they vary much more than stadium rules do. Some follow a clear-bag policy, some allow small bags of any material up to a set size, and some allow no bags at all.
Backpacks are often not allowed at arenas and concerts, even small ones. Some venues make an exception for small clear backpacks or medical bags, but you should not count on it unless the venue says so.
Items that are commonly restricted
Each venue publishes its own list, but these items are commonly restricted at stadiums, arenas and concerts:
- Professional cameras, detachable lenses, video cameras and recording equipment.
- Umbrellas, especially large or long ones.
- Outside food and drink, with exceptions some venues make for sealed water, baby food or medical needs.
- Power banks above the venue's size or capacity limit, or any power bank at some venues.
- Large bags, backpacks, coolers, chairs, signs on poles, noisemakers and anything the venue treats as a weapon.
Medical and parenting exceptions
Many venues make exceptions for medically necessary items and for parents with small children, such as a diaper bag or baby supplies. These bags may get a separate, closer check at the gate.
The exceptions are not the same everywhere, so contact the venue or check its official page before the event to ask what is allowed and which entrance to use.
Mobile tickets and your phone battery
Many events now use mobile tickets that you show on your phone at the gate, so your phone is part of your ticket. Charge it fully before you leave, and add the ticket to your phone's wallet if the ticket app offers it.
If you are sending tickets to friends in your group, do it before the day so everyone can get in on their own phone. Our guide on how to transfer Ticketmaster tickets explains the steps.
If your bag is too big
Many venues have no bag check, and you may not be let in with a bag that breaks the rules. Some venues or nearby businesses offer paid bag storage, but it is not guaranteed and can have long lines.
The safest plan is to bring a bag that meets the rules, or no bag at all, and to leave anything else in your car or at home.
Always check the official page on the day
Bag policies change, and a venue can set different rules for a single event. On the day, check the venue's or the event's official page or app for the current bag policy, entry times and any event-specific rules.
TicketsGarage does not set or enforce venue rules. We help you discover events and link to partner checkout pages, where the purchase happens.
Browse live events with trusted partner checkout.
Frequently asked questions
What size clear bag is allowed at stadiums?
Many stadiums, including NFL stadiums, typically allow a clear plastic, vinyl or PVC bag no larger than 12" x 6" x 12", or a one-gallon clear freezer bag, plus a small clutch of about 4.5" x 6.5". This is typical, not universal, so check the venue's official bag policy for your event.
Can I bring a backpack to a concert?
Often not. Many arenas and concert tours do not allow backpacks, even small ones, and some allow no bags at all. A few make exceptions for small clear backpacks or medical bags. Check the venue's or the event's official page before you go.
Are clutches allowed?
At many stadiums, yes: a small clutch of about 4.5" x 6.5" is usually allowed alongside a clear bag and does not usually need to be clear. Some venues allow only the clutch, so check the policy for your event.
What if my bag is too big?
You may not be let in with it. Many venues have no bag check, and paid storage nearby is not guaranteed, so plan ahead: bring a bag that meets the rules or leave it in your car or at home.
Can I bring a power bank?
It depends on the venue. Some allow small power banks, some set a size or capacity limit, and some ban them. Check the venue's list of allowed items, and charge your phone fully before you leave since your ticket may be on it.