Most large stadiums in the US now follow a clear bag policy: you can bring one small clear bag plus a tiny clutch, and nothing else. The standard is the NFL Clear Bag Policy, which many venues also use for concerts, soccer and other events. This guide explains exactly what’s allowed, what’s banned, and how the rules differ in Canada, Mexico and at Indian cricket grounds.
The NFL clear bag policy
Each fan may bring:
- One clear bag (plastic, vinyl or PVC) no larger than 12″ × 6″ × 12″ (about 30 × 15 × 30 cm). Clear backpacks, clear fanny packs and clear cinch bags are fine if they’re within this size, or
- One one-gallon clear plastic freezer bag (Ziploc-type), and
- One small clutch, clear or not, no larger than 4.5″ × 6.5″ (about 11 × 16.5 cm), with or without a strap.
Items that are medically necessary are allowed after inspection at a designated gate.
Usually not allowed
- Backpacks, purses and tote bags that aren’t clear or are larger than the clutch size.
- Camera and binocular cases, coolers, briefcases, luggage and computer bags.
- Seat cushions with pockets or zips (many venues ban seat cushions entirely).
- Outside food and drink (some venues allow sealed water or a small food item in a clear bag, so check the venue).
- Weapons, fireworks, laser pointers, drones, noisemakers and large flags or poles.
Many US stadiums are also cashless, so carry a card or phone wallet. Most NFL venues use mobile tickets only: add yours to your phone’s wallet before you arrive.
Which stadiums use it?
All NFL stadiums apply the NFL policy on game days, and most apply it to other big events too. Our guides for each venue list its exact bag, parking and transit rules:
- MetLife Stadium · SoFi Stadium · AT&T Stadium · Arrowhead Stadium
- Mercedes-Benz Stadium · Hard Rock Stadium · NRG Stadium · Gillette Stadium
- Lincoln Financial Field · Lumen Field · Levi’s Stadium · State Farm Stadium
Canada and Mexico
Canadian and Mexican stadiums set their own rules, which are often similar but not identical. Some allow small non-clear bags, and some offer bag check. See BMO Field, BC Place, Estadio Azteca, Estadio Akron and Estadio BBVA.
Indian cricket stadiums
Indian grounds are usually stricter: most don’t allow bags at all for IPL and international matches, along with power banks, coins, lighters and outside food. See IPL stadium entry rules.
Tips
- Check the event page: concerts or special events can have stricter rules than game days.
- If you’re carrying something that isn’t allowed, don’t count on bag check. Many US stadiums don’t offer it, and nearby private lockers fill up.
- Arrive early. Security lines are longest in the last hour before kick-off.
Frequently asked questions
Can I bring a non-clear backpack to an NFL stadium?
No. Only clear bags within 12″ × 6″ × 12″, plus a clutch up to 4.5″ × 6.5″.
Are diaper bags allowed?
Under the standard NFL policy, only medically necessary items get an exception. Some venues make allowances for families, so check the stadium’s own page.
Related guides
Sources: NFL Stadium Game Day Bag Policy and each stadium’s official website (linked in the venue guides).